Delicatessens for Sale

Serve up quality artisan foods and become a community favourite when you buy one of our delicatessens for sale. Browse our listings below or get in touch for assistance.


Buy a delicatessen business today


Delicatessens occupy a special place in British high streets and neighbourhoods, providing carefully curated selections of cheeses, cured meats, oils, preserves and fresh produce. For food enthusiasts with business ambitions, owning a deli offers the chance to share quality products with customers who genuinely appreciate craftsmanship.

We've been supporting business sales across the UK for over 60 years, and we're here to help you find the right delicatessen to suit your aspirations. Browse our available businesses below, or contact us if you'd like guidance on your search.

Browse our collection of delicatessens available to buy below, or contact us if you’d like expert guidance. With over 60 years of experience supporting business sales across the UK, we’re here to help you find the right delicatessen to suit your goals.

Looking to sell your Delicatessen

Contact our team of experts today


Why should I consider buying a delicatessen?

Acquiring a delicatessen presents several compelling advantages for aspiring business owners;

- You’ll work with premium products and develop expertise in artisan foods, from farmhouse cheeses to continental charcuterie

- You can build strong relationships with local suppliers and producers, supporting regional food networks

- You’ll serve customers who value quality and are often willing to pay premium prices for specialist items

- You can diversify income through multiple offerings, including deli counters, pantry goods, prepared foods and catering services

- You’ll create a destination that draws food lovers and becomes integral to your local community

“A well-run delicatessen combines passion for quality food with sound business sense. The sector rewards those who understand their products, build supplier relationships and create an inviting atmosphere where customers feel inspired to explore new tastes.”

- Paul Williamson, Managing Director

How do I choose a delicatessen to buy?

Our delicatessens for sale vary considerably in size and specialisation. Some focus primarily on continental products, whilst others champion British artisan producers. Consider whether you prefer a neighbourhood deli serving regular local customers or one in a busier area attracting passing trade and tourists.

Location also matters in this sector. Think about footfall, parking availability and whether nearby businesses complement your offering. Also assess the premises condition, storage facilities and whether there’s scope to add services like sandwich preparation or coffee.

Don’t hesitate to contact us if you need help identifying a delicatessen that matches your vision. Our team will be pleased to discuss options with you.

What’s involved in buying a delicatessen?

Running a delicatessen requires a genuine interest in quality food and a willingness to develop product knowledge. You’ll also need strong customer service skills, as many deli customers appreciate recommendations and enjoy learning about products.

When you’ve identified a delicatessen that interests you, our experienced business agents can guide you through each stage:

- Searching for suitable businesses in your target area

- Reviewing financial performance and growth potential

- Understanding supplier relationships and stock management

- Completing necessary due diligence

- Arranging financing if required

- Finalising the purchase

We’ll provide comprehensive information to help you assess the business properly, giving you a clear picture of trading patterns, profit margins and development opportunities.

Why should I buy a delicatessen with Ernest Wilson?

- Around 75 years of experience in business sales

- Helped sell more than 40,000 businesses across various sectors

- Positive reviews from satisfied clients

- 25 offices throughout the UK

- Extensive knowledge across diverse sectors

- A dedicated team of specialists

- No upfront fees

Buy a delicatessen with us today

Found a delicatessen that appeals to you? Arrange a consultation or get in touch to find out more. We'll be here to guide you through every stage.

We recommend registering with us even if none of our current listings suit your requirements. Our extensive network means we're often first to know about newly available delicatessens in your preferred locations, so we can notify you promptly when one comes to market.

Alternatively, if you're looking to sell your delicatessen because you're retiring, relocating or pursuing new opportunities, please arrange a valuation to begin the process.

Frequently asked questions about buying delicatessens

Is buying a delicatessen profitable?

Yes, delicatessens can be profitable ventures when managed effectively. Success typically depends on product quality, knowledgeable staff, competitive pricing and building a loyal customer base. Premium products can also command better margins, though stock management requires care given the shorter shelf lives of many deli items.

What licences do I need to run a delicatessen?

The licences required depend on your specific offerings but typically include:

- Food business registration

- Food hygiene certificate

- Premises licence (if selling alcohol)

- Music licence (if playing background music)

Can I make changes to the deli business after buying?

Absolutely. Many buyers enhance their delicatessen by introducing new product lines, adding services like sandwich preparation, extending opening hours or developing catering offerings. The key is understanding your customer base and introducing changes that align with their preferences whilst maintaining the quality they expect.