Family-run cider maker Thatchers Cider has appointed Eleanor Thatcher to its board of directors.
Eleanor is the fifth generation of the cider making family who have taken leadership roles within the Somerset-based business.
Fourth-generation cider maker Martin Thatcher said her appointment will bring fresh perspective to the company as it embarks on its quest for greater sustainability and innovation.
Martin said: “I feel very proud to head up a family business, one that I am delighted to say is fast becoming a fifth-generation cider business. I see it as my duty to ensure when the time is right, I hand down a business that is able to thrive both now and in the future.
Subscribe to Grocery Gazette for free
Sign up here to get the latest grocery and food news each morning
“Eleanor’s appointment brings with it her unique blend of tradition and innovation. Her dedication to our family’s heritage, combined with her forward-thinking approach, makes her an invaluable addition and one I believe will keep us making the best ciders in the world for decades to come.”
Eleanor added: “Working in a family business is very special for me; it’s about remembering and cherishing our history whilst at the same time innovating.
“I have a passion for cider making and I care deeply about Thatchers continuing to make high quality cider that our customers love, whilst also ensuring that we protect the environment for future generations. My role now is to continue what my family has built; making great quality cider, in harmony with nature, for another 120 years.”
The new appointment comes amid the 120-year old business’ bid to continue its climate-conscious approach to producing cider.
Citing initiatives such as regenerative farming to planting wildflower meadows and working with the Bumblebee Trust to create bee friendly orchards, Thatchers Cider also said it prizes itself on the fact that it uses renewable electricity, with food waste recycled into green energy.
She added that Thatchers Cider had planted 158,000 trees since 2020, with plans to plant another 13,000 next year.
