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Food industry innovator encouraging growth in Michigan food processing

The founder of Chobani says he expects to see more food processing come to West Michigan.

Hamdi Ulukaya tells Brownfield, “I think the next company that comes to the area is a fruit processor, the companies that will bring the fruit.”

“If they don’t, we will do it,” he says. “We invite the packaging companies to come, fruit companies to come, other companies to come.”

Ulukaya spoke about the importance of Michigan as a food processing hub during the company’s groundbreaking event, expanding its La Colombe milk lattes in Norton Shores.

“Americans deserve better food, right? Good food,” he shared. “Food with no preservatives, food naturally made, you can share with your family members and children. The food that has nutrition that is, most importantly, accessible.”

Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development Director Tim Boring tells Brownfield work is underway to locate additional food and agricultural businesses in Michigan.

Since 2023, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation has provided funding for food processing projects that expect to invest more than $1.5 billion in the state.