Dec. 14, 2022 — Publix Super Markets recognized Charlotte Division Store Manager Mark Taggart, #1548, Boone, North Carolina, with the 2022 George W. Jenkins Award at the company’s retail operations conference.

Taggart’s larger-than-life personality enables him to build connections with associates and customers, making all feel welcome. Customers often say they shop at his Publix because of the kindness and generosity shown by Taggart and his associates. 

Whether it’s a new associate or a manager working toward their next promotion, Taggart approaches associates in a way that inspires them to want to achieve more both personally and professionally. 

“Every day, you make choices about how you’re going to contribute to society, your work and your personal growth,” said Taggart. “To be recognized means a lot to me.” Working at Publix allows Taggart to focus on his community in ways he couldn’t otherwise. “Being a community representative for Publix allows me to tell our community about the good that Publix does for our neighbors who need it most.”

Taggart is thankful to his teams throughout the years. 

“The opportunities are there for the taking, and it’s about the path you decide to take and the effort you put forth,” he said. “As Mr. George said, ‘Publix is like a smorgasbord with opportunity spread out for you.’ To be allowed to positively impact my community and work for a company that values its associates is rare. At Publix, we continue to grow because our associates own it.” 

About the honoree
Taggart started his Publix career in 2012 after selling the business he owned for 30 years. He began as a meat cutter at #613, Simpsonville, South Carolina, and later moved up to assistant meat manager. In 2016, he was promoted to meat manager at #874, Greenville, South Carolina, before being promoted to his current position as a store manager in 2019 at #1548. 

About the George W. Jenkins Award
Named after Publix’s founder, the George W. Jenkins Award is presented to one store manager from each of the company’s five divisions and one support area manager who exemplify leadership, perpetuate the Publix culture and demonstrate their commitment to his vision. As part of the award, each recipient is presented with a special green Publix jacket, marking them as a member of this deserving group of honorees.

Taggart joins Atlanta Division Store Manager Phil Postle, Jacksonville Division Store Manager Steve Myers, Lakeland Division Store Manager Jenniffer Kras, Miami Division Store Manager Philip Wearsch, and Business Development Director of Produce Curt Epperson as this year’s George W. Jenkins Award recipients.