Carolina Foods Pineville Facility Named FOOD ENGINEERING’s 2025 Plant of the Year

Jacksonville, Fla. (February 5, 2025) — Carolina Foods’ Pineville, North Carolina, facility has been awarded the prestigious title of Plant of the Year by FOOD ENGINEERING Magazine. This recognition celebrates the innovative design and operational advancements achieved through collaboration with Stellar, a leader in design services in architectural and engineering disciplines.

Stellar worked alongside the general contractor, The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company, to design this state-of the art production facility. The facility adds 425,000 square feet, significantly expanding Carolina Foods’ footprint from its original 100,000-square-foot operation. This modern facility produces popular baked goods such as Duchess Honey Buns, donuts, pastries, and pies. The project, launched as part of a strategic growth plan supported by Charlotte-based private equity firm Falfurrias Capital Partners, underscores Carolina Foods’ commitment to innovation and growth. 

Carolina Foods’ Pineville facility was selected as the Plant of the Year following a rigorous evaluation process by FOOD ENGINEERING judges. The facility’s linear layout, advanced automation, and new production equipment were key factors in the decision. One standout feature is the separation of fryer rooms from other production areas, a novel approach that enhances product safety and efficiency.

"This pivotal milestone symbolizes a new era and the culmination of decades of dedication and commitment to the customers we serve," said Dan Myers, CEO of Carolina Foods. "The delicious smell of our honey buns now fills the air in Pineville, a testament to the innovation and quality that has kept us thriving for 90 years. We are thrilled to celebrate this achievement alongside our dedicated employees, community members, and partners."

Stellar, the design partner for the project, incorporated cutting-edge technology to streamline production while ensuring the highest standards of safety and quality. “This facility represents the perfect marriage of innovation and functionality,” said Stellar’s Senior Vice President of Design and Engineering, Jason Duff. “Through collaboration and forward-thinking design, we have enabled Carolina Foods to meet growing demand while maintaining the exceptional quality their customers expect.”

Carolina Foods’ facility and its groundbreaking design will be featured as the cover story in the April issue of FOOD ENGINEERING Magazine. The official award presentation will take place at the Food Automation & Manufacturing Symposium and Expo, held April 14-16, 2025, at the Hilton Downtown Tampa in Tampa, Florida.