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Publix Q1 earnings decline as drug pricing affects results

Medicare pricing reforms weigh on pharmacy sales while core retail performance remains stable.

3 min read

LAKELAND, Fla. — Publix reported first-quarter 2026 results that reflect mounting pressure on pharmacy revenues from federal drug pricing changes, even as overall sales edged higher.

Sales for the quarter ended March 28 rose 2% to $16.1 billion, up from $15.8 billion a year earlier. The increase was tempered by the impact of the Medicare maximum fair price provisions, which took effect on January 1 and reduced prices on select drugs, lowering pharmacy sales. Comparable store sales were flat.

Net earnings totaled $794 million, down 21.5% from $1 billion in the prior-year period. Earnings per share fell to $0.25 from $0.31. Excluding unrealized losses on equity securities, adjusted net earnings were $1.14 billion, down from $1.18 billion last year, while adjusted earnings per share held steady at $0.36.

Publix First Quarter Results

Reconciliation of Net Earnings

Financial measure Three Months Ended
March 28, 2026
Three Months Ended
March 29, 2025
Amounts in millions except per share amounts 2026 2025
Net earnings $794 $1,011
Fair value adjustment
Net unrealized loss on equity securities
held at end of period
467 223
Income tax benefit (1) (119) (57)
Net earnings excluding
fair value adjustment
$1,142 $1,177
Weighted average shares outstanding 3,215 3,258
Earnings per share excluding
fair value adjustment
$0.36 $0.36

Swipe sideways on mobile to view full table. Source: Publix

The results highlight that policy-driven pricing changes are beginning to flow through to retail pharmacy operators, particularly those with integrated grocery and pharmacy models. While the Medicare changes are designed to reduce patient costs, they are also compressing top-line pharmacy revenue for retailers.

“Our associates are the foundation of everything we do,” said CEO Kevin Murphy. “They deliver exceptional service to our customers and make a meaningful difference in the communities we serve every day.”

Separately, Publix said its stock price increased from $19.65 to $20.45 per share, effective May 1. The company’s stock is privately held and available only to associates and board members.

Publix said it will file its full financial statements with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

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