The Norfolk Delicatessen Ltd

In the coastal town of Hunstanton, Norfolk, a quiet revolution in local food retail has taken place under the stewardship of Mark Kacary, co-founder and Managing Director of The Norfolk Deli. Alongside his wife Rosie, Mark has built a thriving delicatessen that is not only a celebration of Norfolk’s rich food culture but also a beacon for sustainability, localism, and community spirit. From humble beginnings to becoming an award-winning destination, The Norfolk Deli has earned a reputation as one of the UK’s most inspirational independent food retailers. This is the story of Mark Kacary—a man who turned his passion into purpose.

From Corporate World to Culinary Venture

Mark Kacary spent more than three decades in the world of IT sales and marketing, gaining experience that would later serve him well in building a brand rooted in quality, identity, and customer engagement. Rosie brought a rich and varied background of her own, having worked as an actress, a midwife, and a food hall manager. Together, they shared a profound love for food and a deep-rooted appreciation for Norfolk, the region they proudly call home.

In 2013, the couple took the plunge, selling their house to purchase a small wine cellar and deli in Hunstanton. By January 3, 2014, The Norfolk Deli officially opened its doors—driven by a vision to create something truly different, something meaningful. The goal was simple: support local producers, showcase exceptional Norfolk-made food and drink, and offer an experience that supermarkets and chain stores simply could not replicate.

Celebrating Norfolk’s Bounty

At the heart of The Norfolk Deli lies an unwavering commitment to local food. More than 70% of the products sold in the shop proudly bear the “Made in Norfolk” label. This includes everything from farmhouse cheeses, artisan breads, and small-batch chutneys to bean-to-bar chocolates, craft beers, and award-winning preserves.

Mark has always believed that the best way to support Norfolk’s economy is by putting local produce front and centre. This ethos extends into every aspect of the deli’s operations—from the suppliers they choose to work with, to the stories they tell across social media, and the taste-driven experiences they offer in store.

The Cheese Counter: A Passion Project

Of all the deli’s offerings, it’s the cheese counter that perhaps best reflects Mark’s dedication. Home to more than 100 varieties, it features a hand-curated selection of British and continental cheeses, including celebrated Norfolk favourites like Baron Bigod (from Fen Farm Dairy), Wells Alpine, and the delicate St. Jude. Customers can taste before they buy, choose exactly how much they want, and learn about the provenance of every piece. None of the constraints of prepacked supermarket cheese—just freshness, flavour, and freedom.

Mark’s love for cheese isn’t just a selling point—it’s a story, an invitation for people to rediscover the joy of truly good cheese.

Extending the Experience: The Café and Online Deli

Understanding that food is as much about experience as it is about ingredients, Mark and Rosie extended their offering with the opening of The Norfolk Deli Café. Located just around the corner from the main shop, the café serves homemade cakes, bakes, and light meals using products sold in the deli. It’s a space where customers can slow down, savour the flavours of Norfolk, and immerse themselves in everything the brand represents.

Parallel to their bricks-and-mortar success, the Kacarys developed a strong online presence—particularly with Norfolk’s Online Farmers Market. This platform allows customers across the UK to access Norfolk-made food and drink, including the deli’s ever-popular bespoke gift hampers.

Gift Hampers: A Tasteful Tribute to Norfolk

The Norfolk Deli’s hamper range has become one of its signature offerings, loved for its customisability, quality, and thoughtful curation. Customers can create their own ‘A La Carte’ hampers or choose from themed and occasion-specific selections. Popular choices include the “Taste of Norfolk” hamper and the “Norfolk Deli Larder,” each packed with items that celebrate the diversity and seasonality of Norfolk’s culinary landscape.

These hampers aren’t just gifts—they’re statements. A celebration of artisan makers, a showcase of sustainable packaging, and a memorable alternative to generic mass-produced baskets found elsewhere.

A Business with Heart: Sustainability and Community

For Mark, business success isn’t measured solely by profit—it’s about impact. Sustainability plays a central role in The Norfolk Deli’s mission. The business has implemented numerous eco-conscious initiatives, such as using recyclable materials, sourcing ethically, and planting a tree for every online order placed.

Community engagement is equally important. Mark co-organises the West Norfolk Seasonal Food & Drink Festival, providing a platform for more than 40 local producers to connect directly with customers. These events help strengthen local food systems and deepen customer appreciation for Norfolk-made products.

Industry Recognition and Awards

The Norfolk Deli’s commitment has not gone unnoticed. In 2024, the business was named “Best Deli” at the national Farm Shop & Deli Awards. Just a year later, it earned the title of “Independent Retailer of the Year” at the King’s Lynn & West Norfolk Mayor’s Business Awards. These accolades not only validate the hard work and passion behind the scenes but also elevate Norfolk’s food scene on a national level.

Authenticity Above All

What truly sets The Norfolk Deli apart is authenticity. While many businesses have jumped on the “local” bandwagon, The Norfolk Deli walks the walk. It doesn’t stock generic ciders from Oxfordshire or cheeses from Cornwall—if it’s in a Norfolk hamper, it was made in Norfolk. If it’s sold in the deli, there’s a good chance you can meet the person who made it.

Mark has never been shy about calling out misrepresentations in the industry. His voice—on social media, blogs, and publications—frequently champions independent food retail, criticizes supermarket copycat tactics, and educates consumers on the value of provenance.

A Place of Discovery

Walk into The Norfolk Deli and you’re entering more than a shop—you’re stepping into a curated world of food storytelling. Every shelf, every counter, every bite tells a story. Whether it’s Leigh’s Bees honey capturing Norfolk’s wild blooms or a sea salt caramel chocolate handcrafted just down the road, every product has purpose.

Customers are invited not just to shop but to explore, learn, and taste. There’s no pressure, no pretense—just a genuine desire to connect people with good food.

Looking Ahead: Future Plans and Vision

As The Norfolk Deli celebrates over a decade in business, Mark remains focused on growth that stays true to the core values: locality, quality, sustainability, and community. Plans include expanding the online offering, continuing to build the Norfolk brand nationally, and strengthening partnerships with other artisan producers.

Mark also sees opportunity in increasing public awareness about food integrity—challenging misleading labelling, promoting seasonal eating, and encouraging customers to invest in businesses that give back.

Conclusion

Mark Kacary’s journey from IT professional to deli pioneer is a story of passion, principle, and pride. Through The Norfolk Deli, he and Rosie have created more than just a successful business—they’ve built a cultural landmark. One that champions Norfolk, supports its producers, educates its customers, and proves that ethical business can also be profitable.

For those who visit, shop online, or receive a gift from The Norfolk Deli, one thing is certain: this is food with a story, curated by someone who truly cares.

Whether you’re a local, a tourist, or someone browsing from afar, The Norfolk Deli offers not just a taste of Norfolk—but a taste of what food retail should be.