Publix Store Models

While this may not have much to do with Sing Oil Company, I have struggled to find a comprehensive listing of consistently used Publix layouts. I'm not very familiar with those predating the mid-1980's, but here are the ones commonly used from that point on.  Models from the 1980's-2004 use names that I coined, based on the square-footage followed by "E" for "eighties," "N" for "nineties," "T" for "two-thousands," or "D" for "dropped ceiling."  Models from 2004-present are presumed official names used in Publix documentation.  Other resources for this topic include AFB's page which includes slightly different perspectives on the topic.  In reference to those pages, I will list their layout names in italics under the naming conventions I settled on.  Under each photo, I will list the store number, year constructed, and interior package photographed.  This page would not have been possible without help from The Albertsons Florida Blogger, Battery Mill, and GeorgiaPubDude in addition to my many hours of research and trips to 85+ Publix stores.

In addition to the stores shown here, Publix has a number of locations which were built by a previous retailer (including, but not limited to: A&P, Albertsons, BI-LO, Bruno's, Florida's Choice, Harris Teeter, and Winn-Dixie).  Publix has also used one-off miscellaneous designs or expanded existing buildings of theirs.  Those have been intentionally excluded from this list but may be featured on this blog in the future.

I hope for this page to serve as a useful reference for many others, I'd just ask that proper credit is given (including a link back to this page) when using information found here on a site of your own.

 

A note on Publix's official names: Kiwi refers to "Classy Market 1.0", Invigorate refers to "Classy Market 2.0", Bamboo refers to "Classy Market 2.5", and Sienna refers to "Classy Market 3.0".

This page is a work in progress and will change periodically.

Last revision:  October 6, 2024

Quick Links

Prototype	States Present	Dates Used	Square Footage
40E	FL	- 1988	40,000
55E	FL	1986 - 1991	55,000
40N	FL, GA	1987 - 1995	40,000
49N	FL, GA	1988 - 1994	49,000
47N	FL, GA, SC	1992 - 1998	47,000
55D	FL, GA, SC	1992 - 1995	55,000
55S	FL, GA	1993 - 1993	55,000
55N	FL, GA, SC, AL	1994 - 1996	55,000
65N	FL, GA, SC	1991 - 1996	65,000
28M-1	FL, GA, SC, AL	1995 - 2004	28,000
37D	FL, GA, SC, AL	1996 - 2001	37,000
37N	FL, GA, SC	1998 - 2002	37,000
44T	FL, GA, SC, AL	1999 - 2004	44,000
45T	FL, GA, SC, AL, TN	2002 - 2005	45,000
51T	FL, GA, SC, AL	1997 - 2004	51,000
54T	FL, GA, SC, AL	2002 - 2005	54,000
28M-1.5	FL, GA, SC, AL	2003 - 2019	28,000
39M	FL, GA, SC, AL, TN, NC	2004 - 2018	39,000
45M	FL, GA, SC, AL, TN, NC, VA, KY	2005 -	45,000
49M	FL,        SC, AL, TN, NC, VA	2012 - 2020	49,000
54M-1	FL, GA, SC, AL, TN, NC	2005 - 2010	54,000
54M-2	FL, GA, SC, AL, TN, NC	2011 -	54,000
56M-1	FL, GA,        AL, TN, NC	2010 - 2014	56,000
56M-2	FL,                             NC, VA	2013 - 2019	50,000 - 56,000
61M	FL, GA	2001 - 2010	61,000
GWM-2	FL, GA, SC	2018 - 2022	21,000 - 29,000
28M-2	FL, GA,        AL, TN, NC	2017 -	28,000 - 39,000
48M	FL, GA, SC, AL, TN, NC, VA, KY	2019 -	48,000
55M	FL, GA,                                    KY	2023 -	55,000 - 60,000

Florida's Market Prototypes

I haven't seen a specific name for Publix's 1980's interior, but it included numerous Floridian motifs and wood paneling.  This was also the last interior to be used exclusively in Florida, and for that reason, I will refer to it as "Florida's Market."  These layouts were used throughout the 1980's but can only be found in Florida.

40E

"1980's Model"

40,000 sq. ft.

Final Store Opened: May 5, 1988

Retired | Up for Replacement

Found in: Florida

Store #172 - 1986 - Kiwi

See my description below on the 40N for a different perspective of this prototype's cousin, but these stores primarily differed from their successors by having a single vestibule for entering the store rather than two.  Due to this arrangement, customer service is located on the right wall in the front corner of the store, instead of being centered on the front wall like the 40N.  The example we will be looking at today is store #172 (Neapolitan Shopping Center), which also happens to be the last store in the chain to retain the Kiwi ("Classy Market 1.0") environment package.

Store #172 - 1986 - Kiwi

Contrary to the 40N & 49N stores I will cover below, the 40E features a single vestibule in the center of the store.  Many earlier stores from the 1960's and 1970's also received this feature during a remodel.

Store #172 - 1986 - Kiwi

This is also the last Publix prototype to place the customer service counter on the right wall of the store, away from the checkout lines.  The restrooms are also located on this side of the store, along with a mezzanine-level breakroom (this post of former store #107 will help explain this side of the store).  I believe location of these features is a holdout from the earlier 1970's and wing store prototypes.

Store #172 - 1986 - Kiwi

The deli is located in the back of the store in an alcove with a lower ceiling, shifted a bit to the left from where it would have been in 1970's-style stores.  Meanwhile, the ceiling over the center grocery aisles is raised higher than the perimeter aisles as it would have been in earlier prototypes.

Publix #287 - 1985 - Sienna - AFB

Over in the deli alcove, these stores previously featured a faux skylight light fixture similar to the one in the front of later stores.  I've never seen one of these fixtures in person (hence why I used AFB's picture), but the diffused light appears to make this department much darker than it is with newer light fixtures.

Store #172 - 1986 - Kiwi

Meat and seafood (in stores which received this department) occupy the remainder of the back aisle, along with some coffin coolers.

Store #172 - 1986 - Kiwi

Produce is located in the back left corner, flush with the exterior wall of the store.  This department often features a service window for cut produce in the back left corner.

Publix #305 - 1986 - Bamboo

The produce department was originally laid out with permanent diagonal displays, but these have mostly been swapped out in favor of the movable stands found in most other stores.

Store #172 - 1986 - Kiwi

Frozen foods call the leftmost aisles of this store home, between the produce department and the bakery.  This wall of built-in freezers backs up to the bakery service rooms in addition to two associate restrooms.

Store #172 - 1986 - Kiwi

Speaking of the bakery, it is in an alcove in the front left corner of the store, along with ice cream freezers.  Most buildings of this prototype feature a wall of freezers which divides this department from the wine section or an in-store pharmacy.

Store #172 - 1986 - Kiwi

While I'm not sure if this is the case with every Publix of this vintage, this store's wine department was placed between the checkout lines and the bakery.  These stores also lack a faux skylight or second floor offices in the front of the building, resulting in a lower ceiling over the checkout lines.  These stores did, however, often receive a metal light trellis over the checkout lines during the 1980's or 1990's, which were in-turn removed during more recent renovations.  The store above is one of only two-or-so known to still retain this feature.

Store #274 - 1985 - Invigorate Remodel (2010) - Egress Plan - Orange County Public Records

Thanks to a tip from GeorgiaPubDude, I was able to find a good floor plan to show the general layout of a 40E.  Unlike the stores I have photographed above, Publix #274 includes a pharmacy between the check lanes and the bakery.

Editorial Note: Previously referred to as the "42E", I have since learned that what I now refer to as the 40E is closer to 40,000 sq. ft. in size. This change has been reflected in this section.

55E

"Combination Store"

55,000 sq. ft.

Stores Opened: October 30, 1986 - March 19, 1991

Retired | Up for Replacement  

Found in: Florida

Store #352 - 1988 - Sienna - AFB

As the only prototype on this list that I have never visited myself, all of the photos for the 55E were generously provided to me by The Albertsons Florida Blogger.  This store model is a bit of a mashup between the 40N prototype and the 55D prototype: the former was likely developed in conjunction since it made its debut 8-months prior to the first 55E, while the latter was the 55E's direct replacement.  

The 55E was Publix's first mainstream attempt at a large store (following the Food World prototypes).  These "combination stores" as they were known were the first to feature a pharmacy and also used at least 25% of the store for non-food items.

The front end of these stores bears a strong resemblance to the (slightly) earlier 40N prototype and the later 49N prototype with a split vestibule separated by offices, customer service, and a large faux skylight fixture.  The department layout is also similar to the 40N/49N but has a few key differences.

Store #352 - 1988 - Sienna - AFB

Similar to the later 49N stores, 55E locations that opened with a pharmacy had it between the check lanes and the bakery.  Originally, the pharmacy in this store would have looked like this.

Store #352 - 1988 - Sienna - AFB

However, frozen foods are located more toward the middle of these stores when compared to their smaller counterparts.  This 55E uses aisle 12 for that purpose and reserves some of the higher aisles for H&BA products, pet foods, paper products, and cleaning supplies.

Store #352 - 1988 - Sienna - AFB

In the back of the store, the deli, meat, and seafood counters are in roughly the same locations as they would be in the smaller stores . . .

Store #352 - 1988 - Sienna - AFB

but instead of the seafood department bordering produce, the wine section is placed in between.  The Deli, Seafood, and Wine all managed to get a bulkhead which protrudes into the rear actionway, which likely also used to feature the light fixture we saw in store #287.

In addition to the interior variations, the exterior of these stores looks identical to a 55D from above, including the same trapezoidal loading dock configuration.  Some other examples include former store #310 (Gandy Shopping Center) and former store #301 (Jamestown Place).

Publix #350 - 1988 - Wavy Pastels Remodel (2001) - Demolition Plan

 Thanks to GeorgiaPubDude, I was able to find this floorplan featuring the original layout of a 55E.  We can see the 1980's angled layout of the produce department, old pharmacy location, natural foods section in the current wine nook, and greeting cards display in the multipurpose nook.  I think my favorite discovery from this plan has to be the fact that the vestibules originally featured a mirrored aluminum ceiling which was removed in this 2001 remodel!

Editorial Note: Previously referred to as the "56E", I have since learned that what I now refer to as the 55E is closer to 55,000 sq. ft. in size. This change has been reflected in this section.

Wavy Pastels Store Prototypes

The next set of prototypes were the first to be used outside of Florida, and can be found in states Publix expanded to during the 1990's.  That being said, the first two we will look at actually made their debut in the late-1980's, before the rollout of Wavy Pastels.

40N

"Early 1990's Model"

40,000 sq. ft.

Stores Opened: February 26, 1987 - October 5, 1995

Retired | Up for Replacement

Found in: Florida, Georgia

Store #468 - 1994 - Bamboo

The 40N (or "40M") is the oldest prototype Publix used in the 1990's, making its debut 5-years prior to the chain's 1991 Georgia expansion.  The key features that differentiate this model from its 80's predecessor are the split vestibules separated by the customer service counter, restrooms, and upstairs office space.  

Publix #468 - 1994 - Sienna / Evergreen

Shown above is a common feature in Publix's 1990's stores that I like to call the "multipurpose nook".  In the 40N, I've seen this space used for the in-store pharmacy (whether original or added later), in-store bank, snacks and drinks section, greeting cards, or floral.

Publix #373 - 1989 - Unknown - PepsiCo Team (Flickr)

However, I believe that most stores which opened without a pharmacy originally used the space for snacks and drinks or specialty sales and floral.  At the time, this nook had a distinctive mirrored ceiling (shown above) that almost made the space feel smaller than it was rather than opened it up.  Therefore, Publix often removed this design aspect during the store's first or second remodel.  I'd like to note that #373 was actually a 49N store itself, but this trait was shared between the 40N, 49N, and 55E.

These stores are fairly rare to find in Georgia, with only four having ever existed in the state; many more can be found in Florida.  The four Georgia stores are: #456 (Publix at Wilmington Island), #468 (Abernathy Square Shopping Center), #476 (Pinetree Shopping Center), and #521 (Island Town Center).  Oddly enough, both #453 & #468 opened with a pharmacy, both #468 & #521 received a SunTrust bank branch, and #476 initially received neither.  However, #476 and #512 both eventually received a pharmacy.

Store #468 - 1994 - Sienna

Other than the split vestibules, these stores consistently have a distinctive angled light fixture in the ceiling over the checkout lines.

Store Unknown - Wavy Pastels

I don't remember where I found this picture online, but it depicts a 40N with its original Wavy Pastels interior.  The primary variation between these stores is the location of the floral department.  This store has it next to customer service, but I have also seen it next to the bakery (where this store has "Natural & Organic"), by the produce department, or in the multipurpose nook, as mentioned earlier.

Store #468 - 1994 - Sienna

In the front left of the store, you will find the bakery encapsulated behind a wall of freezers with ice cream and other frozen desserts.  I have seen a few 40N stores receive a pharmacy against this wall, but the placement really seems to constrict the left entrance to the store.  Speaking of the area between that entrance, the bakery, and the check lanes, that space had once been the perfect spot for Publix's dedicated GreenWise Market but is now used for greeting cards and Instacart staging in #468.

Store #327 - 1987 - Bamboo

I don't think this is the case for later stores of this prototype, but earlier models, like store #327, feature a lower ceiling over the bakery department.

Store #468 - 1994 - Sienna

Here is a look at the bakery service counter from within the nook.

Store #468 - 1994 - Sienna

The produce department is located in the back left corner of the store, and often has a window to the "service" section on an angled back wall.  The store in the photo above does not include this feature, but instead makes the department stretch further toward the back of the store.

Store #468 - 1994 - Sienna

Store #468 - 1994 - Sienna

Seafood is adjacent to the produce department in the back of the store, and meat is next to that.  This picture was taken from the edge of the deli department, which we will look at next.

Store #468 - 1994 - Sienna

Store #327 - 1987 - Bamboo

Another differentiator between the 1980's and 1990's models of the 40N is the ceiling over the deli:  it is lower in the older stores (presumably making way for the light fixture we saw earlier), while it is the same height as the rest of the store in newer models.  Take note of how #327 has painted wood paneling on the walls while #468 has awnings.  The wood paneling is from Publix's 1980's "Florida's Market" décor package, while the awnings in #468 are a remnant from Wavy Pastels.

Store #468 - 1994 - Sienna

These stores also have a raised ceiling over the grocery department (aisles 3-10) which features wood trim that dates back to Wavy Pastels.

Publix #456 - 1993 - Wavy Pastels - Savannah Morning News (Comfort Serwah)

We can see how that wood trim was originally painted coral and teal which really made the perimeter of the grocery department pop; it's a shame how this detail is now lost in the taupe color of the rest of the wall!

Store #468 - 1994 - Sienna

Dairy and beer are located along the right wall of the store on aisle 1 (next to the pharmacy nook, if applicable).

Store #468 - 1994 - Sienna

As mentioned before, the vestibules in these stores are mirrored and serve as both entrances and exits.

 

Publix #353 - 1988 - New Construction - Floor Plan

Publix #468 - 1994 - Evergreen Remodel (2022) - HVAC Demolition Plan

I'll close out my coverage of the 40N with this HVAC demolition plan from store #468's Evergreen remodel.  While it is a bit clustered, it can provide a general feel for the layout of the space in comparison to the earlier 40E.  The air ducts also highlight where the ceiling is raised over the grocery department between aisles 2 and 10 (since all registers for this space discharge along the wall where the ceiling rises).

Editorial Note: Previously referred to as the "42N", I have since learned that what I now refer to as the 40N is closer to 40,000 sq. ft. in size. This change has been reflected in this section.

49N

"Early 1990's Model"

49,000 sq. ft.

Stores Opened: February 11, 1988 - December 1, 1994

Retired | Up for Replacement

Found in: Florida, Georgia

Store #282 - 1994 - Sienna

AFB and I had previously assumed that the 40N & 49N prototypes were one-in-the-same, but eventually realized they were actually two unique layouts with a number of similarities.  Both of these stores have split vestibules separated by the customer service counter, restrooms, and upstairs management offices. However, after a bit of research, we soon discovered that this 49,000 sq. ft. store has distinct differences from the 40N.

Store #282 - 1994 - Sienna

First off, is the bakery:  here we see the expanded bakery section in the front left corner, which was arranged to this store's current configuration as part of a 2014-2015 Sienna remodel.

The 49N stores which opened with a pharmacy (ex. #282, #423, & #424) would have used the space on the left side of this picture for that purpose.  Most of these, eventually, relocated the pharmacy to the multipurpose nook on the right side of the store and removed the wall between the bakery department and the sales floor during the remodel. 

Store #301 - 1986 - Invigorate - AFB

AFB was nice enough to share this picture of store #301 with me and tell me about this original configuration.  While store #301 is actually a 55E prototype, many of the department configurations also resemble those of the 49N stores.  Store #301 happened to have the first Publix pharmacy, which looked like this back in 1986.

Store #282 - 1994 - Sienna

Before I knew about Publix's original pharmacy configuration in these stores, I had wondered why store #282 didn't have a wall separating the bakery from the rest of the sales floor like we see in the 40N stores.  Looking back over my pictures, I found this shot where you can see the terrazzo floor and ceiling tiles that were repaired when the pharmacy counter was moved to the other side of the store

Store #282 - 1994 - Sienna

I also found it odd how the 49N has a different ceiling structure than the similar 40N prototype.  One example is this small section of lower ceiling over one of the frozen food aisles.  This feature was built for a special light fixture but most of those have been removed.

Store #276 - 1990 - Sienna - AFB

Looking at this picture from The Albertsons Florida Blogger, I can see why Publix decided to remove this fixture – just look at how nasty and yellowed those lenses are!

Store #282 - 1994 - Sienna

The deli in this prototype also seems to have much more space than in the 40N and features its own vaulted ceiling section.

Store #282 - 1994 - Sienna

One of the defining features of these larger stores is the dairy aisles on the right side of the store.  We can see from this picture where the ceiling drops lower for a bit to make way for the arch structure.

Store #282 - 1994 - Invigorate - Maxwell E. (Foursquare)

I found this picture of #282 on Foursquare, but we can see the arched ceiling configuration it had before the Sienna remodel.

Store #398 - 1990 - Sienna - AFB

This fancy arched ceiling was designed to highlight an enlarged aisle 1 which originally featured a section of coffin coolers running down the middle.  It seems odd for Publix to highlight such a typically mundane department but that provides us with the most distinct feature of this store design. 

Store #282 - 1994 - Sienna

These stores do, however, still feature the large faux skylight over the front registers, just like the 40N and 55E.

Store #282 - 1994 - Sienna

Produce is in the back left corner of the store, with a short freezer aisle behind me and the bakery beyond that.  Seafood is sandwiched between produce and meats.

For some additional examples of this layout check out: #282 (The Peach), #398 (North Pointe Plaza), #423 (Shoppes of St. Lucie West), and #424 (Shoppes of Palm Bay). 

47N

"Late 1990's Model"

47,000 sq. ft.

Stores Opened: December 3, 1992 - November 12, 1998

Retired | Potential for Replacement

Found in: Florida, Georgia, South Carolina

Store #540 - 1995 - Bamboo

Like others, I initially thought the next three prototypes were the same and bunched them together.  This is understandable for the 47N and the 55N, but the 65N is distinctly different.  The first unique piece about both the 47N and 55N is the trapezoidal vestibule.  When entering the store, the cart coral is located immediately to your right before you head through a second set of doors to the salesfloor.

Store #540 - 1995 - Bamboo

These stores feature a large skylight over the front-end that looks identical to the one in the 55N stores.  This particular location has since replaced the transparent material in the skylight, presumably because it was leaking, but some stores' are still functional.

Store #472 - 1994 - Wavy Pastels - Swifty (Blog Contributor)

I'm typically not a fan of blurry pictures, but sometimes I have to share them if the subject is important enough.  Thanks to a contributor, we can see how the front-end of a 47N would have looked with its Wavy Pastels décor in place.  This shot was taken from behind the floral department and features a very similar angle to the picture from #540 above.

Store #540 - 1995 - Bamboo

The deli is located in the front right corner of the store, while the bakery is in the middle of the right wall.  Cheese (oddly, in my opinion) is typically found on aisle 1 as well.  The remainder of dairy occupies the back wall of the store.  The key difference that sets this store apart from the remarkably similar 55N is that the 47N stores feature a warehouse ceiling throughout, and not just over the perimeter aisles of the store.

Store #472 - 1994 - Wavy Pastels - Swifty (Blog Contributor)

Many of the 1990's Publix stores received a department reset during their first major remodels.  Publix #472 was lucky enough to hang onto its original layout until 2009 (that's 15 years!) which we can see in the photo above.  This shot was submitted by a blog contributor and taken on the opposite side of the bakery from the one of #540 above.  It appears that Publix previously had several coffin coolers lining this grand aisle in addition to a Kosher and international foods section where they likely now have their dairy cooler on aisle 1.

Store #540 - 1995 - Bamboo

The meat department is in the back right corner of the store and features the four angled walls shown above. When built, each wall would have featured a Wavy Pastels banner or canvas sign for the type of meat in the coolers below.

Publix #540 - 1995 - Bamboo

The produce department is in the back left of the store, just like most other Publix stores from the 1990's.  Additionally, some of the early editions of this model feature two pyramidal skylights over the produce department.  Some examples with this trait are store #146, store #454, and former store #462.  The pharmacy and H&BA aisles are in the front left corner of the store.

Store #540 - 1995 - Bamboo

Customer service is located on the front wall of the store, to the left of the door as you enter.  The restrooms are to the right of the door.

Publix #465 - 1994 - Kiwi Remodel (2005) - Equipment Plan

Thanks again to Orange County, we can get a better idea of how these stores were originally laid out.  Note the presence of an in-store Bank of America to the right of customer service, and the original placement of coffin coolers along the rear actionway of the store.

55D

"Late 1990's Model"

55,000 sq. ft.

Stores Opened: November 19, 1992 - March 9, 1995

Retired | Potential for Replacement

Found in: Florida, Georgia, South Carolina 

Store #450 - 1993 - Evergreen

After the early push into new territory with the Flagship 65N, the workhorse of Publix's initial Georgia expansion was the 55D prototype.  This store model was only used between 1992-1995 (well, #1444 technically opened in 2012, but that doesn't really count) and can only be found in Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina.  The 55D continued to use the same exterior building design of its 55E predecessor but was seemingly the first to adopt the modified 65N layout which would later be used in the 47N and 55N stores.  The easiest differentiator for the 55D between other similar stores is the dropped ceiling used throughout the store (hence the "D" I used in the name). These stores do, however, feature the same trapezoidal vestibule as the 47N, 55N, and 65N.

Store #450 - 1993 - Evergreen

Other than the interior dropped ceiling, the other key thing I have found about this store vs the 55N is the additional vestibule for the dining area.  The doors to this part of the store are often locked now, but many of the windows are still present to allow customers to have a look outside while they munch on a Pub Sub. In Florida, Publix has often repurposed this space for use as a liquor store.

Store #450 - 1993 - Sienna - Nolvin Jimenez (Google Maps)

Another distinction once inside the store is the lack of a skylight or large light fixture of any sort over the checkout lines.  When built, these stores featured a white metal trellis over all the checkout lines that had some lights in it, but I'm not sure about the exact implementation.  

Former Store #477 - 1994 - Wavy Pastels (among other things)

The closest thing I have seen to the original front end configuration with this trellis was in former store #477 which closed in 2005.  These structures were usually removed during a store's first or second remodel.  The flags and pennants are not from the store's Publix days, but the white fixture and teal shed roof are original.

Former Store #482 - 1994 - Formerly Kiwi

In addition to the trellis I saw in former #477, I also got a slightly obstructed photo of the structure in former Publix #482.  While it is somewhat hard to see through the glare in the second set of windows, you can at least identify two of the lights which were formerly shrouded in Wavy Pastel-themed canvas.

Store #269 - 1993 - Sienna (Wavy Pastels shed roof)

The deli and seating area are located in the front right of the store, and the deli juts out a bit from the corner into the sales floor.  Meanwhile, the bakery is centered on the right wall of the store.  Store #269 has somehow retained its original shed roof-style awnings, which are relatively rare to see in conjunction with Sienna.

Store #155 - 1993 - Premium Sienna

In contrast, the thoroughly-remodeled store #155 looks strikingly more modern with its slate tiles and angular walls.  Publix seemed to pull out all of the stops!

Store #155 - 1993 - Premium Sienna

Continuing on in #155, we can see the original bakery placement along the right wall of the store, just beyond the sliced meats counter at the deli.

Store #269 - 1993 - Sienna (Wavy Pastels awnings)

In typical 1990's Publix fashion, the meat department can be found just past the bakery in the back right corner of the store.

Store #450 - 1993 - Evergreen

Likewise, seafood and dairy occupy the space along the rear wall between meats and produce.  Frozen foods are placed along several aisles in the middle of the store.

Store #155 - 1993 - Premium Sienna

Produce can be found in the back left corner of the store . . .

Store #269 - 1993 - Sienna (Wavy Pastels awnings)

which spills over to the left wall.  This conveniently allows customers to pick up apples and pills in one fell swoop since the pharmacy is in the front left corner.

Store #450 - 1993 - Evergreen

I call the narrowing section of ceiling between the pharmacy and grocery departments "the grand funnel" as it really implies how customers are supposed to flow from the produce to the checkouts. 

 

Publix #427 - 1992 - New Construction - Floor Plan

 

Publix #427 - 1992 - Kiwi Remodel (2008) - Equipment Plan

This equipment plan from Publix #427's Kiwi remodel (2008 seems a bit late for a serif install of "Classy Market 1.0", but I digress) does a good job of showing the store's general layout and how the ceiling accents coordinate with the departments.  I also find it odd how #427 has used its dining nook for a wine department since at least 2008.

Former Store #477 - 1994 - Wavy Pastels - Google Earth

Other than the low ceilings and the dining vestibule, these stores match the interior layout of the 55N.  Some may call this just an evolution of the prototype, but I like to think of it as a distinct model.  

From the exterior of the store, this model differs from the 55N in the loading dock area.  This store has a section in the middle of the back that sticks out further than the rest of the store, and also a small section in the back right corner.

Store #562 - 1996 - Sienna - Google Earth

I went ahead and included a satellite view of a 55N store for comparison.  We can see the difference in the loading dock area between these stores, and the presence of the skylight structure on store #562.

Editorial Note: Previously referred to as the "56D", I have since learned that what I now refer to as the 55D is closer to 55,000 sq. ft. in size. This change has been reflected in this section.

55S

"Late 1990's Model"

55,000 sq. ft.

Stores Opened: November 4, 1993 - December 16, 1993

Retired | Potential for Replacement

Found in: Florida, Georgia 

Store #451 - 1993 - Sienna

Publix really wanted to experiment with their 55,000 sq. ft. layouts during the 1990's!  While I had come across one store of this prototype during my initial research for this page, I simply brushed it off as a strange one-off version of a 55D store.  Low and behold, GeorgiaPubDude brought this prototype to my attention when he showed me several other stores which feature the same design.

From the outside, the 55S ("S" for skylight) looks nearly identical to the 55D stores since they feature the same loading dock configuration, trapezoidal vestibule, and even the additional dining vestibule. 

Store #280 - 1993 - Premium Sienna / Evergreen

However, the 55S also features the same front-end skylight as the 47N and 55N prototypes in addition to an conical skylight over the produce department. These stores also feature a warehouse ceiling throughout the store, similar to the 47N but contrary to any other 55,000 sq. ft. prototypes.

Store #451 - 1993 - Sienna

Doesn't this perspective look similar to the one above from #269?  Here we can see the deli and adjacent dining / seating nook.

Store #451 - 1993 - Sienna

The bakery is, again, centered on the right wall of the store while the meat department is in the back right corner.

Store #451 - 1993 - Sienna

Seafood and dairy are found just beyond the butcher window on the back wall of the store.

Store #451 - 1993 - Sienna

The produce department and the pharmacy are again located on the left side of the store; however, something looks strange about this shot.

Store #280 - 1993 - Premium Sienna / Evergreen

That's because these stores have a large conical skylight over the produce department!  How cool!

This prototype is relatively rare, but some examples include #226 (Medlock Corners), #280 (Piedmont Commons Shopping Center), #451 (Athens Pointe Shopping Center), and #453 (Crossroads Market Shopping Center). Interestingly, it seems like this prototype may have only been used in stores which opened in 1993 and was used concurrently with the 55D.

Editorial Note: Previously referred to as the "56S", I have since learned that what I now refer to as the 55S is closer to 55,000 sq. ft. in size. This change has been reflected in this section.

55N

"Late 1990's Model"

55,000 sq. ft.

Stores Opened: October 27, 1994 - December 12, 1996

Retired | Potential for Replacement

Found in: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina 

 

Store #533 - 1996 - Sienna

This store model blends Publix's favorite aspects from the previous prototypes to form the pinnacle of the 1990's 55,000 sq. ft. stores.  On the inside, these stores look nearly identical to the 47N or 55S stores, with the exception of the dropped ceiling over the grocery aisles.  Just like the other large 1990's Publix stores, these feature a trapezoidal entrance vestibule, but they lack the dining vestibule of the 55D and 55S stores.

Publix #515 - 1995 - Evergreen

The vestibules of these stores aren't super exciting, but they present a convenient place for shoppers to grab a buggy from the designated space behind me.

Store #533 - 1996 - Sienna

As I mentioned, the 55N stores feature a dropped ceiling over the grocery department, whereas the 47N and 55S stores have a warehouse ceiling throughout the store.  Even though they have the same footprint as the 55D, they feel much larger since they have a warehouse ceiling around the perimeter of the store, and a large skylight up front.

Store #533 - 1996 - Sienna

The deli and dining nook are located in the front right corner, and the bakery is in the middle of the right wall.

Publix #515 - 1995 - Bamboo / Evergreen

Meat and cheeses are, again, in the back right corner of the store.  The space in front of the deli and bakery originally featured an extensive track lighting grid, but Publix has long since removed this feature from stores in favor of the sparser track lights we see above.

Publix #515 - 1995 - Evergreen

Seafood and dairy can be found along the back wall of the store . . .

Publix #515 - 1995 - Bamboo / Evergreen

 while frozen foods are in the middle of the store (compared to being next to produce in the 47N).

Publix #515 - 1995 - Bamboo / Evergreen

Produce is located in the back left corner . . .

Store #533 - 1996 - Sienna

and the pharmacy is in the front left corner.  Sound familiar, eh?  At least we don't have a "grand funnel" this time!  Some other examples include: #515 (Abbotts Village at Ocee), #533 (Bradfordville Center), and #562 (Milgen Plaza).

Publix #548 - 1995 - Evergreen Remodel (2022) - Demolition Plan

Editorial Note: Previously referred to as the "56N", I have since learned that what I now refer to as the 55N is closer to 55,000 sq. ft. in size. This change has been reflected in this section.

65N

"Flagship"

65,000 sq. ft.

Stores Opened: July 18, 1991 - February 29, 1996

Retired | Least Concern for Replacement

Found in: Florida, Georgia, South Carolina 

Store #536 - 1996 - Premium Sienna

While not as common as the other 1990's prototypes, a number of these gigantic "monster mega" Publixes can be found in the wild if you know where to look.  I know there are some scattered throughout larger Floridian metros like #415 (Coral Landings Shopping Center) and #421 (Westwinds of Boca), yet I believe the highest concentration of them is in the northern Atlanta suburbs.  As I have mentioned in some of my posts, Publix ambitiously entered the Atlanta market with store #33 in 1992 and wanted to quickly expand their footprint.  These large stores allowed the company to take hold of wealthier neighborhoods since they had not yet achieved the saturation of locations that they had in Florida.

The Lakeland Ledger (Google Newspapers) - Store #95 grand opening - 1991 - Wavy Pastels

This prototype of store is fascinating to see because there aren't many cases where Publix wants a store this big.  I've read in newspapers that this layout was referred to as a "flagship" store, which could have been Publix's internal name.

Store #536 - 1996 - Premium Sienna

The front end of the store features tall gabled ceilings with clerestory windows for added light.  If the store didn't feel large enough, this definitely enhances the effect.

Store #33 - 1992 - Wavy Pastels - The AJC (Newspapers.com)

These stores previously featured a large suspended trellis light fixture over the checkout lines, but all of these were removed once a store remodeled away from Wavy Pastels.

Store #536 - 1996 - Premium Sienna

As typical with a large 1990's Publix, the deli and seating area are located in the front right corner of the store.  

Store #33 - 1992 - Sienna

Similar to the 55D, this store's dining area also has a glass vestibule which used to be separated from the store by a deli "peninsula" like we saw in the 55D.

65N Deli Café (Store Unknown) - 1990's - Wavy Pastels - Courtesy Publix (Instagram)

The cafés originally had an extended selection of hot food available, but most stores have condensed this down to the standard Pub Subs and fried chicken.

Store #536 - 1996 - Premium Sienna

Being a "deluxe" prototype, these stores also usually have a dedicated specialty cheese island or counter, typically co-located with the deli. 

65N Deli (Store Unknown) - 1990's - Wavy Pastels - Courtesy The Miami Herald

Most of these stores originally had an island here where the famous Pub Subs were assembled (fun fact, store #33 was the first to offer customers the chance to order a Pub Sub), but all of these have been removed during various remodels.

Store #536 - 1996 - Premium Sienna

The "grand aisle" on the right side of the store features the bakery, wine, and meat departments in addition to the deli. According to a comment I received, the earlier versions of this store had this layout, but later versions would have been remodeled to match their earlier counterparts in the 2000's.  This store also has an Aprons catering desk located here.  Notice how the warehouse ceiling is throughout this store, but the section over the grocery aisles is painted white.

Store #536 - 1996 - Premium Sienna

The meat department is in the back right corner of the store, next to seafood.  From there, most of dairy runs along the wall (with some overflow on aisle 2) until you reach produce.  Again, frozen is in the middle of the store.  The back aisle of #536 also previously had coffin coolers running down the middle.

Store #536 - 1996 - Premium Sienna

Produce occupies the back left corner of the store . . .

Store #536 - 1996 - Premium Sienna

while the pharmacy and H&BA aisles are in the front left corner.  Customer service is to the left of the doors.

 

Publix #95 - 1991 - Invigorate Remodel (2006) - Egress Plan

Late-1990's Store Prototypes

Publix departed from their early 1990's (Wavy Pastels) prototype stores around the turn of the century when they began to experiment with different interior designs.  I associate many of these stores with either a split vestibule that has half a square sticking out for each set of doors, or the partial trapezoid of the 51T stores.  This transition also marked a department shuffle, where frozen foods moved from the center of the store to the far left aisle, produce moved to the right of the store, and wine moved to the front left corner.

28M-1

"Small Format"

28,000 sq. ft.

Stores Opened: March 16, 1995 - August 25, 2004

Retired | Potential for Replacement

Found in: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina

Store #647 - 1998 - Courtesy Publix

The first 28M prototype was commonly used in dense urban settings or in beach side towns and was mostly used during the late-1990's and early-2000's.  I believe most of these stores opened with the Wavy Pastels interior, but I have seen indication that one or two could have opened with Metallic Marketplace and Classy Market 1.0.

Store #647 - 1998 - Sienna

As a unique departure from Publix's typical operation, the layout of 28M (of all generations) was commonly flipped or rotated to fit the constraints of the space.  The design is distinctly long and skinny which allows it to be placed in a variety of settings.

These stores feature a single corner entry / exit which leads to a small vestibule.  Some of the stores which include a pharmacy (like #647) have a doorway from the vestibule for customers to receive medical consultations or vaccines. 

One unique feature about #674 is the white tile wall in front of us used to lead to the store's former SunTrust bank branch.  SunTrust closed most of their Publix branches around the time of the BB&T merger, and this space is now used for Instacart prep.

Store #647 - 1998 - Sienna

Just inside the store, we see how checkout lanes line narrow side of the store between the vestibule and the restrooms in the opposite corner.

Store #647 - 1998 - Sienna

Looking down the long wall of the store from the vestibule, we see the bakery, followed by the deli, seafood counter, and meat counter off in the distance.  These service department are always located on the same side as the entrance but occupy the other side of the store in the flipped orientation.

Store #647 - 1998 - Sienna

Turning the opposite way, we can see the proximity of the bakery to the entrance and pharmacy.

Store #647 - 1998 - Sienna

 Here we can see the tight quarters shared by meats, seafood, and the deli in the back right (or left) corner.

Store #647 - 1998 - Sienna

Next up is produce, which always occupies the corner opposite the other service departments.  I make this distinction because it is one of the primary differentiators from the 28M-1.5.  As mentioned before, the produce department may also be located in the back right corner.

Store #647 - 1998 - Sienna

A small floral stand is typically placed adjacent to the produce department and is visible from the store's center actionway (which originates in front of the deli).  Several short aisles are placed between the produce and seafood departments which once ran perpendicular to the rest of the sales floor but are now parallel.

Store #647 - 1998 - Sienna

Frozen foods take up the bulk of aisle 9 which runs along the wall opposite the entrance from produce to beer / the restrooms in the front.  Some other examples include #153 (Watercolor Crossing), #776 (Publix at Piedmont), and #704 (Melbourne Shopping Center).

37D

"Early 2000's Model"

37,000 sq. ft.

Stores Opened: May 9, 1996 - May 24, 2001

Retired | Up for Replacement 

Found in: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina

Publix #601 - 1997 - Sienna

The 37D presumably served as Publix's replacement for the 40N, but these stores feel much more cramped due to the absence of the faux skylight up front.  They, too, feature two vestibules separated by the customer service counter but these are placed much closer together than they were on the 40N and protrude from the front of the store at a 45° angle.

Publix #601 - 1997 - Sienna

This was Publix's last standardized model to feature a dropped ceiling throughout the store.  They are neat to witness in person because they feature curvy accents which "funnel" you through the front door into the grocery department.  Publix loves to give subtle hints with their dropped ceiling accents, don't they?

Publix #601 - 1997 - Sienna

Similar to most of the 1990's Publixes, these stores also feature a "multipurpose nook" in the front of the store, just to the right of the entry door.

Publix #599 - 1997 - Bamboo

I believe this space was often used for an in-store bank (SunTrust in the case of #599 & #601), but some locations have opted to use the area for an in-store pharmacy, GreenWise section, or general merchandise space.

Publix #601 - 1997 - Sienna

Although the dropped ceiling 37D and warehouse ceiling 37N variants of this prototype may feel different on the inside, they both have an identical layout.  Likewise, both have produce in the back right corner of the store.

Publix #599 - 1997 - Bamboo

Restrooms are all the way in the back, which makes for an odd arrangement considering there are only three prototypes on this list which do such a thing

Store #598 - 1997 - Metallic Marketplace - Flickr

I had originally wondered what the vaulted ceiling accents looked like when they were built but have since discovered that they originally had metal trim along the top and bottom, with a strip of neon in between.  Unfortunately, the neon seems to be turned off in the photo above, but you can still see the tubes.  This photo is also the only one I have been able to find of a 37D (dropped ceiling or warehouse) with its original décor which doesn't help me determine if the overall interior resembled Metallic Marketplace, Wavy Pastels, or an entirely different package.

Publix #599 - 1997 - Bamboo

The meat and seafood counters are located just beyond the dairy in the back left corner of the store.

Publix #599 - 1997 - Bamboo

Meanwhile, frozen foods take up the left side of the store as we can see on aisle 14.  Some other examples include: #557 (Southgate Shopping Center), #576 (University Square Shopping Center), and #599 (Ansley Mall).

Editorial Note: Previously referred to as the "39N", I have since learned that what I now refer to as the 37D and 37N stores are closer to 37,000 sq. ft. in size. This change has been reflected in these sections.

37N

"Early 2000's Model"

37,000 sq. ft.

Stores Opened: January 15, 1998 - August 31, 2002

Retired | Up for Replacement

Found in: Florida, Georgia, South Carolina

Store #650 - 1999 - Sienna / Evergreen

I initially had a hard time differentiating the 37D & 37N stores from the 44T models but have since discovered a few differences.  The easiest way for me to tell them apart is based on the entry and exit doors on the 37D & 37N being separated on the exterior by a wide cart storage area.  The two interior vestibules are also separated by the customer service counter and do not connect.

The 37,000 sq. ft. prototypes are quite interesting because two-years into the 37D, Publix decided to roll out the 37N with a warehouse ceiling while still building the dropped ceiling 37D stores.  Otherwise, the 37D & 37N stores are nearly identical.

Store #650 - 1999 - Sienna / Evergreen

The bakery is promptly located in the front right corner of the store, followed by the deli on the right wall.

Store #650 - 1999 - Sienna / Evergreen

Publix uses the back right corner of these stores for the produce department, which even includes a cut produce station on the back wall.

Store #650 - 1999 - Sienna / Evergreen

Speaking of the back wall, that is where customers can find dairy, followed by the seafood and meat departments.

Store #650 - 1999 - Sienna / Evergreen

Finally, the front end of the warehouse ceiling-equipped stores originally featured a large section of suspended ceiling over the registers, similar to what we will see in the 44T stores.

Store #680 - 1999 - Bamboo

I previously thought all of the suspended ceilings had been removed but was able to find one which survived until 2022 at a store in Gainesville.  I think they do a nice job of adding dimension to the space, although, Publix must've thought otherwise.  Some other examples include: #610 (Forest Village Shopping Center), #630 (Publix at Barclay), and #650 (Parkway Centre).

Editorial Note: Previously referred to as the "39N", I have since learned that what I now refer to as the 37D and 37N stores are closer to 37,000 sq. ft. in size. This change has been reflected in these sections.

44T

"Early 2000's Model"

44,000 sq. ft.

Stores Opened: April 19, 1999 - December 18, 2004

Retired | Least Concern for Replacement

Found in: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina 

Store #885 - 2003 - Sienna

As of late, the 44T stores have been one of the more fascinating ones to me since they seem to hold the most secrets to the Metallic Marketplace interior.  As far as I can tell, Metallic Marketplace was designed for this prototype, and vice-versa. The elusive décor would also call the 54T home and would make some rare appearances in a few 28M-1s, a couple of 51Ts, and a handful of remodels, but otherwise left behind a lot of questions.

Store #92 - 2002 - Bamboo

Similar to the 37D, the 44T uses an inverted-trapezoid vestibule setup; however, as we can see above, the 44T places the entry and exit doors much closer together with a bank of windows sandwiched between.  44T stores have interior cart storage area where the entrance and exit vestibules are connected while 37D stores have small cart storage area inside but no connection between the two vestibules.

Store #92 - 2002 - Bamboo

The right side of these stores strongly resemble today's 39M and 45M prototypes, but the pharmacy is located between the entry door and the bakery instead of on the left side of the store.

Store #92 - 2002 - Bamboo

Just past the deli, produce occupies the back right corner, and the restrooms are just to the left on the back wall.

Store #92 - 2002 - Bamboo

Meat is in the back left corner of the store, and seafood in the back middle.  Dairy is located on the back wall between the restrooms and the seafood department.  Note that most, if not all, of these stores would have originally featured the corrugated metal awnings we see in the picture above.

Store #691 - 1999 - Metallic Marketplace - Flickr

Moving toward the front of the store from the meat department, one passes the frozen and pre-packaged meat aisles.

Store #92 - 2002 - Bamboo

Like most of the other late-1990's and early-2000's prototypes, wine is in the front left (where the pharmacy would be in more modern stores).

Store #798 - 2001 - Invigorate - Flickr

Since most, if not all, of these stores would have opened with Metallic Marketplace, they often would have carried architectural elements from this package into the 2010's.  These stores, along with the 54T, were easily recognized by these A-frame gable features which were suspended throughout the store.

Store #798 - 2001 - Invigorate - Flickr

These gabled elements surrounded the perimeter of the store and the perimeter of the grocery aisles and seem to have added a good bit of character to the space; I wish some of these were still around to see!

Store #874 - 2003 - Invigorate

These stores also originally featured a large suspended ceiling lighting fixture over the register lines; however, it is believed that all of these were removed once a store was remodeled out of Invigorate.

Some examples include: #26 (Cruse Marketplace), #765 (Dunwoody Hall Shopping Center), #885 (Grand Boulevard), and #600 (Mercado Real, dropped ceiling).

Publix #830 - 2002 - Bamboo Remodel (2012) - Demolition Plan - Orange County Public Records

Thanks to these remodel plans, I can confirm that Publix #830's official prototype is the 44.1P.  I have seen where Publix will use the general terms (like 54M) to refer to a size bracket of stores, but the construction plans often reveal the generation of said bracket as well (which is .1 in the case of #830).  I've seen where Publix will iterate a prototype for insanely minor changes or larger, more noticeable shifts.

Publix #830 - 2002 - Bamboo Remodel (2012) - Egress Plan - Orange County Public Records

These two sets of plans highlight the changes Publix has made to the 44T over the years which include removing the suspended ceiling over the registers, removing the track lighting grid over the deli, bakery, and produce departments, and moving the customer service desk to an island by the registers.

Editorial Note: Previously referred to as the "45T" or "45T-1", I have since learned that what I now refer to as the 44T is closer to 44,000 sq. ft. in size. This change has been reflected in this section.

45T

"Early 2000's Model"

45,000 sq. ft.

Stores Opened: December 12, 2002 - December 15, 2005

Retired | Least Concern for Replacement

Found in: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, Tennessee

Store #1071 - 2004 - Evergreen

Around 2003, Publix decided to refresh their 45,000 sq. ft. prototype to match their fancy new 54,000 sq. ft. model.  The first noticeable change is how the 45T drops the inverted-trapezoidal vestibule layout in favor of a flat façade which has been used in most subsequent designs.  It is believed that these stores could be the earliest 45Ms to be built.

Store #1071 - 2004 - Evergreen

The 45T is mostly a downscaled version of the 54T prototype, which includes taller ceilings and mezzanine office space; however, it was designed to still maintain the general square footage and pharmacy placement found in its predecessor, the 44T.

Store #1071 - 2004 - Evergreen

The grand aisle of these stores looks largely the same as that of the 44T, while also sharing the same bakery, deli, and produce configurations with the 45M.

Store #1071 - 2004 - Evergreen

On the other hand, the 45T was the first 45,000 sq. ft. model to place the seafood department next to the produce department in the back right of the store.

Store #1071 - 2004 - Evergreen

Publix also shifted the meat department from the back left corner of the store to the center of the back wall.  The location of the butcher window is off in the distance next to the dairy department, but this was moved next to seafood for the newer 45M.

Store #1071 - 2004 - Evergreen

Finally, dairy and frozen foods are located on the left side of the store, with beer in the front left corner.  Notably, the placement of beer in this prototype is a big differentiator from the 54T and 44T.

Store #1071 - 2004 - Evergreen

I believe many of these stores opened with a prototype edition of "Classy Market 1.0", especially based on the square windows looking out from the second floor office space.

Some other examples include: #157 (Grand Bay Plaza), #165 (Edgemont Town Center), and #898 (South Point).

Publix #880 - 2003 - Evergreen Remodel (2022) - HVAC Plan

This HVAC plan from store #880's Evergreen remodel really shows how similar the overall configuration of the sales floor resembles the modern 45M.

51T

"The Mid-Range Model"

51,000 sq. ft.

Stores Opened: June 26, 1997 - May 8, 2004

Retired | Least Concern for Replacement

Found in: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina

Store #753 - 2000 - Evergreen

The first thing I notice when I see one of these stores is the drive-thru section to the left of the doors.  This prototype inherited a similar looking vestibule from the Mid-Range 1990's models, except the 51T stores extend the right side of the store out further than the left.  This off-centered entrance provides room for that drive-thru which has been used for everything from a pharmacy pickup to a curbside delivery area to a valet drop off.

I previously bundled together the 51T and "60T" prototypes, but have since removed the "60T" since there is only one or two such instances of a 60,000 sq. ft. Publix using the 51T layout.  Going forward, store #640 (Northeast Park Shopping Center) will be referred to as a miscellaneous layout to align with the standards developed by myself and Battery Mill.  The standard 51T is by far the more common variant, but I understand that #640 is mostly a scaled up, premium version of the 51T.

Store #86 - 2002 - Sienna

Upon first glance, the grand aisle of these stores, which runs along the right wall, bears a shocking resemblance to the 54M.  This configuration is a misnomer because the produce department in the 51T was originally laid out as a mirrored version of the 61M, complete with a produce service island.  

The deli is located in the front right corner of the store, along with a small dining nook next door. 

Store #753 - 2000 - Evergreen

I have seen cases where some 51T's opened with Wavy Pastels while others opened with Metallic Marketplace; however, I believe the majority of them once boasted the former.

Bakery flanks the right wall of the store between the deli and meat department.

Store #753 - 2000 - Evergreen

While these stores may have been retrofitted to resemble a 54M, they are notable since they were the first Publix design to utilize nearly the entire depth of the store for produce rather than a single corner.

Store #86 - 2002 - Sienna

Probably the most recognizable feature of the 51T is the use of a pharmacy "box" next to the produce department instead of having the department against an exterior wall.

Store #753 - 2000 - Evergreen

Meat and seafood remain in largely the same location as they did in the 1990's, occupying the back right corner of the store.

Store #753 - 2000 - Evergreen

Dairy is, once again, on the back wall of the store.

Store #753 - 2000 - Evergreen

The portion of these stores that always throws me off is how wine takes up the front left corner of the store.  I don't care what other era of prototype you look at, Publix has always used this corner for either the pharmacy or the bakery (except in the quirky small stores).  

 

51T Checkout Trellis (Store Unknown) - 1990's - Wavy Pastels - Courtesy Publix

As typical for a 1990's Publix, the 51T was no exception for having a suspended light fixture over the checkout lines.  

Store #86 - 2002 - Sienna

The earlier stores utilized the metal trellis we see above while the later ones, like #86, used this beefier suspended ceiling over the front end.  Just like with the 37Ns and the 44Ts, the vast majority of these fixtures have been removed (and of course I found one to photograph in 2023!)

Store #753 - 2000 - Evergreen

Doesn't this space look much different without the suspended ceiling?  Just beyond the checkout lines, customer service is traditionally located on the wall to the left of the doors. Some other examples of this prototype include: #608 (McIntosh Plaza), #631 (Roosevelt Square Shopping Center), and #676 (Naples Walk).

Publix #607 - 1997 - Invigorate Remodel (2009) - Demolition Plan - Orange County Public Records

Thanks again to our handy remodel plans, we can get a good idea of the changes Publix has made to these stores over the years.  First up, this demolition plan shows the original produce configuration, along with the original suspended light fixtures over the grand aisle and register lines.

Publix #607 - 1997 - Invigorate Remodel (2009) - Egress Plan - Orange County Public Records

All of those would be removed to make way for the layout we currently see in most 51T stores (which interestingly still predates the first 56M or 54M to use this produce department layout).

54T

54,000 sq. ft.

Stores Opened: June 27, 2002 - May 2005

Retired | Least Concern for Replacement

Found in: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina

Publix #842 - 2002 - Sienna

As the second largest standard prototype of its time, the 54T combined taller ceilings and mezzanine office space with a general floorplan found in the 45T (and many subsequent stores). It was the first such prototype to include a pharmacy in the front-left corner of the store, a trait that is be common in Publix layouts to this day.  This prototype was officially known as the 54.1 and could have also received other incremental changes since I haven't found a confirmed 54.2 store.

Publix #842 - 2002 - Sienna

Stepping inside and to the right, customers are greeted by the floral department, followed by the bakery and deli.  The customer service desk would have previously been to my right.

Publix #842 - 2002 - Sienna

And as we turn the corner, we see that the grand aisle is much more reflective of a modern 54M than even the 51T was!  Produce occupies the large portion of this space, with the deli flanking the right wall and seafood inhabiting the space in the rear.  Meanwhile, wine is found in the back right corner.  (Spoiler alert, this isn't how it always was).

Publix #842 - 2002 - Sienna

 Looking over the front end, we see the dramatic effect of the especially high ceilings in these stores along with the row of windows from the second floor offices.

Publix #842 - 2002 - Sienna

Jumping to the back, we see where meats take up a large portion of the back wall followed by dairy off in the distance.

Publix #842 - 2002 - Sienna

As I mentioned before, the pharmacy and pharmaceutical products can be found in the front left corner of the store.

Store #842 - 2002 - Kiwi - Flickr

Stores of this prototype which initially opened with Metallic Marketplace featured a large light fixture over the registers (as seen above).  This fixture was often retained through early "Classy Market" remodels but would have been removed during a Bamboo or Sienna install.  Later iterations only featured a single light fixture over each checkout line suspended from the ceiling.

Store #842 - 2002 - Kiwi - Flickr

Overall, the inside of these stores looks strikingly similar to the modern 45M or 54M (Gen 1) stores, except much larger.   

We are also provided a rare look inside one of these stores thanks to this vintage Publix commercial.  You can view the full video here, but it was filmed inside a 54T store.  Some examples include: #842 (Vestavia Hills City Center), #844 (Village Shops of Flowery Branch), and #890 (Winthrop Town Center).

Publix #886 - 2003 - Sienna Remodel (2013) - Demolition Plan - Orange County Public Records

 As for our handy-dandy floorplans, we can see that Publix radically altered most of these stores from their original layouts.  You can easily compare the before and after from store #886's 2013 Sienna remodel, but Publix shifted the produce department from its former location in the back right corner of the store to the 54M-esque layout we see today.  They also added a wall to square off the former alcove while building out a new produce prep room.  Furthermore, Publix removed the old perpendicular aisles from the left side of the store (these either housed wine, H&BA products, or greeting cards) in favor of new aisles which follow the same orientation as the rest of the store.  Finally, Publix removed the coffin coolers from the back aisle of the store to extend the grocery aisles several more feet.

Publix #886 - 2003 - Sienna Remodel (2013) - Egress Plan - Orange County Public Records

I bet shoppers were really turned around once the remodel was completed!

Classy Market Prototypes

The following prototypes use some of Publix's official naming schemes and began to roll out with the mainline serif edition of Kiwi in 2004.  

28M-1.5

"Small Format"

28,000 sq. ft.

Stores Opened: September 4, 2003 - August 29, 2019

Retired | Least Concern for Replacement

Found in: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina

Publix #1061 - 2006 - Sienna / Evergreen

Around 2005, Publix decided they wanted to refresh their original 28M prototype.  The newer design strongly resembles the original; however, the bakery, deli, and produce departments are now located on the same side of the store, instead of the produce department being on the opposite side from the service departments.  This design seems to have been used up until 2018 with #1495 (Islamorada) being the last known store to be constructed.  Some examples include: #1061 (The Plaza Midtown),  #1267 (Publix at Bee Ridge), and #1562 (Island Village Shopping Center).

Publix #1061 - 2006 - Sienna / Evergreen

Let me just say that #1061 loosely follows the 28M-1.5 format yet remains the only remotely similar store I have photographed.  One of the first noticeable differences is how #1060 features a dropped ceiling while the standard store of this prototype has a warehouse ceiling.

Right now we are looking over the front end of the store toward the pharmacy off in the distance.

Publix #1061 - 2006 - Sienna / Evergreen

Beer and wine take up a portion of aisle 1, followed by the bakery and deli off in the distance.

Publix #1061 - 2006 - Sienna / Evergreen

That being said, most 28M-1.5 stores swap the placement of the deli and bakery from what we see here, with the bakery being adjacent to produce rather than the deli.

Publix #1061 - 2006 - Evergreen

Most of these small-format stores ended up with a very crowded deli around dinnertime; it doesn't help that #1061 has a column obscuring part of this department.

Publix #1061 - 2006 - Evergreen

Unlike the earlier 28M stores, the seafood counter is located right next to the produce department in the newer design.

Publix #1061 - 2006 - Sienna

A better view of that configuration can be seen here.

Publix #1061 - 2006 - Sienna / Evergreen

From seafood, we move on to a small meat department in the back left (or right, depending on the orientation of the store) corner of the store.

Publix #1061 - 2006 - Sienna / Evergreen

Similar to the earlier 28Ms, this prototype also features a center cut-thru since these stores tend to be long and skinny; conversely, the rear aisles in the 28M-1.5 are actually numbered separately from the aisles in the front.

Publix #1061 - 2006 - Sienna / Evergreen

Publix #1061 has a total of 12 aisles (1-8 in the front and 9-12 in the back) but most of these stores have 14 (1-9 in the front and 10-14 in the back).  Dairy typically occupies the last of the front aisles in the store (9 for most stores or 8 in #1061).

39M

"Modern Publix"

39,000 sq. ft.

Stores Opened: March 4, 2004 - May 2, 2018

Retired | Potential for Replacement

Found in: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, Tennessee, North Carolina

Store #1054 (39M) - 2005 - Bamboo

These stores seem to be built in smaller markets or beach side towns.  Even though this layout is nearly 6,000 sq. ft smaller than the 45M, it feels very similar to its larger sibling.  I believe the only differences are 3 fewer aisles (13 compared to 16), no short health and beauty aisles between the checkout and pharmacy, and maybe a smaller department here-or-there.  They also place the restrooms in front of the check lanes rather than next to the floral department.  

During the first phase of this prototype (the Classy Market 1.0 era), these stores had completely separated entry and exit vestibules but these were later combined to resemble the 45M.

Some examples include: #1054 (Shops at Westridge),  #1098 (Publix Cornerstone Plaza), and #1604 (Midtown Center).

Store #1054 - 2005 - Bamboo

This particular store opened with Kiwi, and a number of that décor's original characteristics are still visible today (like the crown molding and tile work).  When you walk inside the store, the floral department is to your right followed by the bakery.

Store #1054 - 2005 - Bamboo

Just like the 45M and 54M stores, the deli is in the middle of the right wall of the store.  The aisle sign shown is also a remnant from Kiwi (and the main reason I went to this store).

Store #1054 - 2005 - Bamboo

Produce occupies the back right corner of the store.

Store #1054 - 2005 - Bamboo

The rear of the store is home to seafood, meat, and a section of dairy . . .

Store #1054 - 2005 - Bamboo

with dairy wrapping around to the pharmacy on the left wall of the store (aisle 13 in this case).  Note that the pharmacy signage was added around 2018 and matches the Sienna Environment Package.

Store #1054 - 2005 - Bamboo

Back up front, customer service is located on an island by the entry door, and the pharmacy is in the front left corner.  This customer service island was also replaced around 2018 and matches the later version of Sienna.

45M

"Modern Publix"

45,000 sq. ft.

Stores Opened: July 30, 2005 - Present

Active Prototype

Found in: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, Kentucky

Store #1226 - 2018 - Sienna

If you know of a basic Publix built between 2004 and 2018, it was likely a 45M store.  Again, this store is not very different from the 39M and all of the departments retain their same positions.  Another example of this layout is store #1547 (South Highlands Shopping Center).

Store #1171 - 2008 - Invigorate - Flickr

Beginning with at least the Invigorate era, these stores feature a customer service island between a promotional products area and the checkout lines.

Store #1263 - 2009 - Invigorate - Flickr

The Invigorate stores also featured orange light fixtures over the floral section (visible on the left side of this picture).

Store #1263 - 2009 - Invigorate - Flickr

The floral department is located between the entry to the store and the bakery.  The restrooms are typically found along this wall as well.

Publix #1798 - 2022 - Evergreen

The Evergreen stores of this prototype added a dining area between the floral department and the bakery.

Store #1226 - 2018 - Sienna

Here is a picture of the bakery in the front right corner of the store, taken from the floral department.  The deli is just out of the frame to my left.

Publix #1798 - 2022 - Evergreen

The deli is situated between the bakery and produce department . . .

Store #1226 - 2018 - Sienna

and produce is found in the back right corner of the store.

Store #1226 - 2018 - Sienna

Next, along the back wall, we find the seafood and meat departments.  Frozen is content to remain in the middle of the store.

Store #1226 - 2018 - Sienna

In the back right corner, we find dairy . . .

Publix #1798 - 2022 - Evergreen

which wraps around to aisle 16 on the left side of the store as well.

Store #1226 - 2018 - Sienna

The front right corner is where the pharmacy is located, and customer service is on an island by the entry door. 

Store #1440 - Sienna Remodel (2019) - Life Safety Plan

If you need a better idea of how most 45M stores are laid out, you can take a look at the above life safety plan from Publix #1440.  Interestingly, Publix converted part of the former cart storage space in this store to a dining nook while also adding the typical self-checkout kiosks.

49M

"Modern Publix"

49,000 sq. ft.

Stores Opened: October 24, 2012 - August 26, 2020

Retired | Least Concern for Replacement 

Found in: Alabama, Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia

Store #1586 - 2018 - Sienna

I have personally only been to one first-gen 49M store but have realized that a number of them exist in Publix's newer markets.  Previously, I assumed these stores were second-gen 54M prototypes, but Battery Mill showed me that this was in-fact an entirely different model.  From what I have noticed, the 49M-1 stores feature a grand aisle setup which is very similar to the 54M-2, and only have a few minor differences. 

Store #1586 - 2018 - Sienna

The first is the lack of a "multipurpose nook" between the bakery and the front door.  These stores just have room for a few bakery-related refrigerators rather than having space for a dining area, greeting card display, etc.  Instead, these stores often have a dining area on the right wall of the store between the bakery and the deli.

The second and least reliable difference I have noticed is the presence of two architectural circles over the bakery counter.  I don't believe I have seen a 49M-1 which didn't feature these; however, I have also seen this feature in other prototypes.

Store #1586 - 2018 - Sienna

The third is an angled cooler, featuring cut fruits, in the front section of the produce department next to the floral department.  In the 54M-2 stores, this cooler would remain in-line with the rest of the refrigerators in this department.

Store #1586 - 2018 - Sienna

Otherwise, this shot looks like it could've been taken in a 54M-2!  I wouldn't be surprised if the grand aisle was slightly condensed for this prototype, I just can't tell from my pictures.

Store #1586 - 2018 - Sienna

Adding to the deception, the 49M-1 stores even received the same dropped ceiling setup over the grocery aisles and the same meat and seafood department layout.

Store #1586 - 2018 - Sienna

Frozen foods, and the accompanying mustard-colored freezers, occupy the center of the store.

Store #1586 - 2018 - Sienna

Meanwhile, dairy is in the back left corner of the store and along aisle 14.  I'd like to note how most 54M-2 stores have 15 aisles while 45M stores have 16.

Store #1586 - 2018 - Sienna

These not-so-unique stores also look like a standard Publix along the front end, complete with the pharmacy in the front left corner: shocking!

Some example stores include: #1437 (Water Tower Shoppes), #1534 (Westgate Plaza), and #1626 (Bradley Creek Commons).  I believe all stores with this prototype opened with the Sienna Environment Package.

54M-1

"Modern Publix"

54,000 sq. ft.

Stores Opened: September 28, 2005 - December 15, 2010

Retired | Least Concern for Replacement

Found in: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Tennessee

Store #1228 - 2008 - Bamboo

As we saw with the 54T, the 54M prototype was initially rolled out as an enlarged 45M/45T store.  The best way to differentiate this store from a 54M is the aisle count: these stores have a whopping 19!  While the early 54M stores were just scaled up versions of the 45M, later models diverged from this to make the 54M (Gen 2).  When most people (including me) refer to the 54M, they are referring to the second, more common generation of this prototype.  AFB helped me find a few other stores of this design: #1176 (University Square), #1228 (High Point Town Center), and #1239 (Shoppes at Murabella).

Store #1228 - 2008 - Bamboo

This view looks almost identical to one of a 45M store from the same era since they both feature an arched ceiling over the deli.  Publix has removed this trait from plans for newer stores.

Store #1228 - 2008 - Bamboo

Also like its smaller siblings, the produce department in the first-gen 54M stores is located past the deli on the grand aisle (in the back right corner).  The second generation places wine in this corner.  I wouldn't be surprised if Publix ultimately decides to reconfigure this department to resemble its newer counterpart once these stores come up for a thorough remodel.

Store #1228 - 2008 - Bamboo

Once again, seafood, meat, and a portion of produce occupy the back wall of the store.

Store #1228 - 2008 - Bamboo

Frozen is on the middle aisles of the store.  I'm not sure if this feature is unique to the first-gen 54M stores, but I don't remember seeing such a large coffin cooler in the middle of a frozen section.

Store #1228 - 2008 - Bamboo

The front end of these stores looks nearly identical to any other Publix built since 2004, with the pharmacy occupying the front left corner.

54M-2

"Hybrid Format"

54,000 sq. ft.

Stores Opened: September 8, 2011 - Present

Active Prototype

Found in: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee

This prototype seems to be based off the first-gen 56M prototype seen below, and originally featured the Classy Market 2.5 (Bamboo), Classy Market 3.0 (Sienna), or Evergreen interior packages.  Publix continues to use this prototype, with the modern Evergreen-built stores still strongly resembling their earlier counterparts.

Store #1427 - 2014 - Bamboo

To begin, the bakery is located in the front right corner of these stores, just past a nook that is used for either greeting cards or a seating area.  

Store #1427 - 2014 - Bamboo

The grand aisle is home to the deli, bakery, produce, and wine departments.  The key difference between these stores and their cousin, the 45M, is the placement of produce and wine.  In the 54M, wine occupies the back right corner of the store while produce spans the entire grand aisle.

Store #1427 - 2014 - Bamboo

After wine comes seafood and meat on the back wall.

Store #1427 - 2014 - Bamboo

Frozen, once again, is found in the middle of the store.

Store #1427 - 2014 - Bamboo

The back left corner and the far left aisle of these stores is home to dairy, while the pharmacy is in the front left corner.  These stores can either feature a warehouse ceiling throughout or have a dropped ceiling over the grocery department.

Store #1427 - 2014 - Bamboo

Customer service is located on an island by the entry to the store. 

Some examples include: #1427 (Capital Circle), #1498 (Park Place), #1656 (Oak Valley Shopping Center), and #1737 (Shoppes at St. Lucie West).

Store #1567 - Original Construction (2017) - Equipment Plan

 As we can see in the above plan, the 54M-2 has mostly held true to the original layout of the 56M-1 we will look at below.  Publix continues to use this same general orientation with the 54M-2 stores which open with Evergreen.

56M-1

"Hybrid Prototype"

56,000 sq. ft.

Stores Opened: October 21, 2010 - February 26, 2014

Retired | Least Concern for Replacement

Found in: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, Tennessee

Store #1363 - 2011 - Evergreen

I originally thought these stores were a standard 54M-2, but then realized they were actually 2,000 sq. ft. larger and had a key defining feature: a second set of exit doors.  According to Battery Mill, this prototype was also known as the "hybrid format" and rolled out with store #1337 in 2010.  The goal of this concept was to combine the best elements of the prior 45M / 54M Publix prototypes with the larger gourmet sections of the first-generation GreenWise stores.  

Store #1363 - 2011 - Evergreen

This format introduced the Sienna Environment Package, and the same layout used in the 54M-2.  On the inside, these stores look largely the same as the 54M-2, except that they were built as premium "hybrid format" stores designed to integrate a larger selection of GreenWise products with the offerings of a standard Publix.  

Store #1363 - 2011 - Evergreen

In addition to the standard offerings of the later-developed 54M-2, these stores also include a specialty cheese counter, wine attendant, and deli hot food bar.  It is notable how the sliced meat section and sandwich section are swapped in the 56M-1 versus the 54M-2.

Store #1363 - 2011 - Evergreen

Another distinct feature of the 56M stores in general is the Café, where customers can order coffee and other drinks.

Store #1363 - 2011 - Evergreen

Without its experimental version of the Sienna Environment Package, the 56M-1 largely looks identical to the 54M-2.

Store #1363 - 2011 - Evergreen

However, several premium endcaps can still be found throughout these stores offering a wider variety of organic products to shoppers.

Store #1363 - 2011 - Evergreen

This wider selection extends into the pharmacy (located in, you guessed it, the front left corner of the store) which provides shoppers the opportunity to purchase various supplements and health products.

Some examples include: #1337 (Marketplace at Pelican Bay), #1363 (Town Brookhaven), and #1398 (Stadium Corners at Viera).

56M-2 (49.1U)

"Modern Publix"

50,000 sq. ft. - 56,000 sq. ft.

Stores Opened: December 19, 2013 - May 29, 2019

Retired | Least Concern for Replacement

Found in: Florida, North Carolina, Virginia

After digging up some plans for Publix #1439, I'm beginning to doubt whether the 56M-2 actually exists.  I still need to do a bit more research, but the official prototype for that store is called 49.1U.  This would also explain why Publix #1473 is closer to 50,000 sq. ft.

These stores look nearly identical to a modern 54M but were usually built in wealthier areas or urban spaces where Publix had more real estate to utilize.

Store #1473 - 2015 - Sienna

These stores always have two sets of exit doors, with the traditional set leading to the check lanes and the additional set leading to the pharmacy.

Store #1473 - 2015 - Sienna

The key difference between this store and a 54M is that the deli being located on an island in front of the produce department (where floral is in a 54M).  There is also an additional section of hot deli items located in the front right corner of the store.

Store #1473 - 2015 - Sienna

The produce department features a unique "S" shaped sign as opposed to the "C" shaped one used in a 54M-2 or 56M-1.

Store #1473 - 2015 - Sienna

Due to the deli moving, the bakery occupies the typical deli space in the middle of the right wall of the store.

Store #1473 - 2015 - Sienna

A large selection of specialty cheeses can be found just beyond the bakery.

Store #1473 - 2015 - Sienna

Wine is found in its typical home of the back right corner of the store.

Store #1473 - 2015 - Sienna

Meanwhile, meat and seafood look just the same as they would in a 54M-2.

Store #1473 - 2015 - Sienna

While the pharmacy, unsurprisingly, is found in the front right corner. Some other examples include: #1475 (Publix at Miller Street) and #1488 (Winter Park Village). 

Store #1439 - Original Construction (2013) - Equipment Plan

In contrast to the 54M-2, the grand aisle of the 49.1U looks drastically different.  We can see how moving the deli to an island really shuffles things around and even pulls the produce department closer to the front the of the store.  I'd also like to point out that the wine department was shifted slightly to the left to provide more back office space.

61M

"Superstore V2"

61,000 sq. ft.

Stores Opened: August 16, 2001 - November 11, 2010

Retired | Least Concern for Replacement

Found in: Florida, Georgia

Store #1306 - 2010 - Evergreen

The GTB Area Retail Blog mentions that this design was used between 2001 and 2003; however, the last store known to use this layout was #1306 built in 2010.  Like the 65Ns from the previous decade, these stores feel gigantic when you walk in them and do not resemble any other prototype.  Interestingly, there was only a single 61M built outside the state of Florida, with that title going to store #786 in Newnan, GA.  Another location, store #832, spent a 14-year stint as a Sabor while sandwiching that time with two jaunts as a standard Publix.  Said location was also the last of these stores to hold on to most of its original prototypical Classy Market 1.0 décor.  Some examples include: #754 (Shops of Citrus Park), #817 (Lantana Shopping Center), and #1306 (Village Square).

Store #1306 - 2010 - Evergreen

Unlike most Publix prototypes, the grand aisle is located on the left side of the store; it includes the deli, bakery, produce, wine, meat, and seafood departments.  

Store #852 - 2002 - Sienna

The older models of this prototype include a barrel ceiling over the grand aisle with clerestory skylights, while #1306 is likely the only store which does not include this feature.  This ceiling also inspired the original department signage in these stores; however, every example of such has since been removed.

Store #1306 - 2010 - Evergreen

Between the deli and bakery is one of two entrances to the store.  This alcove also includes a dining area and an Aprons catering desk.

Store #1306 - 2010 - Evergreen

Similar to the 37D and 44T, the meat and seafood departments are in the back left corner of the store.

Store #1306 - 2010 - Evergreen

The pharmacy is centered on the right wall of the store by the right entrance.  Over the checkout lanes, the ceiling is lower to accommodate offices and an Aprons cooking school.

Evergreen Prototypes

While Publix has continued to use the same 54M prototype with the roll-out of Evergreen, they have put the 45M on the back burner and thrown out the 39M. In place of these, the new 48M has become the default store layout.

GreenWise Market (Gen 2)

21,000 sq. ft. - 29,000 sq. ft.

Stores Opened: October 4, 2018 - June 20, 2020

Retired | Potential for Closure

Found in: Florida, Georgia, South Carolina 

Former Store #1689 - 2021 - GreenWise

Publix has ventured into GreenWise twice, and it seems like it has reversed its decision both times.  The second-generation GWM stores are a very interesting concept that Publix kicked off in 2018 with store #1573 in Tallahassee.  There is some variation amongst the earlier prototypes but by 2020, it seems like Publix settled on a standard 25,000 sq. ft. design.  The last GreenWise store opened in 2021, and several other planned locations have been converted to standard Publix stores before opening.  

Publix #1758 (Planned as GreenWise Market) - 2022 - Evergreen

Even the standard Publixes seem to retain the GreenWise exterior but have adopted an interior similar to the 28M-2 stores and will be included in that section.  Once you know what to look for, these scrapped GreenWise Markets are blatantly obvious with their rectangular Publix sign on a white background (as opposed to the typical lettering) and their natural wood accent wall set off from the beige and white stucco.

Former Store #1689 - 2021 - GreenWise

Customers are greeted by the floral department to their left as they entered the store, with produce just beyond.

Former Store #1689 - 2021 - GreenWise

Probably the most unique feature of these stores is called POURS.  Have you ever wanted to drink a beer at Publix, well now is your opportunity!  Most of the second-generation GreenWise stores allotted space for a POURS bar, which offers customers beer, smoothies, and coffee, and every standard Publix which has opened with one thus-far was originally planned as a GWM.

Former Store #1689 - 2021 - GreenWise

GreenWise stores are also known for their EATS section which offers a variety of ready-to-eat hot food options in addition to the traditional cold cuts and Pub Subs at a standard Publix.

Former Store #1689 - 2021 - GreenWise

Many of those additional options spill out into the sales floor.

Former Store #1689 - 2021 - GreenWise

Finally, CUTS and FINDS occupy the far side of the store (like a 28M, these stores can also feature mirrored layouts) with CUTS being the meat and seafood counter and FINDS being the wine and cheese department.

Some examples include: #1729 (Parkway Village of St. Johns) and #1758 (Perimeter Marketplace).

28M-2

"Small Format"

28,000 sq. ft. - 39,000 sq. ft.

Stores Opened: February 4, 2017 - Present

Active Prototype

Found in: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, Tennessee

Store #1522 - 2017 - Sienna

I've heard rumors that the 39M was killed off in favor of the 28M-2, yet I've come across several stores that are still roughly 39,000 sq. ft. which utilize this layout.  Regardless, I'm going to count them as 28M stores for the purpose of this page and move on with my life.

Store #1675 - 2020 - Sienna

These stores are similar to the 49M, except smaller, and they feature the produce department in the front right corner of the store rather than the deli.  A select few of these stores opened with the Sienna Environment Package, but the vast majority of them boast the Evergreen package.

Store #1758 (Planned as GreenWise Market) - 2022 - Evergreen

The 28M-2 stores use a slightly different deli island structure compared to the 48M; instead of having the "Pub Sub Shrine" at an angle in the front right corner of the store, it is set behind the produce department toward the back corner (and in typical 28M fashion, this continues to be the only size of Publix which can have a mirrored layout). 

Store #1675 - 2020 - Sienna

You may also notice that the general service department "slots" in this prototype are nearly identical to those used in the second-gen GreenWise stores. 

Store #1758 (Planned as GreenWise Market) - 2022 - Evergreen

The only difference is the EATS corner (featuring the bakery and deli sliced meats counter) is swapped for meats & seafood in the 28M-2, while the CUTS department is exchanged for the bakery.  The GreenWise stores simply dedicated more space to premade hot food compared to Publix using the "extra" room for an enlarged bakery.  I put extra in quotes because these stores are still pretty small and crowded.

Store #1675 - 2020 - Sienna

Just like the 48M, the deli is located all alone in the back corner of the store opposite the produce department.  This still feels like a very odd configuration compared to every other Publix I've been to.

Some examples include: #1522 (East Hill), #1675 (Perimeter), and #1688 (Publix at Indialantic).

48M

48,000 sq. ft.

Stores Opened: July 13, 2019 - Present

Active Prototype

Found in: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, Kentucky

Store #1719 - 2020 - Evergreen

This prototype was initially rolled out in 2019, and a select few stores (ex. #1627) opened with the Sienna Environment Package, although, most people will associate this store design with Evergreen.  The big difference is Publix utilized the produce department layout of a 54M store but pulled the deli out into an island in the front right corner of the store.

Store #1719 - 2020 - Evergreen

The customer service counter has also been moved to the right of the entry door and is no longer an island. (I guess they would rather trade one island for another, much more profitable one).

Store #1719 - 2020 - Evergreen

It is strange for me to not see some sort of service department on the right wall of these stores since that is something Publix has done since the early 1990's.

Store #1719 - 2020 - Evergreen

An even bigger break from tradition is the fact that the bakery is located in the back left corner of the store.  Publix has placed this department almost everywhere else around the perimeter of the store except for here, until now.

Store #1719 - 2020 - Evergreen

Although everything else seems to have moved, the pharmacy is still in the front right corner of the store, as it should be.

Store #1719 - 2020 - Evergreen

Other than customer service moving, the front end of these stores looks largely the same as other Publix stores built after 2004. 

Store #1719 - 2020 - Evergreen

My favorite part of the 48M is the dining area located on the second floor.  Now the average customer can see what managers have been looking at for the last few decades from their offices.

I'd like to note that this prototype has already begun to evolve in the few years since its debut, as the dropped ceiling accents over the grocery department have seemingly been removed.  I'm sure other variations will arise as well, like the fact that some stores have received an outdoor dining balcony in addition to the indoor space.

55M

55,000 sq. ft. - 60,000 sq. ft.

Stores Opened: March 2, 2023 - Present

Active Prototype

Found in: Florida, Georgia, Kentucky

Store #1808 - 2023 - Evergreen - HR2012TPA (Blog Contributor)

I first discovered this new prototype in the plans for future Publix #1846 in Louisville, KY (mentioned as a 55.3-U in that case) but the first store to use this new design was #1808 in Tampa, FL.  I think of this store design as the "hybrid format 2.0" since it basically seems like another merger of a GreenWise Market with a large, premium Publix store.  The overall service department configuration strongly resembles that of a second-generation GreenWise while these stores feature the sizing of a flagship Publix location.  

Blog contributor and transportation enthusiast HR2012TPA was kind enough to photograph this store and supply me with the pictures we see today.  Hopefully I will get the chance in the near future to visit one of these stores myself.

Store #1808 - 2023 - Evergreen - HR2012TPA (Blog Contributor)

The first unique characteristic we'll see is the POURS café and bar.  Store #1808 happens to be the first Publix location which wasn't originally planned as a GreenWise Market to include a POURS.

Store #1808 - 2023 - Evergreen - HR2012TPA (Blog Contributor)

Other key features of this new design include:  the produce department in the front right corner of the store,

Store #1808 - 2023 - Evergreen - HR2012TPA (Blog Contributor)

 an enlarged deli island featuring expanded ready-made food options,

Store #1808 - 2023 - Evergreen - HR2012TPA (Blog Contributor)

 a combination bakery-sliced deli meats counter in the back right corner of the store,

Store #1808 - 2023 - Evergreen - HR2012TPA (Blog Contributor)

a new bakery design with taller shelving,

Store #1808 - 2023 - Evergreen - HR2012TPA (Blog Contributor)

and a meat and seafood counter in the back left corner.

Store #1808 - 2023 - Evergreen - HR2012TPA (Blog Contributor)

Since fresh meats moved to the left side of the store, dairy now occupies the back wall while processed meats line the left wall of the store.

Store #1808 - 2023 - Evergreen - HR2012TPA (Blog Contributor)

One thing that hasn't changed is the placement of the pharmacy in the front left corner.

Store #1808 - 2023 - Evergreen - HR2012TPA (Blog Contributor)

Finally, it wouldn't be a fancy new Publix prototype without a second story dining area overlooking the salesfloor.

Store #1846 - Original Construction (2022) - Reflected Ceiling Plan

If I lost you in all of those descriptions, here is a look at the reflected ceiling plan for Publix #1846 in Louisville, Kentucky.

Since this design has only been used in one active store, this section is likely to change as more locations open.

That will conclude my exhaustive list of Publix layouts from the last four decades.  Feel free to leave a comment if I left something out or stated something incorrectly.

I would like to thank The Albertsons Florida Blogger who has been kind enough to provide a number of pictures and information for this page.  I'd also like to thank Battery Mill who has diligently combed through countless store listings to help make this page possible.  Additionally, GeorgiaPubDue is unbelievable when it comes to finding obscure pictures of long closed or remodeled stores.  Many of the historic photos on this page wouldn't be there without his help.  Finally, I'd like to than the many friends, like the Sing Oil Sidekick or the Publix Pirate, who have let me drag them along to random grocery stores throughout the Southeast!

Anyway, I hope you have enjoyed this effort and learn a lot from it!

- The Sing Oil Blogger

Editorial Note: this page has been and will be a work in progress – content subject to change.