Michael Masterangelo: The Beloved Cashier at Publix
Michael Masterangelo isn’t just your average grocery store cashier; he’s the kind of person that customers actively seek out during their shopping trips.
At the Publix in Acworth, Georgia, his checkout line often snakes down the aisle. Customers are quite willing to stand in line for over 40 minutes. They just want a moment with him.
And he feels the same way about them.
“I genuinely love my job,” the 29-year-old Masterangelo shared.
“I’m really happy to be here every day. There are hundreds of people who know me, and that’s just wonderful. I look forward to working and chatting with customers and friends—basketball, life, you name it,” he added.
Store manager Countney McGuinness refers to him as a “shining light.” She emphasized, “His constant positivity makes working and shopping here enjoyable. He’s always smiling and takes great pride in what he does. It’s heartwarming to see people from the community come up to him for hugs and conversations. He truly goes above and beyond.”
Since starting his supermarket career over a dozen years ago, Masterangelo, who has autism, has gained a following. It seems to stem from his infectious energy and charm.
“I chat with everyone who checks out,” he said. “I want to know all about them and their families. Each time they come in, we catch up like old friends.”
In addition to his work, he has been involved in the Special Olympics since childhood. Between ringing up groceries, he also encourages customers to contribute to causes close to his heart.
In fact, during a recent Special Olympics fundraising event in January, his donation box brought in nearly $32,000 in just six days. “It’s hard to believe I did this all by myself,” he expressed proudly.
Customers appreciate his kindness, which motivates them to donate as well. One shopper said, “He’s my friend. He’s one of the few people I can truly trust.”
When he’s not at work, Masterangelo enjoys playing basketball, soccer, and flag football, with many of his biggest fans being his customers.
His mother, Dana Peschel, beams with pride. “It means everything,” she remarked. “He’s a light to everyone.” She added, “I feel like I raised him right. I’m not worried about him because he’s surrounded by love from family, friends, and the community.”
Looking ahead, Masterangelo hopes to stay at Publix until he retires. He has one aspiration: “I want to be in a Publix commercial. I want everyone to see how much I love this store, my community, and the support I receive. It makes me feel really special.”
