With the growing popularity of yogurt came many new yogurt companies. Breaking into a market monopolized by old stalwarts such as Fage, Yoplait, and Dannon is no easy feat, and only one company is known to do it. Chobani, the $700 million yogurt startup, has surpassed the commercial success of these old-timers by becoming a company that even Silicon Valley startups dream of being. In just five short years, Chobani became the Apple of Greek yogurt. Consequently, its founder Hamdi Ulakaya is also compared to the late Steve Jobs.
Chobani’s beginnings take us not too far back in 2007, after Ulakaya was able to secure an SBA loan. The young entrepreneur went against the odds and opted for counterintuitive plays to drive his starting business on top. Its bold, new flavors, avante garde marketing, and competitive price shot their yogurt to overnight success. The yogurt giant won over upstate New York shops in the beginning. Regional chains came next, until national coverage confirmed its unstoppable streak. It was declared the unlikely king of yogurt as its sales grew to 200%.
Aside from its commercial success, Chobani is also known for producing products which are made only with natural ingredients. The company’s “master yogurt maker,” Mustafa Dogan, is an artisan that has years of experience under his belt. Thanks to his experience, Chobani’s yogurt has become the favorite of many.
The dairy superstar is definitely well on its way to becoming the number one choice of health-conscious, dessert aficionados.