Global CEO of Chobani, Hamdi Ulukaya officially opened new factory in Dandenong South

One of the world’s leading yoghurt companies is expanding into Melbourne’s south east, and playing a role with charity Foodbank.

Global chief executive and founder of Chobani, Hamdi Ulukaya and Chobani Australia’s managing director Lyn Radford at the new Dandenong South Factory. Image: Gemma Scerri

An international yoghurt manufacturer has expanded into Dandenong South and is already having an impact on the community.

Global chief executive and founder of Chobani, Hamdi Ulukaya, was on hand for the opening of the new factory.

A long time advocate for refugees and diversity in the workplace, Mr Ulukaya said Australia had an opportunity to be a leader in this area.

“Look at the richness within just this factory,” Mr Ulukaya said.

“There are 40 different languages spoken here.”

Employing 250 people at present, Chobani Australia’s managing director Lyn Radford, said the growth in the past decade has been “phenomenal”.

“I remember packing the first box of yoghurt to go out,” she said.

“And now we are opening this new, amazing factory, and the opportunities for the future just keep opening up.”

Chobani Australia partners with Foodbank, consistently donating food items to the charity, and this year having released a limited edition “Fruit for Good” flavoured yoghurt, with 100 per cent of the proceeds going back into Foodbank.

The yoghurt company also runs a breakfast program with Dandenong South Primary School, providing breakfast for hungry students.

“The most important thing we make is a difference”, said Mr Ulukaya.

“We really try to focus on how we can make good, nutritious food, that is well made, accessible to everyone.”