Publix is now open in Lexington. Here’s what services it offers outside of groceries
Publix officially opened to Lexington customers Wednesday morning, and it got a warm reception, including from some customers who started lining up before 5 a.m.
Our price comparison found relatively higher prices there, though Publix fans often say the quality and selection, clean facilities and customer service are well worth the trade-off.
Apart from groceries, what other services does Publix offer? Several of its competitors, such as Walmart and Kroger, have fast and convenient online ordering options leveraging their vast network of stores, for example.
Pharmacy services
The Publix pharmacy at the store’s 1952 Stockton Way location largely offers similar services that you’ve come to expect from pharmacies at other grocery chains.
It has a drive-thru window for easy pick ups and an in-store clinic where you can ask questions of the pharmacist or get your annual flu shot. They can also fill your pet’s prescription just as Kroger and Walmart pharmacies do.
Meijer, with two locations in Lexington, also offers a pharmacy.
You may notice better customer service at Publix, however, given that’s one way the chain attempts to set itself apart from competitors. Publix pharmacy has received high marks for customer satisfaction in recent years.
In 2019, it ranked second among grocery store pharmacies, falling just behind Wegmans in a J.D. Power survey that drew from more than 12,000 consumer responses.
Publix is also the largest employee-owned company in the U.S., and it’s regularly recognized as a top place to work.
If you’re looking to save money on your prescriptions, however, Kroger or Walmart may have more robust options for you. While Walmart has a $4 drug program and Kroger has its own pharmacy savings program in the form of the Kroger Health Savings Club, Publix ended its free prescription program in 2022.
Some medications are available from Publix for as low as $7.50 for a 90-day supply, though you’re likely to find more comprehensive savings options elsewhere.
A Publix spokesperson did not immediately respond to an email Wednesday seeking more information about prescription drug savings.
Online ordering
Publix offers online ordering and delivery services through a partnership with Instacart, which offers users same-day delivery and curbside pick up. Publix also has a dedicated app for pick ups and deliveries.
Most of what you can buy in store at Publix is available for pick up or delivery, though because of its reliance on Instacart, you could pay higher prices for the convenience.
Some industry observers point out that while Publix has made some strides, it’s been relatively slow to adopt and integrate e-commerce options compared to competitors, such as Walmart, Kroger and Whole Foods.
Other Publix services
Publix receives fresh floral deliveries daily and also offers wedding arrangements among its floral department services.
Lexington Krogers also offer floral services.
Publix hot bar and deli section are also a fan-favorite for Pub Subs and rotating soup options, such as lobster bisque and lasagna soup. If that’s a draw for you, you’ll likely find more extensive hot bar options at Whole Foods, though that may come with higher prices to boot.
The second Lexington Publix location in Palomar is set to offer expanded hot bar options, the Herald-Leader has previously reported.
Unlike Kroger, which offers a gas rewards and has several fuel stations in the city, Publix does not offer gas services. It previously did, offering a convenience store option called PIX, but sold those locations.
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