LAKELAND, FL-In the highly competitive supermarket industry, experimentation could be seen as the quick path to elimination. But Publix Supermarkets is testing new chains, and even new in-store concepts, as well as beefing up its infrastructure, precisely to remain competitive. Publix will open slightly more than 30 stores this year, and has not yet made overall plans for 2007. The company is also testing Publix Sabor, a store geared more toward the Latino market.

NORTH MIAMI BEACH, FL-The firm plans up to $100 million in new development annually.

NORTH MIAMI BEACH, FL-The firm plans up to $100 million in new development annually.

NORTH MIAMI BEACH, FL-The firm plans up to $100 million in new development annually.

KNOXVILLE, TN-A strong second quarter tracks with the overall industry's rebound performance.

SCOTTSDALE, AZ-Chain will open up to 38 Pei Weis, 20 Bistros despite drop in comps, profits.

MONTVALE, NJ-Major rehabs see double-digit sales gains at Great Atlantic & Pacific Tea Co. stores.

SAN DIEGO-The women's apparel chain plans to expand to "at least" 600 stores from its current total of 360.