Publix stops offering free slice of deli meat

It's one of the greatest pleasures in life: walking up to the Publix deli counter, watching the clerk slice the meat to your desired thickness, and then nodding your head in approval as you munch on that free slice you just scored.

Well, no more says Publix.

The grocery chain will stop offering a free slice of deli meat to customers.  Publix media relations manager Brian West says the change will start with a few delis in Central and southwest Florida, according to CBS Miami. 

The reason? To "create a more natural exchange between our deli clerks and our customers."

But for those who just can't live without their free slice, West says if you just simply ask for a sample, you'll get one.