Chobani’s historic $1.2 billion investment in a New York yogurt facility promises to transform America’s dairy industry while creating over 1,000 jobs in a region hungry for economic revival.
Quick Takes
- Chobani is building a $1.2 billion yogurt processing plant in Rome, NY – the largest investment in natural food manufacturing in American history
- The facility will process 12 million pounds of milk daily, producing one billion pounds of dairy products annually
- Over 1,000 new jobs will be created, significantly boosting the Mohawk Valley’s economy
- The project reinforces New York’s position as America’s top producer of yogurt and other dairy products
- New York’s skilled workforce and strong dairy farming sector were key factors in Chobani’s location decision
A Billion-Dollar Boost for Upstate New York
Chobani has announced plans to invest $1.2 billion in a state-of-the-art yogurt processing facility in Rome, New York. The project will be built at the Griffiss Business and Technology Park, creating more than 1,000 jobs for the region. This represents the largest investment in natural food manufacturing in American history and signals a major commitment to domestic production. The new facility will process an astounding 12 million pounds of milk daily, transforming it into high-quality dairy products that have made Chobani a household name since its first New York plant opened in 2005.
The economic impact of this investment extends far beyond the facility itself. New York dairy farmers will benefit significantly as the plant will require vast quantities of milk to produce one billion pounds of dairy products annually. This steady demand provides stability for farm operations throughout the state. The project has also secured over $23 million in government funding for infrastructure and transportation improvements, further enhancing the region’s economic development potential.
Strengthening America’s Dairy Heartland
New York’s selection for this massive facility wasn’t accidental. The state already leads the nation in producing yogurt, sour cream, cream cheese, and cottage cheese. This existing dairy infrastructure provides Chobani with a robust supply chain and experienced workforce. The company specifically cited the region’s skilled labor pool, including military veterans and college graduates, as a decisive factor in choosing Rome for its expansion. The investment supports New York’s $8 billion agricultural industry, with dairy farming at its core.
“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
U.S. Senator Charles Schumer highlighted how Chobani has already helped make upstate New York the country’s top Greek yogurt producer. The company’s expansion in Rome reinforces this position while addressing growing consumer demand for Greek yogurt and other dairy products. Though Chobani now operates facilities in Idaho, Michigan, and Australia, this investment demonstrates their continued commitment to their New York roots and American manufacturing.
Revitalizing Manufacturing in the Mohawk Valley
State and local officials fought hard to secure this project for New York, with Governor Kathy Hochul playing a central role in the negotiations. The investment is viewed as a significant step in revitalizing Upstate New York’s manufacturing sector, which has faced challenges in recent decades. Rome Mayor Jeffrey Lanigan described the project as “transformative” for the community, bringing not just jobs but also innovation and growth opportunities to the Mohawk Valley region.
“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 project represents more than just economic numbers—it embodies hope for a region seeking reinvention. State Senator Joseph Griffo expressed excitement about the potential positive impact on the area, while Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon described the investment as a commitment to the community’s future. For the Mohawk Valley, this facility signals confidence that American manufacturing can thrive in the 21st century, particularly when building on regional strengths like dairy farming and food production.
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
