CAMRA Cider & Perry - APPLE

CAMRA is often seen as a Consumer pressure group solely interested in campaigning for the real ale drinker, yet since its early days it has also fought for the survival of real cider and perry in the UK.

A cider & perry committee (APPLE) meets on a regular basis to ensure CAMRA values regarding quality, choice and value for money are upheld for the consumer with regard to cider & perry. CAMRA is kept up to date on news of producers and outlets through a network of Regional Reps, who in turn are members of their local CAMRA branches.

Amongst the acknowledged successes of this committee has been assisting with surveying for the CAMRA Good Cider Guide which lists local producers and outlets across the UK; assisting at CAMRA festivals by selling cider & perry; and establishing the Pomona Award for recognition of services to cider & perry. CAMRA also runs the National Judging of Champion Cider and Perry of the Year awards each May hosted by Reading Beer & Cider Festival.

The committee constantly monitors the industry to provide early warnings of any upcoming legislation or new production methods that may threaten the viability of small producers or which could affect the quality and style of real cider.

CAMRA can disseminate advice and make introductions to larger producers for small cider makers and novices through its network of local Reps. CAMRA can also effectively lobby MP’s in Westminster via CAMRA HQ on legislation of interest to the cider drinkers in the UK. In addition the committee can give Local Branches and Reps. ideas and inspiration on the selection of real cider and perry at festivals; on trips to Producers; and on newsletter articles.

The committee has recently been relaunched with the production of a cider and perry promotional plan, linked to its core aims. The action plan includes surveys, seminars and training days aimed at CAMRA branches and members; as well as promotional material (posters/leaflets etc) intended to encourage new consumers and publicans to try real cider and perry.

- CAMRA has an interest in cider and perry.
- A group of meets on a regular basis to discuss issues.
- There is a network of Regional Reps.
- Promotes cider and perry.
- Sells cider and perry at Beer festivals.
- Run the yearly judging of the National Cider & Perry of the Year Awards.
- Produces the CAMRA Good Cider Guide, listing local producers and outlets.
- Encourages pubs to stock real cider and perry.
- Can identify people to give advice to outlets, festivals, and producers.
- Liaise with Cider Makers Associations.
- Liaise with Westminster via HQ.
- Monitor the industry generally.
- Maintain a database of Producers.

Email the local branch for more information.