On April 20, 2021, Cider Canada / Cidre Canada was officially incorporated. Five years later, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on what we’ve built together — and where we’re heading next.
We came together at a critical time for the sector, with a clear and immediate focus: to advocate for Canadian cider makers, including taking on the challenges around excise taxation. That work continues today, and it remains a core part of our role.
But what stands out most over these five years is how quickly we moved from an idea to a national organization with real impact.
Together, we’ve:
- Established a unified national voice for Canadian cider
- Engaged directly with federal and provincial governments on key policy issues
- Launched the Canadian Cider Awards to celebrate excellence across the sector
- Developed export programming to support market access and international growth
- Built partnerships across agriculture, tourism, and beverage sectors
- Created new opportunities for promotion, collaboration, and storytelling
At the same time, we’ve continued to support members in practical ways — through communications, advocacy, programs, and by simply making sure that Canadian cider has a seat at the table in national conversations.
Over the past year in particular, we’ve seen strong momentum in several areas:
- Expansion of our export strategy and federal program engagement
- Continued growth and recognition of the Canadian Cider Awards
- Development of the Canadian Cider Assurance (CQA) framework
- Steps towards the release of the Prud’homme Level 1 cider course
- Increased visibility for cider in media and industry spaces
All of this work is rooted in the same principle that brought us together in 2021: that Canadian cider is stronger when we work collectively.
As we look ahead, our focus remains clear:
- Continue advocating for fair and modern policy, including excise reform
- Support members in growing their businesses and reaching new markets
- Strengthen national coordination and sector alignment
- Invest in programs that build long-term sustainability and recognition
None of this happens without you. Thank you for your Membership!
Your participation, your ideas, and your commitment to the sector are what make this organization work. Whether you’ve been involved from the beginning or joined more recently, you are part of what we’re celebrating today.
For now, I just want to say thank you.
Here’s to five years — and to everything we build next.
Cheers,
Barry Rooke
Executive Director
Cider Canada / Cidre Canada