10 Things You Should Know Before Shopping At Publix
We didn't see No. 9 coming — at all.
The Florida-based supermarket chain has tied Wegmans for most popular grocery store in the U.S., but even if you shop there every day, there's probably a lot you don't know about the brand.
It Started As A Form Of Protest.
George W. Jenkins founded the first Publix in Winter Haven, FL, back in 1930 — as a way to get back at his former boss, the owner of Piggly Wiggly. Jenkins had driven 8 hours to see him, and the boss refused to meet with him for five minutes, according to Forbes. That frustration helped him build an empire, and while he has passed away, it left a legacy for the Jenkins family: Their net worth is estimated at $6.8 billion today.
The 'Publix Promise' Can Save You Serious Cash.
We've all been there: You impulse-buy Teddy Grahams (or a couple dozen pounds of steak, whatev) because you see there's a killer BOGO sale — only to have it ring up at an entirely different price. Then you fight with the cashier, hunt for a price check, and — not at Publix. The chain stands by its "Publix Promise," which guarantees that if an item rings up for more than the advertised price, you get it for free. F-R-E-E.
There's A Way To Make Its Bestselling Sub Even Better.
The chain's known for its subs (AKA pubsubs), but the top seller is one loaded with fried chicken tenders made in-house, all day everyday. Employees suggest asking for your nuggets tossed in buffalo sauce before having the sandwich made; you won't regret it.
You Can Double Up On Coupons.
Publix accepts manufacturer's coupons and its store coupons, so you could use one of each on the same item. However, extreme couponers may be let down there: The chain only allows you to redeem eight coupons a day.
They Offer Some Medications For Free.
As long as you have a prescription, Publix's pharmacy will give you antibiotics and other medications for free, like metformin (to treat diabetes), Amlodipine (for high blood pressure and chest pain), Lisinopril (for high blood pressure, as well as certain heart and kidney conditions) and Montelukast (for allergies and asthma). Get the details here.
Don't Confuse Their Mascot.
Being from Florida, you might think Plato's a gator. He's a Publixaurus, thank you very much.
There's A Special Card That Helps You Give Back To Schools.
Schools near the grocery store can sign up to offer Publix Partner cards, which people swipe when they shop. For every $37,500 cardholders collectively spend at the supermarket, $250 is donated to the school in question. Since the program started, Walton High School in Georgia has earned $194,791.
The Bakery Gives Away Free Cookies.
Publix gives every kid in the store a free cookie — you just have to stop by the bakery section and ask for one, according to The Penny Hoarder.
There's A Way You Can Take Your Obsession To The Next Level.
If you've ever stared at a Publix employee's green Polo and thought, "daaaang, she looks chic!" (1) for real? And (2), you can totally steal her look without applying for a job. The Publix Company Store sells all kinds of merch: shirts, ties, grill sets, 22K gold pens, wine glasses.
They Have Their Own Cooking Schools.
If you make a mean Pop-Tart and little else, the chain wants to help. It has nine cooking schools scattered throughout Florida and Georgia, which teach everything from basic knife skills (so you know your chop from your julienne) to surprisingly specific classes, like "Asian Food Truck" and one focused on making all kinds of meals out of cauliflower.
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