Dive Brief:

• Publix and Wegmans have again scored spots on Fortune’s 2019 list of the "100 Best Workplaces for Millennials."
• According to a press release from Publix, this is the fourth consecutive year the Florida-based grocer has made the list. This year Publix is ranked 34th, up from number 62 last year.
• Wegmans is ranked 16th on the list, down from the 12th spot last year. This is also Wegmans’ fourth year on the list.

Dive Insight:

With baby boomers retiring in droves and Gen Z still up-and-coming, millennials — who have already been in the spotlight for years — are moving to center stage in the workplace. 

The demographic is already the largest generation in the labor force, comprising about 35%, according to Pew Research. In its rankings, Fortune found that millennials make up about 39% of Publix workforce, or 75,958 employees, while Wegmans staffs 18,139 millennials, comprising 38% of its workforce.

As retailers move toward more tech-centric operations, millennials will not only help executives from older generations navigate the tech landscape but will begin taking on leadership roles to advance digital efforts, as well. Technology and digital tools have been at the center of their lives since young adulthood, and members of the demographic have helped companies define how digital tools can be used. Millennials have also been among the early adopters of e-commerce, grocery apps and digital coupons.  

The generation has been criticized in the past for job-hopping, but companies like Wegmans and Publix that offer the right opportunities and prioritize employee satisfaction will win long-term team members who can grow with the company. Research from management firm Bridge found that 86% of millennials would stay in their current position if offered career training and development, but 67% would leave if their jobs lack growth and leadership opportunities. 

In the Fortune ranking, Publix was acknowledged for accommodating associates’ schedules and caring about employees. At Wegmans, employees expressed appreciation for the opportunity to try working in different departments and having their ideas considered. On its website, Publix touts nine reasons for people to work there, including excellent benefits, stability and a practice of promoting from within. Wegmans' benefits page highlights the company's goal to support associates' health, well-being, family and future.