The invention relates to a method of operating an apparatus for applying drinking straws to packaging containers. The method comprises the steps of performing a first portion of a motion cycle by moving at least one applicator arm from an application position to a leaving position, said first portion being equal for successive packaging containers. The method also comprises performing a second portion of the motion cycle by moving the at least one applicator arm from the leaving position back to the application position, said second portion being adjusted to fit the pitch between successive packaging containers. The invention also relates to an apparatus operated by the method.