State Rep. Greg VanWoerkom (R-Norton Shores) joined state and local leaders for the groundbreaking of La Colombe’s $567 million expansion project in Norton Shores, a transformational investment that is expected to create 337 new jobs and further strengthen West Michigan’s manufacturing economy.

The project, backed by parent company Chobani, is the largest private investment in Muskegon County history and will more than double the facility’s workforce while expanding production capacity for the company’s popular ready-to-drink coffee products. The expansion is expected to add more than 200,000 square feet to the facility and establish Norton Shores as the primary manufacturing hub for La Colombe operations.

“This is a huge win for Muskegon County, West Michigan workers, and families throughout our region,” said VanWoerkom. “When a company invests more than half a billion dollars in our community, it sends a clear message that our area has the skilled workforce, strong business climate, and local partnerships needed to compete. The jobs created through this project will provide opportunities for generations to come.”

VanWoerkom said the expansion’s impact will extend well beyond the facility itself, benefiting suppliers, contractors, transportation providers, agricultural producers, and small businesses throughout the region.

“Economic development isn’t just about one company or one building,” VanWoerkom said. “It’s about creating a ripple effect that strengthens local businesses, supports Michigan farmers, and gives young people a reason to stay and build their futures right here in the place they’ve called home.”

The project is expected to create 337 new jobs while retaining 312 existing positions. Company officials have said the expansion will substantially increase production and drive additional demand for Michigan dairy products and other locally sourced goods. The investment follows state approval earlier this year and reached another major milestone with this week’s groundbreaking ceremony.