I agree with your point. I can feel a physiological difference when shopping in the two stores. At Walmart, I am anxious and stressed, sort of bracing myself against the experience. At Publix, however, I am much more relaxed.

I think that, in addition to encouraging me choose the store in the first place, the Publix mentality also has another benefit. When I go to Walmart, my goal is to get out as quickly as possible. Because Publix is more comfortable, I’m more likely to spend time browsing and to buy things that weren’t necessarily on my list when I entered the store.

At Publix, the shelves are arranged better, the aisles are wider, and you almost don’t realize what you pay because of the atmosphere. Sort of…