Martin Thatcher, fourth generation cider maker and managing director, 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.

 

“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.”

 

Part of Eleanor’s focus has been on sustainability, biodiversity, and reducing the company’s carbon footprint. She commented: “As a family company we’ve been working closely with nature for 120 years. And as a fifth-generation cider maker, I am here thanks to the forward thinking and planning of the four generations before me.

 

“Since 2010 we have planted 158,000 trees and we plan to plant another 13,000 more next year. From regenerative farming to planting wildflower meadows and working with the Bumblebee Trust to create bee friendly orchards.”

 

In other news from the cider marker, Thatchers recently renewed its partnership with stop-motion animation studio Aardman for a sport-themed advertising campaign.