National Nut Company relocates to Hudson

• Lamke

Steve Lamke stands in the retail area of National Nut Company, which he and his wife Gayle own. They recently relocated the business from Ellsworth to Hudson. -- Photo by Margaret A. Ontl

Talk about it

It is probably safe to say Steve and Gayle Lamke love nuts. They own The National Nut Company, which they moved to Hudson just a few weeks ago.

Steve Lamke started in the business in 1974, packaging and selling holiday tins of assorted nuts. Within two years, he realized with a lot of work he could go full-time.

Since 1976, Lamke has worked 60 to 80 hours a week, something he continues to do although he knows he should slow down. After retiring from the former Dayton’s in 1994, his wife Gayle joined him in the business.

“There is not one (a nut business) on every corner,” said Lamke of his decision all those years ago.

It has served the couple well. They source top quality nuts and dried fruit like walnuts, pecans and raisins from sources in California, Georgia and Texas. They also work with importers and exporters to bring in the highest quality of products from around the world.

“It started as a retail operation and became more wholesale as time went on,” said Lamke. “We still have a retail store and offer 180 different items.”

The list includes nuts, seeds, dried fruit, trail mixes, snack mixes, as well as chocolate and yogurt-covered versions.

“We do all our own roasting and have since 1974,” said Lamke. “This includes cashews, almonds, pecans, peanuts, sunflower seeds, brazil nuts, hazelnuts and more.”

For more please read the March 21 print version of the Pierce County Herald.

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