Diageo launched a new manufacturing site featuring two high-speed can lines, capable of producing 25 million cases of malt-based beverages and spirits-based Ready-to-Drink (RTD) cocktails a year.
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.
With an investment of approximately $110 million, Diageo Lincolnway employs 50 full-time team members. Diageo North America has built a 56-year-old partnership with the Village of Plainfield and has played an important role contributing to its economic development. Diageo’s presence has grown and expanded over the years: the Plainfield Bottling site – opened since 1966 – and the warehouse collectively employs more than 600 additional people.
“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 VP, 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 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.