I really like Publix.
As a rule, every location is clean and well-organized. The only downside I can see is that their prices are extremely high on most items (even higher than Winn-Dixie, and that's saying a lot). Generally, their pricing is 10 to 30 percent higher than, let's say Walmart or Aldi.
But, then again, I guess you pay a little more for this kind of clean shopping experience and, as a rule, good customer service.
Except at the deli sub line, of course.
It stands to reason that, if you live near a Publix, you've tried their submarine sandwiches, and you know why they're worth waiting in line for. There isn't another restaurant that can compare to the sandwich you get at Publix (I'm looking at you , Subway).
Despite being outstanding subs, sometimes getting them can be a bit of an ordeal.
OK...maybe "ordeal" is a strong word. Let's split the difference and say "annoying to maddening".
While Publix has generally excelled in customer service, their help at the sub counter is definitely hit or miss (and almost ALWAYS understaffed). Even at this location, I've been waited on by people who were inattentive and apparently apathetic.
I've even left the line, even after waiting ten or fifteen minutes.
But I digress...
My wife and I order subs once a week, generally speaking. We each have long commutes, and I try to pick our longest days to order from Publix. It saves us both from cooking and cleaning, and we know that we're going to get a great-tasting meal.
Two weeks ago I stopped in for our dinner order, and I got the BEST service I'd ever gotten a the counter, and I didn't even leave with one of the subs I intended to purchase.
I was waited on by a young lady named Shalicia. She was very friendly and obviously outgoing, and Publix did really well putting her at the sub counter (in fact, they should clone her and staff that counter with no one other than her and her clones). I ordered my wife's sub, which went off without a hitch, but when I ordered my sub, they didn't have the meat which I wanted. Generally not a problem, I've got a standby, so I asked for that. That day it was a problem, and they didn't have that one either. Shalicia didn't miss a beat, she knew her products well enough that she suggested an alternative which she thought I might like, and offered to match the price with the two that weren't available.
You just can't beat that kind of friendly, attentive service.
Well...maybe you can. I returned last week, and Shalicia was working a different station at the deli, but when she saw me, she recognized me and came over to ask if I liked the sub which she suggested.
THAT is outstanding customer service.
So, I have to give five stars to this location. Even on a bad day, I would give Publix four stars because they really are good at what they do. But on this occasion, the five stars are more than well-deserved.
Thank you for the great service! read more