The Winn-Dixie Company celebrated Earth Day with a ribbon cutting at its new ice microfactory in partnership with Relocalize.

The micro-factory enables the grocer to produce SE Grocers Party Cubes ice locally and on demand, significantly reducing transportation requirements and minimizing water waste and plastic pollution. The packaging is also certified plastic-negative, helping remove more plastic from the environment than it uses.

By producing ice directly at its distribution center, Winn-Dixie can reduce transportation-related greenhouse gas emissions by up to 90% while delivering fresher, high-quality products to customers. 

SE Grocers Party Cubes are now available at the newly remodeled Temple Terrace Winn-Dixie, with plans to expand to additional stores across the Tampa Bay area in the coming weeks. 

“For more than a century, we have had the privilege of serving families and neighborhoods that count on us every day. That responsibility reaches far beyond our store walls and into the communities we call home. Earth Day is a powerful reminder that serving our neighbors also means protecting the environment we all share,” said Anthony Hucker, chairman and CEO of The Winn-Dixie Company. “We are committed to doing our part through thoughtful actions that reduce waste, conserve resources and help preserve our natural spaces for future generations. As a trusted hometown grocer, we remain focused on making a lasting difference for the people and places we serve.”

The milestone was marked with a ceremonial ice ribbon cutting, celebrating a step forward in sustainability and efficiency. The innovation also has the potential to scale across Florida, reflecting the grocer’s broader commitment to finding smarter, more sustainable ways to operate.