The line will be integrated into the existing Belgrade facility and is expected to begin production by the end of the first quarter of 2011.
"Relocating the production line to an existing manufacturing facility requires minimal capital and provides additional benefits from economies of scale," said Raymond J. Seabrook, executive vice president and chief operating officer, global packaging operations. "This line will enable us to supply the needs of our customers and meet growth rates in regional markets."
The new production line will initially manufacture approximately 750 million aluminum beverage cans a year and can be expanded as demand warrants. It will be the second line in the Belgrade plant, which opened in 2005 and employs approximately 140 people.
Ball continues to evaluate options regarding the planned Lublin facility.