PUBLIX FINDS 1.5 MILLION WAYS TO SUPPORT FLORIDA’S SPECIAL OLYMPICS ATHLETES

Through the generosity of its associates and customers, Publix Super Markets raised a remarkable $1,550,904.27 in just three weeks for Special Olympics Florida as part of their annual promotion, in partnership with Procter & Gamble, which ran during the month of January. By purchasing paper torches for $1, $3 or $5, Publix associates and customers throughout Florida showed their support of the organization, dedicated to serving children and adults with intellectual disabilities.

Publix presented the $1.55 million check during a ceremony for the Florida Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics on the steps of the State Capitol in Tallahassee.  A supporter of Special Olympics Florida for thirty-five years, Publix serves as the Premier Sponsor of Special Olympics Florida, the Presenting Sponsor of the annual Florida Law Enforcement Torch Run and has an industry-leading history of hiring people with intellectual disabilities, many of whom participate in Special Olympics.

“We are pleased to be one of the top supporters of Special Olympics Florida,” said Maria Brous, Director of Media and Community Relations for Publix Super Markets. “Our customers and associates look forward to supporting the campaign each year. For Publix, it’s a personal mission. Many of our very own associates compete in the State and National Games. Supporting Special Olympics means supporting our associates and that is part of our commitment of being a great place to work!”

Monty Castevens, President and CEO of Special Olympics Florida said “We are honored to have the ongoing support of Publix,” said Mr. Castevens, “one of the lasting benefits of Publix Super Markets’ promotion is that it helps educate the public about Special Olympics and its long-term impact on the lives of people with intellectual disabilities.”  Castevens added “Through sports, Special Olympics empowers our athletes to realize their full potential and develop necessary life skills.  It’s through the efforts of generous organizations like Publix that we can provide our athletes with the quality programs they deserve.”

Publix is owned and operated by its 143,000 employees, with 2006 sales of $21.7 billion. Currently Publix has 902 stores in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, Alabama and Tennessee. The company has been named one of Fortune’s “100 Best Companies to Work for in America” for ten consecutive years. In addition, Publix’s dedication to superior quality and customer service is recognized as tops in the grocery business, most recently by an American Customer Satisfaction Index survey. For more information, visit the company’s web site, www.publix.com

- ### -

Media Contacts:
Amie Dugan
VP, Marketing and Communications
Special Olympics Florida
352-243-9536 ext. 506

Maria Brous
Director of Media and Community Relations
Publix Super Markets
863-688-1188 x55339