Abstract: An apparatus for applying labels to cans of a straight or substantially frustoconical design is disclosed. The apparatus uses an elongated track for supporting one edge of the can and a single belt extending longitudinally above the track and adapted to selectively engage an edge of the can to rotate and advance the can along the track. Movement of the can transverse relative to the track is restrained by retaining the can against a pair of spaced, longitudinally extending nonmagnetic guide surfaces. The can is retained against the guide surfaces through magnetic attraction of the can by a series of magnets positioned intermediate of but offset from the guide surfaces. As the can moves along the track, a suitable label is affixed to the surface of the can.