Florida Publix stores to permit open carry after court ruling

Publix, Florida’s largest grocery store chain, will now follow the state’s open carry policy after a recent court ruling.

Open carry is the practice of carrying a firearm visibly in public, as opposed to concealed carry, where the firearm is hidden from view (for example, under clothing).

On Sept. 10, 2025, a panel of the 1st District Court of Appeal (DCA) overturned a 1987 law that made it a misdemeanor to visibly display firearms, according to Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier. The ruling allows private businesses to “compel individuals carrying firearms to leave their premises.” Weeks later, on Sept. 25, Florida implemented its statewide open carry policy. “As of Sept. 25, 2025, Florida law allows the open carry of firearms. Publix follows all federal, state, and local laws,” a Publix spokesperson told NBC affiliate News Channel 8 and the South Florida Sun Sentinel. The spokesperson added: “In any instance where a customer creates a threatening, erratic, or dangerous shopping experience — whether they are openly carrying a firearm or not — we will engage local law enforcement to protect our customers and associates.” The chain confirmed that open carry will be permitted at stores across South Florida, including locations in Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, Davie, Miramar, Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Coral Gables, and Homestead. While Publix will now allow open carry, other major retailers in the state are taking different approaches. Walmart, Winn Dixie, Harveys, and Fresco y Más have issued statements regarding their concealed carry policies, while stores such as Costco and Target maintain strict no-gun policies, banning both open and concealed firearms. Publix is popular among many Caribbean nationals in Florida, who appreciate the chain’s community engagement and cultural inclusivity. The supermarket actively participates in Caribbean American Heritage Month, hosting in-store events celebrating Caribbean culture through food, music, and cultural displays. For Caribbean shoppers who frequent Publix, the new open carry policy may be a change to get used to, but the chain emphasizes safety and a respectful shopping environment.