1919
Minto Toothpick Company was founded in Saginaw, Michigan with product of
mint-flavored toothpicks as the primary product.
1920
A small factory in Guilford, Maine was acquired due to the abundance of
white birch available. This factory produced wooden food crates. The
company’s name was changed to Hardwood Products Company to reflect the
expanded line of products.
1940
New machinery was developed and buildings added in order for the
company to continue its growth.
1956
Toothpick production was discontinued. By this time, Hardwood Products
Company was a primary producer of many other disposable commodities.
1958
Disaster struck. A fire destroyed the entire facility. It was a
devastating loss to both the company and the small community of Guilford.
Approximately 200 people were employed at the time of the fire.
Hardwood had become a well-known name in the industry so immediate plans
were made to rebuild - construction commenced using regular plant employees
for construction and for making and installation of new production equipment.
1959
In August, limited production had commenced and a full schedule was restored
by June the next year. Because of its past reputation for quality and service,
the customer base was quickly restored.
1963
Built new warehouse - 10,800 sq ft.
1968
Built new warehouse - 13,200 sq ft.
1984
Built new dowel facility - 7,000 sq ft. - steam rooms and slat making.
1985
Built new maintenance garage - 3,700 sq ft.
1993
Built new research & development machine shop.
1995
Built new warehouse - 9,600 sq ft.
2011
As Hardwood designs and constructs its production equipment, the demand for its products
resulted in a much-needed expansion of the fabrication facility. Doubling the machine
shop began in 2012. New ice cream stick sorting room.
2014
Hardwood becomes certified by BRCGS, which guarantees our products are food safe.
2019
100th year in business!
2023
Hardwood becomes FSC Certified ensuring the use of ethically harvested and sourced
wood is used in our products.