Cider may be rooted in British tradition, but the latest industry data suggests it is also a category with substantial economic weight and room to expand. A new study from the National Association of Cidermakers, backed by Heineken UK, says the sector contributes nearly £2.7bn to the UK economy and supports more than 65,000 jobs across farming, manufacturing, hospitality and retail. The association argues that the drink’s reach runs well beyond the orchards, touching supply chains in every part of the country.

That scale helps explain why the UK remains the world’s biggest producer and consumer of cider, even in a market where overall volumes have come under pressure. Industry data cited by just-drinks showed sales in 2023 fell by 2.62% to just over 695 million litres, yet value climbed from £2.95bn to £3.06bn as drinkers moved towards pricier products. In pubs and bars, however, the picture has been more resilient: The Morning Advertiser reported that hospitality venues sold 255 million litres in 2023, while the on-trade accounted for 62% of the category’s value.

The consumer case for cider remains strong. In research cited by the National Association of Cidermakers, conducted among more than 1,250 UK adults and supported by focus groups, four in 10 alcohol drinkers said they consume cider at least monthly, and just under six in 10 said they would consider it when choosing a drink. Respondents most often described cider as refreshing, while many said they enjoy it in pubs, bars, clubs or at barbecues. Nearly three in five also said they would prefer cider from a British producer, suggesting that provenance remains an important selling point.

The biggest growth opportunity may lie in persuading occasional drinkers to try the category more often, and in broadening its appeal to people cutting back on alcohol. The study found that one-third of non-cider drinkers would consider trying it in future, while a similar share of respondents said they would be open to low-and-no cider. That is notable at a time when 58% of those surveyed said they had reduced their alcohol intake over the past year. For producers, that could open a route to growth through lighter styles, premium serves and stronger emphasis on British sourcing. Statista data showing steady per-person household consumption in 2023 also points to a category that remains embedded in everyday drinking habits.

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