Publix is a well-loved supermarket chain across the United States, and many shoppers often wonder, “Does Publix sell cigarettes?” In this blog post, we’ll answer that question and provide a quick look at the tobacco products you can find at Publix.
Publix Overview
First, let’s take a quick look at what Publix is all about. Publix is one of the largest grocery store chains in the United States. They’re known for their excellent customer service, clean stores, and wide selection of products. You can find everything from fresh produce to household essentials at Publix.
With over 1,200 store locations across the Southeast, Publix is a go-to shopping destination for millions of people. Their stores are especially popular in Florida, where the company is headquartered. Now that you know a bit about Publix, let’s answer the key question.
Does Publix Sell Cigarettes?
Yes, Publix does sell cigarettes and other tobacco products in their stores. While Publix is committed to promoting health and wellness, they still offer cigarettes for customers who choose to smoke.
You can typically find cigarettes for sale at the customer service desk or in the checkout lanes at Publix. The store keeps them behind the counter and requires proof of age to purchase, as mandated by law. So if you’re of legal smoking age, you can buy a pack or carton of your preferred cigarette brand at Publix.
It’s worth noting that some Publix locations may have more limited cigarette selections than others. And in certain areas, local regulations may restrict the sale of certain tobacco products. But in general, you can expect to find cigarettes available at your neighborhood Publix.
Types Of Tobacco Products Sold At Publix
In addition to cigarettes, Publix sells a few other tobacco products as well. Here’s a quick rundown of the other tobacco items you may find at Publix:
Cigars: Publix usually carries a small selection of cigars, including both single sticks and packs. The cigar brands will vary by store.
Smokeless Tobacco: Chewing tobacco and snuff are often sold at Publix in the same area as cigarettes. Popular brands like Skoal and Copenhagen are common.
Rolling Papers: Some Publix stores sell rolling papers and other smoking accessories near the cigarette counter. However, this will depend on your specific location.
Health & Safety Regulations
Like all retailers, Publix must follow strict laws around selling cigarettes. They are only allowed to sell tobacco to customers aged 21 and over. Cashiers are required to check photo ID for anyone who looks under 40.
These regulations are in place to prevent underage smoking. Selling to minors can result in hefty fines for the store. So if you get carded, don’t be offended – they’re just following the law.
Purchasing Cigarettes At Publix
So, can you actually buy cigarettes at Publix? The answer is yes! Most Publix locations do sell a variety of tobacco products, including cigarettes.
You’ll usually find them in a locked case behind the customer service counter. Be prepared to show your ID to the associate. They’ll retrieve your cigarettes and ring you up at the register.
Keep in mind that prices and selection can vary by store. Publix may not carry every brand. It’s a good idea to check if they have your preferred kind in stock.
Publix’s Policies On Selling Tobacco Products
While Publix does sell cigarettes, they’ve scaled back compared to other retailers. In 2014, they stopped selling tobacco in their pharmacies. This was to better align with their health and wellness branding.
However, you can still purchase cigarettes in most of the main store locations. Publix has stated they will continue to sell tobacco as long as it’s legal and customers want to buy it.
That said, don’t expect to see any tobacco ads or promotions in Publix stores. They keep cigarettes out of view and don’t mark down prices or offer coupons. This low-key approach is intentional.
Conclusion
Publix does sell cigarettes and other tobacco products at most of its stores. You can usually find them behind the customer service desk or at the checkout, and you’ll need to show ID to buy them. While Publix continues to sell these items, they’ve stopped selling tobacco in their pharmacies and don’t promote tobacco products heavily. For the best info on what’s available and pricing, it’s a good idea to check with your local Publix store.