Our Purpose & History
Our roots trace back to 1911, when Otto Roth immigrated from Switzerland and began producing Swiss-style cheeses in America. Generations later, that legacy took shape in Monroe, Wisconsin — a region known for rich dairy traditions, skilled makers, and exceptional milk. By blending Swiss heritage with Wisconsin craftsmanship, Emmi Roth built a reputation for specialty cheeses made with time-honored techniques — from copper vats to spruce board aging — practices we still use today.
Over Time, We've Grown Thoughtfully:
Who We Are Today
Today, Emmi Roth is proud to be a leader in specialty cheese, serving retail, deli, and foodservice customers nationwide through a family of trusted brands. We combine:
The History of Emmi Roth
Otto Roth immigrates to the United States from Switzerland to start Otto Roth & Company and begin importing Swiss cheeses into America.
Descendants of Otto Roth found Roth Käse USA and scout locations to make cheese in the United States. Monroe, Wisconsin is chosen due to its access to high-quality local milk, existing cheesemaking infra-structure and the strong Swiss heritage of the region.
The first copper vats are used to make cheese in the U.S. at the Monroe facility. Spruce boards from Switzerland are also used in the aging process. These traditional methods are still used today to craft Roth Grand Cru® and other signature cheeses.
Emmi, a leading Swiss dairy cooperative, purchases Roth Käs USA from Emmi Roth. The new company becomes the leader in specialty produced Alpine-style cheese and the largest producer of cheeses from the U.S.
Emmi Roth adds a primary washed rind facility in Platteville, Wisconsin, expanding production capabilities and reinforcing its commitment to growth and innovation.
Roth Grand Cru® Surchoix is named World Champion at the 2016 World Championship Cheese Contest, solidifying Emmi Roth’s reputation for excellence on the global stage.
Emmi Roth acquires the Seymour plant, significantly expanding its blue cheese production and overall manufacturing capabilities.
Emmi Roth acquires Athenos, the #1 feta brand in the U.S., expanding its portfolio and strengthening its leadership in specialty cheese.
Emmi Roth opens a new headquarters and conversion facility in Stoughton, Wisconsin, supporting continued growth and operational excellence.
Emmi Roth adds Cowgirl Creamery to its family of brands, further diversifying its artisan cheese offerings and expanding its national presence.
