Publix announces 700 new jobs, corporate expansion in Lakeland

Publix says it will bring 700 new jobs to Lakeland in the next 10 years. 

The Polk County, Florida-based grocery store chain said the positions will be available once a newly-planned expansion of its corporate headquarters is complete in 2027.

Governor Rick Scott joined Publix CEO and President Todd Jones to make the announcement Thursday.

Publix has made significant growth in the last 17 years, adding about 70,000 employees across 500 new stores. 

Jones credited hard-working Publix employees and loyal customers for the company's growth.

"We are proud of the role we continue to play in the great state of Florida,” Jones said.