Abstract: An improved apparatus and method for applying an adhesive laminate to a plate are disclosed. In a preferred embodiment, the invention comprises a cylindrical drum having a circular periphery of a porous material and a vacuum applied to the interior thereof and an assembly for supplying an adhesive laminate, adhesive side outward, to the periphery of the drum where it is securely retained in place by the vacuum. A walking beam conveyor comprised of two, spaced apart beams conveys the plates between positions on a centrally located, stationary rail. The walking beam conveyor also positions the forward end of the plate into contact with an end of the laminate segment. The walking beam conveyor then deposits the plate and attached laminate onto the central rail. A roller assembly, mounted on the walking beam conveyor, rolls the laminate onto the plate as the walking beam conveyor moves backwardly to the starting position.