Cheese Importers was started in 1976 by Lyman & Linda White, after several failed attempts bringing to life their dreams of a natural food coop and various other enterprises. Choosing Longmont as “home” in 1972 after living a vagabond lifestyle started a new chapter in family life. As Mother and Father of two girls Clara & Cybelle, they would soon be joined by the boys Samm & Sacha. The doors were opened in 1976 for Willow River Cheese Co. in the old Cannery building, as the United States started to look for all of the imported foods from Europe, seeing them as higher quality. Cheese Importers and the family grew up with the folks who shaped Boulder County’s food scene over the years that followed. Lucky to work with the iconic businesses of the area including Wild Oats, Alfalfas, and Boulder Breadworks, business was good.
In 2010 a tragic car accident claimed the life of Lyman, and the company was in peril to say the least. All the good karma came to play and by luck a meeting with the Longmont city Manager led us to 103 Main St. which is their current home as Colorado’s favorite Cheese Shop (and more) as well as its premier Fine Food Wholesale Distributor. We understand the need and utmost importance of enjoying the highest quality foods with family and friends. Over the past 46 years there have been many changes in Longmont and to their business, but one thing remains constant: The family’s deepest desire to spread the love of food & spirit far and wide, sharing it with everyone they meet.