A method and apparatus for forming and separating successive batches of articles such as bottles, cans, etc. The invention includes a first driving system for receiving, at a feed station, articles driven by a first rotating transfer system. The speed of the first rotating transfer system is gradually accelerated so that, as articles arrive at an outlet station, the speed at the outlet station is equal to the outlet speed. The first driving system is then disengaged. A second driving system interfaces with a variable space defined by a control device between the first and second driving systems.