The Fresh Market private label products

Brand Narrative and Ownership

The Fresh Market is a premier American gourmet supermarket chain that creates an upscale, open-air market atmosphere. Founded in 1982 by Ray and Beverly Berry in Greensboro, North Carolina, the brand was inspired by the traditional European markets the founders encountered during their travels. Their goal was to move away from the warehouse-style grocery shopping that dominated the era and instead focus on fresh produce, floral displays, and high-quality private label goods.

While the brand maintains its headquarters in North Carolina, its ownership has transitioned over the years. Following a period as a public company, it was acquired by Apollo Global Management in 2016. In a significant shift in 2022, Cencosud, a major South American retail conglomerate based in Chile, acquired a 67% majority stake in the company. This partnership has allowed the brand to continue its expansion across the East Coast of the United States while benefiting from international retail expertise.

Manufacturing of The Fresh Market’s private label products is primarily centered in the United States, utilizing various regional suppliers to maintain the 'fresh' and 'local' promise of the brand. However, for specialty gourmet items such as imported oils, pastas, and certain seasonal confectioneries, the company sources directly from international producers in Europe and beyond.