Our roots begin with six generations of farming.
Rooted in Family. Growing with Purpose.
Southern Valley Fruit and Vegetable, Inc. was founded in 1987 with a vision to grow more than just produce—we set out to grow a legacy. What began as a partnership between brothers Kent and Kirk Hamilton quickly became a story of resilience, family, and faith.
When Kirk tragically passed away in a farming accident during their first year, and their father Benny passed not long after, Kent faced an unimaginable loss. But with the support of his mother—who stood by him and helped lay the foundation of the business—Kent pressed on. Together, they nurtured what would become one of the most respected names in fresh produce.
Now spanning 12,000 acres across Georgia, Tennessee, Florida, and Yucatán, Mexico, Southern Valley provides year-round produce with unmatched flexibility and customer service. As a leader in the Eastern Veg category, we remain committed to the values that shaped us: hard work, faith, and the belief that our blessings are meant to bless others.
In 2024, Kent was honored as Farmer of the Year for the state of Georgia—an award he dedicates to the memory of his brother Kirk, his father Benny, and the dedicated team of people who continue to help Southern Valley thrive.
Who We Are
At Southern Valley, we’re more than just a produce company—we’re a family. Proudly women-owned and family-operated, we’ve spent generations growing, packing, and shipping fresh produce with care, integrity, and heart.
From our roots in Georgia to farms across the Southeast and Mexico, we’ve built something special: a company that leads with service, grows with purpose, and treats our customers like part of the family. As leaders in the Eastern Veg category, we’re known for our flexibility, quality, and the relationships we’ve cultivated over the years.
Because to us, it’s not just about what we grow—it’s about who we grow it for.
Southern Valley Values
Culture Defeats Strategy
The right approach to our values enables Southern Valley to project capacity in the produce industry.
Precedence
No one is more important; however we all have different roles
One Team One Purpose
Southern Valley will operate as ONE regardless of the locations, situation or position.
Performance Drives Position (PDP)
Your ability to lead (influence) is based on your performance.
Legal, Ethical, and Moral (LEM)
Ensure our words, actions and deeds are performed in a transparent and appropriate manner.
Diversity of Thought
It’s our intent to project capacity in the produce industry in order to dominate the market. As leaders, we must remember that it takes a variety of gifts, skills and abilities to create and maintain a competitive advantage.