VISALIA, Calif. — The board of directors of California Dairies, Inc. (CDI), the second largest dairy processing cooperative in the United States, is now accepting applications for new facilities. In addition, approved new members will be allocated production base associated with CDI’s capacity allocation program.

As a result of the recent capacity optimization of current assets, CDI has increased its milk handling capacity 2.5 million pounds per day. This combined with improved sales from its core business and its wholly-owned subsidiary, Challenge Dairy Products, has increased CDI’s milk supply needs.

“Boasting one of the industry’s lowest capital goals, a recently restructured member capital vesting program, and a five-year average return on base capital of 28%, CDI is one of the most attractive opportunities for dairy producers in the state of California,” said Andrei Mikhalevsky, president and CEO. “With a strategic plan focused on innovation, management and the board of directors are dedicated to adding value to its members’ milk. Striving to be the leading source of dairy nutrition for a healthy world, CDI is committed to growing its business and its membership.”

California dairy producers interested in applying for membership in CDI should contact Eric Erba, SVP and chief strategy officer at (559) 625-6114 or at eerba@californiadairies.com.