Publix has plenty of loyal customers, and it’s easy to see why. Stores are generally clean, customer service is a big part of its appeal, and those famous Pub Subs have practically developed a following of their own. Add in the weekly BOGO deals, and people have plenty of reasons to keep coming back.
But shopping at Publix isn’t always as great as its reputation suggests. Between higher grocery prices, certain sales restrictions, and a few everyday inconveniences, even regular customers wish the store would do things differently.
Some of these drawbacks can raise your grocery bill, while others simply make shopping more frustrating than it needs to be. Here are eight downsides to know before your next Publix run.
Higher Grocery Prices
Publix is known for having higher grocery prices than stores like Walmart and Aldi, which can make it harder to stick to a budget. Everyday essentials like produce, meat, dairy, and pantry staples can cost more, especially when they’re not on sale. While weekly BOGO deals can help you save, those discounts don’t always offset higher prices on everything else in your cart.
Higher Prices for Grocery Pickup and Delivery
Ordering groceries online saves time, but Publix charges higher item prices for delivery and curbside pickup than in-store. That means even if you drive to Publix to pick up your groceries yourself, you may still spend more than you would shopping the aisles. Delivery fees and tips can push the total even higher.
Long Waits at the Deli Counter
Publix may be famous for its subs, but getting one isn’t always quick. The deli counter can get busy, especially around lunchtime, and customers ordering sandwiches or sliced meats can end up waiting longer than expected. It’s especially frustrating when you stop in for a quick lunch and end up spending more time in line than you planned.
Limited International and Specialty Foods
Publix carries plenty of everyday groceries, but its selection of international and specialty ingredients can be disappointing depending on the location. If you’re looking for specific spices, sauces, noodles, or ingredients for a particular recipe, you may struggle to find everything you need. That can mean making a second stop at an international market or another grocery store.
A Rewards Program That Doesn’t Always Feel Rewarding
Club Publix offers digital coupons, personalized deals, and occasional perks, but it doesn’t have a traditional points system that rewards every dollar spent. Some offers depend on your shopping habits or location, so you can’t guarantee you’ll get the same discounts as another customer. If you’re used to predictable grocery rewards, Publix’s program can feel underwhelming.
Not Every Store Has Convenient Self-Checkout
Self-checkout can be useful when you’re only buying a few things and want to get in and out quickly. But some Publix locations have limited self-checkout lanes, while others may not offer them at all. That can leave shoppers waiting in a regular checkout line even when they’re only picking up one or two items.
Related: Why I Always Skip Self-Checkout (Even When the Line Is Longer)
The App Can Make Shopping More Complicated
The Publix app is supposed to make it easier to browse weekly deals, clip digital coupons, and place orders, but it can have issues with loading, location settings, and ordering. That’s especially frustrating when you’re trying to check a sale or use a digital offer before heading to the register. For shoppers who rely on the app to save money, technical issues can complicate a routine grocery trip.
