Two of Florida’s largest grocery chains, Publix and Winn-Dixie, are taking vastly different approaches to Florida’s evolving gun laws, particularly regarding the open carry of firearms.
Following a recent court ruling that clarified Florida’s open carry policy, Publix confirmed it will permit customers to openly carry firearms in its stores where legally allowed.
The company cited adherence to local and state laws as the basis for its decision.
“As of Sept. 25, 2025, Florida law allows the open carry of firearms,” a company representative told the Orlando Sentinel. Publix follows all federal, state and local laws. Treating customers with dignity and respect is a founding belief at Publix. In any instance where a customer creates a threatening, erratic or dangerous shopping experience — whether they are openly carrying a firearm or not — we will engage local law enforcement to protect our customers and associates.”
This marks a notable shift from the company’s 2019 position, when it joined other retailers in requesting that only law enforcement openly carry firearms in its stores.
Meanwhile, Winn-Dixie, under parent company Southeastern Grocers, has opted to maintain a stricter policy, continuing to prohibit open carry in its stores regardless of state law.
UNDER THE RADAR PUBLIX SHOPPING HACKS
“Our priority is creating a safe and welcoming shopping experience for all customers and associates,” the company told Bay News 9 “As a private business, our policy remains unchanged: we do not permit open carry of firearms inside our stores. We respectfully ask customers to secure firearms safely before entering.”
The diverging policies reflect the broader national debate over gun rights, public safety, and corporate responsibility. While Publix aligns its policy with legal changes, Winn-Dixie emphasizes maintaining a “comfortable environment” for shoppers by restricting visible firearms.
Aldi, another major grocery chain operating in Florida with an expanding presence in St. Johns County, has not issued a public statement regarding its open carry policy following the recent legal developments.
In 2019, Aldi requested customers refrain from openly displaying firearms in stores. The Citizen has reached out to Aldi for clarification on its current policy.
The issue continues to stir mixed reactions among Florida residents, with some praising expanded rights under the law and others expressing concern about the presence of firearms in public spaces like grocery stores.
