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Hawkshead Relish, based in a 16th century barn in the Lake District, started its relationship with Greece during the 2020 pandemic when Petros Smatsi, the Elpena Group’s owner, discovered the company.
He enquired about becoming a distributor for Nora’s Deli, owned by his wife, Nora, and Nathalie, their business partner,
Now, five years on, Hawkshead Relish is celebrating its export success to Greece, with demand for its products including Mango Chutney and Posh Pickle increasing.
In light of its success, company founders Mark and Maria Whitehead MBE were invited by the British Embassy in Athens to attend a garden party in celebration of the King’s Birthday at Mon Repos, Corfu, the birthplace of Prince Philip.
They attended as official sponsors of the event, celebrating King Charles III’s birthday.
At the event, Hawkshead Relish products were featured on the menu, paired with Greek specialities such as salami from DeliMeat.
The menu included smoked salmon with Posh Pickle, beetroot burgers with Mango Chutney, Stilton tartlets with Cheeseboard Chutney, and mini fish and chips, all complemented by Hawkshead Relish’s award-winning sauces and preserves.
Maria Whitehead MBE said: “It was a huge honour to attend as guests and sponsors.
“In just a short time, we’ve built strong friendships with our Greek partners.”
Mark Whitehead MBE added: “Attending the King’s Birthday Party in Corfu was unforgettable.
“While it was a proud British event, it’s the warmth and generosity of the Greek people that we’ll remember most.
“Our last visit to Corfu was nearly 40 years ago – returning now as guests of the British Embassy was incredibly special.”
In April 2025, the couple visited Athens to host a tasting event at Nora’s Deli, attended by more than 200 guests, including members of the Greek Government and representatives from the British Embassy.
This visit included a meeting with Zoe Kapareli, Deputy Private Secretary at the British Embassy, to discuss expanding UK exports in Greece.
The company continues to grow in Greece and beyond, having been named Export Champions for the Department for International Trade in the UK.
Held in the historic palace gardens, the event included performances from the Philharmonic Society of Corfu, the St Spyridon Choir, and the Allegro Violin Ensemble.
The Royal Marines Drum Corps gave a finale performance.
A message from King Charles III was read aloud by Ambassador Matthew Lodge, expressing the King’s delight that the celebration was held at Mon Repos, a site of personal significance.
Hawkshead Relish is now available in multiple Greek delicatessens, with growing demand for favourites such as Mango Chutney and Posh Pickle.
With their continued growth in Greece and beyond, Hawkshead Relish is proving that taste knows no borders, especially with the Lakes-based business being Export Champions for the Department for International Trade in the UK and forging new relationships across the globe.
