Publix Ends Hurricane-Themed Cakes, Citing Policy Against Making Light of Natural Disasters
The Florida-based grocery chain confirmed it will no longer sell the storm-themed cakes and cookies that had become a seasonal tradition across the Sunshine State.
By Jayden Sweiler ·
For many Floridians, a themed cake from Publix was a way to mark the start of hurricane season. That tradition has come to an end.
The Florida-based grocery chain confirmed to FOX 35 News that it will no longer sell hurricane cakes, a seasonal phenomenon that had spread across the state. Publix bakeries had produced regular cakes and cookie cakes decorated with icing that resembled the eye of a storm, a catchy phrase or the name of an approaching storm.
A company spokesperson said it is against Publix policy to make cakes or cookies "that would make light of a natural disaster."
The change appears to have followed Hurricane Ian, which struck Southwest Florida as a Category 5 storm last September. According to the National Hurricane Center, it was the costliest storm in Florida's history, causing more than 150 deaths and over $112 billion in damage.
After that hurricane, Publix posted a statement on its website, and it sent FOX 35 News a similar message this week. The company said its associates make every effort to support customers during weather events, often by finding ways to delight them with favorite Publix items as they prepare for uncertainty. For decorated cake requests in particular, however, it is company policy not to produce bakery cakes that would make light of a natural disaster.
Publix said it has sent communications to its stores reminding them of the policy. "We regret if a store has not followed policy, and we are working to rectify the situation," the statement said. The company added that its priority remains taking care of customers, associates and communities as it prepares for and responds to storms.
Some customers said they will miss the cakes. Crystal Sprenkel, who bought a Publix hurricane cake ahead of Hurricane Dorian in 2019, told FOX 35 News: "I'm a little sad that they're not making them anymore. They brought a few laughs to our hurricane days." She added, "I get why they won't make them anymore, but it brought us a few laughs!"
The announcement comes as the 2023 Atlantic hurricane season continues. Tropical Storm Harold made landfall recently, becoming the first U.S. hit of the season.
FOX 35 News has asked Publix for further clarification about its company policy.
Source: FOX 5 Atlanta
