What is happening in the cider category?

The cider market is beginning to focus on training and packaging, which will be big topics at this year's Cider Summit, organised by Ciderologist Gabe Cook, who will give insight on what is happening in the world of cider.

CGA will provide insight on the future of the cider category, what trends are emerging and reveal the types of products operators should hedge their bets on.

Craft is one obvious trend that is edging into cider and Hawkes Urban Cidery CEO Simon Wright will discuss what the best duty option for the ‘craft’/lower volume/high juice cider maker is. He will also ask what changes need to be made to facilities growth in the segment.

International trend

Looking across The Pond, we will be highlighting the US market before talking through what companies can do to embed knowledge and value perception into the segment.

Closer to home, the Brexit vote hit the hospitality industry hard and is still ongoing, and the National Association of Cider Makers chief executive Fenella Tyler will be giving an overview of the UK's legislative landscape.

Meanwhile, cider’s entry into cans is now new but here we will explore why the format is a good option for cider makers and drinkers alike with mobile canning business Them That Can's Jamie Kenyon.

While canning is one option to look into, growing the perception that cider can be premium now it is starting to be accepted and understood by some of the finest restaurants is something founder of the Fine Cider Co, Felix Nash will be explaining.

When and where?

One restaurant brand that shouts about its cider offer is The Stable and operations manager David Gough will talk about the opportunities and challenges that running a cider-specific operation brings.

For more information about the event, which will take place on 22 June at the Stable in Bristol, and how to book, contact Stevie Robinson by email at stevie.Robinson@wrbm.com​ or by phone on 01293 846508.

The Morning Advertiser ​food and drink editor Nicholas Robinson said: “Cider is growing in the on-trade and, although its representation on the bar may not be as vast as beer, it is of great interest to consumers who want to see more innovation, more flavours and more formats.

“At our Cider Summit, we are going to give you the information you need to make informed decisions on what to stock, what the upcoming trends are and what you should steer clear of.”