What Company Is TRANSFORMING Upstate New York?

In a historic move, Chobani plans to invest $1.2 billion in Rome, New York, transforming the area into a hub for the largest natural food manufacturing project in U.S. history.

At a Glance

  • Chobani is establishing a $1.2 billion yogurt processing facility in Rome, New York.
  • The plant will be the largest investment in the natural food industry in U.S. history, creating over 1,000 jobs.
  • It will process 12 million pounds of milk daily and support local dairy farmers.
  • New York State officials supported securing the plant’s location.

Chobani’s Ambitious Expansion

Chobani’s decision to invest $1.2 billion in a state-of-the-art yogurt processing facility in Rome, New York, is a monumental step forward for the company and the region. Situated in the Griffiss Business and Technology Park, this facility will be the largest of its kind in the United States. Chobani’s commitment to New York’s skilled workforce and robust dairy industry bolsters its strategic expansion, aiming to handle large volumes of milk daily and support the local economy significantly.

Rep. Elise Stefanik declared, “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.” This underlines the enormous potential impact on both local agriculture and manufacturing sectors. 

Economic Impact and Job Creation

The economic benefits of Chobani’s investment extend beyond job creation. The project will boost Upstate New York’s manufacturing sector, a much-needed revival in a historically industrial region that has seen decline. The plant will not only create over 1,000 direct jobs but will also foster significant infrastructure and industry growth. The decision to place the facility in Rome is also strategic, taking into account a workforce that includes military veterans and college graduates. 

“This transformative investment marks a major step forward for our community, bringing new jobs, opportunities, innovation, and growth,” stated Rome Mayor Jeffrey Lanigan, encapsulating the local government’s enthusiasm for the project. 

Sen. Chuck Schumer praised the initiative, noting, “Dairy farmers are the beating heart of Upstate NY, and this massive new facility and 1,000 new jobs will help support so many family farms across the state.” These comments highlight the indispensable role of agriculture in the state’s economy and demonstrate federal support for revitalizing such areas.

New York’s Dairy Industry Hub

New York is already a powerhouse in dairy production, leading the nation in the production of yogurt, sour cream, cream cheese, and cottage cheese. This new facility strengthens that position, seamlessly integrating with the existing $8 billion agricultural industry. Chobani’s new investment promises not just to be a boon for the local dairy network but also a lighthouse of innovation and sustainability in natural food production. 

“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,” expressed Gov. Kathy Hochul, echoing a sentiment of growth and renewal. 

This investment by Chobani stands as a testament to the power of private enterprise and strategic government collaboration, setting a robust foundation for a flourishing future.

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