We may have been around since 1861, but we certainly don’t at Hellema, standstill. We are constantly innovating. In terms of packaging, sustainability and, of course, our products. It is not without reason that we have been around for 160 years this year!

How it started

In 1861, people hardly made any cakes and pastries in the North Frisian countryside. Andele Hellema saw this gap in the market and started the Hellema bakery at age 22. He operated under the motto: ‘Baking with love leads to committed employees, beautiful products and above all satisfied customers.’

Now, 160 years later, we still aim for the best results and satisfied customers.

important milestones

Some important innovative moments in history helped us with this:

1918 – Time for expansion. An additional property is purchased for the first time.

1946 – The first international steps are taken. Hellema ships products to England for the first time

1947 – Mass production starts, thanks to the purchase of a chain oven.

1974 – A major increase in production takes place under the rule of Jan Ymke Hellema.

1999 – More emphasis on new product development. Not only for the Dutch market, but also for far beyond.

2011 – 150 years of Hellema! From peat-fired to gas-fired, from an immersion oven to a super-modern belt oven of 100 meters. A lot has happened in 150 years!

2015 – The production techniques, knowledge, and possibilities are even greater.

2021 – 160 years Hellema!

Want to know more? Feel free to view our history page for more information about the history of Hellema. Or check out our products to see what all these innovations have made possible!

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