About

About Andrew Smart of Greenville, SC

Andrew Smart, based in Greenville, South Carolina, is the CEO and owner of Core Catalyst Food Sciences and Duke Sandwich Company. With a wealth of experience in food manufacturing, product development, and brand strategy, he is deeply committed to making a difference through his work and within the communities he serves. His leadership philosophy centers on developing strong teams and maintaining a focus on quality, which has been integral to the success of his companies and his broader impact on the food industry.

Core Catalyst Food Sciences

At the helm of Core Catalyst Food Sciences, Smart drives a company dedicated to providing high-quality laboratory services to food manufacturers. Core Catalyst helps clients ensure their products meet local, national, and international safety and quality standards. Under his leadership, the company has become an ISO-IEC 17025-recognized laboratory, offering expert consultation services, quick turnaround times, and cost-effective solutions. These services aim to improve product quality and safety by helping manufacturers understand and mitigate potential risks. Core Catalyst also conducts critical challenge trials to test food safety, a service that has benefited companies such as the U.S. Waffle Company, Lean Kitchen Company, and Spartanburg Meats.

Duke Sandwich Company

In addition to his leadership role at Core Catalyst, Smart owns and operates Duke Sandwich Company, a beloved local landmark in Greenville, South Carolina. Known for its signature mayonnaise and sandwich spread recipes, Duke Sandwich Company offers a variety of sandwiches, spreads, and sides, including pimento cheese, chicken salad, and egg salad BLTs. The company has become a staple in the community, with a loyal customer base that values its products’ quality and its role in the local food culture.

DiscoverFresh Foods

Since 2005, Smart has served as the CEO of DiscoverFresh Foods, a company focused on producing homemade-quality foods like dips, spreads, granola, and desserts. DiscoverFresh Foods is known for its commitment to high standards and operates from facilities certified under the Safe Quality Food Program (SQF). The company has built strong partnerships with prominent brands such as Hidden Valley® Ranch, Texas Pete® Hot Sauce, Louisiana Hot Sauce, and Taste of the South. Beyond food manufacturing, DiscoverFresh also offers strategic support to its partners, providing product development, marketing, advertising, and creative design services. His leadership ensures the company delivers excellent products and fosters meaningful relationships with its partners.

Philosophy and Company Culture

Central to Smart’s business philosophy is his belief in making a positive difference in the lives of others. This principle is reflected in the culture of DiscoverFresh Foods, where the company prioritizes spirituality, service, and personal development. The company’s mission, “Serve, Connect, and Make a Difference,” goes beyond food production and extends into how it interacts with its clients, employees, and the broader community.

Philanthropy and Community Involvement

Smart’s commitment to service extends beyond his businesses. He has been an active philanthropist throughout his career, supporting causes that are meaningful to him and his family. He has served as a board member for IPTAY, the fundraising organization for Clemson University Athletics. He has contributed to various programs, including the Tigerhood Mentorship Program and the Clemson University Food & Sciences department. With his wife, Julie, he is a Cornerstone Partner of Clemson University, contributing transformational gifts of $2.5 million or more to support the university’s future.

Support for Wingate University

In addition to his contributions to Clemson, Smart has also been a major benefactor to Wingate University, his alma mater. He served on the Board of Trustees and, in 2022, made a $2 million donation to Wingate University Athletics. This gift was key in advancing fundraising for a new student-athlete training and development facility. His support of Wingate reflects his ongoing commitment to higher education and student success.

Additional Charitable Contributions

Beyond his work in the food industry and philanthropy, Smart also donates to organizations like the American Heart Association, further demonstrating his dedication to causes that improve the lives of others.

Education and Athletic Background

Andrew Smart of Greenville, SC, holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in History from Wingate University and has a background in collegiate athletics. He played football at Clemson University for two years during the 1997 and 1998 seasons and was a two-year letter winner at Wingate.

Personal Life

Andrew and his wife, Julie, currently the Director of Doctor of Education at Anderson University in South Carolina, have two children, Drew and Claire. The Andrew family is deeply involved in the local community and broader philanthropic endeavors, leaving a lasting impact on the organizations and causes they support. He inspires others to make a difference through his work, emphasizing the importance of integrity, collaboration, and service in business and life.