The Publix Puppet Commercial in 2026 – Pure Genius

In an age where there’s an AI video for EVERYthing– and even AI commercials (see: Coca-Cola)– and along with that, a certain and almost tangible level of AI-fatigue, Publix restores our faith in humanity– and puppetry– with a brand new commercial that’s as informative as it is adorable. Take a look…


Aren’t dogs just the best!? OK OK, cats are cool, too. The commercial did a wonderful job of endearing us to the pack of misfit dogs and throwing in a witty interaction with a cat, perched high above the dogs– right where it believes it should be. 🙄 This ad is a throwback to human ingenuity, using actual puppets and pleasant, rich voiceovers that sell the story as much as the visuals do. Perhaps this nod to old commercials is catching on since it wasn’t that long ago that Apple did an ad using the same type of puppet animation. Take a look at that one here. But let’s get back to where shopping is a pleasure– Publix. Another great commercial full of warmth, creativity, and humor. There’s a great article on the new Publix ad campaign; Read it here on Little Black Book Online. I read through it and that’s where I learned that the agency behind the creative side is also responsible for the Publix Merry Birthday commercial, another favorite of mine– especially as a person with a birthday near Christmas.

f I could pick 5 words to describe this commercial from Publix: Awesome. Refreshing. Funny. Impressive. Classic. I’d even venture to say it’s going to be the best commercial of 2026 and outshines any (if these are the standard for creativity) Super Bowl commercial I’ve seen in a very long time. Kudos Publix and everyone involved!

What do you think about it? Comment below…

-Out of the Wilderness


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Published by Ben Wilder

Since 2005, I've called Nashville home. I'm the leader of the pack, which includes a 13-year-old beagle and an 11-year-old blue heeler mix. My days include writing, video editing, and other fun activities. Thanks for checking out my blog, I hope you enjoy it!

4 thoughts on “The Publix Puppet Commercial in 2026 – Pure Genius

  1. I love this commercial. It’s a great storyline and I bet every mail carrier can relate to this. The puppet dogs are endearing and they bring a smile to my heart. We should all be so lucky to have a special “someone” that loves us even if their way of showing affection is not the same as ours. Thank you Publix for making commercials fun to watch with good vibes! It warms my heart every time I see this commercial. Oh, and I love the full version!

    Marilee

    Liked by 1 person

  2. sorry but I could not disagree more. I think it’s horrible. Lame story line. Visually unappealing. Does not make me want to visit Publix. I’m a dog lover and owner and love puppets as well.

    kudos for not using AI, but it just feels creepy and dirty.

    I think it was a miss artistically.

    Like

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