7 companies that got their start in New Hampshire
From crafting the perfect apple cider to engineering high-tech electronics, New Hampshire is home to some incredible companies with fascinating stories.
Believe it or not, these seven well-known companies were founded right here in the Granite State. Here’s some more information about each one.
Applecrest Farm Orchards
Applecrest Farm Orchards, located in Hampton Falls, New Hampshire, is a historic and expansive apple orchard known for being the oldest and largest in the state. It also happens to be the oldest continuously operated apple orchard in the United States.
Established in 1913 by Walter Baldwin Farmer, the orchard has evolved over generations, offering a variety of produce including apples, peaches, and vegetables. Today, it spans 124 acres and remains a family-operated business, incorporating a farm-to-table restaurant and seasonal events.
For more details, visit Applecrest Farm Orchards.
Brevan Electronics
Founded in 1983 by Bob Purcell and Stuart Schuster, Brevan Electronics is a prominent distributor of high-technology electronic components based in Nashua, New Hampshire. Initially focused on serving original equipment manufacturers, the company has expanded its offerings to include custom cable assemblies, wire harnesses, and electronic services.
Under the leadership of CEO Michelle Dufoe, Brevan Electronics has become a recognized leader in the electronics industry, earning accolades such as being named a Top 50 Global Distributor in 2023. The company also prides itself on being a woman-owned business and fostering professional development for its employees.
For more details, visit Brevan Electronics.
Moe’s Italian Sandwiches
Moe’s Italian Sandwiches, located in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, is a renowned Italian submarine sandwich shop with a rich history. Phil “Moe” Pagano founded the shop in 1959 after buying it from Moe Winer. Known for its signature sandwich featuring mild salami, provolone, onions, peppers, tomatoes, olives, and olive oil, Moe’s has grown through franchising, particularly in southern New Hampshire.
The original Portsmouth location is still run by the Pagano family and has expanded its menu to include turkey, ham, and tuna options.
For more details, visit Moe’s Italian Sandwiches.
NEMO Equipment
Founded in 2002 by Cam Brensinger while studying at the Rhode Island School of Design, NEMO Equipment, Inc. is based in Dover, New Hampshire. The company specializes in designing and manufacturing innovative outdoor equipment, including tents, sleeping pads, and shelters.
NEMO gained early recognition with its AirSupported Technology and won several prestigious awards, including the 2005 ISPO BrandNew Award and recognition from Time and Popular Science. The company’s name, inspired by Jules Verne’s Captain Nemo, also stands for “New England Mountain Outfitters.”
For more details, visit NEMO Equipment.
Sal’s Pizza
Sal’s Pizza, founded by Sal and Nick Lupoli in 1990 in Salem, New Hampshire, has become a beloved chain of Italian restaurants throughout New England. Known for their massive 19-inch, three-pound pizzas, Sal’s operates over numerous franchises that collectively prepare more than 60,000 pizzas weekly. The chain is part of Sal’s Group, which also owns Salvatores, Mary’s Pasta & Sandwiches, and Riverwalk Properties.
Sal’s Pizza prides itself on using fresh ingredients and daily-prepared dough, maintaining a reputation for quality and value.
For more details, visit Sal’s Pizza.
Timberland
Timberland LLC, an American manufacturer and retailer of outdoor footwear and apparel, is headquartered in Stratham, New Hampshire. Founded in 1918, the company gained fame with its introduction of the Timberland boot in 1973. Known for its durable, waterproof footwear, Timberland has expanded its product line to include accessories like watches and leather goods.
Acquired by VF Corporation in 2011, Timberland continues to innovate with sustainable practices, including the Timberloop product take-back program and partnerships promoting reforestation and sustainable agriculture.
For more details, visit Timberland.
Yankee Publishing
Founded in 1935 by Robb and Beatrix Sagendorph in Dublin, New Hampshire, Yankee Publishing, Inc. (YPI) is a distinguished publisher known for Yankee Magazine and The Old Farmer’s Almanac. The company expanded by acquiring McLean Communications in 2013 and Family Tree Magazine in 2019.
Still operating from its original barn-red building, YPI is now 100% employee-owned and continues to publish a variety of books, magazines, and digital content, focusing on New England culture and beyond.
For more details, visit Yankee Publishing.
This article may have been created with the assistance of AI.
Our stories may be republished online or in print under Creative Commons license CC BY-NC-ND 4.0. We ask that you edit only for style or to shorten, provide proper attribution and link to our web site. Please see our republishing guidelines for use of photos and graphics.
