Chobani plans to invest $1.2 billion in a state-of-the-art yogurt production facility in Rome, New York, creating 1,000 new jobs and cementing upstate New York’s position as America’s leading Greek yogurt producer.
Key Takeaways
- Chobani’s $1.2 billion investment represents the largest natural food manufacturing initiative in American history.
- The Rome, NY plant will create over 1,000 jobs and process 12 million pounds of milk daily, producing one billion pounds of dairy annually.
- The facility will significantly support New York’s dairy farmers and strengthen the state’s $8 billion agricultural industry.
- New York was selected for its skilled workforce and established position as the nation’s largest producer of yogurt, sour cream, cream cheese, and cottage cheese.
- The project received over $23 million in state support for infrastructure and transportation improvements.
Historic Investment Boosts New York’s Economy
Chobani has committed to a landmark $1.2 billion investment in Rome, New York, establishing what will become the most advanced yogurt processing plant in the country. The facility, located within the Griffiss Business and Technology Park, will process approximately 12 million pounds of milk daily, creating products that will reach consumers nationwide. This represents the single largest investment in natural food manufacturing in American history and signals a major economic boost for the Mohawk Valley region and upstate New York.
The project has generated excitement among state and local officials who fought to secure the plant’s location in New York. The development will create more than 1,000 jobs, providing opportunities for military veterans, college graduates, and other skilled workers in the area. Beyond direct employment, the massive operation will indirectly support thousands of additional jobs throughout the supply chain, particularly benefiting New York’s dairy farming communities.
🥛🏗️🇺🇸📈 Chobani to Invest $1.2B in New York Dairy Plant, Adding 1,000+ Jobs
🔹 Summary:
Chobani will invest $1.2 billion to build a third U.S. dairy processing facility in New York, aiming to meet rising demand and fuel product innovation while creating over 1,000 full-time… pic.twitter.com/3hRH6yO5t7
— PiQ (@PiQSuite) April 22, 2025
Supporting New York’s Dairy Industry
The new facility reinforces New York’s position as the nation’s leading producer of yogurt and various dairy products. With capacity to produce one billion pounds of dairy annually, the plant represents a significant market for the state’s dairy farmers. New York currently ranks fourth nationally in milk production with over 3,500 dairy farms that support approximately 20,000 jobs. The Chobani expansion is expected to strengthen this critical agricultural sector further.
“This facility will process a remarkable 12 million pounds of milk per day, producing one billion pounds of dairy annually. What does this mean? It means an even stronger dairy industry, and more opportunities for Upstate and North Country farmers to sell their milk, expand their operations, and sustain family farms that have been so essential to our way of life for generations.” – Rep. Elise Stefanik
The state has provided over $23 million in support for infrastructure and transportation improvements related to the project. This commitment reflects the strategic importance of the dairy industry to New York’s economy and agricultural heritage. Chobani’s expansion aligns with ongoing efforts to revitalize manufacturing in upstate New York while supporting traditional agricultural production that has defined the region for generations.
Continued Growth for Chobani
This expansion marks another milestone in Chobani’s growth trajectory that began in 2005 with its first plant in New York. The company has since expanded with additional manufacturing facilities in Idaho, Michigan, and Australia. Chobani’s continued investment in New York reflects confidence in the state’s business environment and specialized workforce. The company’s commitment to the region has helped transform upstate New York into the country’s premier Greek yogurt production hub.
“Today, Chobani makes upstate New York the #1 Greek yogurt producer in America. Chobani’s $1 billion investment — the largest investment in natural food making in American history — is a win-win-win for Chobani, NY dairy farmers, and the Mohawk Valley economy and jobs. I’ve fought to help Chobani grow since the very beginning to lay the foundation for a day like today.” – U.S. Sen Charles E. Schumer
The development represents more than just an economic investment for local communities. Rome Mayor Jeffrey Lanigan described the project as “transformative” for the community, bringing new opportunities, innovation, and growth. The facility’s advanced production capabilities will enable Chobani to meet growing consumer demand while maintaining its commitment to producing high-quality natural food products that have made the brand a household name across America.
Sources:
- Officials react to Chobani’s $1.2B in new Rome dairy processing plant
- Chobani Plans to Invest $1.2 Billion for Yogurt Facility in New York: Gov. Hochul
