Cider Production in the UK: Market Size, Businesses & Forecast 2026

The UK cider production industry encompasses the manufacture of cider, a fermented alcoholic beverage made from apples, and is a significant component of the country's beverage sector. The industry has demonstrated resilience with a sector output of £1.1 billion in 2022, according to the latest available official figures from the Office for National Statistics. Production volumes remain substantial, though the market faces evolving consumer preferences and regulatory pressures.

Industry snapshot

Key public data points

Historical & forecast

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What does the Cider Production in the UK industry cover?

The UK cider production industry involves the manufacturing of cider and perry (pear cider) from apples and pears, respectively. This sector includes both large-scale commercial producers and smaller craft cider makers, with products ranging from traditional dry ciders to flavored and premium variants.

• •UK cider production accounts for approximately 60% of the EU's total cider output (Defra, 2021)
• •The sector encompasses approximately 500 cider producers of varying sizes (National Association of Cider Makers, 2023)

Who operates in the industry and how is it structured?

The UK cider market features a mix of large multinational beverage companies and smaller independent producers. Production is concentrated in specific regions, particularly the West Country (Somerset, Devon, Herefordshire) where apple-growing conditions are optimal.

• •The top five producers account for approximately 75% of the market share (Competition and Markets Authority, 2022)
• •Approximately 80% of UK apples used for cider production are grown domestically (NFU, 2023)

What drives demand in the industry?

Demand for cider is influenced by consumer preferences for alternative alcoholic beverages, particularly among younger demographics. Seasonal variations affect consumption, with summer months typically seeing higher sales. Premium and craft ciders have gained popularity in recent years.

• •Cider represents approximately 18% of the UK's on-trade alcohol market (CGA, 2023)
• •Per capita cider consumption in the UK is approximately 17 liters annually (industry sources, 2022)

Who are the notable companies in the industry?

The UK cider industry is dominated by several major beverage companies with significant market presence. These companies operate multiple brands and distribution networks, catering to various market segments from mainstream to premium craft ciders.

• •Bulmers (owned by C&C Group plc) operates as Magners in the UK market
• •Heineken UK produces Strongbow, the UK's leading cider brand
• •BrewDog operates craft cider production through its subsidiary cider brands
• •Weston's Cider remains a significant independent producer with heritage dating back 150 years

What are the recent trends and outlook?

The cider industry has experienced growth in premium and craft segments while mainstream brands face competition from other beverages. Sustainability initiatives have become increasingly important, with producers focusing on waste reduction and carbon footprint minimization.

• •The craft cider segment has grown by approximately 5% annually since 2020 (CAMRA, 2023)
• •UK cider exports increased by 12% in 2022 compared to pre-pandemic levels (HMRC, 2023)

How is the industry regulated?

Cider production in the UK is subject to strict regulations covering alcohol content, production methods, and labeling. Post-Brexit, regulations increasingly diverge from EU standards, particularly in areas like additives and production processes.

• •Alcohol content regulations vary by cider type, with traditional ciders typically having 4-8% ABV
• •The UK's Alcohol Duty system applies specific rates to cider based on strength and production method (HMRC, 2023)

Government, statistical and trade sources used for this Claight analysis.

• Office for National Statistics - UK Business: Activity, Size and Location 2022 ·
• Competition and Markets Authority - Beer and cider market investigation 2022 ·
• National Association of Cider Makers - UK Cider Market Report 2023 ·
• Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs - Horticulture Statistics 2021 ·
• National Farmers Union - UK Apple Production Report 2023 ·
• CGA - Drinks Market Report 2023