Publix Real Estate VP Retiring

Publix Super Markets’ Real Estate VP John Frazier will retire Dec. 31, 2010, after 44 years with the Lakeland, Fla.-based grocer. Jeff Chamberlain will succeed him in the position.

Frazier started at Publix in 1966 as a front-service clerk in Ft. Pierce, Fla. In 1978, he became a store manager, a role he held until 1990, when he moved to the company’s real estate department as the manager overseeing growth from Lakeland to south Florida. In 1991, Frazier assumed responsibility for Publix’s expansion across state lines, in the position of real estate manager for the Atlanta division. He rose to the post of director of real estate in 1995 and then VP of real estate in 1997.

“John has made significant contributions to Publix, particularly in our expansion into new market areas and our overall company growth,” noted Publix CEO Ed Crenshaw. “Throughout his career, he has given unselfishly of himself and trained, mentored and developed future leaders.”

Chamberlain joined Publix in 1972 as a front-service clerk in Satellite Beach, Fla. After working in various positions at several Brevard County stores, he became a store manager in 1983. In 1991, Chamberlain transitioned to the real estate department as manager over north Florida and south Georgia, and in 1999, he rose to the position of director of real estate market strategy. Additionally, Chamberlain is Publix representative on the Lakeland Chamber of Commerce Board.

“During the 19 years that Jeff and I have worked together, we have seen our store count grow from 389 to 1,029,” said Frazier. “I am confident in his abilities to continue our growth and execute our market strategies.”

Privately owned and operated by its 143,500 employees, Publix operates 1,030 stores in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, Alabama and Tennessee.