Avid Cider Co. Company Profile

Background

Avid Cider Co., founded in 2013 in Bend, Oregon, has established itself as a prominent producer of hard ciders in the Pacific Northwest. The company is dedicated to crafting ciders that balance flavor profiles, aiming to offer beverages that are neither excessively dry nor overly sweet. By sourcing fresh, locally grown apples and other fruits, Avid emphasizes natural ingredients and authentic taste. Their mission is to showcase the best of the Northwest through clean, natural, and locally sourced ciders.

Key Strategic Focus

Avid Cider Co. focuses on producing fruit-forward ciders that appeal to a broad consumer base. Their product lineup includes popular flavors such as Blackberry, Dragonfruit, and Watermelon Rhubarb. In 2019, they expanded their offerings by launching Seven Peaks, a hard seltzer brand. The company's strategic objectives include expanding production capacity, enhancing distribution channels, and increasing market presence in the Pacific Northwest and beyond.

Financials and Funding

In March 2022, Avid Cider Co. was acquired by Michigan-based Blake's Hard Cider. This acquisition led to the formation of Avid Cider Co., LLC, encompassing all operational assets, including production facilities, inventory, recipes, and distribution agreements. The financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. This partnership aims to leverage both companies' distribution channels to grow their brands authentically.

Pipeline Development

Avid Cider Co. continues to innovate within its product lineup. In 2023, they introduced Royal Apricot, an imperial cider with an 8.5% alcohol by volume, featuring flavors of pressed golden apricots. This addition reflects the company's commitment to meeting consumer demand for higher ABV options and expanding their Imperial Series.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Avid Cider Co. emphasizes the use of fresh-pressed, locally sourced apples and fruits in their cider production. Their commitment to natural ingredients and minimal processing ensures a high-quality product that resonates with consumers seeking authentic and flavorful beverages.

Leadership Team

• Samantha Roberts: Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer. Roberts has been instrumental in guiding Avid Cider Co. from its inception, focusing on product development and strategic growth initiatives.

• Dan McCoy: Co-Founder and former owner. Post-acquisition, McCoy transitioned to an advisory role, concentrating on sales, marketing, and the growth of the Seven Peaks Seltzer brand.

Leadership Changes

Following the acquisition by Blake's Hard Cider in 2022, Dan McCoy moved from an ownership position to an advisory role, focusing on sales, marketing, and the expansion of the Seven Peaks Seltzer brand.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The hard cider market in the United States has experienced significant growth, with consumers increasingly seeking gluten-free and fruit-based alcoholic beverages. This trend has led to a proliferation of both national and regional cider producers.

Competitor Analysis

• Angry Orchard: Owned by the Boston Beer Company, Angry Orchard is a leading hard cider brand in the U.S., known for its wide distribution and variety of flavors.

• Bold Rock Hard Cider: Based in Virginia, Bold Rock produces a range of ciders and has expanded into hard tea and lemonade. They distribute across the East Coast and parts of the Midwest.

• Woodchuck Hard Cider: Established in Vermont, Woodchuck offers a variety of cider styles and has a significant presence in the U.S. market.

• Portland Cider Company: Also based in Oregon, Portland Cider Company is a notable competitor within the Pacific Northwest, producing a range of craft ciders.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

The acquisition by Blake's Hard Cider in 2022 represents a significant strategic partnership, aiming to expand Avid's presence on the West Coast and Blake's nationwide. This collaboration leverages both companies' distribution networks and production capabilities.

Operational Insights

In 2023, Avid Cider Co. announced the relocation of its production facility to a 15,000-square-foot space in Redmond, Oregon. This move is intended to increase production capacity and meet growing demand. The transition is expected to be completed by November 2023.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Avid Cider Co. is exploring opportunities to reopen its taproom in Bend, Oregon, in 2024, following the closure of its previous location. This initiative aims to maintain a strong local presence and continue engaging with the community.

Contact Information

• Website: www.avidcider.com

• Social Media:

• Facebook: Avid Cider Co.

• Instagram: @avidcider

• Twitter: @avidcider

Avid Cider Co. continues to innovate and expand, maintaining its commitment to producing high-quality, locally sourced ciders that reflect the flavors of the Pacific Northwest.