As the Ready-to-Drink boom continues, Diageo has invested $110 million in expanding their Diageo Lincolnway RTD facility in Plainfield, IL.

This includes the capacity to produce more than 25 million cases of malt-based beverages and spirits-based RTD cocktails, plus two high-speed can lines.

“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,” says Michael L. Nelson Jr., manufacturing and distillation SVP. “Once operational, Diageo Lincolnway will be instrumental in accelerating our offerings in the convenience space and help meet consumer demand.”

“The new facility strengthens our manufacturing footprint in the region and allows us to leverage synergies with our warehouse and bottling operation in Plainfield,” he adds.

The operation at the new 225,000 square-foot facility supplements existing ready-to-drink production across North America.

Diageo Lincolnway will produce some of Diageo’s latest portfolio brands, including malt-based Lone River Ranch Water and 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,” says Keara Funck, convenience VP. “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.”

Diageo Lincolnway will employ 50 full-time team members.