Dozens of South Huntsville shoppers braved the cold on Tuesday so that they could be the first to experience the brand new Publix store located in The Market at Hays Farms on Memorial Parkway S.W. At 7:00 am, the ribbon was cut on Madison County’s 14th Publix location and the 48,000-suare-foot grocery store was open for business.

In addition to its traditional grocery departments, the store is complete with several other services. The deli serves fresh Boar’s Head meats and cheeses along with soups, sandwiches and other made-to-order selections. The bakery offers a wide variety of breads, rolls, cakes, pies and cookies that are made fresh throughout the day.

The seafood department features fresh fish and shellfish that is never frozen, and also includes sushi.

Customers can also take advantage of a café located on the second story mezzanine with full indoor seating and complementary Wi-Fi.

Store manager Geneva Limbaugh cut the ribbon at the opening ceremony and greeted customers with flowers and coupons throughout the morning. Community Relations Manager for Publix’s Atlanta Division spoke to HBJ and commented on the company’s presence in Huntsville.

“Publix is proud to continue to serve our customers as we grow in Huntsville,” said Reid. “This will be our 23rd store in the Huntsville area, and we are happy to be able to offer our unique shopping experience to new customers just in time for the holidays.”

Along with an upscale shopping experience, the new location is also bringing 135 full-time jobs to South Huntsville. Publix is the largest employee-owned company in America and offers above average starting pay and stock options to its employees, along with benefits like credit union membership, tuition reimbursement, and group health plans.

Publix anchors the shopping center known as The Market at Hays Farms. Future additions to the 111,233-square-foot complex include restaurants such as Amerigo, Tom Brown’s Restaurant and Wingstop, along with Eye Care Associates, Grand Nail Lounge and Premier Urgent Care.