Anheuser-Busch and Governor Jay Nixon today unveiled the new $160 million aluminum bottle line at the Metal Container Corporation (MCC) facility in Arnold, MO. As part of the company’s strategy to provide innovative packaging options for the nation’s favorite beers, the second-ever aluminum bottle line increases production of the popular package as the 2016 baseball season and the busy summer beer-selling season continues.

“The aluminum bottle brings a modern look and convenient way to enjoy a beer at the ballpark or while cooking out before a game. The new line will allow us to share this phenomenal package with even more Budweiser and Bud Light customers,” says João Castro Neves, zone president North America and chief executive officer, Anheuser-Busch. “We are proud that this investment has allowed us to add more jobs at our plant in Arnold, and we appreciate the support from Governor Nixon, as well as St. Louis and Arnold officials.”

Sales of the 16-ounce, twist-off aluminum bottle increased 30% year-over-year from 2014 to 2015. Consumers enjoy the sleek, modern and convenient package.

“This latest expansion by a global leader and iconic brand is a testament to the quality, skills and value of Missouri’s working men and women,” says Governor Nixon. “The State of Missouri is proud to support this expansion that created a significant number of jobs, strengthening the community now and for years to come.”

The additional aluminum bottle line at the Arnold plant created 70 new jobs and doubled the company’s aluminum bottle capacity in the United States. This investment is one of many that will deliver on the beer company’s commitment to invest more than $1.5 billion in its U.S. brewing, agriculture, packaging and distributing operations by 2018.

“Our employees are proud to produce this one-of-a-kind bottle that continues to increase in popularity with beer drinkers. The expansion has allowed us to create more local jobs and increases the competitiveness and sustainability of our operations, which is good for everyone,” says Cheryl Rogers, Arnold plant manager, Metal Container Corporation.

In addition to the second line at Arnold, the company recently announced it will build a third line at its Metal Container Corporation can plant in Jacksonville, FL, this year with anticipated start-up in 2017.

Metal Container Corporation, a subsidiary of Anheuser-Busch, operates seven facilities in the United States. The operation also produces cans and lids for major U.S. soft drink companies, including PepsiCo. and Monster Beverage Corporation.