POLK COUNTY, Fla. – A “prototype” Publix store is coming to Central Florida, bringing some new features for customers in the area, according to a company spokesperson.
Publix spokeswoman Hannah Herring told News 6 that the store will be based on the prototype format introduced in Tampa and Wesley Chapel.
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“In this particular format, customers enjoy expanded offerings in the deli, like burrito bowls and a pizza oven,” she explained. “There is also a Pours area where customers can order smoothies and acai bowls or grab a drink and sip while they shop.”
According to Herring, the majority of these store formats are being built in the chain’s new Kentucky market, though the company has plans to introduce one of these stores to Polk County.
“We do have a Lakeland, Florida store under construction that will have the expanded offerings in the deli, as well as the Pours area,” she added.
That store is located at 4730 S. Florida Ave., though the company has yet to release details about when exactly it will reopen.
Meanwhile, another Publix store is set to hold its grand opening later this month on March 13. While it won’t have the same format as the prototype stores, it’s also located in Polk County — more specifically, Haines City.
According to Forness Properties, the upcoming Publix store in Haines City will serve as an anchor for the Shops at The Grove, being flanked by a Circle K gas station, a McDonald’s restaurant, and a Mavis Tires & Brakes.
Other stores in the shopping center are set to include a nail lounge, a sushi bar, and an ice cream store, a release from the company shows.
“Plans are in place to increase both Johnson Ave & Power Line Rd to 4-lanes to accommodate the expected growth,” the release reads. “The closest grocery stores are Winn-Dixie and Aldi approximately 3 miles to the west.”
Publix lists the Haines City grocery store as being over 48,000 square feet, much in line with its other standard locations. The new store will also feature a pharmacy and liquor store, the company’s website says.
This marks another step in the company’s continued expansion across the Sunshine State, with some new stores last year featuring parking garages, upstairs dining, and even a three-story location with a boat dock.
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