The Austin-based Eastciders has been purchased by Blake's Beverage Company based in Michigan, maker of the well-known Blake's Hard Cider. As of November, the first, Blake's Beverage Company has operations and farms stretched out across Michigan, New York, Oregon, and Texas. This marks their second cider acquisition in the span of two years, the first being the purchase of Avid Cider Company back in March of 2022 as reported in Eater Austin.
Eastciders, founded in 2013 by both Ed Gibson and Mark King, has seen significant growth in recent years, with a variety of ciders that include original dry, blood orange, pineapple, Texas honey, and rosé flavors. The company succeeded to raise $5.7 million in equity funding from six investors in March, 2020, with their product now available in 22 states countrywide according to the Austin American-Statesman.
The companies announced via social media, with each reasserting their commitment to maintaining the unique "essence" of their cider brands while co-operating to increase their market presence. Eastciders reassured fans of their brand in light of the acquisition, stating that they have no intention to alter the beloved brand or to leave Texas as reported by the Austin American-Statesman.
Blake's Orchard and Cider Mill, the precursor to the now Blake's Hard Cider, was founded by Gerald and Elisabeth Blake in Armada, Michigan, in 1946. In 2013, Andrew Blake, founded the Hard Cider brand and expanded quickly into in national markets as cited by Eater Austin. Andrew Blake, the standing CEO and founder of Blake's Beverage Company, announced his ambition to become the largest independent cider company in America.
Ed Gibson, founder of Eastciders, had left the company in 2022 before co-founding Branch Cider in Bristol, England. Current Eastciders CEO and President, John Glick, joined in March 2022 and will maintain his role at the Texas-based company throughout the acquisition period Eater Austin reports.
Meanwhile, the Austin Eastciders' taproom located at 979 Springdale Road continues to be popular. The company's early taproom on Barton Springs, was to closed in March 2023 for focus more on production according to Eater Austin.
Blake's Beverage Company previously acquired AVID Cider Co. in Bend, Oregon, as part of their growth strategy as noted by the Austin American-Statesman.
Blake's Beverage Company, joined by the cider brands, holds potential information in shaping the hard cider market and altering consumer perception, all the while upholding the distinct flavor profiles for which each brand is recognized and cherished.
