Amy Davis Smith '99 – Creating Community at 25 at Main

For Amy Davis Smith, entrepreneurship isn't just about business, it's about building a better community. A 1999 graduate of Jacksonville State University with a degree in Family and Consumer Science (Nutrition and Foods with a concentration in Foodservice Restaurant Management), Amy has

turned her passion for food and service into not one, but two thriving businesses: 25 at Main, a food truck park and marketplace in Wilsonville, Alabama, and Aggregate Demand Solutions (ADS), a national supply chain consulting firm.

But it’s 25 at Main—her “side hustle” turned community cornerstone—that truly captures the spirit of Cocky Business. “I started the Food Truck Park and Marketplace to offer food-away-from-home options to our community, which had no restaurants,” Amy explains. “It was a 20–30 minute drive to get a good meal, and I wanted to change that.”

Amy's vision for 25 at Main goes far beyond convenience. “Our goal is to host a rotating agenda of food trucks with a full market of local goods serving local residents, lake-goers, those passing through, and surrounding communities seeking their next relaxing experience,” she says. From fresh produce and handmade crafts to a future lemonade stand to help local kids learn about entrepreneurship, 25 at Main is a labor of love for Wilsonville.

“Our Park Vision is to preserve and contribute to the downtown area by maintaining, updating and enhancing the properties that once were home to long-time community members. 25 at Main's commitment is to provide a 'Downtown' space for all to share.”

Whether you show up in cowboy boots or flip-flops, Amy wants you to feel at home. “You can ride your horse, walk from church, or rock your lake wear. Whatever it might be, we can’t wait to see you!”

Amy’s journey to entrepreneurship began long before 25 at Main. After nearly two decades with Sysco Foods, where she retired as Vice President of National Accounts, Amy launched Aggregate Demand Solutions, a consulting firm specializing in supply chain management, product development, and national distribution strategy for chain restaurants.

While ADS keeps her busy on a national level, 25 at Main is where Amy's heart lies. “25 at Main gives me the opportunity to give back to the place I live. I want it to be a space for connection, celebration, and creativity.”

Raised in nearby Anniston, Amy says attending Jacksonville State was a natural choice. “I never thought of going to another school,” she says. “Jax State is unique because of how beautiful the campus is, how attentive the professors are, and how efficient it is to get to classes—especially when you work on campus.”

She credits her time at Jax State, especially in the Family and Consumer Science Department, with setting her up for success. “Jax State gave me the building blocks for a professional career in foodservice—restaurants, distribution, food science. I am eternally grateful for my time in that department.”

Amy worked multiple jobs while attending Jax State, including as a baker for the campus dining facility, a pastry chef at local restaurants, and a bartender. These experiences taught her grit, time management, and how to thrive in the hospitality industry.

“My favorite memories are working at the campus dining facility and cooking for students and athletes. It was so rewarding.”

Even years after graduation, Amy continues to support her alma mater. She contributes to Jax State’s annual campaign and connects regularly with fellow Gamecocks on LinkedIn. “I always want to be able to pinpoint a Jax State alum,” she says.

And her advice for current and future students? “Higher education gives you confidence. If you don’t know what you want to do, get your degree in what you think you like. If you do know, then get it in what you know you like. Either way, the journey is worth it.”

Interested in visiting 25 at Main? Whether you're a Wilsonville local, a Jax State alum, or just passing through, you’ll find food, fun, and fellowship waiting for you. Learn more by reaching out to Amy at ads@25atmain.com, and don’t forget to bring your appetite.