[Ottawa/Ontario]
Press Release
For Immediate Release
February 23, 2025
Cider Canada / Cidre Canada Announces Collaborative Initiative to Establish a VQA-Style Quality Management System
[Ottawa/Ontario]— Cider Canada / Cidre Canada is proud to confirm its commitment to enhancing the quality, consistency, and market recognition of Canadian cider through the establishment of a VQA-style Quality Management System (QMS). This project, developed in collaboration with leading academic institutions and industry experts, aims to elevate the reputation of Canadian cider both domestically and internationally.
Goals of the Initiative
The initiative is designed to achieve the following objectives:
- Quality Assurance: Develop a standardized framework to ensure the quality and authenticity of Canadian cider.
- Market Differentiation: Provide a clear designation that helps traditional cider makers stand out in a competitive market.
- Educational Resources: Offer training tools, webinars, and technical support to cider makers across the country.
- Industry Growth: Strengthen the sector by promoting best practices, increasing consistency, and boosting consumer confidence.
Engaging Our Membership and the Public & Transparency
This initiative will be shaped by input from our membership, reflecting the values and expertise of Canadian cider makers. Through ongoing collaboration, Cider Canada/ Cidre Canada will provide updates, educational opportunities, and platforms for dialogue to ensure all members have a voice in shaping this QMS.
The project will proceed under a comprehensive Terms of Reference (ToR), which outlines the goals, scope, and governance structure for this initiative. The ToR ensures transparency and accountability throughout the process while defining the roles of key stakeholders.
What’s Next?
Cider Canada and its partners are in the process of developing the detailed work plan and submitting a funding application to support the project’s implementation. The organization is actively looking for assistance to help in founding this project. Once funding is secured, the project will move into its next phase, including the rollout of QMS training materials and awareness campaigns.
Quote from Barry Rooke, Executive Director
“This initiative marks an exciting milestone for Canadian cider. By establishing a VQA-style designation, we are not only ensuring quality and consistency but also creating a stronger identity for our industry. This is a collaborative effort, and we are thrilled to work alongside our members and partners to bring this vision to life.”
Stay Connected
For updates on this initiative and opportunities to get involved, visit our website at cidercanada.ca or follow us on social media @CiderCidreCa
Media Contact
Barry Rooke
Cider Canada / Cidre Canada Executive Director
info@cidercanada.ca
Call for Subcommittee Members: Funding Program Development
Subject: Join the Subcommittee to Develop Cider Canada’s Funding Program
Dear Members & Partners,
Cider Canada / Cidre Canada is excited to advance our VQA-style Quality Management System (QMS) initiative, a transformative project for the Canadian cider industry. As part of this effort, we are launching a subcommittee under the working group to focus on developing a comprehensive funding application. Your expertise and insights are invaluable to making this initiative a success.
Project Overview
Working alongside the VQA Working Group, the Subcommittee will develop the funding application aimed to secure the resources needed to implement the QMS, which will support quality assurance, market differentiation, and industry growth. This initiative will involve collaboration with partner colleges, industry representatives, and cider makers across Canada to ensure its success.
Key Subcommittee Goals:
- Develop a collaborative funding application process.
- Draft and refine a comprehensive funding proposal.
- Ensure alignment with strategic goals and funding body requirements.
Who We Are Looking For
We are seeking motivated and skilled individuals who are passionate about supporting the growth of the Canadian cider industry and have experience or expertise in the following areas:
- Grant Writing and Fundraising
- Individuals with a proven track record of developing successful grant applications or fundraising campaigns.
- Experience in securing funding from government bodies, private organizations, or industry associations is highly desirable.
- Connections with funding bodies.
- VQA or ISO Certification Experience
- Professionals with experience in developing, implementing, or working within quality assurance systems, such as VQA (Vintners Quality Alliance) or ISO 9001 standards.
- Expertise in regulatory compliance, certification processes, or quality management systems specific to the food and beverage industry is a strong asset.
- Bilingualism (English/French)
- Bilingual candidates are particularly valuable as this project spans Canada’s diverse linguistic communities.
We welcome applications from a wide range of professionals, including cider makers, industry representatives, academics, and other stakeholders from various backgrounds and experiences (including those who have not done this work before but are interested in learning).
Roles and Responsibilities
Subcommittee Members:
- Attend planning and review meetings.
- Contribute expertise in cider production, grant writing, or industry data.
- Assist with data collection, outreach, and content development for the application.
Subcommittee Lead:
- Coordinate the subcommittee’s activities with the larger working group.
- Ensure timelines and deliverables are met.
Support Roles:
- Cider Canada staff and college representatives will provide technical and administrative support.
Timeline
The subcommittee will operate over a 4-6 week period starting immediately. Meetings will be virtual to ensure accessibility.
How to Get Involved
We are seeking passionate and experienced individuals from our membership to join this subcommittee. Whether you are a cider maker, industry expert, or college partner, your input is crucial to ensuring the success of this initiative. Complete the form here.
Thank you for considering this opportunity to make a lasting impact!
Barry Rooke
Cider Canada / Cidre Canada Executive Director
