
Publix has its loyal customers. Some were in front of the rebuilt Publix at 5 a.m. to welcome the new store. {David Volz}
The rebuilt Publix at Margate’s Palm Lake Plaza celebrated a grand opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and a big welcome back for long-time customers at 7 a.m. on April 17.
Many customers have been looking forward to the new and improved store. “I have lived in Margate for 30 years, and this is my store. I was here at 5 a.m., and it looks great,” said Carlos Pastor.

The interior of the newly rebuilt Publix {David Volz}
Maria Gavilano, a Margate resident, was the second customer to arrive at 5 a.m. “This is a nice, big new store, and I am looking forward to shopping here,” she said.

Veteran Publix personnel celebrating the grand opening of the rebuilt Margate store on April 17. {David Volz}
A former resident of Margate, David Wagie, was the first customer to make a purchase of candy. He was honored by signing a dollar as “King David.” “I have shopped here for years, and my high school friends have worked here. I love this new store,” said Wagie, now a Coral Springs resident.
Many veteran Publix employees attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony. Store manager Frank Ascione, who has been with Publix for 21 years, welcomed the customers and mentioned that the store also features a pharmacy. “It’s good to be back, and we have a nice big store. We look forward to serving you,” he said.

David Wagie, also known as King David said he was the first customer at the rebuilt Margate Publix. {David Volz}
The new 51,390-square-foot store, located at 7230 West Atlantic Boulevard, offers departments for grocery, dairy, frozen food, seafood, meat, and fresh produce, as well as a full-service bakery and deli. It also features an indoor and outdoor seating area for customers to enjoy a meal, according to Lindsey Willis, spokesperson for Publix.
The opening included many people with long careers at Publix, a company that offers opportunities. Kevin Murphy, the current CEO, began his career at the Margate store.

One of the new innovations of the rebuilt Margate Publix is upstairs dining area. {David Volz}
Regular store hours are Monday through Sunday, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.
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