LAKELAND, FL - Dedication is a word not used lighty in this industry; we continue to celebrate such leaders long after their years of service have ended. One of Publix’s most dedicated leaders has decided to step down from their role after 35 years and enter retirement. Chris Litz, Vice President of Product Business Development for Meat, Seafood, Bakery, and Grocery Refrigerated and Frozen, will step down as of May 31 of this year.

According to a press release, Litz began his Publix career in 1987 as a stock clerk in Sarasota, Florida. He worked in various positions before being promoted to Store Manager in 1995 and District Manager in 2000. In 2007, he was named Director of Nonperishable Warehousing and in 2016 was promoted to Vice President of Fresh Product Business Development and to his current role in 2021.

Publix President Kevin Murphy commented on the retirement of this distinguished leader.

“Over the years, Chris has led and supported strategic efforts to improve our operations and service to our customers,” said Murphy in a company press release. “We appreciate his efforts and dedicated service to our company.”

We at ANUK have seen dedication in many forms from our time reporting in the fresh produce industry, and that of Litz is as true as it gets.

Publix currently operates 1,294 stores in Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Tennessee, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Virginia. The company’s dedication to superior quality and customer service is reportedly recognized among the top in the grocery business.

Congratulations to Chris Litz on his retirement!

Publix