Construction is scheduled to begin during the fourth quarter of 2026, with commercial operations expected to commence by early 2028.

Upon completion, the expansion will increase the facility's production capacity by an additional 180 million pounds of process cheese annually, enabling Bongards to meet customer demand across the foodservice, retail, industrial ingredient and export markets. The investment will add approximately 120,000 sq. ft. to the production facility, including approximately 50,000 sq. ft. of additional production space and a 70,000-sq.-ft. automated warehouse.

"Our cooperative was founded in 1908 by dairy farmers who believed in investing together to create opportunities for future generations," says Scott Tomes, chief revenue officer of Bongards' Creameries. "More than a century later, that same philosophy continues to guide us. This investment reflects the confidence we have in our customers, our employees, our member-owners and the continued growth opportunities for process cheese both domestically and internationally."

The expansion will feature state-of-the-art processing technology designed to improve manufacturing efficiency, enhance product consistency and provide additional flexibility to support customers' evolving product needs.

"This investment is about much more than expanding production capacity," says Bongards Creameries CEO Dennis Thomas. "It demonstrates our commitment to remaining a world-class dairy manufacturer while strengthening the cooperative for future generations. As consumer demand evolves and global opportunities continue to expand, we are positioning Bongards to be the partner of choice for our customers and an enduring source of value for our member-owners."

Beyond increasing production capacity, the investment is expected to generate economic activity throughout the region during construction and create long-term operational opportunities that will benefit the local community, cooperative members, suppliers and business partners.