Publix

An executive who played a key role in helping Publix deliver on its “where shopping is a pleasure” brand promise has stepped down after nearly half a century with one of the nation’s best supermarket operators.

David Bridges, VP of fresh product business development at Publix will retire effective Jan. 1, 2016 and his role will be filled by Chris Litz who currently serves as a regional director of Publix Atlanta Division.

St. Petersburg, Fla. -- The Sembler Company and Forge Capital Partners announced the purchase of Disston Plaza in St. Petersburg, Florida, which will be added to Forge Real Estate Partners III investment fund. The 123,000 sq. ft. shopping center is currently 98% occupied and is anchored by Publix and also includes Bealls Outlet and Dollar Tree.

Cincinnati -- Phillips Edison & Company announced it has acquired Berry Town Center, located in Davenport, Florida, 15 miles southwest of Orlando. The grocery-anchored shopping center is 99,441 sq. ft. anchored by Publix and features retailers Leslie’s Pool Supplies, Regis, and Linksters Tap Room.

After a new donation pledge from Publix Super Markets, the international nonprofit Habitat for Humanity will be able to build 40 new houses in 2016 in the Southeast, where Publix serves all of its customers.

After a new donation pledge from Publix Super Markets, the international nonprofit Habitat for Humanity will be able to build 40 new houses in 2016 in the Southeast, where Publix serves all of its customers.

The $4 million donation, announced Monday, will go to more than 80 different Habitat for Humanity affiliates in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee.

Transwestern's Southeast Investment Services Group representedKentucky-based Langley Properties Co. in the disposition of Pelican Place at Craft Farms for$18.5 million.Atlanta-based RCG Ventures acquired the 229,911-sq.-ft. shopping center located inGulf Shores, Alabama.

Transwestern VPFred Victorrepresented the seller in the transaction. RCG was represented in-house byScott Tarbet, VP of acquisitions.

Supermarket anchors offer wide range of products and services

Grocery retailers have always served as ideal shopping center anchors, as they guarantee extra foot traffic by providing consumers with their daily needs.

While Whole Foods and other food retailers struggle against increasingly stiff competition, Publix seems to be answering potential threats to its business with ease, if the company's second quarter results are any indication.