Janine Owens, a former employee of Greggs for 18 years, has made a significant career shift by venturing into entrepreneurship. Having worked for a national bakery chain, Janine has now opened her own deli, Little Pickers, in Pontypridd, enhancing the town’s culinary offerings. Her journey towards owning a business began three years ago, when she took over a friend’s successful venture of selling picnic grazing boxes, which evolved into the signature product of Little Pickers.
The deli, located in Bridge Street within a short distance from her cafe, offers an array of fresh produce, including fruits, cured meats, and local Welsh cheeses. Janine’s love for food and catering experience, notably from managing a rugby club and working at Greggs, has laid a strong foundation for her latest endeavour. She highlighted the challenges posed by the current cost-of-living crisis, as she strives to maintain competitive pricing while providing quality service to her customers.
Despite the obstacles, Janine emphasized the warm support she has received from the local community in Pontypridd, where customers have turned into friends. The cafe and deli prioritise Welsh and locally sourced products, contributing to a unique offering for residents. The idea of expanding into a deli arose last year when a neighbouring space became available, prompting Janine to seize the opportunity to showcase her grazing box ingredients more prominently.
The deli officially opened its doors to the public in August, providing a diverse range of breakfast and lunch options alongside a Friday and Saturday evening wine bar experience. Janine’s vision for the deli is to offer customers something distinctive, filling a niche in the Pontypridd market that had been absent for many years. With a focus on community engagement and quality produce, Janine hopes to create a welcoming space where patrons can enjoy a special meal or find a unique gift for someone.
The successful launch of Little Pickers Deli reflects Janine’s determination and passion for food, marking a new chapter in her culinary career. As Pontypridd welcomes this addition to its dining scene, Janine’s dedication to her craft and commitment to providing exceptional service set a promising path for her future endeavours.