Cider
Thatchers grows sales above cider market for sixth year
For the year ending August 2015, the Somerset-based cider manufacturer reported turnover up 9% to £65m and pre-tax profits up 7%.
Thatchers in figures:
- 9% – turnover up
- 7% – pre-tax profits up
- £7.1m – investments last year
A £7.1m investment in the family-owned business's cider-making facilities, plant and machinery, infrastructure and the redevelopment of its Railway Inn operation had been made during the period.
Distribution of its premium Somerset ciders, including the flagship Thatchers Gold brand, had increased over the period, according to the company.
New ciders
Two new ciders – including Thatchers Haze – had been launched during 2015, while Gold was backed by a television ad.
Managing director Martin Thatcher said: "Investing back into the business is crucial for the continued success of the company.
"It encourages innovation and fresh thinking, something we are exceptionally proud of.
"We are delighted with the performance of Thatchers Gold and Thatchers Haze, which are both making great inroads into the trade."
Takeover interest
In a Big Interview with the Publican's Morning Advertiser (PMA) last year, MD Thatcher said his two children were expressing an interest in the business and would hopefully, one day, takeover.
Meanwhile, the PMA's first Future Trends: Beer and Cider event is set to reveal the latest innovations on 22 June in London.
The National Association of Cider Makers' new communications director Gabe Cook is set to take to the stage to discuss the future of the UK's cider market and how pubs can capitalise from the latest cider trends.
For more information about the event visit www.FutureTrendsBeerandCider.co.uk or to book your place, contact Joanne Horton by phone on 01293 610 403 or by email at wbnaar.ubegba@jeoz.pbz.
