How does a small foodservice business stay in business for half a century? DeMarco’s Catering & Gourmet Deli in Aberdeen, New Jersey, survived and thrived following this winning formula: consistency and evolving to meet customers’ needs.
The family-owned business—which celebrated its 50th anniversary in December—has been in the same location since its opening: Garden Commercial’s Regent Shopping Center. Founder Louis DeMarco started out baking hand-rolled Italian bread on premises in a traditional brick oven.
Expanding Offerings to Meet Customers’ Needs
Yet as the DeMarco’s customer base grew, so did the store’s selections. In the decades that followed, the business evolved into a gourmet deli, expanding its offerings to include a complete line of Boar’s Head meat products, fresh homemade soups and meals, Italian grocery items and an expansive catering menu, including full-service BBQ. Customer favorites include penne vodka, chicken Francese and meatballs.
One key offering stayed the same, however. The shop continues to bake a full range of Italian and specialty breads, rolls and bakery items on site daily—a tradition that sets it apart from its competitors.
Today, Louis DeMarco’s sons, Eugene and Robert, represent the business’s second generation and carry on the tradition of excellence set forth by their father.
Dedicated Employees and Longtime Customers
“There’s no real secret to our longevity,” said Eugene DeMarco. “We simply focus on delivering a great product. Our food is made fresh with the highest-quality ingredients, and we provide exceptional customer service. We are also fortunate to have a dedicated team of employees. At 85 years old, my dad is still here several days a week baking bread from scratch.”
Demand for the company’s catering services is growing, Eugene added: “Due to economic factors, more people are choosing to cater at-home parties rather than go out to a restaurant. Full-service BBQ packages are popular during the summer months.”
Not only has DeMarco’s been in the same location for 50 years, as an original Regent Shopping Center tenant, but some loyal customers have been coming to the store since it opened.
“In some cases, we are serving a few generations of families,” said Eugene. “This shopping center has served us well for 50 years; we’ve never had a reason to leave. We have a tremendous relationship with our customers and the communities we serve—these relationships are the backbone of our business.”
