Today, owners and employees in Hilmar, Calif., and Dalhart, Texas, celebrated Hilmar Cheese Company’s 25th anniversary with food and festivities.

“It is great to see our employees commemorate the success of our teamwork,” said John Jeter, president and CEO, and the company’s first employee. “We are very proud of our employees and all we have accomplished together.”

Founded in 1984 by 12 Central California dairy families who owned Jersey cows, Hilmar Cheese has grown to be a leading processor of cheese and whey products. The business began in Hilmar, Calif., and a second manufacturing site in Dalhart, Texas, was commissioned in 2007. 

Still privately held, the company employs almost 1,000 people. An active educational and community partner, Hilmar Cheese also contributes to hundreds of local events and charities, and its California facility operates a Visitor Center and dairy education exhibits, which host thousands of school children each year.

“A true ‘American dream’ business story, we started as a concept scribbled on a napkin at a local coffee shop. And 25 years later, our products are sold in over 40 countries and our employees have built a reputation worldwide for excellence and quality,” concluded Richard Clauss, chairman of the Hilmar Cheese Co. board of directors. “This celebration recognizes their hard work and dedication. It is their efforts that have made us successful.”