Hellema Chocolade was founded in 1970 by the present director's father, Mr. B. Hellema.

After running a successful confectionery in The Hague for many years, Mr. Hellema became the business manager of a waffle factory in the north of the country. Still he wanted something more; he wanted to be his own boss again. Therefore, in 1970, he took the decision and started in Almelo with the production of chocolate cups and later handmade chocolates, both still important foundations of the company.

After son J. Hellema joined the business in 1983 and son B. Hellema in 1989, the company expanded in 1991 with the production of garnishes and decorations.