Our History
For seven decades, Arthur Schuman’s passion and energy has been passed down through generations, turning a modest import business into a renowned and respected leader in the cheese industry throughout the world.
From left to right:
Howard Schuman (Arthur’s son), Arthur Schuman (started the business in 1945), Jerome Schuman (Arthur’s son)
From left to right:
Ian Schuman (Import Business Unit Lead, fourth generation); Elizabeth Schuman (wife of the Chairman of the Board, Neal Schuman); Keith Schuman (Plant Based Business Unit Lead, fourth generation); Neal Schuman (Chairman of the Board, third generation), Allison Schuman (Chief Business Development Officer, fourth generation)
Timeline
1940s – 2010s1940s
Arthur Schuman starts NY-based importing business with sons Jerome and Howard
Establishes relationship with Zanetti, still strong after 70 years
Incorporates as Arthur Schuman, Inc. with a New York City office
Jerome Schuman begins importing South American cheeses
1950s
Arthur Schuman named president of Cheese Importers Association of America
Company appointed exclusive agent for Roquefort Cheese
1960s
Jerome Schuman named president of Cheese Importers Association of America
Howard Schuman named president
French Abbey Port du Salut launches in the U.S.
1970s
Howard Schuman awarded the Ordre du Mérite Agricole
Operations move to New Jersey
Acquisition of Robin Packing
Jerome Schuman named president
1980s
Neal Schuman (Jerome’s son) named CEO
Represent SanCor Ltda product launches
Represent Conaprole product launches
Neal Schuman named president of Cheese Importers Association of America
Neal Schuman awarded the Ordre Du Mérite Agricole
Office opens in Poland
1990s
Acquisition of Imperia Foods
Acquisition of Polser in Siemiatycze, Poland
Joan Allen (third generation) joins company
Current headquarters office and plant open in Fairfield, New Jersey
2000s
Allison Schuman (fourth generation) joins company
Acquisition of Lake Country Dairy – begins cheese production
Acquisition of blue cheese production facility in Montfort, Wisconsin
Jack Schwarz named Executive Specialty Import President
Acquisition of Grater Inc.
Acquisition of Masson Cheese
Timmah Allen (fourth generation) joins company
Davis McCarty (fourth generation) joins company
2010s
Keith & Ian Schuman (fourth generation) joins company
Recognized among top 20 private companies in New Jersey
Neal Schuman chosen by U.S. Government to serve 4 terms on Dairy and Animal, ATAC committee
Joan Allen takes leadership of export division
Company becomes exclusive U.S. distributor of DODONI Greek cheeses
Distribution center opens in Henderson, Nevada
First Asian office opens in Hong Kong
Cello Whisps product launches
Yellow Door Creamery brand launches, introducing Hand Rubbed Fontina products
Arthur Schuman, Inc. changes to Schuman Cheese
Yellow Door Creamery introduces Alpine Collection
Neal Schuman honored as EY Family Business Entrepreneur Of The Year
Lake Country Dairy named Plant of the Year by Dairy Foods magazine
Alpine Collection earns second consecutive Grand Master title at Wisconsin State Fair
New Cello brand debuts, along with Copper Kettle Chisels, Asiago, Parmesan, Romano, Fontal, Mascarpone, and Italian blend shredded cheese.
2020s
Vevan brand launch