New policy sign at a grocery store entrance.
Publix, a prominent grocery chain operating over 1,400 locations across the Southeast, has recently revised its policy regarding the open carry of firearms in its Florida stores. The company now explicitly requests that “only law enforcement openly carry firearms in our stores,” a notable shift from its previous stance that permitted customers to do so.
This policy change follows a state appeals court ruling that deemed Florida’s ban on open carry unconstitutional. Previously, Publix stated it adhered to all federal, state, and local laws, including the newly permitted open carry. At that time, Publix was among a limited number of grocery retailers allowing customers to openly carry firearms, while major competitors like Walmart, Target, and Costco had already implemented policies against guns in their stores.
Private businesses retain the right to prohibit weapons on their premises. Florida law designates certain locations, such as courthouses, schools, and government facilities, as prohibited areas for carrying firearms, whether openly or concealed. Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier has issued guidance indicating that individuals who violate a private property owner’s warning to leave while carrying a firearm will be committing armed trespass, a third-degree felony.
Signs reflecting Publix’s updated policy are reportedly appearing at some store locations. While no major incidents were reported during the period the open carry policy was in effect for customers, the revision comes shortly after an accidental firearm discharge at a Miramar store, which led to a police response and a safety sweep.
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