A method and apparatus for attaching a spout to a planar portion of a container, such as a milk or juice container, which may be incorporated in a conventional conveyor line. The method includes the steps of successively positioning the container at three stations, first, where a hole is punched, second, where a bonding agent is applied, and third, where the spout is installed on the container. An apparatus for carrying out the method includes mechanisms for positioning the container at each station relative to an edge of the container so that the operation can be performed on the container.