Mason Wells Acquired Canworks Inc.

Private equity firm Mason Wells has completed its acquisition of the aluminum can printing company Canworks Inc.

Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Consumer Goods

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Milwaukee-based private equity firm Mason Wells has officially acquired Canworks Inc., an Austin-based manufacturer that specializes in direct printing for beverage brands. The deal brings five production facilities across the country under the control of the investment firm.

Why it matters

The acquisition integrates a specialized packaging service into the portfolio of Mason Wells, marking a significant shift in ownership for the Austin-based printer. It reflects broader activity in the packaging sector as investment firms seek to consolidate services for the beverage industry.

Canworks Inc. operates a total of 5 facilities located in Austin, Atlanta, Vista, St. Louis, and Windsor. The company was founded in 2020 by Ryan Thompson and Marshall Thompson.

The players

Mason Wells

Mason Wells is a private equity firm based in Milwaukee that specializes in investing in lower middle-market companies.

Canworks Inc.

Canworks Inc. is an Austin-based aluminum can printing company serving the beverage industry.

Ryan Thompson

Ryan Thompson is a co-founder of Canworks Inc.

Marshall Thompson

Marshall Thompson is a co-founder of Canworks Inc.

The details

Canworks Inc. differentiates itself in the market by utilizing technology to print directly onto aluminum cans for beverage producers. By joining the Mason Wells portfolio, the printer will continue to serve its client base through its current network of regional production sites.

Canworks Inc. was originally founded in 2020.
Mason Wells announced the acquisition on October 14, 2026.

Market Landscape

This move highlights the ongoing trend of private equity consolidation within the beverage packaging supply chain. By acquiring a specialized printer, Mason Wells positions itself to capture greater market share from regional competitors.

Beverage brands utilizing these printing services may see operational changes as the firm integrates into its new ownership structure. Customers can expect service to continue across the five existing facility locations.

The takeaway

The transition to private equity ownership indicates a focus on scaling the printing capabilities of Canworks Inc. within the competitive beverage supply market. Clients should monitor for potential shifts in production lead times or service offerings as the integration progresses.