Bristol Deli Is Britain’s Best

12 September 2011, 12:42 PM
  • The Arch House Deli, in Clifton village, Bristol, fought off competition from hundreds of the UK's top retailers to be named Deli of the Year 2011

The prestigious competition, launched in 2010 by Olives Et Al’s Giles Henschel has gathered nationwide media attention in the run up to the final, held last Monday night.

Following several rounds of judging, a mystery shopper and an evening on the edge of their seats at the Great Taste Awards dinner in London, the couple who own and run the Arch House Deli, Debbie Atherton and David Greenman, have plenty to celebrate.

The duo impressed the judging panel with their warmth, friendliness, professionalism, knowledge and determination to buy from as many local producers as possible. Judges also commented on the feeling of ‘community’ when reading the votes and comments from customers.

Since last week, Mr Green has been approached by the national press, local TV and radio and numerous trade and consumer publications. “It’s all been a bit of a whirlwind,” he said. “So many customers have come in to congratulate us. One of them left a big bunch of flowers, which was lovely. We had no idea how much press the competition would gather, so all the attention has come as a very nice surprise.”

“Congratulations are well deserved for Debbie and David – they’re a great couple who only bought this deli two years ago in and, in that time, they’ve stamped their personality on the shop and have welcomed thousands of people through the door,” said Giles Henschel, at Olives Et Al.
 
“Their own attitude to customers is exemplary but the team is also chatty and welcoming and ready to answer any questions about food on the shelves or being sold in the cafe.  What they don’t know – they find out and that after all is what customers want. So we are proud as punch to name Arch House Deli as the Deli of the Year 2011 and wish them every success for the future in Clifton,” he added.

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