Asahi Beer USA has commissioned a high-speed bottling line at its Octopi brewing facility in Waunakee, Wisconsin. The new equipment, which is part of a broader USD 35 million expansion, processes up to 20,000 bottles (up to 124 hl) per hour and allows the localized production of Asahi Super Dry for the domestic market.
By bringing bottling operations to the United States alongside its existing canning and kegging operations, the Japanese market leader significantly shortens its supply chain. Paul Verdu, managing director of Asahi Beer USA, pointed out that localizing the packaging process reduces the reliance on ocean freight and ensures fresher beer for consumers. Furthermore, the new line is equipped with a Varioline packer from the packaging machinery manufacturer Krones, enabling high flexibility for multipacks, trays, and wraparound formats. This adaptability allows the plant to continue its strong co-packing operations for various third-party beverage brands.
Initial production will focus on 355 ml and 620 ml bottles of Asahi Super Dry, with the first batches expected to reach the market in mid-September 2026. Juan Morales, plant director at Octopi, emphasized that the automated system meets the strict quality standards required for Japanese brewing while handling the complex packaging needs of large-scale distribution. The parent company, Asahi, acquired the Octopi contract beverage production facility in January 2024 to accelerate its North American growth strategy and establish its first brewing footprint in the country (inside.beer, 05.01.2024).
