Lakeland, FL
Retail Trade
Founded 1930
1000+ employees
Our mission
To be the premier quality food retailer in the world.
Our story
On Sept. 6, 1930, George Jenkins opened his first store, called Publix Food Store, in Winter Haven. In 1935, he opened a second location across town. He closed these first two stores to open his dream store, the first Publix Super Market, on Nov. 8, 1940. A "food palace" of marble, glass and stucco, this store included innovations such as air conditioning, fluorescent lighting, electric eye doors and terrazzo floors. In 1945, he acquired a warehouse and 19 All American stores from the Lakeland Grocery Company. He began replacing these small stores with larger supermarkets. He continued his never-ending expansion, bringing the Publix standard of clean stores, friendly service and quality merchandise to customers throughout Florida.
Other benefits
Perks
- Discounts on goods and services
- Free parking
- Short- and Long-term disability insurance
- Bereavement and jury duty leave
- Company-paid life insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Credit union membership
- Short-term disability insurance
- Group dental plan
- Group vision plan
- Group health plan (with prescription and telehealth benefits)
- 401(k) retirement savings plan with a matching contribution
- Annual holiday cash bonus
- Employee stock ownership plan
- Accidental Death & Dismemberment Insurance
Culture
- Service awards
- Adoption Assistance
- Paid parental leave
Growth
- Formal mentoring programs
- Technical and operational training programs
- promote-from-within philosophy
- Tuition reimbursement
- Employee stock ownership plan that makes retirement contributions in Publix stock each year at no cost
Transparency
What to expect when you apply
People don’t just work here—they build their careers here. Our founder, George W. Jenkins, was dedicated to helping his employees prepare for opportunities and grow in their careers. We are proud to continue his legacy with an award-winning culture that supports inclusion, nurtures potential, fosters friendships, rewards excellence, and cares for its community.
Our hiring process*
Submit Application & Assessment
The Interview
Background Check & Drug Test
Orientation & Onboarding
Submit Application & Assessment
The Interview
Background Check & Drug Test
Orientation & Onboarding
*Typical hiring process. Steps may vary by role.
Work/Life balance
We offer amazing benefits.
We are proud to reward our associates with generous benefits to help them care for their health and well-being, and that of their families, further their education, and save for retirement. We also offer parental leave and a holiday cash bonus. Since we are employee-owned, associates can earn and purchase Publix stock.
Learn moreWe are committed to social responsibility.
We value the fresh ideas and unique perspectives that each associate provides. We make it a priority to employ and work with qualified and talented people, which includes associates from many backgrounds, cultures, abilities, and ethnicities.
Learn moreWe are dedicated to sustainable practices.
Green isn’t just our color–it’s our mission. From water conservation initiatives and recycling practices to reducing our energy use and CO2 emissions, sustainable practices are essential to how we operate. Learn more about our sustainable business practices.
Learn more
