A device and method for erecting a collapsed individual portion-sized French fry type container of the type having opposed sidewalls connected by a collapsible container bottom are provided. The device includes a retrieving and container grasping device, which may be a suction cup, for grasping one of the opposed sidewalls, a restraining member for restraining the other opposed sidewall, and means for causing movement of the grasping device away from the restraining member to separate the sidewalls. The grasping device may be mounted to carriages for moving it in two dimensions. An inclined ramp may also be included to urge up the container bottom as it is dragged up the ramp, thus urging the container to an erected position. Additionally, a stream of compressed air may be injected into the open end of the container and towards the container bottom by an appropriate injecting means for assisting in the erecting.