Amagh-based family firm Long Meadow Cider has landed an exclusive contract with George Best Belfast City Airport’s Bushmills Bar.

The craft cider contract with HMS Host International was secured after the cider firm won Northern Ireland’s ‘Best’ local food and drink product competition for its Blossom Burst Cider.

“Bottled cider is one of the most popular selling bottled, alcoholic products in the Bushmills Bar and St. Georges Market at Belfast City Airport,” said Alex Woodhouse, Hospitality Manager at HMSHost.

“The feedback from our customers so far has been fantastic, so we’re delighted to work with Long Meadow as our exclusive craft cider partner.”

SUPPORTING LOCAL BRANDS

The competition, launched by Belfast City Airport in partnership with Food NI earlier this year, was designed to create strong links with leading, local suppliers.

“At Belfast City Airport, we are passionate about championing and supporting local brands,”  said Joanne Deighan, Commercial Manager at Belfast City Airport.

“With passengers travelling from across the UK, or further afield, it is vital that our retail and product offering is of a high standard. To be able to provide local produce to these customers is fantastic.”

Peter McKeever, one of the Founders and Managing Directors at Long Meadow Cider, added: “Having our Blossom Burst Cider named Northern Ireland’s ‘Best’ local food and drink product and receiving £30,000 of marketing support has been a real turning point in our business.

“Belfast City Airport welcomes approximately 2.7m passengers from domestic and international locations, providing us with a considerable platform to showcase our product.”

The company, which makes its ciders from 100% natural Bramley apples grown on its farm, has also launched a new Rhubarb and Honey flavoured cider.

“This new flavour is not only to celebrate our fourth year in business but also in response to demand for flavoured ciders,” added McKeever.

The company also exports to France, Mexico, Italy and continues to attract international interest.