Bongards Creameries announced plans to invest $135 million to expand its process cheese manufacturing facility in Bongards, Minn., a project aimed at increasing production capacity and supporting growing customer demand across retail, foodservice and industrial markets. The expansion is expected to strengthen the farmer-owned cooperative's manufacturing network while creating additional employment opportunities in the region.
The project will add new production capabilities, modernize existing operations and improve overall manufacturing efficiency at the facility. Construction is scheduled to begin in 2026, with the expanded plant expected to be operational in 2028, according to the company.
Bongards said the investment reflects continued demand for process cheese products and supports its long-term strategy of providing additional market opportunities for its member dairy farmers. The cooperative noted that the expansion will enhance its ability to serve existing customers while positioning the company for future growth.
The Minnesota-based cooperative operates multiple cheese and whey processing facilities and is owned by dairy farm families in Minnesota and neighboring states. The latest announcement follows a series of recent investments by Bongards to expand processing capacity and modernize its manufacturing operations.
