National award for Devon cider retailer

A Devon based cider maker is celebrating its silver jubilee year in style after winning a national retailing award.

The Green Valley Cyder Barn and Ale House retail outlet based at Dart’s Farm at Topsham near Exeter has won the nationally recognized Drinks Retailing Award for Independent Cider Retailer of the Year 2014.

The Cyder Barn has grown from a small outdoor unit selling only cider pressed on site and made only from Devon apples to a large in-store retail outlet stocking 180 ciders and perrys from the UK and across Europe.  It is now probably the largest retailer of ciders and perrys in the country and is renowned for its cider tastings held in store every day and for producing bespoke blends to suit individual tastes.

Nick Pring and Chris Coles started the business when the famous Whiteway’s Cider Co closed its Whimple factory in 1989. They attribute their success to the significant growth in cider sales alongside a growth in interest in local artisan products.

Nick said: “The last 12 months have seen an increase in cider sales of 21% reflecting the increase in average customer spend. Our range of stock has been increased year on year to include ciders from all the south western counties of England and now also includes a collection of French ciders.

"The noticeable increase in sales not only includes our own range of Green Valley Ciders but also Sandford Orchard, Perry’s, Cornish Orchard, Sheppy’s, Weston’s and Thatcher’s.

“I think the judges liked the idea that we support local cider makers, encourage new makers by providing an outlet for their product and that customers can see how cider is made. 

"This award recognises a retail outlet celebrating the British Cider Heritage and upholding the diversity and quality of both large and small cider makers.”