Future industry challenges to be focus of seminar

UK cidermakers are being invited to a seminar next month to ensure they are kept fully updated on issues affecting the industry.

The Seminar, to be held at Sheppy’s Cider at Bradford on Tone - between Taunton and Wellington - on February 10 is aimed at all members of the NACM plus affiliated organisations, such as the Three Counties Cider and Perry Association.

'Events are moving fast on a whole range of issues that could have significant effects on our industry and we want to ensure that as many of those involved as possible have the opportunity to be fully briefed on how they may be affected and the action the industry is taking in response,' said Harry Turner, chair of the NACM’s Marketing and Communication Committee.

'We would particularly like to see as many small producers as possible attend  because we are aware that many of them will not have the same opportunity, or resources, of the larger companies to keep abreast of developments on a regular basis,' he said.

NACM chair Henry Chevallier will be outlining the main issues affecting the industry today and each of the main committee chairs and advisers will be giving a presentation on the issues affecting their area -Pomology, Sustainable Development, Technical, Social Responsibility, Marketing and Communications and EU issues in both the short and longer term - and there will be two question and answer sessions.

'But the session will not be all one way,' said Harry. 'We will also be seeking members views on the work of the Association - what it does well, what it should be doing more of or what it should not be doing at all, as it is important we accurately reflect the views and concerns of members.'

Issues that will be discussed include how the industry is planning for a sustainable future at a time of rapid climate and environmental change, the industry position on alcohol misuse and the whole social responsibility agenda and how we respond to possible changes in duty and taxation.

The presentations will be available on a CD Rom to take away at the end of the event. There will also be the opportunity to visit Sheppy's Wetlands facility and their cidermaking operation.

Places are limited to 50 so it is important that those wishing to attend get their names in as soon as possible.

Anyone interested should contact:

January 4, 2010

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