Aston Manor Cider, the UK’s largest independent cider maker, has moved into a new office space and warehouse and logistics hub in Witton, just three miles from its production site in Aston, Birmingham.

The conveniently-located suite of offices, have been designed by specialist company, Workbox UK and configured precisely to the needs of the business.

Housing the management and support functions of Aston Manor, the contemporary office design includes modern white walls and green soft furnishings reflecting the colour of the orchards.

The multi-million pound investment has also enabled the business to develop a dedicated warehouse and logistics facility. The facility is the first of its kind for the Midlands-based business, and will ensure warehousing and transport operates efficiently and effectively with a much lower carbon footprint. 

Commenting on the new site, Gordon Johncox, managing director of Aston Manor Cider, said: “We are delighted to have a working environment that supports and improves our performance.

“The logistics hub in particular increases the capacity and capability of that part of our operations as well as improving our environmental performance.

“The offices are bright, comfortable, modern – a flexible space which will ultimately boost staff morale and productivity. We have a replica apple tree in reception that looks incredibly realistic and is a great conversation starter with any visitors.”

On arrival at reception visitors and staff are greeted by a 3-metre tall replica of an apple tree, created by Vantage UK. The statement design piece was made using real twisted Applewood stems, 12 authentic-looking red apples and six specially-fabricated cradles holding bottles of Kingstone Press.

Gordon added: “This investment represents the continuation of our intent to build the capability and capacity to support the future growth of the business.”

Aston Manor Cider has made considerable capital investments in recent years at all its sites including the warehouse and distribution centre in Witton. It also increased production, warehousing capacity and jobs at its production and packaging facility at Tiverton in Devon.

Aston Manor Cider invested further in its new fruit processing and pressing facility in Stourport-Upon-Severn with an environmentally-friendly, unique water cooling system that diverts water from the neighbouring River Severn to significantly cool the apple pressing process.

The sites have been developed in response to a very significant planting scheme which will see some 350,000 trees added to the landscape, and thousands of tonnes more fruit will need to be processed. Covering 1,000 acres of new orchards, the business has supported farmers and growers with 25-year contracts to secure farm incomes for a generation. The planting scheme will be concluded in 2015.

The UK’s largest independent cider maker was recently given the coveted award for the Best Manufacturer (Large) at the West Midlands Business Masters Awards 2015 and won four medals, including one gold, at the prestigious International Cider Challenge 2015.