Abstract: An applicator (10a) affixes fitments (12) to paperboard cartons (20), each fitment (12) comprising a screw cap on a pour spout. An ultrasonic horn (18) reciprocates between a retracted position for receiving a fitment (12) and an advanced position for depositing the fitment (12) on an outer surface of a carton (20). A duct (26) extends and provides fluid communication between an air handler and a fitment-holding recess (30) formed in the horn (18). The air handler is actuable to evacuate the duct (26) to retain a fitment (12) in the recess (30) by suction while transporting the fitment (12) to be affixed to the container wall. The air handler also supplies pressurized gas to the duct (26) to blow the fitment (12) from the horn (18) before the horn returns to the retracted position.