USA – Chobani, the maker of America’s leading Greek yogurt brand and the second largest overall yogurt manufacturer in has announced by breaking ground on a 70,000-square-foot facility innovations and community center that will serve employees, guests and house the company’s global research and development team.

The expansion, at the world’s largest yogurt plant in Twin Falls, Idaho, US will build on Chobani’s commitment to the environment, utilizing innovative features to increase energy efficiency.

“I’m grateful for the specialness we share with the people of the Magic Valley,” said Hamdi Ulukaya, Founder and CEO, Chobani. “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 30,000-square-feet of glass putting transparency and sunlight at the center of its design, says Chobani.

It will also have a 2,000-square-foot fitness center where employees can exercise and a dedicated visitor entrance to welcome the Magic Valley community to learn more about the company’s history of growth in Twin Falls, and its commitment to participating in local initiatives.

Wellness rooms for new mothers will also be available throughout the facility.

“It’s been great to watch Chobani become part of the fabric of our Magic Valley communities over the past four years,” said Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter.

“This new investment in Twin Falls reflects Chobani’s commitment to Idaho and to the people who have responded so positively to its corporate citizenship. Congratulations to all those who are contributing to Chobani’s growth, just as Chobani is contributing to ours.”

Chobani opened the world’s largest yoghurt factory in the Twin Falls, Idaho in 2013.

The company announced a US$100 million expansion of this manufacturing plant in 2016, investing in new production lines and products, and to support distribution to international markets.

The centre makes use of latest technologies to reduce energy consumption. It will seek LEED certification

In terms of design, the 4,000-square-feet of “smart glass” windows will 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 centre’s environmentally-conscious all-LED lighting system, while the 30,000-square-feet of “smart roofing” will reflect sunlight and reduce heat absorption.

The company is seeking LEED Silver certification by the U.S. Green Building Councif or the center to demonstrate its commitment to environmental stewardship.

The centre will be opened in Summer 2018.