The pleasure of being prepared

Publix executives see what's happened to other big-box chains in regards to data breach blowouts, from Target to Home Depot, and they want to play a game of what-if.

The first move: The Lakeland-based grocer is in the market for a crisis management firm and what it calls a “Breach Response Planning Provider.” The company, according to a blog post on the everythingPR website, which leaked Publix's information request, “would like to understand how a PR company could provide assistance preparing for, and during a data breach. These services may include proactive review of Publix customer relations methodology, communications methods, planning meetings and rapid response scheduling in the event of a confirmed breach.”

Publix media relations didn't return several calls seeking comment. Proposals for the crisis communication gig were due Oct. 15.