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    Andrew Smart of Greenville, SC

    President and CEO of DiscoverFresh Foods, Inc.

     

    Andrew Smart, of Greenville, South Carolina, is a dynamic entrepreneur and CEO with a deep commitment to innovation, quality, and community service. As the owner and leader of Core Catalyst Food Sciences and Duke Sandwich Company, he has built a reputation for developing exceptional products, fostering strong business relationships, and creating lasting value for his clients and the communities he serves. His work in food manufacturing and philanthropic endeavors reflect his passion for positively impacting the industry and the lives of others.

     

    Building a Foundation of Quality and Teamwork

     

    At the core of Andrew Smart's leadership is a belief in the importance of building strong, capable teams. As the CEO of two successful businesses, he prioritizes collaboration, open communication, and a shared commitment to quality. Andrew’s approach is simple: great teams create great products. This philosophy drives everything his companies do, from the food they produce to their relationships with clients and partners. He believes his companies can deliver results that exceed expectations by focusing on quality and empowering people.

     

    DiscoverFresh Foods: A Legacy of Excellence in Food Production

     

    Since 2005, Andrew has been at the helm of DiscoverFresh Foods, a company specializing in high-quality, homemade food products such as dips, spreads, granola, and desserts. The Safe Quality Food Program (SQF) certifies the company's manufacturing facilities, ensuring that all products meet the highest safety and quality standards. In addition to producing food products, DiscoverFresh also offers valuable services to other food manufacturers, including product development, testing, marketing, and design services.

     

    DiscoverFresh Foods works with notable brands like Hidden Valley® Ranch, Texas Pete® Hot Sauce, and Louisiana Hot Sauce, providing expert guidance and support to help these companies efficiently bring their products to market. Andrew’s leadership and strategic vision have been key in forging long-term partnerships and ensuring the company remains at the forefront of food innovation.

     

    Core Catalyst Food Sciences: Advancing Food Safety and Quality

     

    In 2018, recognizing a growing need in the food industry, Andrew Smart founded Core Catalyst Food Sciences, an ISO-IEC 17025-recognized laboratory dedicated to food safety testing and quality assurance. Core Catalyst serves food manufacturers by providing scientific testing and consultations to ensure products meet local, national, and international safety standards. The laboratory specializes in various tests, including shelf-life studies, microbial testing, and challenge trials, where pathogens are introduced to test the effectiveness of preservatives and packaging.

     

    Through Core Catalyst, Andrew has helped numerous food companies improve product safety and quality. The lab’s commitment to accuracy and fast turnaround times has made it a trusted partner for companies like U.S. Waffle Company, Lean Kitchen Company, and Spartanburg Meats. His ability to see and address the needs of food manufacturers has played a significant role in Core Catalyst’s success.

     

    Duke Sandwich Company: A Greenville Staple

     

    Duke Sandwich Company is another key business in Andrew Smart's portfolio. Located in Greenville, South Carolina, Duke Sandwich Company is a well-loved local establishment known for its classic sandwiches and homemade spreads. The company’s menu features a variety of options, from classic grilled cheese and tuna salad to more premium offerings like chicken salad croissants and egg salad BLTs. Duke Sandwich Company also serves a selection of sides and desserts, further adding to its appeal.

     

    As with all of his ventures, Andrew has maintained a focus on quality, ensuring that each sandwich and spread is made with the finest ingredients and served with a commitment to customer satisfaction. Duke Sandwich Company has become a staple in Greenville, and locals and visitors love it for its warm atmosphere and delicious food.

     

    Educational Background and Philanthropy

     

    Andrew Smart’s journey to success began with his education. He attended Clemson University, played football for two seasons under coach Tommy West, and later graduated from Wingate University with a Bachelor of Arts in history. His time in athletics taught him the importance of discipline, teamwork, and leadership—values that would shape his future career.

     

    Beyond business, Andrew is deeply committed to philanthropy. He has supported Clemson University through significant donations and involvement with organizations such as IPTAY, the Tigerhood Mentorship Program, and the All-In Foundation. He and his wife, Julie, are Cornerstone Partners at Clemson, having donated more than $2.5 million to support the university’s initiatives.

     

    In addition to his support for Clemson, Andrew has also contributed to Wingate University, including a $2 million gift in 2022 to fund the development of a new student-athlete training facility. His philanthropic efforts are further exemplified through his donations to the American Heart Association.

     

    A Lasting Legacy

     

    Andrew Smart’s success as an entrepreneur and his dedication to philanthropy have left a significant mark on the food industry and the communities he serves. His work with Core Catalyst Food Sciences, DiscoverFresh Foods, and Duke Sandwich Company demonstrates his commitment to quality, innovation, and service. Through his leadership, he has built businesses that produce great products and focus on positively impacting people’s lives.

     

    Andrew’s philanthropic efforts further demonstrate his commitment to giving back and leaving a lasting legacy. With a vision grounded in teamwork, quality, and service, he continues to shape the future of the food industry while making a difference in his community and beyond. His work reflects his values, and his impact will be felt for years.