Dairy Industry Strengthens High Plains Economy as One of the World’s Largest Cheese Plants Officially opens in Clovis, NM
Southwest Cheese Plant Pumps Estimated $1.2 Billion into Local Economy

CLOVIS, NM— The official opening of the Southwest Cheese plant October 6th, 2006 in Clovis has made a strong impact in the economy of New Mexico and solidifies the state at the forefront of the dairy industry nationwide. Already ranked number seven in the top 10 milk producing states in the nation, New Mexico is one of the fastest growing dairy production areas as well. West Texas is also growing rapidly. Texas ranks number 9 in the top 10 producing states.

Located on a 54 acre site in Clovis, NM, Southwest Cheese is the first joint venture of its kind, pairing milk producers with cheese producers. At full capacity, the plant takes in 140 tankers of milk every day producing 40,000 pounds of cheese every hour and processing 275,000 pounds of whey every day. Southwest Cheese, which employs over 200 people, is on target to achieve sales of $340 million this year, with a $1.2 billion economic impact to the Eastern New Mexico/West Texas region.

The $190 million joint venture is one of the largest investments in the dairy industry worldwide in the last few years. The plant is owned 50% by Glanbia plc, the number one U.S. producer of American style cheddar cheese, and 50% by the Greater Southwest Agency, consisting of Dairy Farmers of America, Select Milk Producers, Zia and Lonestar.

“Clovis was an ideal choice of location for the plant,” said Southwest Cheese CEO and President Maurice Keane. “New Mexico has production advantages that include good climate, ready supply of feed and great neighbors. In addition, being right in the center of a strong milk supply will naturally reduce transport costs for farmers.”

New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson was one of the many dignitaries attending the official opening which included tours of the 340,000 square foot plant.

Contact: Pamela Atherton
(505) 309- 5249