New England's only beverage can manufacturing plant hosts official opening event

Executives from the three companies that joined forces to build and operate the new Can-One USA on the factory floor during the recent opening tour. From left, Brett Tonks, President and COO of THE KANE COMPANY, Marc Yeoh, CEO, Can-One USA and Group Director Can-One Berhad and John Stebbins, CEO of PROCON. Photo Credit- Dan Splaine Photography

NASHUA, NH – Can-One USA hosted an opening event at the recently revitalized factory facility on Burke Street in Nashua. Executives from the company, The Kane Company, PROCON with city and state officials gave remarks. About 70 guests were given guided tours through the 180,000-square-foot manufacturing plant.

The facility represents a significant investment and a long-term source of economic activity for the local economy. Can-One USA has hired more than 100 employees to operate the plant, which will produce more than 2 billion aluminum beverage cans each year. The Nashua location was selected to service the thriving craft brewery and specialty drink industry in New England and the region. They have invested tens of millions in real estate and construction and plans are underway for further expansion and hiring.

Some of the executives and officials attending the Can-One USA tour(from left) are Tina Kasim, Office of U.S. Senator Shaheen, Liz Hannum, Nashua Director of Economic Development, Chase Hagaman, Director, NH Division of Economic Development, Alvin Widitora, General Manager of Can-One USA, Marc Yeoh, CEO, Can-One USA, and Group Director Can-One Berhad, John Stebbins, CEO of PROCON, Brett Tonks-President & COO, The Kane Company. Photo Credit- Dan Splaine Photography

“We are proud to contribute to the local economy and to provide clients with a reliable supply so close to their point of use,” remarked Alvin Widitora, General Manager of Can-One USA.

During the tour, John Stebbins, CEO of PROCON described the complexity of converting the existing long-dormant plant into its current operating state. “As a company committed to innovative design and construction, PROCON is proud to have played a pivotal role in bringing this project to life,” said Stebbins.

They began by completely cleaning every surface of the decades of accumulated industrial grime and heavy metal residue. The building required new concrete placement equal to the volume placed in the original construction to support equipment and re-configure the design. The results are impressive.

Alvin Widitora, General Manager of Can-One USA (right) explains the features of the aluminum cans they are producing (from left) to Tina Kasim, Office of U.S. Senator Shaheen, Liz Hannum- Nashua Director of Economic Development, Chase Hagaman- Director, NH Division of Economic Development Photo Credit- Dan Splaine Photography

DAN SPLAINE – Photographer/Contributor

Nashua native Dan Splaine is a commercial photographer who creates images for businesses. A strong belief in the value of local independent journalism, his Nashua roots, and his extensive background in photojournalism make contributing to the NASHUA INK LINK a natural choice.

After working in dozens of countries and throughout the US on assignments Dan will happily go local and turn his lens to capture lives and living in the Gate City. You can see his work and learn about his photography services and workshops by going to his website.