Publix Employees FCU turns everyday moments into lasting financial impact. Through on-site support and a vibrant wellness program, the credit union is building trust, offering guidance, and forging financial confidence one associate at a time.
When Shannon Patton speaks about member experience, she’s not just referencing a job title — she’s sharing a personal mission rooted in decades of service. As chief experience officer at Publix Employees Federal Credit Union ($1.6B, Lakeland, FL), Patton brings an insider perspective shaped by her 25-year career at Publix Supermarkets and 31 years as a credit union member. Her journey began as a part-time cashier, where a conversation with a credit union representative changed her financial life. Today, she’s helping others experience that same transformation.
In this clip from Callahan & Associates’ second quarter Trendwatch webinar, Patton outlines how PEFCU is deepening its relationship with Publix associates by meeting them where they are — quite literally. The credit union’s business relationship team visits stores, warehouses, and corporate offices to connect with members and introduce new ones. It complements this boots-on-the-ground approach with Financially Fresh, a free financial wellness program designed to support associates and their families through online tools, in-person workshops, and live webinars.
Patton emphasizes that financial education is a movement, not just a benefit. With more than 23,000 registered users and nearly 1,000 new sign-ups each month, Financially Fresh is helping associates navigate budgets, credit, savings, and more. The program’s colorful, interactive platform and incentive-based engagement model make learning both accessible and fun. Associates are showing up before shifts, during lunch breaks, and even on days off to invest in their financial futures
From relocation loans tailored to Publix’s promote-from-within culture to participation in new hire orientation, PEFCU is embedding itself into the associate journey from day one. Patton’s message is clear: by listening to members, meeting them where they are, and staying true to the credit union’s founding values, PEFCU is building lasting relationships that benefit more than the bottom line.
Don’t Stop Here.At Publix Employees FCU, marketing plays a pivotal role in select employee group engagement. Read more in “Smart Marketing Speaks To A Select Employee Group.”