, which claims to be America’s number one selling yogurt brand, has celebrated the grand opening of its second domestic manufacturing facility which is said to be the world’s largest yogurt production plant. Located in Twin Falls, Idaho, Chobani has invested $450 million to build the one million square foot operation in less than 11 months.Chobani broke ground on the 200-acre site in December 2011 and began construction earlier this year. Phases one and two of the project were completed in 326 days.
“At Chobani, we’re makers. Our business has been built one cup at a time, by the hands of our people,” said Hamdi Ulukaya, founder, president and CEO of Chobani. “Today marks not only the opening of the world’s largest yogurt plant but symbolizes the revitalization of U.S. manufacturing. We believe that no other yogurt facility is comparable to the size, technology and efficiency displayed in our new Twin Falls site.”
“Twin Falls is our second home but will not replace our Central New York plant, which will continue to operate at full capacity,” he continued. “ In fact, we will continue to grow and invest in our New York operations.”
Chobani said that its presence in Idaho has already served as a catalyst for hundreds of new jobs and a significant positive economic impact in the region. More than 300 employees have been employed at the Twin Falls plant, as production and distribution have already begun on new product innovations set to launch nationally in 2013. Additional hires are expected to come on board over the next several months.
The first yogurt - Chobani Bite - to be produced at Chobani’s new Twin Falls, Idaho manufacturing plant will be on shelves nationwide in January 2013.
