Hard Cider Producers

Producers of fermented apple (and pear) cider beverages. Cider is one of the oldest alcoholic beverages and is experiencing a global renaissance, particularly in the UK, US, France, and Australia, driven by gluten-free positioning.

Hard Cider Producers startup costs and profit margins

Estimated startup cost
$100K to $2.0M
Typical profit margin
20% to 40%

Revenue model

Retail distribution through beer and spirits channels. On-premise draught cider at pubs and restaurants. Cidery tasting room tourism and DTC sales. Seasonal and limited-release ciders at premium pricing. Wholesale to food retailers.

Startup requirements

Apple orchards or sourcing relationships, pressing and fermentation equipment, glycol cooling, filtration, kegging and bottling line, federal and state alcohol licensing, distribution partnerships.

Key challenges

Apple crop yield variability, high capital for orchard ownership, competing in a beer and wine aisle for distribution, educating consumers on premium cider versus cheap mass-market versions.

Complete startup guide

Read the complete guide to starting a Hard Cider Producer