Publix welcomes new manager

John Kisgen is no stranger to life at Publix.

The Longboat Key store’s newest general manager began his career at Publix when he was 14. He eventually served as assistant store manager before managing three other Publix stores in North Port, Englewood and Sarasota.

“They asked me to come to Longboat Key,” Kisgen said. “We don’t choose the stores; the stores choose you. It’s one of the best stores for all of Publix, so coming here is an honor.”

In his first few months at Longboat’s Publix, Kisgen has enjoyed the community feel of the store.

“I love the customers,” Kisgen said. “Most of the staff out here have been with us for a very long time, and they know their neighbors and the customers. It’s a community store. Not all Publixes are like this.”

The former manager of Publix, Andy Lappin, now manages the Publix store at Stickney Point Road and Tamiami Trail in Sarasota.