La Marina Foods, led by owner and director Kirsten Jooste, has been a pioneer in the food industry since 1995. Kirsten began her journey as an independent agent in the fish industry before acquiring a small company named La Marina Foods. Her dedication and vision transformed it into a thriving business.

In just four years, through hard work and exceptional service, La Marina Foods doubled in size. Recognizing the need for expansion, the company built a state-of-the-art factory to support its rapid growth. Completed in two years, this facility adheres to the highest European standards and features an Ozonation System for superior hygiene and sanitation. The factory is also equipped with a 500 KVA generator and a water storage system powered by solar panels, underscoring La Marina Foods' commitment to sustainability.

Once established in the new factory, La Marina Foods experienced phenomenal growth. Under Kirsten’s leadership, and with a dedicated team of around 100 employees, the company became renowned for going the extra mile, embodying the motto, “It’s not a problem – It’s a pleasure.” The company diversified its offerings beyond fish to include exotic foods, dry goods, a comprehensive range of chicken and cold meats, as well as local and imported cheeses and dairy products. Today, the fully sustainable factory houses over 1300 unique and well-sourced products, with a strong emphasis on sustainability.

La Marina Foods is celebrated for its excellence in sourcing specialty items and customizing orders to meet clients' needs. To support ongoing growth and future development, the company established an international head office in Mauritius. This strategic move enhances import and export efficiency and leverages established trade routes, fueling further expansion.

Kirsten’s unwavering commitment to service, reliability, honesty, and integrity has positioned La Marina Foods as a leader in providing premium pantry goods for the middle to upper-class market. The company's success in this niche market is attributed to its “big family” ethos, cultivated by Kirsten from the beginning. This family-oriented culture is evident in the dedication, expertise, and loyalty of the staff and is experienced firsthand by visitors to La Marina’s factory deli, restaurant, and sushi bar, often regarded as one of Johannesburg’s best-kept secrets.