IDFA Celebrates Dairy Processing Investments During National Manufacturing Month

By Matt Herrick, IDFA Executive Vice President, Chief Impact Officer

October is National Manufacturing Month—a time to spotlight American jobs, innovation, and investment. U.S. manufacturing is an enduring and ever-evolving sector that contributes $2.9 trillion to the U.S. economy, employs nearly 12.9 million American workers, and accounts for 11 percent of the nation’s GDP. While policymakers often think of manufacturing in terms of steel or autos, the fastest growth in U.S. manufacturing is happening in food—and dairy is leading the way.

The U.S. dairy industry is making significant contributions to the nation’s economy through manufacturing. The dairy industry is a vital part of our nation’s manufacturing economy, contributing $779.45 billion in overall economic impact, more than 3.05 million jobs that generate $197.6 billion in wages, and more than $83 billion in taxes. The nation’s dairy manufacturing industry is powered by 1,200 dairy processing facilities. Between 2025 and 2028, dairy companies plan to invest more than $11 billion in expanding processing capacity to meet surging demand for American dairy products in the U.S. and around the world.

This October, IDFA is making sure our industry’s story of investment and job creation is front and center. The dairy industry has invested more than $11 billion in new and expanded facilities across 19 states to come online between 2025 and 2028, supporting thousands of jobs and fueling economic growth nationwide. From cheese and cultured products to fluid milk, butter, ingredients, and ice cream, dairy manufacturing is powering opportunity in communities across the country.

Top 5 States by Investment Total

New York: $2.8 Billion
Texas: $1.5 Billion
Wisconsin: $1.1 Billion
Idaho: $720 Million
Iowa: $701 Million

Investments by Product Category

Cheese: $3.20 Billion
Milk/Cream: $2.97 Billion
Yogurt & Cultured Dairy: $2.81 Billion
Butter & Powders: $1.60 Billion
Ice Cream: $503 Million

Join us in showcasing how dairy manufacturing strengthens America through jobs, innovation, and investment! Below, you can find high-resolution graphics to help share how dairy is investing in your state. Together, we can ensure policymakers understand the vital role our industry plays in U.S. manufacturing growth.