The Cider Market size was estimated at USD 12.5 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 17.5 billion by 2030, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.00% during the forecast period (2024-2030).

Cider Market

Market Summary

The cider market represents a dynamic and evolving segment within the global food and beverages industry, characterized by a diverse range of products catering to varying consumer tastes and preferences. Traditionally popular in European countries, cider has gained significant traction in North America and Asia-Pacific regions, driven by a growing consumer inclination towards alternative alcoholic beverages. The market encompasses a wide spectrum of products, from traditional apple-based ciders to innovative blends incorporating fruits like pear, berries, and exotic flavors, appealing to a broader demographic. This expansion is further supported by the rise of craft cider producers who emphasize authenticity, local sourcing, and unique production methods, creating a premium segment within the market. The increasing number of cider festivals, dedicated cider bars, and enhanced distribution channels, including e-commerce platforms, are also pivotal in raising consumer awareness and accessibility. As consumer palates become more sophisticated and demand for gluten-free and diverse alcoholic options rises, the cider market is well-positioned for sustained growth and innovation, making it an attractive area for investment and strategic business development.

Key Highlights

The cider market is distinguished by several key trends that underscore its current vitality and future potential. A prominent highlight is the significant shift towards premiumization and craft production, where consumers are increasingly seeking high-quality, artisanal ciders with complex flavor profiles and authentic branding. This trend is paralleled by the growing consumer demand for low-alcohol and alcohol-free cider variants, aligning with broader health and wellness movements. Sustainability has also become a critical differentiator, with leading producers adopting eco-friendly practices, such as using organic apples, reducing water usage, and implementing recyclable packaging, to appeal to environmentally conscious buyers. The market is witnessing robust innovation in flavor experimentation, with introductions of hopped, spiced, and fruit-infused ciders that attract new consumer segments and encourage trial. Furthermore, strategic mergers, acquisitions, and partnerships among key players are consolidating market presence and expanding geographic reach. The effective utilization of digital marketing and social media engagement by brands to connect with younger demographics and create brand loyalty is another defining aspect of the market's contemporary landscape.

Drivers, Opportunities & Restraints

The growth of the cider market is propelled by several powerful drivers, including changing consumer lifestyles and a rising preference for diverse and innovative alcoholic beverages beyond traditional beer and wine. The increasing disposable income in emerging economies allows consumers to experiment with premium and imported cider brands, while the perception of cider as a natural and often gluten-free option attracts health-conscious individuals. The expansion of retail infrastructure, particularly modern trade channels and online liquor delivery services, significantly enhances product availability and convenience for consumers. However, the market faces certain restraints, such as seasonal fluctuations in apple harvests which can impact production costs and supply stability, and stringent government regulations regarding alcohol advertising, taxation, and distribution that vary considerably across different regions. Despite these challenges, substantial opportunities exist, particularly in untapped markets in Asia-Pacific and Latin America where cider consumption is still nascent. The development of novel packaging solutions, like cans and smaller formats for on-the-go consumption, and the exploration of functional ciders with added probiotics or vitamins present additional avenues for market expansion and differentiation.

Concentration Insights

The global cider market exhibits a moderately concentrated landscape, featuring a mix of large multinational beverage corporations and a flourishing number of small to medium-sized craft cider producers. Dominant players such as Heineken, Asahi Group Holdings, and The Boston Beer Company leverage their extensive distribution networks, strong brand equity, and significant marketing budgets to maintain a considerable market share. These industry giants often engage in strategic acquisitions of successful craft cideries to diversify their portfolios and tap into niche consumer segments. Concurrently, the market is characterized by a high degree of fragmentation at the regional and local levels, where artisanal producers focus on authenticity, local ingredient sourcing, and community connection to compete effectively. This dual structure creates a competitive environment where scale and reach compete with specialization and quality. The concentration is particularly evident in Western Europe and North America, which are mature markets, while emerging regions show a more fragmented presence with local brands dominating. This dynamic encourages continuous innovation and marketing efforts from all players to capture and retain consumer interest.

Type Insights

The cider market is segmented by type, primarily divided into apple cider and pear cider, also known as perry, with apple cider holding the dominant share globally. Within these categories, further differentiation occurs based on alcohol content, leading to segments such as hard cider, which is alcoholic, and soft cider, which is non-alcoholic. The hard cider segment is the largest and most dynamic, continuously evolving with sub-categories like still cider and sparkling cider, which cater to different consumption occasions and preferences. A significant trend is the proliferation of flavored ciders, where producers infuse traditional apple or pear bases with other fruits such as berries, cherries, and citrus, as well as botanicals like ginger and hops, to create unique and contemporary taste experiences. The non-alcoholic segment, while smaller, is growing rapidly due to increasing health consciousness and demand for sober-curious options. The type of packaging also influences consumer choice, with draught cider popular in pubs and bars, and packaged cider in glass bottles, cans, and plastic containers dominating retail sales, each offering different benefits in terms of convenience, preservation, and sustainability.

Application Insights

In terms of application, cider is consumed through various channels, primarily segmented into on-trade and off-trade distributions. The on-trade sector, which includes pubs, bars, restaurants, and clubs, represents a traditional and vital application for cider, often associated with social drinking and leisure activities. In these settings, cider is frequently available on tap, providing a fresh draught experience, and is increasingly featured in cocktails and food pairings by establishments aiming to enhance their beverage menus. The off-trade sector, encompassing supermarkets, hypermarkets, specialty liquor stores, and online retailers, is the largest distribution channel. This segment benefits from the convenience of at-home consumption, impulse purchases, and the ability to offer a wider variety of brands and packaging sizes. The rapid growth of e-commerce platforms has revolutionized off-trade sales, allowing consumers to explore and purchase a vast array of local and international cider brands with ease. Another emerging application is within the corporate gifting and event management industry, where customized cider packs are gaining popularity for celebrations and corporate presents, adding a premium and personalized touch.

Regional Insights

Geographically, the cider market demonstrates distinct regional patterns of consumption and growth. Western Europe, particularly the United Kingdom, remains the historical heartland and largest market for cider, with a deeply ingrained culture of cider drinking and a high per capita consumption. Countries like Spain, France, and Germany also represent significant mature markets with strong local traditions. North America has emerged as a high-growth region, fueled by the craft beverage movement and consumer demand for alternative alcoholic drinks, with the United States and Canada showing particularly robust expansion. The Asia-Pacific region is identified as the fastest-growing market, driven by increasing urbanization, westernization of lifestyles, and growing middle-class populations in countries like China, Australia, and India. However, cultural preferences and regulatory hurdles can vary greatly within this vast region. Latin America and the Middle East and Africa present nascent but promising opportunities, with market penetration gradually increasing through urbanization and the influence of global tourism and expatriate communities, though these regions currently account for a smaller share of the global market.

Company Insights

The competitive landscape of the cider market includes a diverse array of companies, from global beverage conglomerates to specialized regional producers. Leading players such as Heineken N.V., with its Strongbow and Old Mout brands, and C&C Group plc, known for Magners and Bulmers, hold substantial market influence through their extensive international distribution and portfolio diversity. The Boston Beer Company has made a significant impact in the United States with its Angry Orchard brand, effectively capitalizing on the craft trend. Aston Manor Cider and Thatchers Cider are examples of prominent family-owned enterprises in the UK that maintain strong market positions through heritage and quality. Meanwhile, numerous craft cideries, such as Seattle Cider Company in the US and Hogan's Cider in the UK, compete by emphasizing small-batch production, organic ingredients, and unique flavor innovations. These smaller players often foster strong local loyalty and cater to niche markets. The strategic focus for companies across the board includes continuous product development, geographic expansion, and savvy marketing campaigns that highlight authenticity, sustainability, and flavor innovation to connect with modern consumers.

Recent Developments

The cider industry has been active with numerous recent developments reflecting its innovative and competitive nature. A key trend has been the accelerated launch of new flavor variants and limited-edition seasonal ciders by major brands to maintain consumer engagement and capitalize on festive periods. There has been a noticeable surge in investment towards low-alcohol and alcohol-free cider options, directly responding to the sober-curious movement and health trends. Sustainability initiatives have moved to the forefront, with several leading producers announcing commitments to achieve carbon neutrality, implement fully recyclable packaging, and support regenerative agricultural practices in their apple orchards. On the corporate front, strategic acquisitions have continued, as larger entities seek to absorb successful craft brands to diversify their offerings and gain access to new consumer bases. Furthermore, technology integration has advanced, with companies leveraging data analytics for consumer insights and enhancing their direct-to-consumer e-commerce capabilities, especially in the wake of shifting purchasing behaviors observed globally. These developments collectively indicate a market that is rapidly adapting to contemporary challenges and opportunities.

Report Segmentation

This comprehensive market research report on the cider industry provides a detailed analysis segmented across multiple dimensions to offer a granular understanding of the market dynamics. The segmentation is primarily based on type, categorizing the market into apple flavored cider, pear flavored cider, and other fruit flavored ciders, which include innovations like berry and exotic fruit blends. The report further segments the market by application, distinguishing between the on-trade channel, encompassing hotels, restaurants, and cafes, and the off-trade channel, which includes supermarkets, hypermarkets, convenience stores, and online retailers. Geographically, the analysis is broken down into key regions and major countries within North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East and Africa to provide localized insights and growth potential. Additional segmentation may cover alcohol content, dividing the market into hard cider and soft cider, and packaging type, such as glass, can, draught, and plastic. This multi-faceted segmentation allows stakeholders to identify specific growth pockets, understand regional preferences, and tailor strategies accordingly for maximum impact and return on investment.

FAQs

What is cider made from?

Cider is traditionally an alcoholic beverage made primarily from the fermented juice of apples. Specific cider apple varieties are often used, which provide the desired balance of tannins, sugar, and acidity. For pear cider, known as perry, the juice of specific pear varieties is fermented. Modern ciders may also incorporate the juices of other fruits, sweeteners, and additional flavors.

Is cider alcoholic?

Cider can be either alcoholic or non-alcoholic. The term "cider" alone can sometimes refer to non-alcoholic apple juice in certain regions, notably North America. However, in a global market context, especially within the food and beverages industry, "cider" typically refers to hard cider, which is an alcoholic beverage. Non-alcoholic versions are explicitly labeled as such.

Is cider gluten free?

Yes, traditionally produced cider made from apples or pears is naturally gluten-free, as the primary ingredients are fruit and yeast, with no gluten-containing grains involved in the fermentation process. However, consumers with severe celiac disease or gluten intolerance should always check the label, as some modern flavored ciders might contain additives or be produced in facilities that handle gluten.

What is the difference between cider and beer?

The fundamental difference between cider and beer lies in their base ingredients and production process. Cider is produced by fermenting fruit juice, typically from apples. Beer is brewed by fermenting sugars derived from starch-based materials, primarily cereals like barley or wheat, and is flavored with hops. This gives them distinctly different taste profiles, and cider is often a suitable alternative for those avoiding gluten.

How is cider served?

Cider can be served in a variety of ways depending on the type and setting. It is commonly served chilled in a glass, similar to beer. Draught cider is served on tap in pubs and bars. Still ciders are served without carbonation, while sparkling ciders are carbonated. It can also be used as a base in cocktails. Serving temperature and glassware can vary to enhance the drinking experience.

Citius Research has developed a research report titled “Cider Market Report - Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth Trends, Regional Outlook, Competitive Strategies and Segment Forecasts 2024 - 2030” delivering key insights regarding business intelligence and providing concrete business strategies to clients in the form of a detailed syndicated report. The report details out the factors such as business environment, industry trend, growth opportunities, competition, pricing, global and regional market analysis, and other market related factors.

Details included in the report for the years 2024 through 2030

• Cider Market Potential
• Segment-wise breakup
• Compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) for the next 6 years
• Key customers and their preferences
• Market share of major players and their competitive strength
• Existing competition in the market
• Price trend analysis
• Key trend analysis
• Market entry strategies
• Market opportunity insights

The report focuses on the drivers, restraints, opportunities, and challenges in the market based on various factors geographically. Further, key players, major collaborations, merger & acquisitions along with trending innovation and business policies are reviewed in the report. The Cider Market report is segmented on the basis of various market segments and their analysis, both in terms of value and volume, for each region for the period under consideration.

Cider Market Segmentation

Regions Covered

• North America
• Latin America
• Europe
• MENA
• Asia Pacific
• Sub-Saharan Africa and
• Australasia

Cider Market Analysis

The report covers below mentioned analysis, but is not limited to:

• Overview of Cider Market
• Research Methodology
• Executive Summary
• Market Dynamics of Cider Market
  • Driving Factors
  • Restraints
  • Opportunities
• Global Market Status and Forecast by Segment A
• Global Market Status and Forecast by Segment B
• Global Market Status and Forecast by Segment C
• Global Market Status and Forecast by Regions
• Upstream and Downstream Market Analysis of Cider Market
• Cost and Gross Margin Analysis of Cider Market
• Cider Market Report - Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth Trends, Regional Outlook, Competitive Strategies and Segment Forecasts 2024 - 2030
  • Competition Landscape
  • Market Share of Major Players
• Key Recommendations

The “Cider Market Report - Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth Trends, Regional Outlook, Competitive Strategies and Segment Forecasts 2024 - 2030” report helps the clients to take business decisions and to understand strategies of major players in the industry. The report delivers the market driven results supported by a mix of primary and secondary research. The report provides the results triangulated through authentic sources and upon conducting thorough primary interviews with the industry experts. The report includes the results on the areas where the client can focus and create point of parity and develop a competitive edge, based on real-time data results.

Cider Market Key Stakeholders

Below are the key stakeholders for the Cider Market:

• Manufacturers
• Distributors/Traders/Wholesalers
• Material/Component Manufacturers
• Industry Associations
• Downstream vendors

Cider Market Report Scope

COVID-19 Impact Analysis

Like most other markets, the outbreak of COVID-19 had an unfavorable impact on the Cider Market worldwide. This report discusses in detail the disruptions experienced by the market, the impact on flow of raw materials, manufacturing operations, production trends, consumer demand and the projected future of this market post pandemic.

The report has helped our clients:

• To describe and forecast the Cider Market size, on the basis of various segmentations and geography, in terms of value and volume
• To measure the changing needs of customers/industries
• To provide detailed information regarding the drivers, restraints, opportunities, and challenges influencing the growth of the market
• To gain competitive intelligence and uncover new opportunities
• To analyse opportunities in the market for stakeholders by identifying high-growth segments in Cider Market
• To strategically profile key players and provide details of the current competitive landscape
• To analyse strategic approaches adopted by players in the market, such as product launches and developments, acquisitions, collaborations, contracts, expansions, and partnerships

Report Customization

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