Introduction: Why ROI Matters for Craft Brewers
For many craft breweries, investing in a canning line feels like a major decision. The upfront price can seem intimidating, especially when compared to the convenience of mobile canning services. However, once you dig into the numbers—and the hidden long-term benefits—the return on investment (ROI) tells a much different story.
Cost Breakdown: Mobile Canning vs. In-House Canning
Mobile canning services often charge $3–$5 per case, plus the cost of cans, lids, and packaging materials. While this might work for small-scale batches, those fees quickly add up for breweries producing multiple runs each month.
In contrast, owning a canning line may cost $25,000 to $200,000 depending on automation and speed, but once installed, the per-unit cost drops dramatically. By sourcing cans in bulk and streamlining labor, breweries often save $3–$4 per case compared to outsourcing.
ROI in Action: A Simple Example
Let’s break it down with real numbers
- One 20-BBL batch yields about 275 cases of 24 cans.
- At a $4 savings per case, that’s $1,100 saved per batch.
- Brewing just 100 batches per year results in $110,000+ annual savings.
With savings like these, even a mid-range canning line can pay for itself in 12–18 months—and often faster for breweries with consistent production.
Beyond the Numbers: Hidden ROI Benefits
The true value of a canning line goes far beyond cost savings. Here are the strategic advantages that drive growth:
- Improved Consistency & Shelf Life – Better seam integrity and lower dissolved oxygen levels preserve freshness.
- Increased Tank Turns – Faster packaging means quicker tank availability for new brews.
- Scheduling Freedom – No more waiting for mobile crews; can when your beer is ready.
- Stronger Brand Control – Professional packaging builds trust with distributors, retailers, and consumers.
- Flexibility for Growth – Easily produce limited releases, seasonal brews, or small runs without extra mobile service fees.
Planning Ahead: What to Consider Before Investing
Like any major equipment investment, success depends on planning for the entire packaging ecosystem. Key considerations include:
- Supporting Equipment – Depalletizers, rinsers, conveyors, and pack-off tables.
- Labor & Training – Staff must be skilled in sanitation, seam inspection, and dissolved oxygen (DO) testing.
- Material Sourcing & Cash Flow – Truckload can orders lower per-unit pricing but require upfront capital.
- Maintenance & Consumables – CO₂, spare parts, and regular servicing are part of long-term ownership.
FAQs: Canning Line ROI for Craft Brewers
1. How much does mobile canning cost?
Mobile services charge $3–$5 per case, plus packaging materials. For breweries producing hundreds of cases, costs add up quickly—making in-house canning the smarter choice.
2. Is canning cheaper than bottling?
Yes. Cans are lighter, more stackable, and protect against UV light. Over time, canning is both more cost-efficient and faster than bottling.
3. How much does it cost to can in-house?
Owning a line can bring costs down to $6–$7 per case, versus $10+ per case with mobile canning. This difference is the foundation of a strong ROI.
4. What is mobile canning?
Mobile canning providers bring equipment and staff to your brewery. It’s convenient but reduces control, flexibility, and long-term margins.
5. How many cans per minute can a canning line run?
- Entry-level seamers: ideal for small runs.
- Mid-size systems: ~25 cans per minute.
- High-output lines: up to 400 cans per minute, suitable for large-scale operations.
6. What utilities do canning lines require?
Beverage canning doesn’t need “fill water,” but does require CO₂, cleaning utilities, and consistent water supply for rinsing and sanitation.
The Bottom Line: Why a Canning Line is a Growth Engine
For any craft brewery packaging weekly or more, an in-house canning line is not just an expense—it’s an investment in profitability and growth. From lower packaging costs to greater flexibility and brand control, the ROI compounds far beyond the initial purchase.
With solutions ranging from compact entry-level seamers to high-capacity canning lines, brewers can scale packaging in line with their ambitions.
At Redwood Stainless, we help breweries calculate real-world ROI based on production volumes, labor, and material costs. Let’s explore how the right canning solution can boost your margins and accelerate growth.