Lifeway Foods Unveils Phase Two of Major Expansion to Meet Global Kefir Demand

Lifeway Foods to Host Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for Major Expansion Phase

Lifeway Foods, Inc., the prominent supplier of kefir and probiotic dairy products in the U.S., is celebrating a significant milestone in its growth journey. On November 10, 2025, the company will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony at its facility in Waukesha, Wisconsin, marking the commencement of Phase Two of a grand $45 million expansion project. This event is scheduled for 3 p.m. in front of the iconic local landmark, Gertrude the Cow, and promises to be a festive occasion for the entire community.

This expansion is designed as a strategic response to the escalating global demand for kefir, a fermented drink plentiful in probiotics, protein, and calcium. As part of this initiative, Lifeway aims to double its overall production capacity, making significant enhancements to operational efficiency and staffing levels. The focus of Phase Two is to install a groundbreaking cooling system, essential for supporting the expanded fermentation and bottling processes that accompany the production of kefir.

The Waukesha facility is a vital component of Lifeway’s operations, processing millions of gallons of local Wisconsin milk each month. The company’s flagship products, including drinkable kefir, ProBugs kids' kefir, farmer cheese, and probiotic smoothies, are all crafted to enhance gut health and overall wellness. Lifeway maintains strong ties with local dairy producers, ensuring an uninterrupted supply of high-quality milk, which is crucial to meeting the rising demand for probiotic-rich foods nationwide.

The completion of Phase One of this expansion saw the company double its fermentation capacity by increasing the number of fermentation tanks, thereby facilitating its mission to meet surging global kefir demand. As a result of this ongoing commitment, Lifeway is on track to double its total output by 2026.

Julie Smolyansky, the CEO of Lifeway Foods, expressed her excitement about the expansion: "Lifeway's growth in Waukesha is a testament to our commitment to innovation, community, and quality. With our new cooling system, we will not only operate more efficiently but also ensure that we continue to lead the kefir market in the nation."

This expansion is the most significant manufacturing investment in Lifeway's history, showcasing the company's dedication to enhancing its capacity to deliver premium cultured dairy products on a global scale. The initiative also reinforces Wisconsin’s role as a cornerstone of the U.S. dairy and probiotic industries.

Community engagement has been an integral part of Lifeway's growth. Amanda Payne, the President and CEO of the Waukesha County Business Alliance, remarked, "We are here to celebrate Lifeway Foods as they embark on this important phase of their expansion. This project represents a multi-million-dollar investment in our local economy and highlights the incredible talent and potential within our region."

As the company prepares for the ribbon-cutting ceremony, they anticipate the presence of local officials, community members, and notable figures such as the Waukesha Mayor Shawn Reilly and professional stock car racing driver Josh Bilicki. This event promises to embody the spirit of innovation and partnership that Lifeway is cultivating within the community.

About Lifeway Foods, Inc.

Recognized as one of America’s Growth Leaders by TIME and awarded as Dairy Foods’ Processor of the Year for 2025, Lifeway Foods is at the forefront of the probiotic beverage market. With a diverse product lineup that includes drinkable kefir and a child-friendly ProBugs line, Lifeway’s products have found their way to markets in the U.S., Mexico, Ireland, South Africa, United Arab Emirates, and France, showcasing the company’s expansive reach and commitment to health and wellness through dairy.

To learn more about Lifeway Foods and how their products can benefit you, visit lifewayfoods.com.