Publix Invites Shoppers To Meet Manager

Ever wondered who makes the decisions at your favorite Publix store? Well here's your chance to find out. Today from 11am-4pm go into any Tampa store and meet the manager, including the Westchase area stores.

Patch caught up with Publix spokeswoman Shannon Patten to discuss today's "Meet the Manager" event:

Patch: What prompted Publix to invite shoppers to meet their managers?

Patten: It’s important for us to get to know our customers because we are an integral part of our community. We want our customers to have the opportunity to speak directly to the Publix managers who work hard every day to make a Publix location special for “their” customers.

Patch: Will this be happening at all the Publix stores or just the Westchase location?

Patten: In addition to the Westchase location, we will be having a similar event at several stores throughout the Tampa Bay area.

Patch: What do you hope shoppers will gain from this experience?

Patten: We hope that they will take the opportunity to speak to our managers one on one about any concerns or compliments they may have regarding their shopping experiences. This also gives our customers the chance to get to know their managers a little better.

Patch: What value do Publix managers bring to the stores?

Patten: Our managers do a great job of leading by example. They inspire our associates to provide premier service and be involved in our community. Our managers challenge, encourage and support our associates to make a positive difference, both inside and outside the store.

They also operate each store with integrity and provide our customers with the highest quality products. They strive to make sure that the products our customers want are available and that their overall shopping experience is a pleasure.

Patch: What kind of information will shoppers receive on Saturday from the managers?

Patten: This is a chance for our customers to speak one on one with members of the management team. Our managers are looking forward to engaging in conversations with customers and will be ready to answer any questions customers might have.

Patch: We heard there would be some sort of special coupon given. Can you tell us anything about that?

Patten: Customers visiting the store will receive a sheet on which they need to collect each manager’s signature. Once they turn the completed sheet in to Customer Service, they will be given a coupon for a free product. While I can’t tell you what the free product will be, it’s sure to put a smile on each customer’s face.