Lakeland, FL — The beloved Southern grocery chain Publix is expanding again, adding five new store locations in the coming months as it continues to challenge retail giants like Walmart and Costco for grocery dominance.
Known for its customer loyalty and fresh offerings, Publix has long been a favorite for shoppers seeking both quality and value. However, with many consumers debating whether Publix is actually cheaper than Walmart, the upcoming expansion could further shake up the supermarket landscape.
Publix’s Growth Outpaces Expectations
Founded in 1930 by George W. Jenkins, Publix has grown into one of the top 10 largest-volume supermarket chains in the U.S. The company reported $59.7 billion in retail sales in 2024 and currently employs more than 260,000 people nationwide.
According to a corporate announcement, Publix now operates 1,426 store locations, with five additional stores scheduled to open in November 2025.
“Four of the new stores will open in Florida, while the fifth will debut in Tennessee,” Publix said in a release.
The new openings mark the end of a highly productive year for the company, which already launched over a dozen new locations across Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina, and the Carolinas, as noted by Money Digest.
Can Publix Compete With Walmart on Price?
Publix’s continued success comes amid ongoing debate among shoppers about whether the chain is cheaper than Walmart. While many customers believe it offers better value in terms of freshness and service, price comparisons often favor Walmart for overall affordability.
According to a Lexington Herald-Leader analysis, Publix doesn’t always beat Walmart on price — but customers remain fiercely loyal because of the store’s bakery items, buy-one-get-one deals, and exceptional customer service.
“Publix might not win every price war, but customers say its quality, cleanliness, and service make up for the difference,” the Herald noted.
Expansion Comes Amid Rising Food Costs
The timing of Publix’s expansion is significant. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), food prices are expected to increase by 3% in 2025, followed by a 2.7% rise in 2026.
As grocery costs continue to climb, Publix’s growing footprint across the Southeast may give shoppers more options to save, especially through the company’s weekly promotions and rewards programs.
Customers have also praised the chain for maintaining high-quality meat, seafood, and produce selections — even as other supermarkets scale back to manage inflation.
Why Consumers Still Choose Publix
Despite competition from lower-cost chains like Walmart and Costco, Publix continues to thrive thanks to its emphasis on freshness, customer care, and store experience. Many shoppers say they’re willing to pay slightly more for what they consider a better shopping experience.
“What Publix lacks in low prices, it makes up for in freshness and customer trust,” said one longtime shopper interviewed by local media.
With a growing number of locations and steady sales increases, Publix appears positioned to remain a regional powerhouse — and potentially a national contender — in the grocery industry.
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