Andrew Smart of Greenville, SC

Andrew Smart, of Greenville, South Carolina, is a highly regarded entrepreneur and CEO known for his leadership in food manufacturing and commitment to community service. As the head of Core Catalyst Food Sciences and Duke Sandwich Company, he has consistently focused on quality, innovation, and the development of strong teams to drive the success of his businesses. His approach to business is grounded in values emphasizing service, integrity, and positively impacting the industry and the community.

Focus on Quality and Team Building

A defining characteristic of Andrew Smart's leadership style is his emphasis on building effective teams. He believes that the success of any business starts with the people who make it run. He prioritizes collaboration, clear communication, and a commitment to quality at every business level, whether in food production or customer service. Under his leadership, Core Catalyst Food Sciences and Duke Sandwich Company have thrived due to their focus on team-building and maintaining high standards of excellence in all operations.

Andrew ensures that the team is well-equipped to deliver quality products and is inspired to grow and improve continuously in each of his businesses. This leadership approach has led to a culture of dedication and hard work, ensuring that the companies stay at the forefront of innovation in the food industry.

DiscoverFresh Foods: A Legacy of High-Quality Products

Since 2005, Andrew has served as CEO of DiscoverFresh Foods, which manufactures a range of homemade-quality food products, including dips, spreads, granola, and desserts. Focusing on food safety and quality, DiscoverFresh Foods operates from SQF-certified facilities, adhering to stringent standards to guarantee that every product meets the highest quality and safety expectations.

In addition to manufacturing its products, DiscoverFresh Foods provides various services to other food companies, including product development, marketing, and design. Andrew has helped companies bring their products from concept to market through these services, building strong, lasting partnerships with brands like Hidden Valley® Ranch, Texas Pete® Hot Sauce, and Louisiana Hot Sauce. Under his leadership, DiscoverFresh Foods has earned a reputation for its reliable service and commitment to quality, contributing significantly to its clients' success.

Core Catalyst Food Sciences: Advancing Food Safety and Testing

In 2018, recognizing a gap in the food industry, Andrew founded Core Catalyst Food Sciences, an ISO-IEC 17025-recognized laboratory specializing in food safety testing. Core Catalyst helps food manufacturers ensure their products meet local and international safety standards. The laboratory provides various testing services, including shelf-life studies, microbial testing, and challenge trials, which evaluate the effectiveness of preservatives and packaging.

With a focus on accuracy and fast turnaround times, Core Catalyst has built a reputation for delivering reliable results that help clients improve product safety and quality. Andrew’s team at Core Catalyst works closely with clients to understand their needs and offer tailored solutions that help ensure their products are safe and market-ready. Companies such as the U.S. Waffle Company, Lean Kitchen Company, and Spartanburg Meats have trusted Core Catalyst with their food safety testing needs, making it a vital partner in the food manufacturing sector.

Duke Sandwich Company: A Local Favorite in Greenville

Another key aspect of Andrew’s diverse portfolio is Duke Sandwich Company, a popular local eatery in Greenville, South Carolina. Known for its homemade mayonnaise and signature sandwich spreads, the company offers various sandwiches, from classic grilled cheese and tuna salad to elaborate chicken salad croissants and egg salad BLTs. Duke Sandwich Company also serves a variety of sides and desserts, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

His commitment to quality ingredients and exceptional customer service has made Duke Sandwich Company a beloved establishment in Greenville. The business serves as a reminder of Andrew’s belief in providing value to the community while maintaining high standards of excellence in every product.

Educational Background and Philanthropic Contributions

Andrew Smart’s educational background includes two seasons at Clemson University, where he played football, and Wingate University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history. His experiences as an athlete have shaped his work ethic and leadership style, teaching him the importance of discipline, teamwork, and perseverance.

Outside of his professional endeavors, Andrew is also dedicated to giving back. He has supported Clemson University through various roles, including serving as a board member for IPTAY, the university's fundraising organization for athletics, and as a Cornerstone Partner, having made a significant donation of $2.5 million. He and his wife, Julie, have also made a $2 million contribution to Wingate University in 2022 to support the development of a new student-athlete training facility.

Additionally, he and Julie have been generous supporters of the American Heart Association, further demonstrating their commitment to improving the lives of others.

A Lasting Impact

Andrew Smart has consistently committed to excellence, quality, and service through his work with Core Catalyst Food Sciences, DiscoverFresh Foods, and Duke Sandwich Company. His leadership has helped to shape a thriving food manufacturing business while also contributing to the betterment of his community.

His impact extends beyond his professional accomplishments to his philanthropic efforts, where he has supported education and health initiatives that benefit those around him. With a vision focused on growth, quality, and community, Andrew Smart of Greenville continues to leave a lasting mark on the food industry and the lives of those he serves. His legacy is dedication, service, and making a meaningful difference.