Northwest business celebrates Greek success with Royal recognition in Corfu

What began as a tentative business enquiry during the uncertainty of the 2020 pandemic has blossomed into a thriving international partnership between a Cumbrian-based business and businesses in Greece.

Cumbrian artisan producers Hawkshead Relish are proudly celebrating five years of successful export to Greece, crowned recently by an invitation from the British Embassy in Athens to attend the King’s Birthday Garden Party at Mon Repos, Corfu – the birthplace of Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.

The relationship with Greece began when importer Petros Smatsi, of Elpena Group, discovered Hawkshead Relish through online research. He reached out to enquire about becoming a distributor for Nora’s Deli – the retail arm operated by his wife, Nora, and their business partner Nathalie. Since then, Hawkshead Relish products have become a staple in Greek delicatessens, with growing demand for favourites such as Mango Chutney and Posh Pickle.

In April 2025, company founders Mark and Maria Whitehead MBE visited Athens to host a tasting event at Nora’s Deli, attended by over 200 guests, including members of the Greek Government and representatives from the British Embassy. The visit also included a meeting with Zoe Kapareli, Deputy Private Secretary at the British Embassy, to discuss expanding UK exports in Greece.

Following this visit, Mark and Maria were formally invited to attend the prestigious garden party held at Mon Repos, Corfu, as official sponsors of the event – a celebration of His Majesty King Charles III’s Birthday. Hawkshead Relish products were featured on the menu, paired with Greek specialities such as Noumboula from DeliMeat, and served alongside Smoked Salmon with Posh Pickle, Beetroot Burgers with Mango Chutney, Stilton Tartlets with Cheeseboard Chutney, and Mini Fish & Chips, all complemented by a selection of Hawkshead Relish’s award-winning sauces and preserves.

The event, held in the historic palace gardens, included performances from the Philharmonic Society of Corfu, the St Spyridon Choir, the Allegro Violin Ensemble, and a stirring finale by the Royal Marines Drum Corps. A personal 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 deep personal significance.

Maria Whitehead MBE commented: “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.”

With their continued growth in Greece and beyond, Hawkshead Relish is proving that great 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.