About us

Our story begins right after World War II in the Amsterdam markets. Jan Sr., founder of Gotjé, sold everything in the Jordaan district: combs, coconuts, and eventually peanuts in their shells. These peanuts were affordable, nutritious, and incredibly popular. Sold warm at the market, with the radio on and a newspaper on the table at home — simple moments, great joy.

Jan had his peanuts roasted at Amsterdam coffee roasters and picked them up warm early in the morning for the market. The success was immense. Soon, more nuts followed. Based on his experience at a delicatessen, he introduced cashews (then still a luxury product) to the market — but made them accessible to everyone. In the evenings, they were roasted at home on the balcony, in large pans. Often, they were still warm the next day.

From 1978 onwards, son Jan Gotjé and his wife Gitta further expanded the business with their own markets and specialty nut shops. In the mid-1990s, they started their own wholesaler because quality from existing suppliers increasingly had to give way to price. By doing everything themselves, they maintained control over taste and freshness.

This focus on quality led to collaborations with hospitality and supermarkets in the early 2000s. What started with manual packaging in one branch grew into deliveries to dozens of stores. In 2003, Gotjé secured a spot on the iconic Albert Cuyp market — a dream that came true after almost 25 years of waiting.

In October 2020, Gotjé ceased operating its market stall after more than 70 years. But the core remained the same: a love for good nuts, honestly roasted and without compromises on quality.

With the entire Gotjé family and our team, we are building the future of Jan Gotjé Noten every day!