Publix Names Reynolds to Charlotte Post; Q3 Earnings Dip

LAKELAND, Fla. — Publix Super Markets here said Monday that it appointed Kim Reynolds to the position of media and communications manager of its newly launched Charlotte division.

Reynolds will serve as media spokesperson and manage community outreach in the region, and would also manage the company's media and community relations efforts for Columbia, Greenville and Charleston, S.C., as well as Augusta, Ga.

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Reynolds began her career with Publix in January 2008 as the Miami media and community relations manager. Prior to joining the company, she served as legislative assistant to a Florida state senator.

"Kim's experience coupled with her dedication and understanding of nonprofit work made her the ideal person to lead our media and community engagement efforts in our first new division in more than 20 years," Maria Brous, Publix director of media and community relations, said. "Her passion for community, family and our associates will serve her, Publix and Charlotte well."

In third-quarter financial results announced Friday, Publix said sales increased by 5.6% to $7 billion, but that net earnings of $359.9 million decreased by 2.3%. Comparable-store increased 4.1%.

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Publix’s sales for the first nine months of 2013 were $21.6 billion, a 5.2 % increase from the same period last year. Comparable-store sales for the first nine months increased 3.4%, and net earnings increased by 6.3% to $1.23 billion.

Publix stock, which is available only to employees and directors, increased from $27.55 a share to $30 a share effective Friday.

 “I’m very pleased we had another significant increase in our stock price, resulting in a 33 percent increase in our stock price over the last year,” Ed Crenshaw, Publix’s chief executive officer, said in a statement. “Our associates continue to deliver premier customer service, the key to our success.”