LAKELAND, Fla. – The opening date for a “prototype” Publix store in Central Florida has finally been revealed, with some interesting features on the way for local customers.
Publix spokeswoman Hannah Herring told News 6 earlier this year that the store will be based on the prototype format introduced in Tampa and Wesley Chapel.
“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.”
The “Pours Area” at a Wellington Publix location, which features beverages like coffee, wine, beer and kombucha on tap for guests to drink as they shop (Publix)
According to Herring, the majority of these store formats are being built in the chain’s new Kentucky market, though the company is slated to roll one of these stores out in 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 upcoming store is situated at 4730 S. Florida Ave. in the Lake Miriam Square shopping center, and it’s scheduled to open on Thursday, Nov. 13.
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Meanwhile, there are two other Publix stores set to open in Central Florida later this month. They include the following:
Oct. 23 — 1700 N. Blvd. (Tampa)
Oct. 30 — 150 St. Johns Heritage Pkwy. NW (Palm Bay)
While both of these locations are expected to open with a pharmacy, the Palm Bay location will also offer a liquor store for guests to peruse.
[BELOW: News 6 takes a look at Florida’s first-ever Publix store]
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