PEOPLE in countries as distinct as Singapore, Germany and Japan are getting a taste of Somerset as a 200-year-old cider firm ramps up its exports.
Sheppy's Cider, of Bradford-on-Tone, aims to more than double export sales this year after securing six new international contracts in the past year.
The sixth-generation family business supplies its bottles, cans and kegs to independent retailers, brewers and pub groups across the UK and 10 other countries.
Exports currently account for four per cent of annual turnover and the firm wants to boost that to 10 per cent before the year end.
The business recently won a contract to ship seven of its award-winning ciders to Estonia.
The business has received support from advisers at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs and the Department for International Trade to help explore international markets.
DIT advisers in the South West put Sheppy’s in touch with embassy staff in several countries to source market information.
The support is part of the Food is GREAT campaign, the UK Government’s cross-department initiative to showcase UK food and drink overseas and help firms export.
Mel Timmins, Sheppy's head of sales, said: "We first started exporting our products in 2012, and since then we’ve established our brand in 10 countries worldwide.
"This year, we'll start exporting to new markets like Estonia and India, and we’re receiving new requests from different countries weekly, making now the right time to focus on our exporting operations.
"We pride ourselves on using the same methods of production used generations ago and some of our oak vats have been in use for more than 100 years.
Mel Timmins.
"While we use a lot of modern technology too, our traditional methods are what make our brand so popular, both in the UK and overseas.
"However, no export venture is without its challenges. We found identifying ideal buyers can be problematic, which is why we've involved DIT at a very early stage as another pair of eyes to confirm if prospects would be beneficial for us.
"Exporting has been vital in helping grow our business, particularly as it irons out the seasonality of our sales. The southern hemisphere’s seasons are the opposite of ours, meaning we get year-round demand for a refreshing chilled cider."
Paul Shand, South West regional director for the DIT, said: "The South West has a rich heritage in cider and ale, and it’s encouraging to see a local brand harnessing the success international trade can bring.
"Sheppy’s Cider has set a great example to local firms looking to either export for the first time or to grow their international footprint.
"But businesses shouldn’t feel like they have to go it alone, particularly when factors such as tax, language and capacity can be a concern for many."
Firms looking for support should contact 01275-370 944 or e-mail DITsw@mobile.trade.gov.uk and visit great.gov.uk
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