News Summary
Chobani has announced a monumental $1.2 billion investment to establish a new yogurt production facility in Rome, New York. This project, set to create over 1,000 new jobs, will enhance the region’s economy and strengthen its position as the top yogurt-producing state. The facility will span 1.4 million square feet, featuring multiple production lines aimed at processing significant quantities of milk and generating a larger output of yogurt, benefiting local dairy farmers and the agricultural industry.
Rome Gets Exciting News With Chobani’s Big Investment!
Rome, New York, is about to shine brighter on the economic map as Chobani has unveiled an exciting $1.2 billion investment plan to build a brand-new yogurt production facility right here in the Griffiss Business and Technology Park. Mark your calendars as this groundbreaking news was revealed during a press conference on April 22, 2025. A game-changer for the region, this facility is expected to not just boost the economy but also create over 1,000 new jobs for the community. Isn’t that fantastic?
Setting the Stage for Success
With this impressive investment, New York is set to solidify its reputation as the top yogurt-producing state in the country. The announcement came straight from the founder and CEO of Chobani, who has been dedicated to bringing healthier food options to the forefront since founding the company in 2005. Chobani has long been a major employer in the region, currently employing around 1,100 people at its locations in South Edmeston and Norwich. This new facility is poised to nearly double that workforce!
What’s in Store for the New Facility?
The new plant will cover a whopping 1.4 million square feet and wants to feature up to 28 production lines. It’s projected to have the capacity to process more than 12 million pounds of milk daily and produce an astounding over 1 billion pounds of yogurt and dairy products annually. Talk about creamy business!
Chobani has a strong and symbiotic relationship with local dairy farmers, being the largest purchaser of milk in New York state. With the new plant, Chobani will ramp up their milk procurement to around 6 billion pounds per year, which represents about one-third of New York’s entire milk production! All of this will certainly benefit the nearly 3,000 dairy farms that contribute significantly to the state’s booming $8 billion agricultural industry.
Stellar Funding and Support
The New York State government is backing this incredible initiative with more than $23 million from the FAST NY program aimed at vital infrastructure and transportation improvements for the site. To add to the mix, if the job creation goals are met, there are up to $73 million in Excelsior Jobs Program tax credits waiting in the wings!
Chobani has also committed to collaborating with Empire State Development to create training and job opportunities for underserved communities. What a remarkable way to uplift the local population! Chobani’s supportive environment is fostered by its founder, who has a strong commitment to hiring immigrants and refugees, even providing transportation and language translation services for workers.
A Bright Future in the Dairy Industry
As the largest producer of yogurt in the U.S., New York continues to set the bar high. Chobani’s decision to plant its roots deeper in the state not only makes economic sense but also encourages innovation in the foods we eat. Greek yogurt enthusiasts will be pleased to know that Chobani’s yogurt is famed for its thicker texture due to a meticulous straining process. That creamy deliciousness comes with a story!
On top of expanding in Rome, Chobani is also enhancing its facility in Twin Falls, Idaho, with a further investment of $500 million, creating at least 160 new jobs there as well. This forward momentum highlights Chobani’s laser focus on growth while being a responsible employer and community member.
Community Impact and Job Creation
With new roles ranging from manufacturing to corporate positions, the starting wage is a remarkable $20 an hour for full-time workers. This is a huge jump compared to many entry-level jobs in the area and signifies a big step toward fair wages in the industry.
As residents of Rome and surrounding areas, there’s plenty to be excited about. With Chobani’s ongoing commitment to quality and community, it looks like Rome will be buzzing with activity and opportunity. Here’s to a sweeter future!
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