Diageo North America opens new canning facility to accelerate growth in the Ready-to-Drink category

With capacity to produce over 25 million cases of malt-based beverages and spirits-based Ready-to-Dr…

With capacity to produce over 25 million cases of malt-based beverages and spirits-based Ready-to-Drink (RTD) cocktails, Diageo has opened a new manufacturing site, featuring two high-speed can lines. Located in Plainfield, Illinois, Diageo Lincolnway will help accelerate the development of the company’s RTD portfolio and growth strategy in the convenience category.

“We’re incredibly proud of the speed and innovative approach from our team and partners in their efforts to build this site in record time. Diageo Lincolnway will be instrumental in accelerating our offerings in the convenience space and help meet consumer demand,” said Michael L. Nelson Jr., Manufacturing & Distillation, Senior Vice President, Diageo North America. “The new facility strengthens our manufacturing footprint in the region and allows us to leverage synergies with our warehouse and bottling operation in Plainfield.”

The operation at the new 225,000 square-foot facility supplements existing ready-to-drink production across North America. Diageo Lincolnway is producing some of Diageo’s latest portfolio brands and innovations, including Smirnoff seltzers and spirits-based RTD cocktails from Crown Royal and Ketel One Botanical Vodka Spritz.

“The new canning facility will enhance Diageo’s existing operations, strengthening our offering and accelerating our strategy in the ready-to-drink category,” said Keara Funck, Convenience, Vice President, Diageo North America. “As we continue to build on this opportunity in the convenience space to deliver premium delicious bar-quality cocktails and malt-based beverages, we are excited about the innovations and possibilities this could bring to our consumers.”

The RTD category continues to gain momentum in the United States, driven by consumer interest in enjoying cocktails at home and demand for a range of drinks in convenient formats that are ideal for casual and at-home occasions.

With an investment of approximately $110 million, Diageo Lincolnway employs 50 full-time team members.