Abstract: A machine and method for applying an apertured carrier to containers to form a carrier pack are disclosed. The machine includes a lug wheel which draws a carrier web from a stock and positions the carrier web at a preliminary station. A plurality of angularly spaced pins are mounted on each side of a pinwheel, and these pins engage secondary carrier apertures formed at locations spaced apart from the primary apertures. As the pinwheel turns, a spreader cam forces the pins axially apart to transversely deform the carrier without substantially deforming it in a longitudinal direction. So oriented, the carrier is forced over a plurality of containers to form a pack. A plow then positively disengages the carrier and containers constituting the pack from the pins.