Building a Beverage Can Plant in Québec

Canette Québec | October 6, 2026

What is the right capacity for a new beverage can plant in Québec? For Canette Québec, an initial production line capable of producing 500 to 600 million cans per year is a scenario worth examining before any future expansion. An article published by Roeslein, a specialist in can plant engineering, offers useful insights into this question.

What Roeslein recommends

In the article published on July 7, 2026, Jason Ramskill suggests that an initial line generally needs an annual capacity of approximately 600 million cans to be commercially viable. This guidance reflects his industry experience and does not replace a study tailored to conditions in Québec. [1]

The company explains that the first production line bears the cost of shared site infrastructure, including the building and utilities. Additional lines can subsequently use that infrastructure. Roeslein therefore recommends designing the plant to accommodate growth from the outset. [1]

Matching capacity to customer needs

A plant capable of manufacturing 500 million cans per year must find buyers for its output. Its initial capacity should therefore reflect the volumes prospective customers would be willing to purchase from it, rather than their total demand for cans.

For Canette Québec, this means assessing potential purchases by beverage producers, bottlers and can printers. Discussions will need to establish anticipated quantities, can formats and purchasing terms. This information will help determine whether an initial line producing 500 to

600 million cans per year fits the target market and guide the production ramp-up.

Assessing costs and planning ahead

Roeslein also emphasizes the cost per thousand cans and the importance of choosing a location that takes customers and transportation into account. [1] For our project, this raises a central question: what initial capacity would allow us to offer competitive pricing while limiting financing requirements?

The comparison should examine capital investment, unit costs and the sales volume required to break even. It should also distinguish theoretical production capacity from the volumes actually produced and sold during the start-up period.

An initial line with an annual capacity of 500 to 600 million cans therefore remains a scenario to validate. Our ambition is to establish manufacturing capacity in Québec that matches market demand, with room to expand when sales justify it.

Source

[1] Roeslein & Associates. (July 7, 2026). So you want to build a can plant? Here’s what it really takes. Read the original article