UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-Q
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)
OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2017March 28, 2020
Commission File Number 0-00981Number: 000-00981
 image0a18.jpgpublixlogorev2a10.jpg
PUBLIX SUPER MARKETS, INC.
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)
Florida 59-0324412
(State of incorporation) (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
  
3300 Publix Corporate Parkway
Lakeland, Florida
 33811
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip code)Code)
(863) 688-1188
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code:code)
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act: (863) 688-1188None
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.
Yes    X          No         
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months.
Yes    X          No         
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer            Accelerated filer           Non-accelerated filer    X    
Smaller reporting company            Emerging growth company           
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the Registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act.        
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).
Yes                 No    X  
The number of shares of the Registrant’s common stock outstanding as of October 13, 2017April 15, 2020 was 738,568,000.704,659,000.

 





PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1.    Financial Statements
PUBLIX SUPER MARKETS, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(Amounts are in thousands, except par value)
(Unaudited)
September 30, 2017 December 31, 2016
 (Unaudited) March 28, 2020 December 28, 2019
ASSETSASSETS ASSETS 
Current assets:          
Cash and cash equivalents $670,695
 438,319
  $1,618,875
 763,382
 
Short-term investments 1,256,724
 1,591,740
  454,111
 438,105
 
Trade receivables 647,332
 715,292
  834,391
 737,093
 
Merchandise inventories 1,706,304
 1,722,392
 
Inventories 1,618,908
 1,913,310
 
Prepaid expenses 48,915
 50,434
  51,719
 75,710
 
Total current assets 4,329,970
 4,518,177
  4,578,004
 3,927,600
 
Long-term investments 5,243,817
 5,146,878
  7,919,444
 7,988,280
 
Other noncurrent assets 562,896
 434,280
  444,916
 441,938
 
Operating lease right-of-use assets 2,991,588
 2,964,780
 
Property, plant and equipment 12,825,095
 11,981,632
  15,454,042
 15,222,409
 
Accumulated depreciation (4,992,734) (4,694,509)  (6,185,677) (6,037,887) 
Net property, plant and equipment 7,832,361
 7,287,123
  9,268,365
 9,184,522
 
 $17,969,044
 17,386,458
  $25,202,317
 24,507,120
 
LIABILITIES AND EQUITYLIABILITIES AND EQUITY LIABILITIES AND EQUITY 
Current liabilities:          
Accounts payable $1,778,927
 1,609,652
  $2,502,165
 1,984,761
 
Accrued expenses:          
Contributions to retirement plans 444,509
 525,668
  292,624
 581,699
 
Self-insurance reserves 142,825
 139,554
  151,804
 149,082
 
Salaries and wages 253,615
 127,856
  228,871
 148,662
 
Other 398,274
 414,197
  412,605
 461,427
 
Current portion of long-term debt 65,417
 113,999
  53,659
 39,692
 
Current portion of operating lease liabilities 337,270
 335,391
 
Federal and state income taxes 162,361
 12,787
  223,073
 
 
Total current liabilities 3,245,928
 2,943,713
  4,202,071
 3,700,714
 
Deferred tax liabilities 462,537
 396,484
 
Deferred income taxes 535,610
 682,484
 
Self-insurance reserves 214,546
 216,125
  226,995
 226,727
 
Accrued postretirement benefit cost 102,884
 102,540
  120,092
 120,015
 
Long-term debt 153,186
 136,585
  121,457
 131,997
 
Operating lease liabilities 2,610,655
 2,603,206
 
Other noncurrent liabilities 87,428
 93,574
  138,719
 140,633
 
Total liabilities 4,266,509
 3,889,021
  7,955,599
 7,605,776
 
Common stock related to Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) 3,122,163
 3,068,097
  3,703,244
 3,259,230
 
Stockholders’ equity:          
Common stock of $1 par value. Authorized 1,000,000 shares;
issued 770,415 shares in 2017 and 763,198 shares in 2016
 770,415
 763,198
 
Common stock of $1 par value. Authorized 1,000,000 shares;
issued 711,636 shares in 2020 and 706,552 shares in 2019
 711,636
 706,552
 
Additional paid-in capital 3,139,647
 2,849,947
  4,005,969
 3,758,066
 
Retained earnings 10,842,179
 9,836,696
  12,772,966
 12,317,478
 
Treasury stock at cost; 30,247 shares in 2017 (1,158,839) 
 
Accumulated other comprehensive earnings 70,657
 23,427
 
Treasury stock at cost, 4,589 shares in 2020 (224,393) 
 
Accumulated other comprehensive (losses) earnings (57,205) 81,289
 
Common stock related to ESOP (3,122,163) (3,068,097)  (3,703,244) (3,259,230) 
Total stockholders’ equity 10,541,896
 10,405,171
  13,505,729
 13,604,155
 
Noncontrolling interests 38,476
 24,169
  37,745
 37,959
 
Total equity 13,702,535
 13,497,437
  17,246,718
 16,901,344
 
 $17,969,044
 17,386,458
  $25,202,317
 24,507,120
 


PUBLIX SUPER MARKETS, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS
(Amounts are in thousands, except per share amounts)
(Unaudited)

 Three Months Ended 
September 30, 2017 September 24, 2016 Three Months Ended 
 (Unaudited) March 28, 2020 March 30, 2019
Revenues:          
Sales $8,520,569
 8,026,548
  $11,228,537
 9,674,197
 
Other operating income 65,511
 64,101
  78,414
 85,913
 
Total revenues 8,586,080
 8,090,649
  11,306,951
 9,760,110
 
Costs and expenses:          
Cost of merchandise sold 6,219,735
 5,902,079
  8,037,568
 6,966,392
 
Operating and administrative expenses 1,731,551
 1,652,933
  2,117,772
 1,937,143
 
Total costs and expenses 7,951,286
 7,555,012
  10,155,340
 8,903,535
 
Operating profit 634,794
 535,637
  1,151,611
 856,575
 
Investment income 38,430
 29,000
 
Investment (loss) income (330,845) 367,187
 
Other nonoperating income, net 17,218
 13,721
  16,924
 19,313
 
Earnings before income tax expense 690,442
 578,358
  837,690
 1,243,075
 
Income tax expense 215,515
 157,223
  170,355
 262,104
 
Net earnings $474,927
 421,135
  $667,335
 980,971
 
Weighted average shares outstanding 748,347
 768,941
  706,758
 716,026
 
Basic and diluted earnings per share $0.63
 0.55
 
Dividends paid per share $0.23
 0.2225
 
Earnings per share $0.94
 1.37
 


CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE EARNINGS
(Amounts are in thousands)

  Three Months Ended 
 September 30, 2017 September 24, 2016
  (Unaudited) 
Net earnings $474,927
   421,135
 
Other comprehensive earnings:       
Unrealized gain on available-for-sale (AFS) securities net of income taxes of $30,884 and $13,390 in 2017 and 2016, respectively 49,043
   21,263
 
Reclassification adjustment for net realized gain on AFS securities net of income taxes of $(3,989) and $(2,346) in 2017 and 2016, respectively (6,334)   (3,725) 
Comprehensive earnings $517,636
   438,673
 








PUBLIX SUPER MARKETS, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS
(Amounts are in thousands, except per share amounts)(Unaudited)

  Nine Months Ended 
 September 30, 2017 September 24, 2016
  (Unaudited) 
Revenues:       
Sales $25,620,710
   24,873,954
 
Other operating income 201,143
   197,793
 
Total revenues 25,821,853
   25,071,747
 
Costs and expenses:       
Cost of merchandise sold 18,592,991
   18,054,675
 
Operating and administrative expenses 5,240,753
   4,995,297
 
Total costs and expenses 23,833,744
   23,049,972
 
Operating profit 1,988,109
   2,021,775
 
Investment income 192,906
   82,222
 
Other nonoperating income, net 49,745
   39,737
 
Earnings before income tax expense 2,230,760
   2,143,734
 
Income tax expense 705,490
   662,523
 
Net earnings $1,525,270
   1,481,211
 
Weighted average shares outstanding 759,284
   770,695
 
Basic and diluted earnings per share $2.01
   1.92
 
Dividends paid per share $0.6825
   0.645
 
  Three Months Ended 
 March 28, 2020 March 30, 2019
Net earnings $667,335
   980,971
 
Other comprehensive earnings:       
Unrealized (loss) gain on debt securities net of income taxes of $(46,904) and $20,292 in 2020 and 2019, respectively. (137,583)   59,521
 
Reclassification adjustment for net realized (gain) loss on debt securities net of income taxes of $(588) and $100 in 2020 and 2019, respectively. (1,726)   293
 
Adjustment to postretirement benefit obligation net of income taxes of
$278 in 2020.
 815
   
 
Comprehensive earnings $528,841
   1,040,785
 


CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE EARNINGS
(Amounts are in thousands)

  Nine Months Ended 
 September 30, 2017 September 24, 2016
  (Unaudited) 
Net earnings $1,525,270
   1,481,211
 
Other comprehensive earnings:       
Unrealized gain on AFS securities net of income taxes of $70,268 and $34,017 in 2017 and 2016, respectively 111,585
   54,019
 
Reclassification adjustment for net realized gain on AFS securities net of income taxes of $(40,526) and $(5,007) in 2017 and 2016, respectively (64,355)   (7,951) 
Comprehensive earnings $1,572,500
   1,527,279
 


PUBLIX SUPER MARKETS, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(Amounts are in thousands)
(Unaudited)

 Nine Months Ended 
September 30, 2017 September 24, 2016 Three Months Ended 
 (Unaudited) March 28, 2020 March 30, 2019
Cash flows from operating activities:          
Cash received from customers $25,786,802
 25,024,422
  $11,208,724
 9,698,829
 
Cash paid to employees and suppliers (22,593,366) (21,995,448)  (8,951,051) (8,317,811) 
Income taxes paid (478,456) (505,330) 
Income taxes (paid) refunded (5,941) 1,152
 
Self-insured claims paid (270,036) (242,803)  (94,811) (81,196) 
Dividends and interest received 185,542
 175,698
  63,598
 47,433
 
Other operating cash receipts 197,277
 193,482
  77,018
 84,794
 
Other operating cash payments (14,748) (31,258)  (5,032) (4,845) 
Net cash provided by operating activities 2,813,015
 2,618,763
  2,292,505
 1,428,356
 
Cash flows from investing activities:          
Payment for capital expenditures (1,063,152) (1,110,516)  (269,288) (254,836) 
Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment 4,460
 4,300
  1,186
 2,196
 
Payment for investments (2,353,947) (1,891,611)  (924,827) (664,667) 
Proceeds from sale and maturity of investments 2,593,592
 1,352,848
  299,116
 310,379
 
Net cash used in investing activities (819,047) (1,644,979)  (893,813) (606,928) 
Cash flows from financing activities:          
Payment for acquisition of common stock (1,438,628) (722,641)  (442,509) (333,857) 
Proceeds from sale of common stock 215,424
 252,803
  109,348
 113,196
 
Dividends paid (519,787) (497,318)  (211,847) (185,835) 
Repayment of long-term debt (46,019) (40,831)  (2,816) (2,263) 
Other, net 27,418
 (13,412)  4,625
 209
 
Net cash used in financing activities (1,761,592) (1,021,399)  (543,199) (408,550) 
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 232,376
 (47,615) 
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents 855,493
 412,878
 
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period 438,319
 352,176
  763,382
 599,264
 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period $670,695
 304,561
  $1,618,875
 1,012,142
 


PUBLIX SUPER MARKETS, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(Amounts are in thousands)
(Unaudited)
 
 Nine Months Ended 
September 30, 2017 September 24, 2016 Three Months Ended 
 (Unaudited) March 28, 2020 March 30, 2019
Reconciliation of net earnings to net cash
provided by operating activities:
          
Net earnings $1,525,270
 1,481,211
  $667,335
 980,971
 
Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net cash
provided by operating activities:
          
Depreciation and amortization 484,307
 458,694
  178,969
 174,049
 
Increase in LIFO reserve 20,720
 7,020
 
Increase in last-in, first out (LIFO) reserve 9,525
 ��10,230
 
Retirement contributions paid or payable
in common stock
 280,571
 278,335
  98,651
 101,071
 
Deferred income taxes 36,311
 (10,889)  (99,660) 65,997
 
Loss on disposal and impairment of property,
plant and equipment
 1,991
 2,756
 
Gain on AFS securities (104,881) (12,958) 
Loss (gain) on disposal and impairment of property,
plant and equipment
 1,625
 (1,146) 
Loss (gain) on investments 385,113
 (325,171) 
Net amortization of investments 87,982
 105,968
  10,277
 12,280
 
Changes in operating assets and liabilities
providing (requiring) cash:
          
Trade receivables 67,952
 90,128
  (97,298) (12,718) 
Merchandise inventories (4,632) 70,809
 
Prepaid expenses and other noncurrent assets (5,410) (18,999) 
Inventories 284,877
 101,241
 
Other assets (6,765) 81,108
 
Accounts payable and accrued expenses 264,196
 42,951
  604,049
 133,002
 
Self-insurance reserves 1,692
 930
 
Federal and state income taxes 162,748
 129,501
  255,215
 192,131
 
Other noncurrent liabilities (5,802) (6,694) 
Other liabilities 592
 (84,689) 
Total adjustments 1,287,745
 1,137,552
  1,625,170
 447,385
 
Net cash provided by operating activities $2,813,015
 2,618,763
  $2,292,505
 1,428,356
 



PUBLIX SUPER MARKETS, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
(Amounts are in thousands, except per share amounts)
(Unaudited)

  
Common Stock
 
Additional
Paid-in
Capital
 
Retained Earnings
 
Common Stock (Acquired from) Sold to Stock-
holders
Accumu-
lated Other Compre-
hensive Earnings
 (Losses)
Common Stock Related to ESOP
 
Total Stock-
holders’
Equity
2020                 
Balances at December 28, 2019 $706,552
 3,758,066
 12,317,478
  
  81,289
  (3,259,230) 13,604,155
Comprehensive earnings 
 
 667,335
  
  (138,494)  
 528,841
Dividends, $0.30 per share 
 
 (211,847)  
  
  
 (211,847)
Contribution of 7,398 shares to retirement plan 4,977
 242,724
 
  114,054
  
  
 361,755
Acquisition of 9,142 shares from stockholders 
 
 
  (442,509)  
  
 (442,509)
Sale of 2,239 shares to stockholders 107
 5,179
 
  104,062
  
  
 109,348
Change for ESOP related shares 
 
 
  
  
  (444,014) (444,014)
Balances at March 28, 2020 $711,636
 4,005,969
 12,772,966
  (224,393)  (57,205)  (3,703,244) 13,505,729

2019                 
Balances at December 29, 2018 $715,445
 3,458,004
 10,840,654
  
  (55,762)  (3,134,999) 11,823,342
Comprehensive earnings 
 
 980,971
  
  59,814
  
 1,040,785
Dividends, $0.26 per share 
 
 (185,835)  
  
  
 (185,835)
Contribution of 8,587 shares to retirement plans 5,605
 235,017
 
  127,329
  
  
 367,951
Acquisition of 7,802 shares from stockholders 
 
 
  (333,857)  
  
 (333,857)
Sale of 2,641 shares to stockholders 621
 26,019
 
  86,556
  
  
 113,196
Change for ESOP related shares 
 
 
  
  
  (375,184) (375,184)
Balances at March 30, 2019 $721,671
 3,719,040
 11,635,790
  (119,972)  4,052
  (3,510,183) 12,450,398


PUBLIX SUPER MARKETS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS



(1)Basis of Presentation
The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements of Publix Super Markets, Inc. and subsidiaries (the Company)(Company) have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for interim financial reporting. Accordingly, the accompanying statements do not include all of the information and notes required by GAAP for complete financial statements. In the opinion of management, these statements include all adjustments that are of a normal and recurring nature necessary to present fairly the Company’s financial position and results of operations. Due to the seasonal nature of the Company’s business and the impact of the coronavirus pandemic, the results of operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017March 28, 2020 are not necessarily indicative of the results for the entire 20172020 fiscal year. These condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 201628, 2019.
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities as of the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

(2)Recently Issued Accounting Standards
In June 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued an Accounting Standards Update (ASU) requiring companies to change the methodology used to measure credit losses on financial instruments.  The ASU is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2019 with early adoption permitted only for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2018.  The Company does not expect the adoption of the ASU to have a material effect on the Company’s financial condition or results of operations. The adoption of the ASU will have no effect on the Company’s cash flows.
In February 2016, the FASB issued an ASU on lease accounting. The ASU requires the lease rights and obligations arising from lease contracts, including existing and new arrangements, to be recognized as assets and liabilities on the balance sheet. The ASU is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2018 with early adoption permitted. While the Company is still evaluating the ASU, the Company expects the adoption of the ASU to have a material effect on the Company’s financial condition due to the recognition of the lease rights and obligations as assets and liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets. The Company does not expect the adoption of the ASU to have a material effect on the Company’s results of operations. The adoption of the ASU will have no effect on the Company’s cash flows.
In January 2016, the FASB issued an ASU requiring companies to measure equity securities at fair value with changes in fair value recognized in net earnings as opposed to other comprehensive earnings. The ASU is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017. The adoption of the ASU will have an effect on the Company’s results of operations. The extent of the effect on results of operations will vary with the changes in the fair value of equity securities. The adoption of the ASU will have no effect on the Company’s financial condition or cash flows.
In November 2015, the FASB issued an ASU requiring companies to classify deferred tax assets and liabilities in the noncurrent section of the balance sheet. The ASU is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016. The Company retrospectively adopted the ASU during the quarter ended April 1, 2017, and therefore reclassified $77,496,000 from current deferred tax assets to noncurrent deferred tax liabilities as of December 31, 2016 on the condensed consolidated balance sheet.
In May 2014, the FASB issued an ASU on the recognition of revenue from contracts with customers. The ASU requires additional disclosures about the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from customer contracts. The ASU is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017. The Company does not expect the adoption of the ASU to have a material effect on the Company’s financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.



6


PUBLIX SUPER MARKETS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS



(3)Fair Value of Financial Instruments
The fair value of certain of the Company’s financial instruments, including cash and cash equivalents, trade receivables and accounts payable, approximates their respective carrying amounts due to their short-term maturity.
The fair value of available-for-sale (AFS) securitiesinvestments is based on market prices using the following measurement categories:
Level 1 – Fair value is determined by using quoted prices in active markets for identical investments. AFS securities that areInvestments included in this category are primarily mutual funds, exchangeequity securities (exchange traded funds and individual equity securities.securities).
Level 2 – Fair value is determined by using other than quoted prices. By using observable inputs (for example, benchmark yields, interest rates, reported trades and broker dealer quotes), the fair value is determined through processes such as benchmark curves, benchmarking of like securities and matrix pricing of corporate, state and municipal bonds by using pricing of similar bonds based on coupons, ratings and maturities. AFS securities that areInvestments included in this category are primarily debt securities (tax exempt and taxable bonds)., including restricted investments in taxable bonds held as collateral.
Level 3 – Fair value is determined by using other than observable inputs. Fair value is determined by using the best information available in the circumstances and requires significant management judgment or estimation. No AFS securitiesinvestments are currently included in this category.
Following is a summary of fair value measurements for AFS securitiesinvestments as of September 30, 2017March 28, 2020 and December 31, 201628, 2019::
  
Fair
Value
 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3
  (Amounts are in thousands)
September 30, 2017 $6,500,541
 2,266,877
 4,233,664
 
December 31, 2016 6,738,618
 1,286,625
 5,451,993
 
  Fair Value Level 1 Level 2 Level 3
  (Amounts are in thousands)
March 28, 2020 $8,373,555
 2,154,460
 6,219,095
 
December 28, 2019 8,426,385
 2,028,547
 6,397,838
 


6


PUBLIX SUPER MARKETS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS



(4)(3)Investments
(a)Debt Securities
In 2020, the Company adopted the Accounting Standards Update (ASU) requiring companies to recognize credit losses on debt securities in earnings as an allowance that is reevaluated each reporting period. The Company adopted the ASU on a prospective basis as of December 29, 2019. Prior to the adoption of the ASU, credit losses in which the Company did not expect to recover the cost of the debt security were recognized in earnings as an other-than-temporary impairment. The adoption of the ASU did not have an effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
Debt and equity securities are classified as AFSavailable-for-sale and are carriedmeasured at fair value. The Company evaluates whether AFSdebt securities are other-than-temporarily impaired (OTTI)on an individual security basis to determine if an unrealized loss is due to a credit loss or other factors, including interest rate fluctuations. The collectability of debt securities is evaluated based on criteria that include the extent to which the cost exceeds market value, the duration(cost of the marketdebt security adjusted for amortization of premium or accretion of discount) exceeds fair value, decline, the credit rating of the issuer or security, the failure of the issuer to make scheduled principal or interest payments and the financial health and prospects of the issuer or security.
Declines in the value of AFSCredit losses on debt securities determined to be OTTI are recognized in earnings and reported as OTTI losses. Debt securities with unrealized losses are considered OTTI if the Company intends to sell the debt security or if the Company will be required to sell the debt security prior to any anticipated recovery. If the Company determines that a debt security is OTTI under these circumstances, the impairment recognized in earnings is measured as the difference between the amortized cost and the current fair value. A debt security is also determined to be OTTI if the Company does not expect to recover the amortized cost of the debt security. However, in this circumstance, if the Company does not intend to sell the debt security and will not be required to sell the debt security, the impairmentprior to any anticipated recovery are recognized in earnings equals the estimated credit lossthrough an allowance. The allowance is measured as measured by the difference between the present value of expected cash flows and the amortized cost of the debt security, limited to the difference between the cost and the fair value of the debt security. Expected cash flows are discounted using the debt security’s effective interest rate. An equity security is determinedSubsequent changes to the allowance are recognized in earnings in the period of the change. Credit losses on debt securities the Company intends to sell or will be OTTI ifrequired to sell prior to any anticipated recovery are recognized in earnings and measured as the difference between the cost and the fair value of the debt security.
Other unrealized losses on debt securities the Company does not expectintend to recover the cost of the equity security. Declinessell and will not be required to sell prior to any anticipated recovery are reported in the value of AFS securities determined to be temporary are reportedother comprehensive earnings net of income taxes as other comprehensive losses and included as a component of stockholders’ equity.
Interest and dividend income, amortization of premiums, accretion of discounts and realized gains and Other unrealized losses on AFSdebt securities the Company intends to sell or will be required to sell prior to any anticipated recovery are includedrecognized in investment income. Interest income is accruedearnings and measured as earned. Dividend income is recognized as income on the ex-dividend datedifference between the cost and the fair value of the debt security.
Following is a summary of debt securities as of March 28, 2020 and December 28, 2019:
  Cost 
Gross
Unrealized
Gains
 
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
 
Fair
Value
  (Amounts are in thousands)
March 28, 2020        
Tax exempt bonds $728,671
 3,090
 137
 731,624
Taxable bonds 5,049,543
 56,270
 121,408
 4,984,405
Restricted investments 170,134
 7,473
 
 177,607
  $5,948,348
 66,833
 121,545
 5,893,636
December 28, 2019        
Tax exempt bonds $767,931
 3,429
 130
 771,230
Taxable bonds 5,002,036
 120,132
 1,443
 5,120,725
Restricted investments 169,983
 10,101
 
 180,084
  $5,939,950
 133,662
 1,573
 6,072,039
The costCompany maintains restricted investments primarily for the benefit of AFS securities sold is based on the first-in, first-out method.Company’s insurance carrier related to self-insurance reserves. These investments are held as collateral and not used for claim payments.


7


PUBLIX SUPER MARKETS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS



Following is a summary of AFS securities as of September 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016:
  
Amortized
Cost
 
Gross
Unrealized
Gains
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
 
Fair
Value
  (Amounts are in thousands)
September 30, 2017           
Tax exempt bonds $2,054,341
  5,308
  2,841
  2,056,808
Taxable bonds 2,185,377
  3,639
  14,000
  2,175,016
Restricted investments 164,548
  463
  
  165,011
Equity securities 1,971,825
  134,123
  2,242
  2,103,706
  $6,376,091
  143,533
  19,083
  6,500,541
December 31, 2016           
Tax exempt bonds $3,036,060
  2,211
  24,649
  3,013,622
Taxable bonds 2,469,192
  1,359
  33,903
  2,436,648
Restricted investments 164,548
  
  463
  164,085
Equity securities 1,021,340
  110,879
  7,956
  1,124,263
  $6,691,140
  114,449
  66,971
  6,738,618

Realized gains on sales of AFS securities totaled $11,179,000 and $109,815,000 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017, respectively. Realized losses on sales of AFS securities totaled $856,000 and $4,934,000 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017, respectively.
Realized gains on sales of AFS securities totaled $7,012,000 and $18,896,000 for the three and nine months ended September24, 2016, respectively. Realized losses on sales of AFS securities totaled $941,000 and $5,938,000 for the three and nine months ended September 24, 2016, respectively.
The amortized cost and fair value of AFSdebt securities by expected maturity as of September 30, 2017March 28, 2020 and December 31, 201628, 2019 are as follows:
 September 30, 2017 December 31, 2016 March 28, 2020 December 28, 2019
 
Amortized
Cost
 
Fair
Value
 
Amortized
Cost
 
Fair
Value
 Cost 
Fair
Value
 Cost 
Fair
Value
 (Amounts are in thousands) (Amounts are in thousands)
Due in one year or less $1,256,912
 1,256,724
 1,592,144
 1,591,740
 $455,411
 454,111
 437,236
 438,105
Due after one year through five years 2,583,254
 2,577,163
 3,218,371
 3,187,739
 3,990,481
 3,943,648
 3,836,333
 3,900,904
Due after five years through ten years 389,425
 387,386
 680,641
 656,162
 1,497,558
 1,490,730
 1,661,143
 1,727,594
Due after ten years 10,127
 10,551
 14,096
 14,629
 4,898
 5,147
 5,238
 5,436
 4,239,718
 4,231,824
 5,505,252
 5,450,270
 $5,948,348
 5,893,636
 5,939,950
 6,072,039
Restricted investments 164,548
 165,011
 164,548
 164,085
Equity securities 1,971,825
 2,103,706
 1,021,340
 1,124,263
 $6,376,091
 6,500,541
 6,691,140
 6,738,618
The Company had no debt securities with credit losses as of March 28, 2020.
Following is a summary of debt securities with other unrealized losses by the time period impaired as of March 28, 2020 and December 28, 2019:
  
Less Than
12 Months
  
12 Months
or Longer
  Total 
  
Fair
Value
 
Unrealized
Losses
 
Fair
Value
 
Unrealized
Losses
 
Fair
Value
 
Unrealized
Losses
  (Amounts are in thousands) 
March 28, 2020                  
Tax exempt bonds $123,117
  133
  12,234
  4
  135,351
  137
 
Taxable bonds 2,896,391
  120,881
  14,616
  527
  2,911,007
  121,408
 
  $3,019,508
  121,014
  26,850
  531
  3,046,358
  121,545
 
December 28, 2019                  
Tax exempt bonds $48,462
  11
  99,976
  119
  148,438
  130
 
Taxable bonds 573,315
  888
  197,641
  555
  770,956
  1,443
 
  $621,777
  899
  297,617
  674
  919,394
  1,573
 
There are 203 debt securities contributing to the total unrealized losses of $121,545,000 as of March 28, 2020. Unrealized losses related to debt securities are primarily due to increases in yields for taxable bonds due to changes in demand. The Company continues to receive scheduled principal and interest payments on these debt securities.
(b)Equity Securities
Equity securities are measured at fair value with net unrealized gains and losses from changes in the fair value recognized in earnings (fair value adjustment). The fair value of equity securities was $2,479,919,000 and $2,354,346,000 as of March 28, 2020 and December 28, 2019, respectively.



8


PUBLIX SUPER MARKETS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS



(c)Investment Income (Loss)
Net realized gain on the sale of investments represents the difference between the cost and the proceeds from the sale of debt and equity securities. The net realized gain on the sale of investments excludes the net gain or loss on the sale of equity securities previously recognized through the fair value adjustment, which is presented separately in the following table.
Following is a summary of temporarily impaired AFS securities byinvestment (loss) income for the time period impaired as of Septemberthree months ended March 28, 2020 and March 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016:2019:
  
Less Than
12 Months
  
12 Months
or Longer
  Total 
  
Fair
Value
 
Unrealized
Losses
 
Fair
Value
 
Unrealized
Losses
 
Fair
Value
 
Unrealized
Losses
  (Amounts are in thousands) 
September 30, 2017                  
Tax exempt bonds $510,790
  1,699
  232,906
  1,142
  743,696
  2,841
 
Taxable bonds 964,755
  5,332
  643,454
  8,668
  1,608,209
  14,000
 
Equity securities 62,700
  1,239
  3,526
  1,003
  66,226
  2,242
 
  $1,538,245
  8,270
  879,886
  10,813
  2,418,131
  19,083
 
December 31, 2016                  
Tax exempt bonds $2,360,143
  24,416
  6,099
  233
  2,366,242
  24,649
 
Taxable bonds 1,921,367
  33,354
  51,769
  549
  1,973,136
  33,903
 
Restricted investments 164,085
  463
  
  
  164,085
  463
 
Equity securities 61,625
  3,924
  38,141
  4,032
  99,766
  7,956
 
  $4,507,220
  62,157
  96,009
  4,814
  4,603,229
  66,971
 
There are 282 AFS securities contributing to the total unrealized loss of $19,083,000 as of September 30, 2017. Unrealized losses related to debt securities are primarily due to interest rate volatility impacting the market value of certain bonds. The Company continues to receive scheduled principal and interest payments on these debt securities. Unrealized losses related to equity securities are primarily due to temporary equity market fluctuations that are expected to recover.
  Three Months Ended 
 March 28, 2020March 30, 2019
 (Amounts are in thousands)
Interest and dividend income $54,268
  42,016
 
Net realized gain on sale of investments 2,314
  4,211
 
  56,582
  46,227
 
Fair value adjustment, due to net unrealized (loss) gain, on equity securities held at end of period (387,427)  314,348
 
Net loss on sale of equity securities previously recognized through fair value adjustment 
  6,612
 
  $(330,845)  367,187
 

(5)(4)Consolidation of Joint Ventures and Long-Term Debt
From time to time, the Company enters into Joint Venturesa joint venture (JV), in the legal form of a limited liability companies,company, with certain real estate developers to partner in the development of a shopping centerscenter with the Company as the anchor tenant. The Company consolidates certain of these JVs in which it has a controlling financial interest. The Company is considered to have a controlling financial interest in a JV when it has (1) the power to direct the activities of the JV that most significantly impact the JV’s economic performance and (2) the obligation to absorb losses or the right to receive benefits from the JV that could potentially be significant to such JV.
The Company evaluates a JV using specific criteria to determine whether the Company has a controlling financial interest and is the primary beneficiary of the JV. Factors considered in determining whether the Company is the primary beneficiary include risk and reward sharing, experience and financial condition of the other JV members, voting rights, involvement in routine capital and operating decisions and each member’s influence over the JV owned shopping center’s economic performance.
Generally, most major JV decision making is shared between all members. In particular, the use and sale of JV assets, business plans and budgets are generally required to be approved by all members. However, the Company, through its anchor tenant operating lease agreement, has the power to direct the activities that most significantly influence the economic performance of the JV owned shopping center. Additionally, through its member equity interest in the JV, the Company will receive a significant portion of the JV’s benefits or is obligated to absorb a significant portion of the JV’s losses.
As of September 30, 2017,March 28, 2020, the carrying amounts of the assets and liabilities of the consolidated JVs were $143,312,000$158,811,000 and $66,018,000,$83,035,000, respectively. As of December 31, 2016,28, 2019, the carrying amounts of the assets and liabilities of the consolidated JVs were $102,254,000$154,659,000 and $53,278,000,$78,472,000, respectively. The assets are owned by and the liabilities are obligations of the JVs, not the Company, except for a portion of the long-term debt of certain JVs guaranteed by the Company. The JVs are financed with capital contributions from the members, loans and/or the cash flows generated by the JV owned shopping centers once in operation. Total earnings attributable to noncontrolling interests for 20172020 and 20162019 were immaterial. The Company’s involvement with these JVs does not have a significant effect on the Company’s financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.


9


PUBLIX SUPER MARKETS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS



The Company’s long-term debt results primarily from the consolidation of loans of certain JVs and loans assumed in connection with the acquisition of certain shopping centers with the Company as the anchor tenant. No loans were assumed during the ninethree months ended SeptemberMarch 28, 2020 and March 30, 2017. The Company assumed loans totaling $63,971,000 during the nine months ended September 24, 2016.2019. Maturities of JV loans range from June 2020 through April 2027 and have variable interest rates based on a LIBOR index plus 175 to 250 basis points. Maturities of assumed shopping center loans range from October 2017December 2020 through January 2027 and have fixed interest rates ranging from 3.7% to 7.5%.
(6)(5)Retirement Plan
The Company has a trusteed, noncontributory Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) for the benefit of eligible employees. Since the Company’s common stock is not traded on an established securities market, the ESOP includes a put option for shares of the Company’s common stock distributed from the ESOP. Shares are distributed from the ESOP primarily to separated vested participants and certain eligible participants who elect to diversify their account balances. Under the Company’s administration of the ESOP’s put option, if the owners of distributed shares desire to sell their shares, the Company is required to purchase the shares at fair value for a specified time period after distribution of the shares from the ESOP. The fair value of distributed shares subject to the put option totaled $348,486,000$454,890,000 and $425,514,000$287,328,000 as of September 30, 2017March 28, 2020 and December 31, 2016,28, 2019, respectively. The cost of the shares held by the ESOP totaled $2,773,677,000$3,248,354,000 and $2,642,583,000$2,971,902,000 as of September 30, 2017March 28, 2020 and December 31, 2016,28, 2019, respectively. Due to the Company’s obligation under the put option, the distributed shares subject to the put option and the shares held by the ESOP are classified as temporary equity in the mezzanine section of the condensed consolidated balance sheets and totaled $3,122,163,000$3,703,244,000 and $3,068,097,000$3,259,230,000 as of September 30, 2017March 28, 2020 and December 31, 2016,28, 2019, respectively. The fair value of the shares held by the ESOP totaled $7,173,372,000$8,948,648,000 and $8,356,659,000$8,585,189,000 as of September 30, 2017March 28, 2020 and December 31, 2016,28, 2019, respectively.

(7)Accumulated Other Comprehensive Earnings
A reconciliation of the changes in accumulated other comprehensive earnings net of income taxes for the three months ended September 30, 2017 and September 24, 2016 is as follows:
  
AFS Securities
 
Postretirement Benefits
 
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Earnings
   (Amounts are in thousands) 
2017            
Balances at July 1, 2017  $33,639
   (5,691)   27,948
 
Unrealized gain on AFS securities  49,043
   
   49,043
 
Net realized gain on AFS securities reclassified to investment income  (6,334)   
   (6,334) 
Net other comprehensive earnings  42,709
   
   42,709
 
Balances at September 30, 2017  $76,348
   (5,691)   70,657
 
             
2016    
Balances at June 25, 2016  $59,825
   (5,027)   54,798
 
Unrealized gain on AFS securities  21,263
   
   21,263
 
Net realized gain on AFS securities reclassified to investment income  (3,725)   
   (3,725) 
Net other comprehensive earnings  17,538
   
   17,538
 
Balances at September 24, 2016  $77,363
   (5,027)   72,336
 
             



109


PUBLIX SUPER MARKETS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS



(6)Accumulated Other Comprehensive Earnings (Losses)
A reconciliation of the changes in accumulated other comprehensive earnings (losses) net of income taxes for the ninethree months ended SeptemberMarch 28, 2020 and March 30, 2017 and September 24, 20162019 is as follows:
  
AFS Securities
 
Postretirement Benefits
 
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Earnings
   (Amounts are in thousands) 
2017            
Balances at December 31, 2016  $29,118
   (5,691)   23,427
 
Unrealized gain on AFS securities  111,585
   
   111,585
 
Net realized gain on AFS securities reclassified to investment income  (64,355)   
   (64,355) 
Net other comprehensive earnings  47,230
   
   47,230
 
Balances at September 30, 2017  $76,348
   (5,691)   70,657
 
             
2016    
Balances at December 26, 2015  $31,295
   (5,027)   26,268
 
Unrealized gain on AFS securities  54,019
   
   54,019
 
Net realized gain on AFS securities reclassified to investment income  (7,951)   
   (7,951) 
Net other comprehensive earnings  46,068
   
   46,068
 
Balances at September 24, 2016  $77,363
   (5,027)   72,336
 
             
  Investments 
Postretirement Benefit
 
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Earnings (Losses)
   (Amounts are in thousands) 
2020            
Balances at December 28, 2019
  $98,506
   (17,217)   81,289
 
Unrealized loss on debt securities  (137,583)   
   (137,583) 
Net realized gain on debt securities reclassified to investment income  (1,726)   
   (1,726) 
Adjustment to postretirement benefit obligation  
   815
   815
 
Net other comprehensive (losses) earnings  (139,309)   815
   (138,494) 
Balances at March 28, 2020  $(40,803)   (16,402)   (57,205) 
             
2019    
Balances at December 29, 2018
  $(49,033)   (6,729)   (55,762) 
Unrealized gain on debt securities  59,521
   
   59,521
 
Net realized loss on debt securities reclassified to investment income  293
   
   293
 
Net other comprehensive earnings  59,814
   
   59,814
 
Balances at March 30, 2019  $10,781
   (6,729)   4,052
 
(8)(7)Subsequent Event
On October 2, 2017,April 1, 2020, the Company declared a quarterly dividend on its common stock of $0.23$0.32 per share or $169,900,000,$225,500,000, payable NovemberMay 1, 20172020 to stockholders of record as of the close of business October 13, 2017.April 15, 2020.


1110



Item 2.    Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
Overview
The Company is engaged in the retail food industry and as of September 30, 2017March 28, 2020 operated 1,1541,242 supermarkets in Florida, Georgia, Alabama, South Carolina, Tennessee, North Carolina and Virginia. For the ninethree months ended September 30, 2017, 27March 28, 2020, five supermarkets were opened (including fourtwo replacement supermarkets) and 10039 supermarkets were remodeled. NineTwo supermarkets were closed during the period. The four replacement supermarkets that opened during the ninethree months ended September 30, 2017March 28, 2020 replaced two supermarkets thatone supermarket closed during the same period and two supermarkets thatone supermarket closed during a previous period. The remaining supermarket closed in 2016. The seven remaining supermarkets closed in 20172020 will not be replaced on site in subsequent periods.replaced. In the normal course of operations, the Company replaces supermarkets and closes supermarkets that are not meeting performance expectations. The impact of future supermarket closings is not expected to be material.
HurricaneCoronavirus Pandemic Impact
In September 2017,On March 13, 2020, the coronavirus pandemic was declared a national emergency. The coronavirus pandemic has resulted in national, state and local authorities mandating or recommending isolation measures for large portions of the population, including mandatory business closures. These measures, which were necessary to slow the spread of the virus and protect lives, have resulted in significant job losses and are expected to have serious adverse impacts on domestic and foreign economies for an unknown length of time. The effect of economic stabilization efforts, including government payments to affected citizens and industries, is uncertain.
The Company has been classified as an essential business in all jurisdictions in which it operates and has remained open to serve the needs of its customers. It is a priority of the Company was impacted by Hurricane Irma. Temporary supermarket closings occurred primarilyto continue to serve its customers in Florida due to weather conditionsa way that protects the health and evacuationssafety of certain areas. Almost all affected supermarkets were reopened within two days following the passing of Hurricane Irma, operating on generator power if normal power had not been restored. All supermarkets were reopened within six days except one supermarket in Key West, Florida, which reopened the following week.
its employees and customers. The Company estimates that its sales for the three months ended March 28, 2020 increased $250 millionapproximately $1 billion due to the impact of Hurricane Irma.the coronavirus pandemic. The Company incurred additional payroll related, transportation and other costs for inventory losses due to power outages, fuel for generatorsmeet the significant sales demand and facility repairsprotect the health and clean-up totaling an estimated $25 million.safety of its employees and customers. The Company is self-insured for these losses. The Company estimates the profit on the incremental sales resulting from customers stocking upincreased customer purchases of food and replenishing, as well as sales of hurricanecleaning supplies more than offset the lossesadditional costs incurred. The future impact of the coronavirus pandemic is uncertain and difficult to predict.
Results of Operations
Sales
Sales for the three months ended September 30, 2017March 28, 2020 were $8.5$11.2 billion as compared with $8.0$9.7 billion for the three months ended September 24, 2016,March 30, 2019, an increase of $494.0$1,554.3 million or 6.2%16.1%. The increase in sales for the three months ended September 30, 2017March 28, 2020 as compared with the three months ended September 24, 2016March 30, 2019 was primarily due to new supermarket sales and the impact of Hurricane Irma.the coronavirus pandemic. The Company estimates that its sales for the three months ended March 28, 2020 increased $250millionapproximately $1 billion or 3.1%10.3% due to the hurricane.impact of the coronavirus pandemic. Comparable store sales (supermarkets open for the same weeks in both periods, including replacement supermarkets) for the three months ended March 28, 2020 increased 4.3%14.4% primarily due to the hurricane.impact of the coronavirus pandemic. Sales for supermarkets that are replaced on site are classified as new supermarket sales since the replacement period for the supermarket is generally 9 to 12 months.
Sales for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 were $25.6 billion as compared with $24.9 billion for the nine months ended September 24, 2016, an increase of $746.8 million or 3.0%. The increase in sales for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 as compared with the nine months ended September 24, 2016 was primarily due to new supermarket sales and the impact of Hurricane Irma. The Company estimates that its sales increased $250million or 1.0% due to the hurricane. Comparable store sales increased 1.2% primarily due to the hurricane.
Gross profit
Gross profit (sales less cost of merchandise sold) as a percentage of sales was 27.0%28.4% and 26.5%28.0% for the three months ended SeptemberMarch 28, 2020 and March 30, 2017 and September 24, 2016,2019, respectively. The increase in gross profit as a percentage of sales for the three months ended September 30, 2017March 28, 2020 as compared with the three months ended September 24, 2016March 30, 2019 was primarily due to volume driven efficiencies related to Hurricane Irma. Gross profitreduced shrink as a percentage of sales was 27.4% forrelated to the nine months ended September 30, 2017 and September 24, 2016.impact of the coronavirus pandemic.
Operating and administrative expenses
Operating and administrative expenses as a percentage of sales were 20.3%18.9% and 20.6%20.0% for the three months ended SeptemberMarch 28, 2020 and March 30, 2017 and September 24, 2016,2019, respectively. The decrease in operating and administrative expenses as a percentage of sales for the three months ended September 30, 2017March 28, 2020 as compared with the three months ended September 24, 2016March 30, 2019 was primarily due to volume driven efficiencies related to Hurricane Irma. the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.
Operating and administrative expensesprofit
Operating profit as a percentage of sales were 20.5%was 10.3% and 20.1%8.9% for the ninethree months ended SeptemberMarch 28, 2020 and March 30, 2017 and September 24, 2016,2019, respectively. The increase in operating and administrative expenses as a percentage of sales for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 as compared with the nine months ended September 24, 2016 was primarily due to increases in payroll and facility costs as a percentage of sales.


12



Investment income
Investment income was $38.4 million and $29.0 million for the three months ended September 30, 2017 and September 24, 2016, respectively. The increase in investment income for the three months ended September 30, 2017 as compared with the three months ended September 24, 2016 was primarily due to increases in dividend income and realized gains on the sale of equity securities. Investment income was $192.9 million and $82.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 and September 24, 2016, respectively. The increase in investment income for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 as compared with the nine months ended September 24, 2016 was primarily due to an increase in realized gains on the sale of equity securities.
Income tax expense
The effective income tax rate was 31.2% and 27.2% for the three months ended September 30, 2017 and September 24, 2016, respectively. The increase in the effective income tax rate for the three months ended September 30, 2017 as compared with the three months ended September 24, 2016 was primarily due to a decrease in investment related tax credits and the decreased impact of the permanent deductions due to the increase in earnings before income tax expense. The effective income tax rate was 31.6% and 30.9% for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 and September 24, 2016, respectively. The increase in the effective income tax rate for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 as compared with the nine months ended September 24, 2016 was primarily due to a decrease in investment related tax credits.
Net earnings
Net earnings were $474.9 million or $0.63 per share and $421.1 million or $0.55 per share for the three months ended September 30, 2017 and September 24, 2016, respectively. Net earnings as a percentage of sales were 5.6% and 5.2% for the three months ended September 30, 2017 and September 24, 2016, respectively. The increase in net earningsprofit as a percentage of sales for the three months ended September 30, 2017March 28, 2020 as compared with the three months ended September 24, 2016March 30, 2019 was primarily due to the increase in gross profit as a percentage of sales and the decrease in operating and administrative expenses as a percentage of sales.


11



Investment income (loss)
Investment loss for the three months ended March 28, 2020 was $330.8 million as compared with investment income for the three months ended March 30, 2019 of $367.2 million. Investment loss for the three months ended March 28, 2020 as compared with investment income for the three months ended March 30, 2019 was primarily due to net unrealized losses on equity securities in 2020 compared with net unrealized gains on equity securities in 2019. Excluding the impact of net unrealized losses on equity securities in 2020 and net unrealized gains on equity securities in 2019, investment income would have been $56.6 million and $46.2 million for the three months ended March 28, 2020 and March 30, 2019, respectively.
Income tax expense
The effective income tax rate was 20.3% and 21.1% for the three months ended March 28, 2020 and March 30, 2019, respectively. The decrease in the effective income tax rate for the three months ended March 28, 2020 as compared with the three months ended March 30, 2019 was primarily due to the impact of net unrealized losses on equity securities in 2020 compared with net unrealized gains on equity securities in 2019.
Net earnings
Net earnings were $1,525.3$667.3 million or $2.01$0.94 per share and $1,481.2$981.0 million or $1.92$1.37 per share for the ninethree months ended SeptemberMarch 28, 2020 and March 30, 2017 and September 24, 2016,2019, respectively. Net earnings as a percentage of sales was 6.0%were 5.9% and 10.1% for the ninethree months ended SeptemberMarch 28, 2020 and March 30, 20172019, respectively. The decrease in net earnings as a percentage of sales for the three months ended March 28, 2020 as compared with the three months ended March 30, 2019 was primarily due to the impact of net unrealized losses on equity securities in 2020 compared with net unrealized gains on equity securities in 2019.
Net earnings and September 24, 2016.earnings per share for the three months ended March 28, 2020 and March 30, 2019 were impacted by net unrealized losses and gains on equity securities. Excluding the impact of net unrealized losses on equity securities in 2020 and net unrealized gains on equity securities in 2019, net earnings would have been $956.2 million or $1.35 per share and 8.5% as a percentage of sales for the three months ended March 28, 2020 and $741.7 million or $1.04 per share and 7.7% as a percentage of sales for the three months ended March 30, 2019. Excluding the impact of net unrealized losses on equity securities in 2020 and net unrealized gains on equity securities in 2019, the increase in net earnings as a percentage of sales for the three months ended March 28, 2020 as compared with the three months ended March 30, 2019 was primarily due to the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.
Non-GAAP Financial Measures
In addition to reporting financial results for the three months ended March 28, 2020 and March 30, 2019 in accordance with GAAP, the Company presents net earnings and earnings per share excluding the impact of equity securities being measured at fair value with net unrealized gains and losses from changes in the fair value recognized in earnings (fair value adjustment). These measures are not in accordance with, or an alternative to, GAAP. The Company excludes the impact of the fair value adjustment since it is primarily due to temporary equity market fluctuations that do not reflect the Company’s operations. The Company believes this information is useful in providing period-to-period comparisons of the results of operations. Following is a reconciliation of net earnings to net earnings excluding the impact of the fair value adjustment for the three months ended March 28, 2020 and March 30, 2019:
  Three Months Ended 
 March 28, 2020 March 30, 2019
 (amounts are in millions, except per share amounts)
Net earnings $667.3
   981.0
 
Fair value adjustment, due to net unrealized loss (gain), on equity securities held at end of period 387.4
   (314.3) 
Net loss on sale of equity securities previously recognized through fair value adjustment 
   (6.6) 
Income tax (benefit) expense (1)
 (98.5)   81.6
 
Net earnings excluding impact of fair value adjustment $956.2
   741.7
 
Weighted average shares outstanding 706.8
   716.0
 
Earnings per share excluding impact of fair value adjustment $1.35
   1.04
 
(1)
Income tax (benefit) expense is based on the Company’s combined federal and state statutory income tax rates.


12



Liquidity and Capital Resources
Cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments and long-term investments totaled $7,171.2$9,992.4 million as of September 30, 2017,March 28, 2020, as compared with $7,176.9$9,189.8 million as of December 31, 201628, 2019 and $7,355.1$8,328.7 million as of September 24, 2016.March 30, 2019. The decreaseincrease from the thirdfirst quarter of 20162019 to the thirdfirst quarter of 20172020 was primarily due to increased sales from the increasecoronavirus pandemic and the normal lag in common stock repurchases, partially offset bypayments for merchandise related to the increase in cash generated by operations, including the extension of the September 15, 2017 federal income tax payment until January 31, 2018 due to Hurricane Irma.increased sales.
Net cash provided by operating activities
Net cash provided by operating activities was $2,813.0$2,292.5 million and $2,618.8$1,428.4 million for the ninethree months ended SeptemberMarch 28, 2020 and March 30, 2017 and September 24, 2016,2019, respectively. The increase in net cash provided by operating activities for the ninethree months ended September 30, 2017March 28, 2020 as compared with the ninethree months ended September 24, 2016March 30, 2019 was primarily due to increased sales from the net effect of timing differencescoronavirus pandemic and the normal lag in payments for merchandise related to operating assets and liabilities, including the extension of the federal income tax payment due to Hurricane Irma.increased sales.
Net cash used in investing activities
Net cash used in investing activities was $819.0$893.8 million and $1,645.0$606.9 million for the ninethree months ended SeptemberMarch 28, 2020 and March 30, 2017 and September 24, 2016,2019, respectively. The primary use of net cash in investing activities for the ninethree months ended September30, 2017March 28, 2020 was funding capital expenditures partially offset byand net increases in investment activities.securities. Capital expenditures for the ninethree months ended September 30, 2017March 28, 2020 totaled $1,063.2$269.3 million. These expenditures were incurred in connection with the opening of 27 newfive supermarkets (including fourtwo replacement supermarkets) and the remodeling 100of 39 supermarkets. Expenditures were also incurred for new supermarkets and remodels in progress and new or enhanced information technology hardware and applications and the acquisition of shopping centers with the Company as the anchor tenant.software. For the ninethree months ended September 30, 2017,March 28, 2020, the payment for investments, net of the proceeds from the sale and maturity of investments, net of the payment for such investments, was $239.6$625.7 million.


13



Net cash used in financing activities
Net cash used in financing activities was $1,761.6$543.2 million and $1,021.4$408.6 million for the ninethree months ended SeptemberMarch 28, 2020 and March 30, 2017 and September 24, 2016,2019, respectively. The primary use of net cash in financing activities was funding net common stock repurchases and dividend payments. Net common stock repurchases totaled $1,223.2$333.2 million and $469.8$220.7 million for the ninethree months ended SeptemberMarch 28, 2020 and March 30, 2017 and September 24, 2016,2019, respectively. The Company currently repurchases common stock at the stockholders’ request in accordance with the terms of the Company’s Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP), Non-Employee Directors Stock Purchase Plan (Directors Plan), 401(k) Plan and ESOP. The amount of common stock offered to the Company for repurchase is not within the control of the Company, but is at the discretion of the stockholders. The Company expects to continue to repurchase its common stock, as offered by its stockholders from time to time, at its then current value. However, with the exception of certain shares distributed from the ESOP, such purchases are not required and the Company retains the right to discontinue them at any time.
Dividends
The Company paid quarterly dividends on its common stock totaling $0.6825$211.8 million or $0.30 per share and $185.8 million or $519.8 million and $0.645$0.26 per share or $497.3 million during the ninethree months ended SeptemberMarch 28, 2020 and March 30, 2017 and September 24, 2016,2019, respectively.
Capital expenditures projection
Capital expenditures for the remainder of 20172020 are expected to be approximately $400$1,300 million, primarily consisting ofrelated to new supermarkets, remodeling existing supermarkets, new or enhanced information technology hardware and applicationssoftware and the acquisition of shopping centers with the Company as the anchor tenant. The shopping center acquisitions are financed with internally generated funds and assumed debt, if prepayment penalties for the debt are determined to be significant. This capital program is subject to continuing change and review.
Cash requirements
In 2017, the2020, cash requirements for operations, capital expenditures, common stock repurchases and dividend payments are expected to be financed by internally generated funds or liquid assets. Based on the Company’s financial position, it is expected that short-term and long-term borrowings would be available to support the Company’s liquidity requirements, if needed.


1413



Forward-Looking Statements
From time to time, certain information provided by the Company, including written or oral statements made by its representatives, may contain forward-looking information as defined in Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.1934 (Exchange Act). Forward-looking information includes statements about the future performance of the Company whichand is based on management’s assumptions and beliefs in light of the information currently available to them.them, including as it relates to the coronavirus pandemic. When used, the words “plan,” “estimate,” “project,” “intend,” “expect,” “believe”“believe,” “will” and other similar expressions, as they relate to the Company, are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are subject to uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those statements including, but not limited to, the following: competitive practices and pricing in the food and drug industries generally and particularly in the Company’s principal markets; results of programs to increase sales, including private label sales; results of programs to control or reduce costs; changes in buying, pricing and promotional practices; changes in shrink management; changes in the general economy;economy, including the economic downturn associated with the coronavirus pandemic; changes in consumer spending; changes in population, employment and job growth in the Company’s principal markets; impacts of a public health crisis or other significant catastrophic event, such as the coronavirus pandemic; and other factors affecting the Company’s business within or beyond the Company’s control. These factors include changes in the rate of inflation, changes in federal, state and local laws and regulations, adverse determinations with respect to litigation or other claims, ability to recruit and retain employees, increases in operating costs including, but not limited to, labor costs, credit card fees and utility costs, particularly electric rates, ability to construct new supermarkets or complete remodels as rapidly as planned and stability of product costs. Other factors and assumptions not identified above could also cause the actual results to differ materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements. Except as may be required by applicable law, the Company assumes no obligation to publicly update these forward-looking statements.
Item 3.        Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
The Company does not utilize financial instruments for trading or other speculative purposes, nor does it utilize leveraged financial instruments. There have been no material changes in the market risk factors from those disclosed in the Company’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 201628, 2019.
Item 4.    Controls and Procedures
As of the end of the period covered by this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, the Company carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of the Company’s management, including the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 13a-15. Based upon this evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer each concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures are effective to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed by the Company in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified by the SEC’s rules and forms, and that such information has been accumulated and communicated to the Company’s management, including the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, in a manner that allows timely decisions regarding required disclosure. There have been no changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting identified in connection with the evaluation that occurred during the quarter ended September 30, 2017March 28, 2020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the internal control over financial reporting.



1514



PART II. OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1.    Legal Proceedings
As reported in the Company’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 201628, 2019, the Company is subject from time to time to various lawsuits, claims and charges arising in the normal course of business. The Company believes its recorded reserves are adequate in light of the probable and estimable liabilities. The estimated amount of reasonably possible losses for lawsuits, claims and charges, individually and in the aggregate, is considered to be immaterial. In the opinion of management, the ultimate resolution of these legal proceedings will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
Item 1A.    Risk Factors
There have been no material changes inThe Company has identified an additional risk factor to supplement the risk factors from those disclosed in the Company’s  Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016.28, 2019.
Unfavorable impacts of a public health crisis, specifically the coronavirus pandemic, on operations, customers, employees, suppliers and tenants could adversely affect the Company.
On March 13, 2020, the coronavirus pandemic was declared a national emergency. The coronavirus pandemic has resulted in national, state and local authorities mandating or recommending isolation measures for large portions of the population, including mandatory business closures. These measures, which were necessary to slow the spread of the virus and protect lives, have resulted in significant job losses and are expected to have serious adverse impacts on domestic and foreign economies for an unknown length of time. The effect of economic stabilization efforts, including government payments to affected citizens and industries, is uncertain.
The Company’s operations may be adversely impacted by the fear of exposure to or actual effects of the coronavirus. These impacts may include:
operating cost increases due to changes in customer demand, changes in supermarket processes or increased government regulation;
delays in the timing of remodels and opening new supermarkets;
reduced workforce due to illness, quarantine or government mandates impacting the Company's supermarket, distribution, manufacturing and support operations;
temporary supermarket closings or reduced hours of operation due to reduced workforce, enhanced cleaning processes, increased stocking or government mandates;
supply chain risks from goods produced in areas of significant coronavirus outbreak or disruption from suppliers due to financial or operational difficulties;
reduction in travel, tourism or consumer spending due to government recommendations or mandates, fear of exposure to the coronavirus or adverse economic conditions;
changes in customer demand from discretionary or higher priced products to lower priced products or
uncertainty as to future operations of tenants in Company owned shopping centers due to adverse economic conditions.
The future impact of the coronavirus pandemic is uncertain and difficult to predict and could adversely affect the Company’s financial condition and results of operations.


15




Item 2.    Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
Shares of common stock repurchased by the Company during the three months ended September 30, 2017March 28, 2020 were as follows (amounts are in thousands, except per share amounts):
 
Period 
Total Number of Shares Purchased
 
Average Price Paid per Share
 
Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs (1)
 
Approximate Dollar Value of Shares That May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs (1)
July 2, 2017
through
August 5, 2017
  12,975
   $38.53
  N/A N/A
August 6, 2017
through
September 2, 2017
  7,114
   36.05
  N/A N/A
September 3, 2017
through
September 30, 2017
  2,440
   36.05
  N/A N/A
 
 
Total
  22,529
   $37.48
  N/A N/A
Period 
Total Number of Shares Purchased
 
Average Price Paid per Share
 
Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs (1)
 
Approximate Dollar Value of Shares That May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs (1)
December 29, 2019
through
February 1, 2020
  1,553
   $47.10
  N/A N/A
February 2, 2020
through
February 29, 2020
  981
   47.10
  N/A N/A
March 1, 2020
through
March 28, 2020
  6,608
   48.90
  N/A N/A
 
 
Total
  9,142
   $48.40
  N/A N/A
(1) 
Common stock is made available for sale by the Company only to its current employees and members of its Board of Directors through the ESPP and Directors Plan and to participants of the 401(k) Plan. In addition, common stock is provided to employees through the ESOP. The Company currently repurchases common stock subject to certain terms and conditions. The ESPP, Directors Plan, 401(k) Plan and ESOP each contain provisions prohibiting any transfer for value without the owner first offering the common stock to the Company.
The Company’s common stock is not traded on an established securities market. The amount of common stock offered to the Company for repurchase is not within the control of the Company, but is at the discretion of the stockholders. The Company does not believe that these repurchases of its common stock are within the scope of a publicly announced plan or program (although the terms of the plans discussed above have been communicated to the participants). Thus, the Company does not believe that it has made any repurchases during the three months ended September 30, 2017March 28, 2020 required to be disclosed in the last two columns of the table.
Item 3.    Defaults Upon Senior Securities
Not Applicable
Item 4.    Mine Safety Disclosures
Not Applicable


16




Item 5.    Other Information
Not Applicable


16




Item 6.    Exhibits
31.1    Certification Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
31.2    Certification Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
32.1    Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
32.2    Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
101
The following financial information from the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2017March 28, 2020 is formatted in Extensible Business Reporting Language: (i) Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets, (ii) Condensed Consolidated Statements of Earnings, (iii) Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Earnings, (iv) Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, (v) Condensed Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity and (v)(vi) Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.



17



SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrantRegistrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

    
   PUBLIX SUPER MARKETS, INC.
    
    
   
Date:NovemberMay 1, 20172020 /s/  John A. Attaway, Jr.Merriann M. Metz
   John A. Attaway, Jr.,Merriann M. Metz, Secretary
    
    
   
Date:NovemberMay 1, 20172020 /s/  David P. Phillips
   
David P. Phillips, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial and
Accounting Officer)



18