Versailles is getting a new Publix and Lowes at the roundabout near Kroger with construction beginning in July 2026 and expected to be completed by fall of 2027. This addition will provide a significant expansion of retail options for residents in Woodford County. Lowes will be a great alternative to the ACE Hardware and 84 Lumber for building materials, tools, plumbing, lighting, and garden supplies. Lowes is a great addition because it provides customers with a greater array of home and appliance options without forcing Versailles residents to have to drive to Lexington or Frankfort.
These stores also offer more variety for the customers of Versailles: Kroger has had the monopoly on local grocery stores since they moved to their (once) largest location in the state. While there are other options like Save-A-Lot or Dollar General, many people shop at Kroger because they have the most options. This means that over time, prices have also increased dramatically. Publix will compete with Kroger, which Versailles desperately needs. Competition means that prices will go down as both grocery stores try to persuade customers to shop at their stores.
While Publix is great for competition, some locals don’t welcome the change. Evan Shewmaker, current bagger at Kroger is disgruntled about the new stores opening in Versailles. “I’m beyond furious. For the past decade, Kroger has been a staple of Versailles. For Publix to barge into the atmosphere is unprecedented and rather unruly. As an employee of less than one year, I’ve seen the lives that have been impacted by Kroger and I will mourn the Kroger glory days built on excellent customer service hastily bagging skills and a lovely community.”
There are other residents who are excited to have a new grocery store. Chris Pifferi, who recently experienced Publix and all that it has to offer, elaborates on his outing. “I really wanted to try their popcorn chicken and I was fortunate to get the last one. I was very impressed. The taste was exquisite and the pricing was fair. I’m very excited to have a Publix closer to me”.
Ty Henry, a blue collar student at Woodford County High School is excited about the new Lowes. “Believe it or not, I’m actually very outdoorsy. During the summer I have many home projects I intend on getting done to keep my hands dirty. My mom is also very outdoorsy so it’ll benefit her as well. This Lowes will draw the community closer together and it’ll be very convenient for those go-getters like me.”
Matt Luthi, a long time Kroger employee was quick to share his thoughts on the new grocery store. “I think that Publix should be on the other side of town. They are very stupid to put it right next to Kroger.” When asked if he feels threatened by the new opening of Publix, he responded, “No, not really. I think we have built a family here that they can’t replace.”
There is still a long way to go until both stores open; however, they will be a welcome change for most of Versailles. The new variety for the city will be a much needed improvement, providing convenience and quality to the residents.
