Publix Lets Open Carry in Stores Following Court Ruling

October 12, 2025

Big news (and big controversy) in Florida grocery aisles. Publix, the Sunshine State’s largest grocery chain, just confirmed it will allow open carry inside its stores following a recent court ruling that struck down Florida’s long-standing ban. This means Floridians can legally walk around with firearms visible in public, including while grabbing milk and avocados.

The move comes after a court declared the state’s open-carry ban unconstitutional, effectively changing the rules for gun owners across Florida. Publix says it will comply with all federal and state laws but emphasizes that if anyone’s behavior becomes threatening, law enforcement will be called immediately. In other words, open carry is allowed, but safety comes first.

This decision makes Publix stand out from other major grocery chains in Florida. Walmart, Sam’s Club, and Winn-Dixie will continue to prohibit open carry in their stores, meaning shoppers have different experiences depending on where they go. Some see Publix’s move as a bold embrace of Second Amendment rights, while others worry about safety in crowded aisles.

For Floridians, this ruling could completely change the grocery shopping vibe. Imagine picking up your weekly groceries with someone openly carrying nearby — the aisles just got a lot more intense.

Written by: DJ