UK-based cider producer Thatchers Cider, has announced it will invest £14 million to expand the production capacity of its manufacturing facility at Myrtle Farm.
The planned investment will also include the installation of a new cider mill at the farm, which will help the brand meet the increased consumer demand for cider products.
In 2017, the sales volumes of Thatchers canned apple cider range grew by 28 percent, making it the second most popular canned apple cider in the UK by sales volume alone.
The planning application for the new mill has been submitted, and the brand estimates that it will be installed next year.
Thatchers Cider managing director Martin Thatcher commented: “This investment is about our confidence in the cider market and in the future of world-class cider making here at Myrtle Farm.
“Our aim has always been to produce fantastic ciders at Thatchers that are best in class on both quality and consistency. Our existing mill has served us well for many years, but we are now looking to increase our capacity to meet growing demand. The new mill will be located at Myrtle Farm, will use less energy and will be sustainably powered by energy generated on site. Consumers are moving from bottle to can, and as the market continues to premiumise, Gold will continue to seal its position as the fastest growing can cider.
“As fruit continues to bring more people into the category, we predict that these entrants will turn to apple variants as they become fatigued with flavour.”