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Why Will The Publix Store Cross The Road?

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By LAURA FRAZIER | The Tampa Tribune

Published: October 1, 2008

VALRICO - Cue Chriss Angel and David Blaine: In what might be described as supermarket sleight-of-hand, Publix plans to move an entire grocery store from one side of Brandon Boulevard to the other, overnight - sort of.

Publix spokeswoman Shannon Patten said the company will tear down and rebuild the defunct Winn-Dixie store in Valrico Square plaza, across the street from its existing store at 1930 East Brandon Blvd.

So as not to disrupt the shopping pleasure of its customers - or store revenue - the old Publix will stay open until the night before the new one debuts. The switch is expected to take place in late 2009, but customers are getting time to prepare thanks to a tall pole sign heralding the change.

"One Wednesday night, our customers will shop at the old store, and Thursday morning they'll shop at the new one," Patten said.

The new 54,000-square-foot market, larger than the average Publix store, will feature an energy-efficient design, easier access and more products, services and parking spaces.

"It's more convenient to get in and out on that side of the road," Patten said.

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