Leprino Opens its new World-Class Manufacturing Facility
Marks significant investment in Lubbock
A Game-Changing Investment in Lubbock’s Future
Leprino Foods Company, a global leader in premium-quality cheese and dairy ingredient production, officially opened the first phase of its groundbreaking 850,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in East Lubbock. This state-of-the-art plant will produce mozzarella cheese and nutrition products, contributing to the nourishment of families worldwide.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony was attended by Leprino representatives, local government officials, business and higher education leaders, dairy suppliers, and community members. The event marked a new chapter in Lubbock’s economic growth and highlighted the city’s strategic importance to the dairy and food manufacturing industries.
Leprino’s Commitment to Growth
“This year marks a significant milestone for our company – our 75th anniversary. It’s not only a celebration of our remarkable journey, but it is also a moment to envision our future, a future that includes Lubbock,” said Dan Vecchiarelli, Executive Chairman of Leprino Foods. He emphasized the facility’s reliance on regional dairies, with approximately 200 milk trucks supplying the plant daily. Vecchiarelli also noted that Leprino’s investment will generate an estimated $10.6 billion in economic impact for Texas over the next decade.
Scott Conant, Plant Manager, added, “This massive project required over 4 million hours and involved 1,400 contractors onsite daily. As our most sustainable facility to date, it embodies Lubbock’s drive for progress while championing sustainability in West Texas.” Conant highlighted the facility’s cutting-edge automation and instrumentation, which ensure world-class food safety, operations, training, and maintenance.
A Historic Milestone for Lubbock
John Osborne, CEO and President of the Lubbock Economic Development Alliance (LEDA), celebrated the significance of the new facility. “Today is a historic milestone for our city. Leprino’s facility will have a transformative impact on Lubbock’s economic landscape for decades to come. It’s been five years in the making; as the largest capital investment in Lubbock’s history – $1 billion, more than 600 jobs, and the inception of a new industry. We are thrilled to celebrate this new chapter for our city and Leprino.”
The plant’s development represents a major step forward in Lubbock’s industrial growth and diversification, with benefits extending well beyond the local community.
Job Creation and Economic Impact
By March 2025, the facility is projected to employ approximately 300 full-time workers, with roles ranging from production operations and maintenance to technical engineers and human resources. The second phase of the project, set to begin later this year, will bring the total number of jobs to around 600 by 2026. With an annual payroll exceeding $33 million and competitive wages, the facility promises to be a key driver of economic growth in the region.
Global Reach, Local Impact
The new Lubbock facility expands Leprino’s network of manufacturing sites, which includes locations in California, Colorado, Michigan, New Mexico, New York, the UK, the EU, and Brazil. As the company’s most sustainable facility to date, it reflects a commitment to innovation, excellence, and environmental stewardship.
LEDA is proud to support this historic investment and looks forward to the long-lasting positive impacts it will bring to Lubbock. Leprino Foods’ choice to invest in Lubbock underscores the city’s role as a hub for economic development, innovation, and opportunity.
