Aston Manor Cider, the UK’s largest independent cider maker announces results for the year ended 31 December 2016.

Key Highlights:

• 2016 represented a year of further strong progress in the implementation of the Group’s 5 year “Consolidate and Broaden” strategy
• Group turnover increased [4%] to [£113m], increases to both volume [3%] and gross profit [3%] over 2015
• EBITDA for the year amounted to [£8.2 million]
• During 2016 Aston Manor received 17 industry awards for its ciders, innovative packaging formats and environmentally friendly manufacturing techniques
• Continuing success in the development of On Trade and Export channels
• Significant new contract wins in private label
• Kingstone Press sponsorship agreement with Rugby Football League extended for a further year

Gordon Johncox, Aston Manor CEO, commented:

“Our strategic plan is developing ahead of expectations and we are delighted with the progress we are making.”

"We are pleased with the financial performance of the Group in 2016. Aston Manor made good progress on our core strategic initiatives, delivering positive volume and revenue growth, while we continued to invest in all areas of the business, laying strong foundations for our future success."

“We enjoyed continued progress in our On Trade business through our partnership with Marston’s, while our premium brands have seen strong growth during the year, reinforcing our leading positions across all segments of the market.”

“We continue to develop and invest behind our own brands across all segments of the market. We are particularly excited for the prospects for our Kingstone Press brand – official sponsor to the Great Britain Rugby Football League team – as they head into the 2017 World Cup.”

 “In support of our valued customer partnerships and consistent with our pursuit of manufacturing excellence, we have undertaken a significant multi-year investment in our three principal manufacturing facilities, which now enjoy the highest possible food safety ratings from the British Retail Consortium.”

“In 2016, we also completed our new research and development facility, which has materially enhanced our ability to design and produce innovative new products to our customers’ exacting specifications.”

“This recent period of intensive investment has positioned the business to continue to deliver strong growth in revenue and profit over the coming years.”