From a change in coupon policy to rumors about a merger with Whole Foods Market, 2014 was an eventful year for Publix Super Markets Inc. From a change in coupon policy to rumors about a merger with Whole Foods Market , 2014 was an eventful year for Publix Super Markets Inc. The grocery business is a cutthroat world, and Lakeland-based Publix has continued to evolve to keep up with ever-shifting consumer demands, opening more upscale stores and increasing its options of prepared foods. Carolinas expansion: Publix opened its first store in North Carolina in February and has announced 15 locations in North Carolina to date .