When JK Foods opened its doors in 1976, Asian food in Britain meant little more than a few Chinese takeaways and a handful of specialist grocers. Nearly fifty years later, Pan-Asian cuisine is part of everyday life across the country, and the Nottingham company has grown alongside it into a national supplier to restaurants, retailers and wholesalers.
A Changing National Palate
The story of Asian food in the UK is one of steady growth. Chinese and Indian restaurants led the way in the 1970s and 1980s. Thai food followed, then Japanese sushi and ramen, and more recently Korean and Vietnamese dishes. Each wave brought new ingredients that British kitchens had never used before.
Supplying those ingredients required specialist knowledge. Authentic sauces, noodles and frozen goods had to be imported from Asia, stored correctly and delivered reliably to businesses across the country.
Building a National Supply Network
From its base on the Lenton Industrial Estate in Nottingham, JK Foods built direct relationships with producers in China, Japan, Korea, Thailand, Vietnam and other countries. Today, it is widely described as a Leading Oriental Food Wholesaler in UK, with a range covering rice, noodles, sauces, condiments, frozen foods, snacks and drinks, alongside well-known global brands.
Its customers range from single-site takeaways to large retail and wholesale operations, all served through nationwide delivery.
Creating Its Own Brands
In addition to distributing other manufacturers’ products, the company developed its own label, Tiger Tiger Foods. The brand covers Pan-Asian sauces, noodles and spices, as well as Japanese and Korean ranges. Sub-brands include Pulp+, a line of tropical fruit juices such as lychee, mango and pink guava, and Wow Chow, a range of stir-fry style rice noodles.
Own-brand products allow wholesalers to offer customers consistent quality and competitive pricing, while responding faster to new food trends.
Keeping Up With Modern Buyers
The way businesses buy food has also changed. JK Foods now offers an online product catalogue, a trade registration portal and a dedicated app, making it easier for restaurant owners and retailers to order at any time. Customers can also reach the team through messaging services for quick queries.
A Presence on the Industry Stage
Earlier this year, Tiger Tiger Foods took part in the International Food & Drink Event 2026, held from 30 March to 1 April. The exhibition is one of the UK’s major gatherings for food and drink producers, buyers and innovators, and gave the brand a platform to showcase its products to trade visitors.
Looking to the Future
With demand for Asian food still rising, the outlook for specialist suppliers remains strong. Trends such as clean label products, healthier options and regional Asian cuisines are opening new opportunities.
For a business that began when Asian food was still a novelty in Britain, the journey so far reflects a much bigger story: how the nation’s taste has changed, one ingredient at a time.
