Three quarters of Sarasota Herald-Tribune readers polled said they would no longer shop at Publix due to its recent decision to allow open carry in its grocery stores: nearly 76% said they would stop shopping there, while 22% said they would continue.

Sarasota residents can now openly carry firearms in Publix stores, as the grocery chain aligns with a recent statewide ruling that allows the practice across Florida. The decision comes about two weeks after an appeals court ruling overturned the state's ban on open carry.

The Lakeland-based supermarket chain has rolled out its lineup of limited-edition holiday ice cream flavors, giving shoppers a chance to scoop up seasonal cheer despite the warm weather.