Forget everything you think you know about grocery store pharmacies. Publix is setting a new standard, and it’s not just about filling prescriptions in a corner of the grocery store anymore. Publix Pharmacy is evolving into something much more—offering healthcare services that some of the larger chains haven’t quite embraced yet. But is working as a pharmacist at Publix the right move for you? Let’s dive into what makes this grocery chain stand out in the pharmacy world.

The story of Publix begins with George Jenkins, a man who worked as a clerk and manager at Piggly Wiggly (yes, you read that right) before founding Publix in 1930. It wasn’t until much later that the pharmacy division came into play, with the first Publix pharmacy opening in 1986. Since then, the company has expanded methodically, and now, nearly 90% of their 1,300 locations feature a pharmacy. Publix Pharmacy generates around $848 million in revenue, which contributes to the company’s total $57 billion. While that’s a small percentage, it’s clear the company is committed to its pharmacy services, and it’s growing.

What makes Publix Pharmacy a strong contender in the market is its workplace culture. Out of the top grocery chains, Publix is the only one consistently rated on the Fortune 100’s Best Companies to Work For list. And it’s easy to see why. Employees share their satisfaction with the work environment, with one pharmacist highlighting that staffing levels are decent compared to other chains. The company also stands out for its commitment to work-life balance, with many employees appreciating the reduced hours on weekends and holidays. Another perk? Generous stock options that give employees a sense of ownership in the company, and positive customer interactions that contribute to job satisfaction.

But, as with any large organization, there are some drawbacks. Workload concerns are common, with some pharmacists feeling like they’re doing too much with too little support. A few employees have voiced frustration over the “customer is always right” mentality, which can lead to demoralizing situations. And while some locations are described as having a positive atmosphere, others struggle with gossip and micromanagement. I can tell you from experience, though, micromanaging isn’t exclusive to Publix—it happens in almost every major chain.

The variation in experiences at Publix is mostly location-dependent. Some stores face challenges with scheduling, and tech help is sometimes lacking. Many pharmacists find themselves working solo during peak hours with minimal assistance, especially in lower-traffic stores. Despite these issues, Publix is still considered one of the better employers in the grocery store pharmacy space, offering stability and opportunities for professional development.

Looking to the future, Publix is positioning itself for sustainable growth. The company is investing $150 million in a new central-fill facility in St. Johns County, set to open in 2026. This is an exciting development for pharmacists as it could lead to more clinical opportunities and less burden on the traditional dispensing workload. With 400 new jobs on the horizon, including pharmacist positions, this is a sign that Publix is planning for growth in a way that many other grocery chains aren’t.

Ultimately, Publix Pharmacy has carved out a strong niche within the grocery chain world. While it’s not perfect, it’s one of the better employers in the industry and continues to set a higher standard for how pharmacies should be run in grocery stores. With a slower, more deliberate approach than some of its competitors, Publix is redefining what pharmacy care looks like in the supermarket setting, while still prioritizing the well-being of its employees. So, if you’re looking for a pharmacy career with solid benefits, room for growth, and a company that’s invested in the future, Publix might just be the place for you.