Lilley's Cider Ltd is a family-owned craft cider producer based in Frome, Somerset, at the heart of England’s traditional cider-making region. Known for its inventive flavors and vibrant branding, Lilley's has rapidly evolved from a local craft operation into one of the UK’s most recognized independent cider brands, offering over 30 unique products distributed nationwide and exported globally.
History and Evolution
Founded by father and son duo Chris and Marc Lilley, the company began its journey with a mission to craft bold, flavorful ciders that could appeal to a wide spectrum of palates—ranging from traditionalists to experimental drinkers. Starting with small batches and local markets, Lilley’s expanded through strategic investment in production capacity and distribution partnerships. Today, it stands as a dynamic and growing player in the premium and flavored cider categories.
Core Business and Product Portfolio
Lilley's Cider offers an extensive range of traditional and fruit ciders, perries, and alcohol-free alternatives, available in both retail and wholesale formats. Its product categories include:
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Ciders:
- Flagship: Mango Cider, Gladiator (8.4% ABV), Cherries & Berries, Rhubarb, Pineapple
- Innovative: Gingerbread Cider, Raspberry Lemonade, Passion Fruit Martini, Pina Colada, Whisky Cask
- Seasonal: Winter Spice, Santa Cider, Star Gazer, Sunset
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Perries:
- Bee Sting Perry (7.5% ABV)
- Apples & Pears Perry
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Non-Alcoholic:
- Mango Zero (alcohol-free cider alternative)
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Pyder (Cider & Perry Mix):
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Gift Packs and Experiences:
- Mini Festival Box, Advent Calendar, Classic Gift Boxes
This variety allows Lilley's to cater to a diverse customer base, from casual festivalgoers to specialty cider connoisseurs.
Specialization and Unique Selling Proposition (USP)
Lilley's core strengths lie in its innovation, flavor diversity, and strong visual branding:
- Creative Flavors: Among the UK’s most extensive cider portfolios, including dessert-style blends and cocktail-inspired ciders.
- Multi-format Packaging: Available in bottles, cans, bag-in-box, and kegs—suited for retail shelves, tap lines, and festivals.
- Strong Branding and Marketing: Known for its colorful, engaging labels and fun product names that appeal to younger audiences and social drinkers.
- Vegan and Gluten-Free Friendly: Majority of Lilley’s products are suitable for vegan and gluten-free diets, widening market accessibility.
Financial Strength and Growth
While financials are not publicly disclosed, industry reports and trade publications estimate:
- Annual Production Volume: Over 5 million liters of cider
- Retail Distribution: Available in over 1,500 UK retail outlets, including regional supermarkets, farm shops, and cider taprooms
- Festival & Events Exposure: Featured in more than 300+ UK festivals annually, contributing to significant on-trade sales
Lilley’s continues to grow year-on-year through strategic wholesale expansion and increased exports.
Export and Shipment Footprint
According to international trade data and B2B platforms:
- Export Markets: Ireland, Germany, Sweden, Australia, and select Asian countries
- Export Share: Estimated 10–15% of annual production volume
- Packaging for Export: Bag-in-box and cans are preferred for shipping stability and shelf life
The brand is gaining traction in markets where UK heritage and craft alcohol are viewed as premium lifestyle products.
Target Market
Lilley’s products are tailored to a wide customer demographic:
- Craft cider drinkers and foodies
- Younger consumers seeking fruit-forward or novelty drinks
- Hospitality venues like gastropubs, bars, and cider festivals
- Retail buyers in farm shops, bottle shops, and online specialty platforms
- Export distributors looking for unique UK craft products
The mix of traditional recipes and adventurous flavor innovations appeals across both premium and casual beverage segments.
Manufacturing Capabilities and Infrastructure
Lilley’s operates a modern cider-making facility equipped with:
- Stainless steel fermentation tanks
- Fruit pressing and flavor infusion systems
- In-house bottling and canning lines
- Cold storage and logistics support for national and international distribution
The company maintains strict quality control at every production stage and often collaborates with regional fruit growers to ensure consistency and sustainability.
Certifications and Compliance
Lilley's Cider complies with all UK and EU beverage production standards and holds:
- HMRC Alcohol Production Licensing
- Full ingredient disclosure and allergen labeling
- Majority of products labeled Vegan Friendly
- Regular microbiological testing and batch tracking for safety and traceability
These practices support brand credibility, especially in regulated and international markets.
Customer Testimonials
Consumer and B2B reviews consistently highlight Lilley's flavor innovation and consistent quality:
“Lilley’s Mango Cider is a crowd favorite at our summer festivals—people come looking for it year after year.”
— Festival Beverage Manager, UK
“We love the flexibility of formats—from 500ml bottles to 20L bag-in-box. Perfect for pubs and events.”
— Wholesale Distributor, Midlands
Major Achievements
- Featured in BBC Good Food Show and Great British Food Awards
- Won multiple Regional Cider Awards for flavor innovation
- Developed one of the UK's first non-alcoholic fruit ciders (Mango Zero)
- Reached over 50% year-on-year growth in online retail sales during 2020–2022
- Recognized as a Top 10 UK Independent Cider Brand by cider trade associations
With its unwavering focus on flavor, customer experience, and brand appeal, Lilley's Cider continues to lead the next generation of craft cider producers in the UK and beyond.
