Although Walmart and Costco are two well-known names in the supermarket sector in the United States, there is another chain that is quickly gaining ground. This company, with a strong presence in the southeastern part of the country, has shown sustained growth and aggressive expansion in several key cities.
This is Publix, a private chain founded in 1930 that has established itself as a serious competitor in the market, especially in states such as Florida, North Carolina, and Georgia. Unlike other supermarkets, Publix is highly valued for its clean stores, high-quality products, and customer service that many consumers consider superior even to Walgreens. In the coming months, the company will open new locations in major cities, with plans to increase its market share.
Expansion in Charlotte and the southeast of the United States
Charlotte, in North Carolina, is one of the main areas where Publix is accelerating its growth. The brand opened a new store on May 28 in the eastern part of the city, specifically in the Clear Creek Crossings development.
This location has an area of 47,000 sq. ft. (4,366 m²) and has caused about 140 jobs among full-time and part-time workers. This opening follows the recent launch of another Publix store in Charlotte, bringing the total to 25 supermarkets in this area, according to The Sun.
Charlotte represents a competitive market where Publix currently holds the fourth position in sales, behind chains such as Food Lion, Harris Teeter, and Walmart. However, the company is not stopping and has plans to open at least five more locations in the region. For example, it is building a new store in the Arboretum shopping center and another in the 10 Tryon building, both strategic locations to strengthen its presence in the city.
Growth and new formats in Florida and other states
Florida is the state where Publix has the most stores, with around 878 locations, which represents more than half of its 1,404 supermarkets in the southeastern part of the country. Recently, the company opened two new stores in Palm Beach County. One of them, located in Boca Raton, is smaller than usual, with 33,000 sq. ft. (3,066 m²), while the other, in Palm Beach Gardens, exceeds 54,000 sq. ft. (5,017 m²).
In addition, Publix plans to open an even larger store near Jacksonville, with more than 55,000 sq. ft. (5,110 m²), which will include an attached liquor store. In the Lakeland area, Florida, the firm is developing a “prototype format” that will offer a broader shopping experience. With a delicatessen section that includes options such as burrito bowls and oven-baked pizzas, as well as a beverage area.
Publix is not alone in its drive for expansion. Other brands such as Target and supermarkets with lower prices than Walmart also have plans to open numerous stores in different states. However, the combination of quality, service, and growth is making Publix stand out in the American landscape as the fastest-growing company in certain markets.