Chobani’s New York Facility: Unveiling Its Billion-Dollar Economic Influence

Milk cartons in a refrigerated display case.

Chobani’s $1.2 billion investment in Rome, New York will create over 1,000 jobs while processing a staggering 12 million pounds of milk daily, marking the largest natural food manufacturing venture in American history.

Key Insights

The $1.2 billion yogurt processing facility will create over 1,000 new jobs in upstate New York, revitalizing the region’s manufacturing sector.
The plant will process 12 million pounds of milk daily, producing one billion pounds of dairy annually and directly supporting New York’s dairy farmers.
New York was selected for its skilled workforce, including military veterans and college graduates, cementing its position as the nation’s top Greek yogurt producer.
The project received over $23 million in government support for infrastructure and transportation improvements at the Griffiss Business and Technology Park.

America’s Largest Natural Food Manufacturing Investment

Greek yogurt giant Chobani has announced plans to build a $1.2 billion yogurt processing facility in Rome, New York, making it the largest investment in natural food manufacturing in American history. The new plant, to be located at the Griffiss Business and Technology Park, will create more than 1,000 new jobs and significantly boost the economy of the Mohawk Valley region. This massive facility represents a substantial expansion of Chobani’s production capabilities and will further strengthen New York’s position as the top Greek yogurt producer in the United States.

The project has received strong support from state officials, including Governor Kathy Hochul, who fought to secure the plant’s location in New York. The state has committed over $23 million for infrastructure and transportation improvements to support the development. When operational, the facility will process approximately 12 million pounds of milk daily, making it a crucial outlet for dairy farmers throughout the region and creating an economic ripple effect that will benefit multiple industries.

Strengthening New York’s Dairy Industry

The new Chobani facility will significantly bolster New York’s $8 billion agricultural industry, particularly its dairy sector. New York is already the largest producer of yogurt, sour cream, cream cheese, and cottage cheese in the United States, and this investment further cements that leadership position. By processing one billion pounds of dairy annually, the plant will provide dairy farmers across the state with a reliable buyer for their milk, helping to sustain family farms that form the backbone of rural communities throughout upstate New York.

“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

U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer, who has supported Chobani’s growth from its early days, highlighted how the company has transformed upstate New York into the nation’s leading Greek yogurt producer. The selection of Rome for this landmark facility came after careful consideration, with company officials citing the region’s skilled workforce, including military veterans and college graduates, as a decisive factor in their decision to expand in New York.

Economic Revitalization for Upstate New York

The investment represents a significant revitalization opportunity for upstate New York’s manufacturing sector, which has faced challenges in recent decades. The facility’s construction will create hundreds of temporary jobs, followed by over 1,000 permanent positions once operations begin. This influx of employment opportunities is expected to attract new residents to the area, boost housing demand, and increase consumer spending throughout the region.

“This is the rebirth of our state, a rebirth of Upstate New York, a rebirth of business, a rebirth in the belief of greater days that lie ahead. Are you with me in this belief? We can get it done here, right here, in upstate New York, in Rome, in Oneida County.” – Gov. Kathy Hochul

The new plant expands Chobani’s already substantial presence in New York, where the company opened its first facility in 2005. Since then, Chobani has grown into a global brand with additional manufacturing operations in Idaho, Michigan, and Australia. This latest investment underscores the company’s commitment to its New York roots and its confidence in the state’s agricultural and manufacturing capabilities. As Rome Mayor Jeffrey Lanigan noted, the project represents “a major step forward” that will bring opportunities, innovation, and growth to the entire community.