Chobani CEO Hamdi Ulukaya Considers Going Public

September 19, 2018
Written by Admin TOA
Published in Industries

by Lillie Apostolos - In an industry that is constantly seeing quick movements and strategic approaches to business handlings, it appears that we could be seeing a change in Chobani in the future after the company’s Founder and CEO Hamdi Ulukaya sat down in discussion with Recode. The businessman shared that he isn’t against taking the yogurt company public, but has no interest in selling it off to a food conglomerate. “What happens is all these little brands, these good brands, as they grow, because of the financial structure, 99 percent of them become part of larger organizations,” he said while speaking at Code Commerce conference in New York City. “When they become part of a larger organization, it’s the end of their promise.”

His response when asked whether he would sell the company, which was valued at $3 billion to $5 billion in 2014 and brings in $1 billion in revenue annually, to a larger organization put many worried to bed.

“No, I’ve said no from Day One,” Ulukaya responded.

Thirty percent of the company’s employees are immigrants or refugees, according to Recode, and in 2016, the Founder gave his employees 10 percent of the company—all a testament to Chobani’s dedication to equitable business and a diverse workforce.

“If that’s going to give me tools to be able to [expand], I definitely would,” he shared when asked about going public. “When I read about Elon Musk, I think sometimes maybe not.”

If Chobani goes public, how will the dairy and fresh industries reflect the decision? Deli Market News will keep you updated with the latest.