Publix is opening new market in Lexington, but it’s not your average grocery store

Publix announced Thursday it plans to open a GreenWise Market in Lexington, one of several new locations throughout the South.

GreenWise Markets are a spin-off from traditional Publix stores, but they feature more organic and specialty products and other features in-store, neatly grouped to make a more organized shopping experience. The first store opened in Tallahassee, Florida in October, and the grocer has expanded its operation to other states since.

The markets have a drink bar, where shoppers can purchase kombucha on tap, smoothies and acai bowls, wine, locally roasted coffee and craft beer. GreenWise stores also offer fresh cooked foods, imported cheeses, organic meats, sausage made in-store and seafood. A personal care section will have soaps, bathroom products and natural goods.

Publix launched its first GreenWise Market last year to be competitive in a market increasingly dominated by specialty and natural foods stores. The markets are divided into five sections: care (personal/health items), finds (specialty foods), eats (prepared foods), cuts (deli) and pours (beverages).

Publix has not announced a location or opening date yet for its Lexington GreenWise Market. Another location will open in Mount Pleasant, SC, in summer 2019.

This story was originally published February 21, 2019 at 2:30 PM.