The grocery business in early 2025 has been defined by cooling inflation, evolving consumer habits, and continued competition from large national chains. Against this backdrop, Publix Super Markets remains one of the most respected and resilient companies in the industry—and Q1 2025 reinforced that position.
For Publix stockholders, especially those who work or have worked for the company, there’s good news: Publix’s internal stock price was raised to $20.20 per share at the end of March, up from $19.20 at the end of last quarter. That’s a 5.2% quarterly increase, adding to the consistent long-term growth that Publix associates have come to expect.
Performance Highlights – Q1 2025
Sales Growth: Publix generated about $15.8 billion in sales for the quarter—up 5.1% year over year. This is slightly ahead of the grocery industry average and especially strong considering Easter fell in April this year.
Comparable Store Sales: Comparable store sales—a key retail metric—were up 4%, showing that customers continue to return to Publix stores even as competitors offer aggressive promotions.
Profitability: Actual operating profit was up 9.3% year over year, despite actual net earnings declining due to marketable securities holdings that are subject to market fluctuations. A year ago, this was a net positive for the quarter and this quarter it was a net negative, but these fluctuations have no impact on actual operating profit.
Stock Price: At $20.20 per share, Publix stock is now up approximately 23% over the past 12 months. Publix has also continued to pay dividends (10.75 cents/share in Q1), reflecting the company’s strong cash flow and conservative financial management.
How Does Everyone Compare?
| Company | Comp Sales Growth | Operating Margin | Stock Change Q1 |
| Publix | +4% | ~8–9% (est.) | +5.2% |
| Kroger | +2.4% | ~2.7% | +17% |
| Albertsons | +2.3% | ~2.5% | +12% |
| Walmart (U.S.) | +4.6% | ~5.6% | Flat |
| Ahold USA | +1.4% | ~4.1% | +6% |
| Costco | +7.5% | ~2.8% | -3% |
What’s Driving Industry Change?
- Inflation Is Slowing Down: Grocery inflation has finally cooled after several volatile years. Prices were up only about 2–3% in Q1. That’s good news for consumers, but it also means that grocery companies must now grow revenue through volume and customer loyalty—not just rising prices.
- Customers Are More Value-Conscious: Even higher-income shoppers are becoming more price-sensitive. Chains like Walmart and Costco have seen increased grocery traffic from people looking to stretch their budgets.
- E-Commerce Keeps Growing: Online grocery shopping, curbside pickup, and same-day delivery are now part of everyday life. Publix continues to compete in this space through Instacart partnerships and improved digital tools but needs to keep an eye out for Kroger and how they are obtaining more and more market share.
Looking Ahead: What Should Publix Shareholders Expect?
Continued Regional Growth: Publix now operates nearly 1,400 stores across 8 states, including recent expansions into Kentucky.
Competition Will Intensify: Walmart is gaining grocery market share, particularly in Publix’s Southeast markets. The proposed merger of Kroger and Albertsons could create a national competitor with new scale.
Publix’s Focus Will Remain on What Works: With no debt, a strong balance sheet, and a laser focus on customer service and employee satisfaction, Publix is staying true to its roots while evolving carefully.
Bottom Line: Shelf Life
To wrap up, the grocery industry in Q1 2025 has shown resilience and adaptability amidst cooling inflation and shifting consumer preferences. Publix, in particular, has demonstrated robust performance, with notable sales growth, strong comparable store sales, and a healthy increase in stock price. As the industry continues to navigate these changes, Publix’s commitment to customer service, employee satisfaction, and strategic growth positions it well for future success. Shareholders can remain optimistic about Publix’s ability to thrive in an increasingly competitive market.
May 2025
Sources: Publix Super Markets, Inc., Kroger: The Kroger Co. – Investor Relations, Albertson’s: Albertsons Companies, Inc. – Investors – Financial Reports – Quarterly Results,
Walmart: Walmart Inc. (WMT), Ahold USA: Investor Relations, Costco: Costco Wholesale Corporation – Investor Relations
The third-party organizations mentioned in this production are not affiliated with or endorsed by LPL Financial and Allen & Company.
The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. There is no guarantee that a diversified portfolio will enhance overall returns or outperform a non-diversified portfolio. Diversification does not protect against market risk.
