Aston Manor Cider hosted Dominic Jermey, Chief Executive of UK Trade and Investment (UKTI), yesterday afternoon and shared with him the latest export and investment plans.

The visit to the headquarters of the UK’s largest independent cider maker in Aston, central Birmingham, was part of an ongoing relationship as the business is being supported by government to grow its sales overseas.

Gordon Johncox, Managing Director of Aston Manor said: “We were delighted to welcome Dominic and the UKTI team, as we are with the great contribution they are making as we look to ramp up our export success.

“Whilst we are outperforming a buoyant UK cider market, we are anything but complacent and we recognise the opportunities that exist in many countries. The insight and practical assistance of UKTI is a major boost as we plan to deliver significant export growth in the next three years.”

The delegation, including Paul Noon, regional director of UKTI, saw first-hand some of the recent investment made in both the production capability and capacity of Aston Manor Cider. They also heard how the new logistics facility at nearby Witton is already fully operational just months after the purchase of the site was announced.

The multi-million pound deal followed an investment programme of more than £10m at the company’s production site in Tiverton, Devon.

A new purpose-built fruit processing site at Stourport-on-Severn is being utilised fully to manage this year’s harvest and is further evidence of the long-term commitment Aston Manor has to the cider industry.

Dominic Jermey for UKTI said: “In Aston Manor Cider we recognise a very successful business. It produces high-quality drinks and has invested in its operations to enable it to be a standout business in its sector.

“Cider is a drinks category generating considerable interest around the world and the UK is at the centre for cider production and knowledge. This presents great exporting opportunities which Aston Manor has taken advantage of to boost their international operation. 

“I encourage other companies to increase their level of exports as well and businesses wishing to do so can contact UKTI for help and support.”  

Underpinning the increased capacity and capability is the commitment Aston Manor Cider has made to plant 1,000 acres of new orchards in Herefordshire. A commitment that means 25-year contracts are agreed with farmers to supply apples.