CDI Opens Doors to the Future of Milk in Bakersfield

Big news out of Bakersfield—California Dairies, Inc., the state’s largest dairy farmer-owned co-op, just cut the ribbon on a brand-new manufacturing plant called Valley Natural Beverages. This 200,000 square-foot facility is a big investment by CDI’s member-owners and a clear sign they’re planning for the future—especially when it comes to innovative, shelf-stable dairy products like ESL and UHT milk.

Now this plant isn’t just shiny and new—it’s state-of-the-art. We’re talking advanced robotics, energy-efficient systems, and a big focus on sustainability. To start, they’ll be processing around 116,000 gallons of local milk each day, with plans to eventually triple that. When it’s all said and done, this place could grow to 400,000 square feet and handle up to 600,000 gallons a day.

CDI has already brought on 90 full-time employees, offering solid wages and benefits—creating some good next-gen jobs in the Central Valley. Leaders from the Lieutenant Governor’s office, the California Department of Food and Agriculture, and local government were on hand for the opening, calling it a win for sustainability and rural economies.

For more: https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2025/05/01/3072745/0/en/California-Dairies-Inc-Celebrates-Grand-Opening-of-New-State-of-the-Art-Manufacturing-Plant.html