TWIN FALLS, IDAHO — Greek yogurt, creamer and oat milk manufacturer Chobani, LLC, revealed during a March 19 groundbreaking ceremony that it plans to invest $500 million in an expansion project at its Twin Falls, Idaho, facility.

Chobani said the production plant will add another 500,000 square feet of space, and once the project is completed the facility will boast 1.6 million square feet and 24 production lines. The company said the additions will increase production by 50%.

New York-based Chobani first arrived in Idaho and its Magic Valley region in 2012. The company said since then it has invested more than $1.3 billion in the region, not only through the production plant, but also by looking to bolster education, opportunities and community.

Expanding the plant is expected to create at least 160 new jobs, Chobani said, noting it already employs more than 1,200 people who earn wages close to 12% higher than the regional average.

The company shared that its investments in the region also include:

• $1 million in the University of Idaho’s dairy research facility.

• Nearly $500,000 in scholarships for Idaho students.

• Millions of meals to fight food insecurity.

• “A deep commitment to Idaho’s dairy farmers,” with almost 2 billion lbs of milk expected to be purchased this year alone, and greater quantities forecasted for the future.