Learn The Secret to Our Success

As a small family owned company that has been around for over 40 years, we are full of history and grit. Hard work, dedication, and loyalty are just a few things that make us great. It is ingrained in us. As we continue to evolve, we must fan the flames and shine a light on the best parts of our small but mighty company. I interviewed Alice Parker, President of Royal Carolina Corporation, to find out more about the past and her outlook for the future.

I asked Alice Parker about Royal Carolina’s story.

1. What did it feel like when the company was in its infancy?

Since I was still in school, I didn’t have the full realization of what it took for my dad to start a company from scratch and leave behind something secure. It was a huge undertaking, but from my prospective at the time of Royal Carolina’s beginning, it seemed very exciting and fun to be a part of it, even being in school. I helped my dad at the Linen store on Cornwallis Dr. I helped him bring in huge boxes of towels from our temporary warehouse to our present location once the Friendly Rd. bldg. was complete. I remember the excitement of coming out here and seeing the footings being poured and the building going up. I also helped in the store when it moved to this current location and into what is now called “The Map Room”. I helped when I was in college by putting Velcro on balls for our Dartboard games. I worked during the summers in many different departments. I felt very lucky. I always remember the smell of my Dad coming home from the factory. The smell of printing pigments was always there and was comforting.

2. Do you remember your father’s passion?

My dad had unbelievable tenacity to do what he did and go through the struggles we did. It is a wonder we made it through all of the hard times, and they were hard. We constantly struggled to make ends meet and sometimes we had to be creative in our borrowing. I never fully realized what he had to go thru until I was in my 50’s and only wish he were still here to see me sitting at his desk and what we have done. I think he would be proud.

3. What has been the secret to RCC’s 44-year long history?

Tenacity, perseverance, work ethic, family, adaptability, and innovation.

4. What are your thoughts now and for the future?

I’m looking forward to the future as Royal Carolina evolves. Our corporate philosophy of providing quality service to our customers by giving them plenty of personal care is instrumental in developing long-standing partnerships. I love working at Royal Carolina as it has helped me grow and pushed me to learn new and interesting things throughout my career.

In the ever-changing climate of business, longevity speaks volumes. It says we do not give up; we never compromise our values but are willing to collaborate and evolve. It says we are dependable and our customers are important. Our story and our history make up the best parts of us. We should always want to share our story. We are proud of our lifetime of work.

What is your story?