Publix looking to expand 'aggressively' in Virginia

WASHINGTON - Publix, a supermarket chain based in Florida with a popular following in the south, could be moving closer in making its presence in the D.C. region.

Publix spokesperson Kim Reynolds confirmed to FOX 5 "that we are looking at the entire state of Virginia to grow aggressively."

That could eventually include opening stores in Northern Virginia. According to the Washington Business Journal:

"The company had a booth at the International Council of Shopping Centers' Mid-Atlantic Dealmaking and Conference event last week at National Harbor. It was the first time Publix has had a presence at the event, which connects landlords with potential retailers."

In February, Publix announced it signed two leases for stores in the Richmond area of Virginia.

The grocery chain has more than 1,100 stores in six other states - Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Tennessee, South Carolina and North Carolina.