Stowford Press, crafted by Herefordshire cider maker, Westons Cider, has been awarded Highly Commended in the Great British Pub Suppliers Awards 2009, hosted by the Morning Advertiser, one of the UK's leading pub trade magazines.  57,000 UK pubs were asked to vote for their favourite suppliers of ciders, beers, wines, spirits and soft drinks.

"Westons cider is delighted and proud to accept this prestigious award." Commented Roger Jackson, Commercial Director: "It is a testament to the whole Westons team that we have achieved this accolade.  Stowford Press has been gathering momentum since its launch in the early 1990's and now has a well established presence in the draught cider market.  Stowford Press is a robust brand that is clearly demonstrating a sustainable future."

The cider market has most certainly seen a strong period of growth over recent years and Westons cider, based in the rural village of Much Marcle in Herefordshire has been no exception.  Total cider sales over the past two years have increased by over 40% which is above the average for the sector and indicates a definite switch to premium cider brands such as those produced by Westons. 

Significantly Stowford Press volume has growth by a staggering 18% year on year (April - Oct 2009 vs April - October 2008).  With over 5,000 taps pouring throughout the UK consumers can now more readily discover Stowford Press for themselves and enjoy the fruity, refreshing, bittersweet flavour.

To further broaden the appeal of Stowford Press Westons have just launched their most popular draught cider in a stylish 500ml bottle.

Whilst the company has been continuously investing for the future the recent sales trend has accelerated those plans.  Six years ago Westons started investing in planting apple and pear orchards as well as encouraging local independent growers to do likewise.  This year we have planted a further 15,000 trees in an additional 50 acres of new orchards

Editor's Notes

Image Details:

John Edwards, Head of On Trade, Westons Cider accepting the award

[Left - Right]

Tim Brooke-Webb (Publisher, Morning Advertiser), John Edwards, Gavin Murdoch (MD, Tradeteam) & Paul Charity (Editor, Morning Advertiser)