At the heart of Flavor 1st’s growth in the produce industry lies a surprising cornerstone: its decades-deep connection to North Carolina’s soil, infrastructure, and seasonal strength.
While the company’s name evokes freshness and flavor, its rise to a leading position in produce logistics and supply has as much to do with regional trust and East Coast positioning as it does with ripe tomatoes or fresh green beans.
“Without North Carolina, Flavor 1st wouldn’t be Flavor 1st,” said the company’s executive vice president, Scott Lowman.
A Family Legacy Rooted in the Southeast
Flavor 1st has been family-run for over three generations, with a business model that blends traditional produce values with modern logistics. Headquartered in Mills River, NC, the company has steadily grown its operations throughout the Carolinas and Georgia, establishing itself as a reliable East Coast partner for major grocery retailers.
From beans and peppers to vine-ripe tomatoes, Flavor 1st has built its name on fresh product consistency — something customers in the region count on, season after season.
“We pride ourselves on having product here every day,” said Lowman. “It’s one thing to say it. It’s another to do it.”
Infrastructure Investment with East Coast Reach
Much of the company’s edge stems from strategic investment in cold storage, packaging, and direct delivery systems in North Carolina.
By operating close to major highways and distribution hubs, Flavor 1st can ship produce up and down the East Coast in under 24 hours, serving both independent grocers and major chains.
With consumer expectations rising and retail demand leaning into speed and shelf-life, this regional shipping advantage has been central to maintaining their reputation — especially as other producers face supply delays from the West Coast.
“Our North Carolina network gives us that East Coast freshness edge,” said Lowman.
Customer Service That Goes Beyond the Sale
But shipping isn’t the only factor. One of Flavor 1st’s defining strengths, according to leadership, is relationship-driven service.
From farmers to retail buyers, the team maintains constant communication to adapt packaging, schedule deliveries, and even adjust volume on the fly. They’ve recently added new customers and doubled product volume, according to Lowman — much of it coming from word-of-mouth across Southeast supply networks.
“We don’t have customer service,” he said. “We have a customer service company that happens to sell produce.”
Eye on the Future with Core Values Intact
While the company continues to expand and explore emerging technologies in produce tracking and sustainability, Flavor 1st leaders say the brand’s core identity remains local and loyal.
With North Carolina at the center of both production and logistics, the region will continue to play a key role in shaping where and how the company grows.
“Our family, our values, our reputation — it all ties back to this region,” said Lowman.
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