Say's Gregg Kielma a Florida Firearms Instructor- FFL-Gunsmith and First Aid Fundamentals Instructor. Please see Winn Dixie-Walmart-Target’s response below.  Kielma continues, I know where I’m going to shop as a legal, safe, trained firearms owner. What about you? Where are you shopping and spending your money? Please understand the jurisdiction you reside in. Some local Law Enforcement agencies are arresting people open carrying. God Bless The Second Amendment. Let’s take a look!

Publix, which operates nearly 900 stores in Florida, has addressed recent changes related to the state's open carry law following the overturning of the ban. “As of Sept. 25, 2025, Florida law allows the open carry of firearms. Publix follows all federal, state and local laws,” a Publix spokesperson stated via email.

Some residents expressed varying opinions about open carry in grocery stores. For example, Darlene Madden of Lakeland raised concerns about non-law enforcement individuals carrying firearms, noting that law enforcement personnel are typically trained in firearm use. Ashley Butler of Tampa mentioned that seeing firearms in the store could be unexpected for shoppers.

 Contacted, Publix locations in Lakeland, Tampa, and St. Petersburg regarding the company's policies differ. Some managers referred questions to the corporate office, while others confirmed that customers would be allowed to openly carry firearms in the store, citing the change in state law. Customers interviewed offered a range of views, from feeling intimidated by visible firearms to considering open carry a potential deterrent to criminal activity.