Aston Manor Cider has been shortlisted in the Green/Sustainable Manufacturer category at the Made in the Midlands awards.

The business impressed the judges with its extensive sustainability agenda and commitment to reducing its environmental impact.

As part of the programme to become greener, Aston Manor recently switched to 51% recycled content in all large pack (PET) plastic bottles - a first for the alcoholic drinks industry, which will save approximately 1,000 tonnes of raw material annually.

Also nominated in the Green/Sustainable Manufacturer category is Clifton Packaging Group Green Cow Kitchen, Ibstock Brick, Lightweight Containers, Mayborn Group, Rock Fall UK and Target Catering Equipment

Last year Aston Manor won the Food and Drink award and was shortlisted in the Manufacturer of the Year category.

Jamie Weall, head of sustainability and compliance at Aston Manor Cider, said: “We have been making great strides with our sustainability agenda for a number of years now, so it is fantastic to be recognised as one of the best businesses in the Midlands for our commitment to the environment.

“We are up against some fantastic businesses that are delivering really innovative schemes. We can’t wait for 2 May to see who takes home the prize.”

Aston Manor has been making cider in the Midlands for over 35 years. The company has its headquarters and production site in Birmingham, its state-of-the-art pressing facility in Stourport-on-Severn and orchards across Worcestershire and Herefordshire. 

The Made in the Midlands is a prestigious regional ceremony. Now in its eighth year it recognises the innovation and excellence from across the Midlands in ten separate categories.