Chobani’s $1.2B Facility Sets New Record in U.S. Natural Food Manufacturing
Chobani has officially broken ground on a groundbreaking US$1.2 billion dairy processing plant in Rome, New York. The 1.4 million-square-foot facility at Griffiss Business and Technology Park represents the largest-ever investment in a U.S. natural food manufacturing plant and is expected to significantly enhance the region’s economy.
Strengthening New York’s Dairy Industry
Once operational, the new facility will process up to 12 million pounds of milk per day and produce over 1 billion pounds of dairy products annually. This expansion will position Chobani as an even more vital customer to New York’s dairy farms, already purchasing more milk than any other entity in the state. With more than 3,000 dairy farms producing over 16 billion pounds of milk annually, this investment provides critical infrastructure and demand stability for local farmers.
Economic and Workforce Development Impact
The Rome facility is projected to create over 1,000 full-time jobs in the Mohawk Valley and stimulate rural development. Chobani plans to collaborate with local institutions and Empire State Development to provide job training, with a special focus on underserved communities. This reinforces the brand’s longstanding ties to New York, where it was founded by Hamdi Ulukaya in 2005.
Innovation and Sustainability
Built on 150 acres of repurposed Griffiss Air Force Base land, the facility will feature 28 production lines and integrate sustainability practices such as water reuse and energy-efficient systems. The plant will also serve as a hub for R&D collaborations with regional universities and businesses, reinforcing Chobani’s role in promoting wellness and driving innovation.
Global Market Context
Chobani’s expansion comes amid a global surge in demand for natural and nutrient-rich dairy products. The global yogurt market is projected to grow from USD 96.2 billion in 2023 to over USD 138 billion by 2033, driven by health-conscious consumers and expanding retail networks.
As global dairy dynamics shift, Chobani’s bold investment reinforces U.S. leadership in premium dairy production, positioning the Rome plant as a critical node in the global supply chain.
Top Global Producers & Importers:
- Top Producer: United States, European Union, India
- Key Importers of Dairy: China, Japan, Mexico, Indonesia
Latest Trade Insight: In 2024, U.S. dairy exports reached $8.5 billion, with Asia-Pacific absorbing 42% of shipments, led by China and Southeast Asian markets.
