A Family Legacy in the Heart of the Community

For the Brown family, the grocery and meat business isn’t just a career—it’s a way of life. It all began with Niles Ray Brown Sr., better known as Ray, a man who built his own success from the ground up. With no formal high school education, Ray’s determination and work ethic paved the way for what would become a lasting family legacy.

Ray’s entrepreneurial journey started humbly with a small general store on the outskirts of town. Alongside his wife, Edna, who worked tirelessly by his side, Ray grew that little store into a thriving business. Over time, his ventures expanded to include the beloved Brown’s Market and the Do Drive Inn, both staples in the community for their quality goods and welcoming atmosphere.

When the time came, Ray’s son, Niles Ray Brown Jr., stepped in to carry on the family tradition. After gaining experience managing a Piggly Wiggly in Charleston, Niles returned home to run Brown’s Market. Under his leadership, the store earned a reputation for its exceptional meats and fresh produce, drawing loyal customers from near and far.

Although Niles retired from the grocery industry in 2006, it wasn’t long before he found his way back to what he loved most. In 2010, he opened Woodruff Curb Market, a venture that eventually evolved into the Country Meat Center. Today, the Country Meat Center is proudly owned and operated by Niles’ daughter, Leslie Cash, who has embraced the family legacy with the same passion and drive as the generations before her.

Leslie has continued to expand the business, adding more space for groceries and an inviting deli area. The Country Meat Center has earned widespread recognition for its quality and service, being named Best of the Best Spartanburg in multiple categories—including Meat Market, Specialty Shop, and Seafood Shop—for several consecutive years. In 2022, the business was also honored with the prestigious James B. Thompson Small Business of the Year Award, a testament to the family’s dedication to excellence and community.

What began as a small-town general store decades ago has grown into a beloved local institution, carrying forward the Brown family’s commitment to quality products, personal service, and deep-rooted community values.