New Publix to open in Cape
There is a new Publix store set to open on Northeast Pine Island Road next week, joining multiple Publix stores within a two-mile radius.
Publix spokeswoman Shannon Patten said it is not uncommon for the successful grocery chain to have multiple locations in close proximity, and assured that none of the stores would be closing as a result of the opening.
“This is not a replacement store, but an addition,” she said.
A former Albertson’s Supermarket, the “new” Publix is one of two Albertson’s in the Cape that was purchased and ultimately closed by the Publix corporation several months ago.
Patten said Publix plans on converting the other former Albertson’s on Cape Coral Parkway into a newly refurbished store. She expects the other store to open “sometime” in January 2010.
The turn around for the new store, located at 1735 N.E. Pine Island Road, was much quicker, reopening only three months after Albertson’s closed.
The store’s size — 59,400 square feet — allowed Publix to really “expand” its offerings, according to Patten, adding a 3,500-square-foot liquor store and an integrated “Greenwise” selection, their “natural” brand of foods and products.
“Instead of having a Greenwise section, those products will be integrated throughout the store,” Patten said.
When the Albertson’s on Cape Coral Parkway eventually reopens as as Publix, the downtown Cape Publix will shut its doors as a result. Patten assured that no one would lose their jobs.
“Nobody loses their jobs. We ask associates if they would like to go to the new stores,” she said. “Those who say no are placed in other local stores.”
The new Pine Island Road store will open its doors with a grand ribbon-cutting ceremony on Thursday at 8 a.m.
The ceremony will feature live holiday music, samples, Santa Claus, giveaways and special sales specific to the store.
The store will contain bakery, deli, seafood and pharmacy departments. It will employ approximately 125 employees.
Starting Friday, the store will be open 7 a.m.-10 p.m., 7 days a week.