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US dairy producer Chobani has broken ground on a $500m expansion of its plant in Twin Falls, Idaho.

Described as the ‘largest natural food production facility in the county,’ the expanded plant will span 1.6 million square feet and feature 24 production lines, increasing productivity by 50%. The upgrade marks the biggest plant investment in the company’s history.

The site, which produces yogurts, coffee creamers and oat milk, was first opened in 2012 and was expanded in 2016 to include an R&D and innovation centre. The recent investment will add over 500,000-square-feet of new space.

Chobani said the Twin Falls expansion will ‘strengthen Idaho’s dairy industry,' creating at least 160 new full-time jobs. With construction now underway, the expanded site is expected to be operational in early 2026.

“Over a decade ago, this empty stretch of land in Twin Falls, Idaho, became the heartbeat of a food revolution. Today, that heart is growing even stronger,” Chobani said in a statement.

Shawn Barigar, city economic development director and executive director of the Urban Renewal Agency of the City of Twin Falls, said: "This agreement demonstrates the strong partnership between Chobani and the City of Twin Falls. We’re committed to supporting Chobani’s continued growth and ensuring the necessary infrastructure is in place to accommodate this expansion."

Since opening the Twin Falls site in 2012, Chobani has invested over $1.3 billion into the region, including $1 million invested into the University of Idaho's dairy research facility.