Chobani, LLC, Norwich, N.Y., announced the expansion of its Twin Falls, Idaho, plant by breaking ground on a 70,000-square-foot facility that will serve employees, guests and house the company's global research and development team.

"I'm grateful for the specialness we share with the people of the Magic Valley," says Hamdi Ulukaya, founder and CEO. "Twin Falls is one of those special places where there's a strong entrepreneurial mindset, the people are incredible and a handshake truly means something. It's a special ecosystem when it comes to food making. Our home in Idaho is not only a celebration of our employees and our community, but is also a space to inspire creativity, drive even more innovation and take us further on our mission to bring better food to more people."

Inspired by the nature of the Magic Valley, the center represents the future of U.S. manufacturing – with some 30,000 square feet of glass putting transparency and sunlight at the center of the design.

Employees can exercise in the 2,000-square-foot fitness center overlooking the Sawtooth Mountains and gather at a sun-filled space for shared meals and relaxation. A dedicated visitor entrance will welcome the Magic Valley community to learn more about the company's history of growth in Twin Falls, as well as its commitment to participating in local initiatives.

In 2016, Chobani announced a $100 million expansion of the Twin Falls manufacturing plant to invest in new production lines and products and to support distribution to international markets.  

A closer look at the center:

  • Developed to reflect Chobani's welcoming and collaborative culture, a 7,000-square-foot, sun-filled gathering space will be used for town halls, shared meals, daily relaxation and special celebrations.
  • A 2,000-square-foot fitness center overlooks the stunning views of the Sawtooth Mountains.
  • Features include wellness rooms for new mothers and a visitor's entrance that invites guests to learn more about Chobani and the company's history in the region.

Sustainable design:

  • The center builds on Chobani's longstanding commitment to the environment, utilizing innovative features to increase energy efficiency.
  • Some 4,000 square feet of "smart glass" windows greatly enhance natural light, while regulating internal temperatures and reducing use of heating and air conditioning, driving a 20% reduction in energy consumption.
  • An expansive skylight at the center of the building will reduce lighting needs from the environmentally-conscious, all-LED lighting system, while 30,000 square feet of "smart roofing" will reflect sunlight and reduce heat absorption.
  • Seeking LEED Silver certification by the U.S. Green Building Council.

The new facility will come online in the summer 2018.