Navigating the digital landscape of online services and in-store experiences requires a clear understanding of how your personal information is handled. This policy outlines Publix Super Markets, Inc.’s commitment to protecting your privacy across its websites, mobile applications, and other online and offline services. By engaging with Publix’s services, you agree to the outlined Terms of Use and this Privacy Policy, which together govern your use and rights.
Information Collection and Usage
Publix employs various methods to collect information, ensuring transparency and providing you with control. This includes direct collection from you, both online and offline, through third-party sources and social media platforms, and by combining data from multiple sources. The categories of information collected are broad, encompassing identifiers like your name and IP address, financial details for transactions, health information for pharmacy services, demographic data, transactional history, internet activity, location data, communication records, and even video recordings for security and operational purposes.
Information You Provide
While some services can be accessed without providing personal details, certain features may require information such as your name, address, email, phone number, or payment card details. Publix respects your choice to withhold information, but notes that this may limit access to certain functionalities or transactions. If you provide a mobile phone number, you consent to receive calls and SMS messages for various purposes, including advertising, and agree to notify Publix of any changes to your number.
Information from Other Sources
Publix may also receive information about you from third parties who assist in updating records, identifying new customers, and preventing fraud. This can include data from social media platforms when you interact with Publix on those sites. The scope of this information is subject to the privacy settings and policies of the respective third-party platforms.
Automatic Data Collection
When you use Publix’s services, cookies and similar technologies may be used to collect information about your interaction with the services, emails, and online advertisements. This data helps Publix to customize your experience, improve services, support marketing campaigns, and understand customer behavior. This may include technical details like your IP address, device type, operating system, and browsing activity. Publix’s digital properties are not designed to respond to “do not track” requests.
Mobile Device and Location Information
Publix’s mobile applications may collect information from your mobile device, including device identifiers and usage data. Permissions to access your camera and photo files may be requested for features like scanning barcodes or creating shopping lists. Precise location information may also be collected via GPS, Wi-Fi, or cell tower signals, with your permission, to provide location-based services and offers. You can adjust your device’s permissions or uninstall the applications to opt out of location tracking.
Protected Health Information and Third-Party Information
For pharmacy customers, health information is protected under Publix’s HIPAA Notice of Privacy Practices. Additionally, if you provide information about others, such as a gift recipient, Publix will only use it for the specified reason.
Purpose of Information Collection
The information collected serves multiple purposes, all within legal boundaries. This includes fulfilling requests, managing purchases, responding to inquiries, offering new products and services, conducting research, improving business operations, preventing fraud, and delivering targeted promotional and marketing communications. Publix may also combine information from various sources to create personalized content and offers.
Information Disclosure
Publix may share collected information with business partners and advertisers for marketing and advertising, but does not sell or rent personal information for monetary compensation. Information may also be shared with service providers who perform functions on Publix’s behalf. Anonymized data may be shared with third parties, and information may be disclosed as required by law, for legal proceedings, or to protect the safety of individuals and Publix. Information may also be shared in connection with business asset transfers.
Your Options and Control
Publix offers choices regarding the information collected, its use, and communication preferences. You can opt out of marketing communications, update your information, or request account cancellation. These options can be exercised through email, website logins, phone calls, or online contact forms. It’s important to note that even if you opt out of certain communications, Publix may retain your information for business purposes, including legal and data retention requirements. Virginia residents have additional privacy rights as detailed in the Virginia Privacy Notice.
Security and Children’s Privacy
Publix implements administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to protect collected information. However, no system is completely secure, and Publix is not responsible for information transmitted over networks it does not control. Users are responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of their account credentials. Publix does not knowingly solicit or collect personal information from children under 13 without parental consent.
International Data Transfers and Contact Information
Services are operated from the United States, and information collected may be transferred to and processed in countries that may not offer the same level of data protection. Publix handles all personal information in accordance with this Policy, regardless of its storage location. For any questions regarding this Privacy Policy or your personal information, please contact Publix through their provided contact channels.
