We’ve known Mark Hansen, the founder and owner of Southern Craft Butchers in Lafayette Village in North Raleigh for several years and have enjoyed working together whenever it makes sense. Southern Craft Butchers is one of only two whole animal butcher shops (the other being Left Bank Butchery in Saxapahaw) in the Triangle region that has survived and thrived despite the economic challenges of sourcing and utilizing whole animals from local farmers. We recently sat down and caught up with Mark and were surprised to recognize similarities in our journeys as business owners in the meat industry. 

As you would expect, the early years involved a steep learning curve. For Mark, it was all about understanding the seasonality and product preferences of his customer base, facing regulatory hurdles that make it difficult to create value-added products, developing sourcing and cash flow strategies, building a good team, and connecting with his community. Three years in, he is in an excellent position to execute on his passion and grounded experience. We are excited to see where this leads. For now, Mark is planning to expand his catering services and create more seating for the sandwich side of the shop. If you haven’t stopped by to try his food, you must. His delicious sandwiches are becoming legendary!  

And if you’re in the mood for cooking with lamb, you’ll often find a wide selection of cuts from Firsthand Foods!