Yoghurt owner wins World Entrepreneur of the Year Award

Founder of the United States-based yoghurt company, Chobani, Hamdi Ulukaya has been named the 2013 Ernst and Young World Entrepreneur of the Year in Monte Carlo.

Hamdi was born in Turkey, and still a Turkish citizen, said that his secret for success is to realize his aspirations and dreams regardless of the challenges ahead. During a press conference after the announcement was made, Hamdi said the he faced many challenges during developing Chobani.

“At times, it's challenging to either build a business and be a businessman who can make a difference in the world or challenge the large conglomerate.. In reality, it’s not impossible and if you can do it, you’re able to learn something from the experience. I want to encourage those with strong passion that they’re able to challenge the big companies. You don’t have to be a tech entrepreneur, you can sell yogurt,” said Hamdi.

Hamdi was selected from 49 entrepreneurs from 47 countries who attended the ceremony in Monte Carlo.

According to the head jury of WEOY 2013, Rodrigo Herrer Aspra, who is also the 2011 EOY winner in Mexico, Hamdi has the passion and spirit to succeed in America.

“He has achieved a lot and has a strong entrepreneurial spirit. He has proven that the American Dream can still be achieved. He has what it takes to be a great entrepreneur and could be an inspiration for other young entrepreneurs wanting to succeed and enter a category that’s hard to penetrate,” he said.

Hamdi launched his yoghurt business in 2007 and within six years, he managed to reach an estimated annual sales of $1 billion.

Chobani currently employs 3000 staff with outlets in America, United Kingdom and Australia.