For some, it’s a Florida tradition: Walk into a Publix and weigh yourself, if you’re not shy, in front of everyone on the large old-school scale just past the entrance.
The scales date back to more than 80 years ago. But Publix warns those iconic staples to its grocery stores could one day go extinct.
>>> STREAM CHANNEL 9 EYEWITNESS NEWS LIVE <<<
“The manufacturer ceased production in 2015, meaning that one day—although our wonderful repair shop keeps our remaining machines in great shape—the last Publix scale will retire,” Publix wrote in an August Facebook post that has recently gone viral. “So next time you visit the Sunshine State, come on in and step right up! You’ll be standing on a bona fide piece of Florida and Publix history.”
READ: Publix pharmacies to begin offering free Moderna, Pfizer COVID vaccine booster shots
The historic-looking scales at Florida Publix, the company wrote, reflect the expensive, bulky appliances that were not common household items nearly a century ago.
That’s when the founder, George Jenkins, saw an opportunity to place a brand-new personal weight scale in the first Publix Super Market for customers to use at no cost.
READ: Publix grocery stores put purchase limits on holiday food items
“It was an instant hit,” Publix wrote. “Customers started their shopping trips by stepping onto the scale, often guessing their weight for fun.”
Now hiring: Publix looking to fill 30K jobs by end of the year
This browser does not support the video element.
Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, click here to download the WFTV Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.