The Winn-Dixie Company confirmed plans this week to open a new Winn-Dixie Eustis store, adding another chapter to the grocer’s Florida growth story. The announcement arrives just days after the company celebrated a grand opening in Keystone Heights. Together, the moves signal that the company is doubling down on its home state.
Winn-Dixie has not yet released an address or opening date for the Eustis location. However, the retailer confirmed the project as part of a wider statewide investment plan.
A Growing Florida Footprint
Florida’s hometown grocer isn’t slowing down. According to a company announcement, Winn-Dixie plans to open a new store in Alachua later this year. A Zephyrhills location will follow in 2026.
These openings build on real momentum. Winn-Dixie opened a new store in Williston last December. The company has also completed nine store remodels so far this year.
Executives frame the strategy as intentional, not incidental. The Winn-Dixie Company says the investments reflect a commitment to the communities that shaped its century-long history. At the same time, leadership wants to create fresh opportunities to serve shoppers across the Sunshine State.
Keystone Heights Draws a Crowd
The Keystone Heights store opened Saturday, Aug. 15, at 7380 State Road 100, Unit 1. A ribbon-cutting ceremony kicked off the day at 7:30 a.m. Festivities continued well into the afternoon.
The celebration carried a community focus from the start. Organizers presented a $1,000 check to Keystone Heights Junior/Senior High School during the ceremony. The gesture reinforced Winn-Dixie’s stated commitment to giving back locally.
Shoppers didn’t just browse the aisles. A DJ kept the energy high throughout the day. Visitors sampled products, entered giveaways and watched kids’ activities unfold near the entrance.
Prizes added extra incentive. Winn-Dixie raffled items every hour, including three $500 gift cards. A YETI cooler, a Masterbuilt smoker and a Blackstone grill also went to lucky winners.
Related Article: What Winn-Dixie’s New Majority Owner Means for Grocers
Fresh Departments, Modern Format
The new store brings more than just groceries to Keystone Heights. Winn-Dixie designed the location with a modern exterior façade and updated interior signage. The look draws inspiration from the brand’s century-long heritage in Florida.
Inside, the produce department stands out. Shoppers will find an extensive selection of fresh fruits and vegetables, including organic and Hispanic options.
The seafood counter offers something different, too. Beyond fresh seafood on ice, the store features Winn-Dixie’s Seafood Made Easy program. Customers can grab ready-to-cook seafood paired with vegetables and seasonings.
Deli lovers have plenty to explore. The full-service deli slices meats and cheeses fresh, then rounds out the offering with hot foods, sandwiches and salads. Winn-Dixie’s signature Lip Lickin’ Chicken, including rotisserie, popcorn chicken and wings, anchors the department.
The bakery also leans into local tastes. Shoppers can pick up fresh breads, pastries, cakes and desserts, plus Cuban and Puerto Rican rolls and tres leches cakes.
A complete meat department rounds out the fresh offerings, including USDA Choice selections. Throughout the store, Hispanic products are stocked in nearly every aisle, reflecting the preferences of local shoppers.
Value plays a role, too. Winn-Dixie’s Own Brand lineup, Essentials, SE Grocers, Prestige and Know & Love, helps customers save an average of 20% versus national brands, according to the company. Self-checkout lanes round out the shopping experience for customers in a hurry.