10 reasons to attend the Cider Trends Summit 2015

The event brings those with an interest in the category together to discuss some of the key challenges and trends, how cider makers can exploit new opportunities, and provide pointers as to what the future might hold.

Here are 10 top reasons why if you’ve got a commercial interest in the cider category you have to be there.

1. Get the international lowdown​

We’ve got two leading figures jetting in to the summit to give us the lowdown on cider markets in different parts of the world. Mike Beck, owner of Uncle John’s Cider Mill​, Michigan, and president of the US Cider Association, will outline the market Stateside. Wine and cidermaker Warwick Billings, owner of Lobo Cider in the Adelaide Hills and vice president of Cider Australia will discuss the burgeoning Australian market and its growing appeal.

2. Hear exclusive research analysis​

This year, our research session comes courtesy of Chris Wisson, senior drinks analyst at research specialist Mintel. He will be looking at flavour innovation​ and the lessons cider can learn from beer's return to growth. You won’t get access to this research anywhere else.

3. ​Further explore market trends​

The cider category continues to perform strongly in the alcoholic drinks market but challenges remain. Our expert speakers will delve deeper into some of the trends driving the category and where further opportunities might lie

4. ​Hear from drinks buyers​

We’ve put together a panel of leading on-trade buyers to answer questions on how they see the cider market and their purchasing decisions. Hear from the cider buyers from a top managed pubco, leased and tenanted pubco, smaller multiple operator and leading wholesale buying group

5. Learn about fledgling craft brands​

‘Craft’ is the current buzzword permeating all drinks category. Our exclusive panel discussion will explore how three smaller fledgling cider producers tapping into this trends and building brands that capture drinkers’ attention and curiosity.

6. Sample some great ciders​

Pete Brown, our very own award-winning cider and beer writer, will lead an exclusive tutored tasting session. Pete certainly knows his apples and delegates will be sampling some great ciders that every pub should look at stocking.

7. ​Get closer to senior industry figures ​

The summit is a forum for senior decision makers within the cider industry. All the top category people will be there. Those attending will include a mix of senior level retailers, brand owners, pub company buyers, plus cider makers large and small.

8. Discover more about the leading cider businesses​

The Cider Trends Summit is supported once again by our headline partner Heineken UK, the country's biggest cidermaker, as well as a number of associate sponsors. There will be an opportunity to sample product and find out more about what they can offer you on the day.

9. Drinks at the Cider Pub of the Year​

Once the day’s formalities are done, we’ll be heading to the Apple Cider Boat, moored in Bristol harbour, for drinks and networking. The Apple is the current Cider Pub of the Year, picking up the award at last year’s Great British Pub Awards.

10. Gain ideas to take back to your own business​

Our aim with all our drinks category summits is always to send attendees away with a notepad full of stats, quotes, ideas and nuggets of wisdom. Our speakers on the day will provide plenty of food for thought and hopefully a chunk of insight and inspiration.

The Cider Trends Summit takes place at the Marriott City Centre hotel on Tuesday 7 July. Visit the event website​ for speaker and booking details.​