Willamette Hazelnut Inc. started in 1976 when three growers, John Newell, Dick Birkemeier and Ben Mitchell Jr., decided to leave a Dundee co-op and form their own processing facility. Their goal was to set the pace for the emerging hazelnut industry, and improve returns for hazelnut growers. 

 

Since then Willamette Hazelnut, Inc. has grown to supply the world's largest and most respected customers. It is widely recognized as a leader in quality and service, both to grower suppliers and customers alike.