Rome, NY – April 24, 2025 – Chobani, a leader in natural foods, has announced a groundbreaking $1.2 billion investment to build a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility on the historic grounds of the former Griffiss Air Force Base in Rome, New York. This 1.4 million square foot facility marks a new chapter for the Mohawk Valley, transforming a site once vital to national defense into a beacon of economic opportunity, sustainability, and nourishment.
The project, celebrated on Earth Day for its commitment to recycling infrastructure, will breathe new life into a region hit hard by the base’s closure. In partnership with New York State, Oneida County, local farmers, educators, and community leaders, Chobani aims to create a lasting impact.
A Multifaceted Impact
The new facility is designed to be a catalyst for the region, with far-reaching benefits:
- Over 1,000 Well-Paying Jobs: From production to logistics to R&D, these roles will offer competitive wages, benefits, and career growth, prioritizing local hiring to empower the Mohawk Valley workforce.
- Strengthening Local Dairy Farms: By sourcing milk from nearby farms, Chobani will bolster the region’s agricultural heritage, providing stability for farmers facing volatile markets.
- 28 State-of-the-Art Production Lines: Capable of producing over 1 billion pounds of dairy annually, including yogurt, plant-based products, and innovative offerings yet to be unveiled.
- A Hub for Natural Food Innovation: The facility will house research and development labs to pioneer sustainable, health-focused products, positioning Chobani as a leader in the global natural foods movement.
- Sustainability at Its Core: Beyond reusing existing infrastructure, the facility will incorporate energy-efficient technologies and waste-reduction systems, aligning with Chobani’s mission to provide “good food for all.”
Voices of Leadership
Chobani’s founder and CEO, Hamdi Ulukaya, framed the project as a deeply human endeavor: “When you invest in people and communities, you’re not just building a business—you’re building a future. This facility is a promise to the people of Upstate New York—a promise of opportunity, pride, and shared success.” Ulukaya’s vision reflects Chobani’s ethos of community-first capitalism, rooted in his own journey as an immigrant entrepreneur.
Local leaders echoed this sentiment. Oneida County Executive Anthony Picente praised the collaboration: “Chobani’s investment is a game-changer for our region. It’s a powerful example of how public-private partnerships can transform communities while honoring their history.”
A Collaborative Ecosystem
Chobani’s success hinges on a network of partners:
- Farmers: Local dairy producers will gain a reliable partner, ensuring fair prices and long-term contracts.
- Educators and Workforce Leaders: Partnerships with regional colleges and vocational programs will create tailored training initiatives, equipping workers with skills for advanced manufacturing and food science.
- State and Local Officials: Incentives and infrastructure support from New York State and Oneida County have been instrumental in bringing this vision to life.
- The Upstate NY Community: From Rome to the broader Mohawk Valley, residents are rallying behind the project, eager to see their region reclaim its place as a hub of opportunity.
A Symbol of Resilience
The Griffiss site, once home to B-52 bombers and Cold War strategy, now stands as a symbol of adaptation and hope. By blending cutting-edge technology with a deep respect for local traditions, Chobani is not only producing food but also cultivating a renewed sense of purpose in a region ready to shine.
As construction begins, the Mohawk Valley is buzzing with anticipation. “This is our chance to show the world what Upstate New York is made of,” said a local community leader. With Chobani leading the charge, Griffiss is no longer a relic of the past—it’s a cornerstone of a vibrant, sustainable future.