As the craft beer market grows, more breweries are shifting to canning lines to meet demand, improve shelf life, and expand distribution. However, purchasing a canning line outright can cost anywhere from $50,000 to over $200,000, making leasing an attractive alternative.
This guide explains how to lease canning lines, the benefits of leasing, and what to consider before signing an agreement.
Lower Upfront Cost – Avoid tying up large amounts of capital.
Preserve Cash Flow – Keep funds available for raw materials, staff, and marketing.
Stay Flexible – Upgrade to newer, faster lines as technology improves.
Tax Advantages – Lease payments may be deductible as a business expense.
| Type | Capacity | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| Manual Canning Systems | 5–10 CPM (cans per minute) | Small breweries or pilot batches |
| Semi-Automatic Systems | 15–35 CPM | Growing microbreweries |
| Fully Automated Lines | 40+ CPM | Large-scale operations |
Determine your current and projected canning volume.
Consider space, power, and staffing requirements.
Operating Lease
– Lower payments, no ownership, easy to upgrade.
Finance Lease – Higher payments, but you own the equipment at the end.
Compare costs from both equipment manufacturers and third-party leasing companies.
Check for early termination fees, maintenance responsibilities, and buyout options.
Some leases include setup and operator training—ask before signing.
Length: 36–72 months
Monthly Payments: $1,000–$5,000+ depending on equipment size
Buyout Options: Fair Market Value (FMV) or $1 buyout at lease end
Choose a Scalable Model – Pick a line that can be upgraded or expanded.
Factor in Maintenance Costs – Make sure your lease covers essential servicing.
Negotiate Delivery & Setup – Include these costs in your financing package.
Leasing a canning line is a smart move for breweries wanting to expand without a massive upfront investment. With the right lease structure, you can improve production efficiency, preserve cash flow, and position your brewery for growth.