A huge thank you to Dan Cotterell of Thatchers Cider for the warm welcome and for hosting both myself and our new Training Administrator, Richard Gough, on a recent visit to Myrtle Farm in Sandford, North Somerset.
Thatchers is a business steeped in tradition and innovation. With over 120 years of cider-making heritage, the company is proudly run by the fourth generation of the Thatcher family. From humble beginnings, Thatchers now has over 550 acres of orchards and is the largest independently owned cider marker in the UK and home to the South West’s most popular pint, Thatchers Gold!
Our visit included a fascinating tour of the site’s impressive and ever-evolving facilities. One of the standout developments was the new warehouse expansion, aptly named The Hive. This fully automated facility can store up to 18,000 pallets and is a fantastic example of how Thatchers is embracing technology to improve efficiency and scale, ensuring customer satisfaction is at the heart of the business.
Since my last visit, it’s clear that significant investment has continued across the site including a Pentair CO₂ recovery plant. All ciders are made using 100% green electricity, including power from the 3,500 solar panels on the roof of the mill – all strong steps towards a more sustainable future.
It was also wonderful to see the original wooden vats still in use – a proud reminder of the company’s heritage and a testament to the quality and tradition that continues to underpin Thatchers’ cider-making process.
Thanks again to Dan and the team for an insightful and enjoyable day – and best of luck with the continued growth and innovation at Myrtle Farm.
