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\u2019s 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\u2019s most inspirational independent food retailers. This is the story of Mark Kacary\u2014a man who turned his passion into purpose.<\/p>\n
From Corporate World to Culinary Venture<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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\u2014driven 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.<\/p>\n
Celebrating Norfolk\u2019s Bounty<\/p>\n
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 \u201cMade in Norfolk\u201d label. This includes everything from farmhouse cheeses, artisan breads, and small-batch chutneys to bean-to-bar chocolates, craft beers, and award-winning preserves.<\/p>\n
Mark has always believed that the best way to support Norfolk\u2019s economy is by putting local produce front and centre. This ethos extends into every aspect of the deli\u2019s operations\u2014from the suppliers they choose to work with, to the stories they tell across social media, and the taste-driven experiences they offer in store.<\/p>\n
The Cheese Counter: A Passion Project<\/p>\n
Of all the deli\u2019s offerings, it\u2019s the cheese counter that perhaps best reflects Mark\u2019s 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\u2014just freshness, flavour, and freedom.<\/p>\n
Mark\u2019s love for cheese isn\u2019t just a selling point\u2014it\u2019s a story, an invitation for people to rediscover the joy of truly good cheese.<\/p>\n
Extending the Experience: The Caf\u00e9 and Online Deli<\/p>\n
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 Caf\u00e9. Located just around the corner from the main shop, the caf\u00e9 serves homemade cakes, bakes, and light meals using products sold in the deli. It\u2019s a space where customers can slow down, savour the flavours of Norfolk, and immerse themselves in everything the brand represents.<\/p>\n
Parallel to their bricks-and-mortar success, the Kacarys developed a strong online presence\u2014particularly with Norfolk\u2019s Online Farmers Market. This platform allows customers across the UK to access Norfolk-made food and drink, including the deli\u2019s ever-popular bespoke gift hampers.<\/p>\n
Gift Hampers: A Tasteful Tribute to Norfolk<\/p>\n
The Norfolk Deli\u2019s hamper range has become one of its signature offerings, loved for its customisability, quality, and thoughtful curation. Customers can create their own \u2018A La Carte\u2019 hampers or choose from themed and occasion-specific selections. Popular choices include the \u201cTaste of Norfolk\u201d hamper and the \u201cNorfolk Deli Larder,\u201d each packed with items that celebrate the diversity and seasonality of Norfolk\u2019s culinary landscape.<\/p>\n
These hampers aren\u2019t just gifts\u2014they\u2019re statements. A celebration of artisan makers, a showcase of sustainable packaging, and a memorable alternative to generic mass-produced baskets found elsewhere.<\/p>\n
A Business with Heart: Sustainability and Community<\/p>\n
For Mark, business success isn\u2019t measured solely by profit\u2014it\u2019s about impact. Sustainability plays a central role in The Norfolk Deli\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
Industry Recognition and Awards<\/p>\n
The Norfolk Deli\u2019s commitment has not gone unnoticed. In 2024, the business was named \u201cBest Deli\u201d at the national Farm Shop & Deli Awards. Just a year later, it earned the title of \u201cIndependent Retailer of the Year\u201d at the King\u2019s Lynn & West Norfolk Mayor\u2019s Business Awards. These accolades not only validate the hard work and passion behind the scenes but also elevate Norfolk\u2019s food scene on a national level.<\/p>\n
Authenticity Above All<\/p>\n
What truly sets The Norfolk Deli apart is authenticity. While many businesses have jumped on the \u201clocal\u201d bandwagon, The Norfolk Deli walks the walk. It doesn\u2019t stock generic ciders from Oxfordshire or cheeses from Cornwall\u2014if it\u2019s in a Norfolk hamper, it was made in Norfolk. If it\u2019s sold in the deli, there\u2019s a good chance you can meet the person who made it.<\/p>\n
Mark has never been shy about calling out misrepresentations in the industry. His voice\u2014on social media, blogs, and publications\u2014frequently champions independent food retail, criticizes supermarket copycat tactics, and educates consumers on the value of provenance.<\/p>\n
A Place of Discovery<\/p>\n
Walk into The Norfolk Deli and you\u2019re entering more than a shop\u2014you\u2019re stepping into a curated world of food storytelling. Every shelf, every counter, every bite tells a story. Whether it\u2019s Leigh\u2019s Bees honey capturing Norfolk\u2019s wild blooms or a sea salt caramel chocolate handcrafted just down the road, every product has purpose.<\/p>\n
Customers are invited not just to shop but to explore, learn, and taste. There\u2019s no pressure, no pretense\u2014just a genuine desire to connect people with good food.<\/p>\n
Looking Ahead: Future Plans and Vision<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
Mark also sees opportunity in increasing public awareness about food integrity\u2014challenging misleading labelling, promoting seasonal eating, and encouraging customers to invest in businesses that give back.<\/p>\n
Conclusion<\/p>\n
Mark Kacary\u2019s 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\u2014they\u2019ve built a cultural landmark. One that champions Norfolk, supports its producers, educates its customers, and proves that ethical business can also be profitable.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
Whether you’re a local, a tourist, or someone browsing from afar, The Norfolk Deli offers not just a taste of Norfolk\u2014but a taste of what food retail should be.<\/p>\n","url":"https:\/\/norfolk-deli.co.uk\/","url_text":"norfolk-deli.co.uk","main_services":" ","image_1":"https:\/\/diib.com\/featuredmembers\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Logo-The-Norfolk-Delicatessen-Ltd.jpg","client_review":"","why_we":"","history":"","image_2":false,"image_3":false},"yoast_head":"\n