SOUTH CAROLINA - Publix’s innovative GreenWise Markets banner has tested the waters in multiple markets, most recently announcing plans for its first Georgia-based store and its fifth Florida-based store. As the grocer continues to build out its banner, new expansion strategies have come to light. Publix announced earlier this week that it had made the decision to close its two South Carolina-based GreenWise stores in order to target the Florida market.

"We have made the difficult decision to close both GreenWise Market locations in South Carolina," remarked Maria Brous, Director of Communications, in a statement. "Both locations were acquisitions that fit our needs at the time of opening; however, as our concept has evolved, the locations have space constraints (approximately 21,000 square feet) that will not fit our current vision for GreenWise Markets. We have shared this information with our GreenWise associates, and we are offering to relocate associates to neighboring Publix locations."

According to news source Iron Blade Online, the South Carolina-based specialty markets will officially close their doors later this month on August 29. The upcoming Florida location, however, is still full-steam ahead as Publix turns its attention to success in the state of Florida.

The news source teased that three additional Florida-based GreenWise locations may be in the works, with the grocer narrowing in on Fort Lauderdale, Tampa, and St. Augustine. The fresh-forward, natural foods banner has experienced booming business in Florida, and the upcoming South Carolina closures are merely the next step in Publix’s methodical expansion plans.

Stick with us at ANUK as we continue to cover the strategic GreenWise Markets expansions.

Publix