If you were a cider aficionado in the 80s and 90s, you’d undoubtedly recall the sweet, crisp taste of Woodpecker Cider.
Its popularity made it a staple at many a gathering, with its distinctive green bottle and lively woodpecker logo.
However, over the years, you may have noticed that this brand has gradually faded from the shelves. So, what happened to Woodpecker Cider?
Woodpecker Cider’s disappearance can be attributed to changes in consumer preference, stiff competition, and a shift in branding and marketing strategies by the parent company, Heineken.
The Early Years of Woodpecker Cider
Woodpecker Cider, with its unique sweet taste and light, bubbly texture, was a household name in the UK. Founded in 1894 by Percy Bulmer, it was manufactured by the Bulmers company, now owned by Heineken. The cider was made from a blend of sweet dessert apples and was known for its lower alcohol content compared to other ciders on the market.
The Rise of Woodpecker Cider
In the late 20th century, Woodpecker Cider was very popular, especially among the younger crowd, due to its sweet flavor and effective marketing campaigns. The cider’s bright, cheerful branding, coupled with its affordable price, made it a hit. The brand also stood out for its distinctive green bottle and the lively woodpecker logo, which became synonymous with fun and vibrant gatherings.
The Shift in Consumer Preferences
However, as we entered the 21st century, consumer preferences began to shift. People started to move towards drier, more complex ciders. The sweet, light taste of Woodpecker Cider, which had once been its USP, started to be perceived as less sophisticated. This shift in preference was one of the main reasons behind the brand’s gradual disappearance from the market.
The Rise of Competitors
The cider market also saw an influx of new brands, sparking stiff competition. These brands offered a variety of flavors and styles, catering to a broader palate. Craft ciders and artisanal brands started to gain market share, making it harder for traditional brands like Woodpecker to keep up.
Rebranding by Heineken
In an attempt to keep up with changing consumer preferences and the evolving market, Heineken decided to rebrand and refocus their efforts on their more premium cider brands. Woodpecker Cider was pushed into the background, as brands like Strongbow and Bulmers took the forefront.
The Current Status of Woodpecker Cider
Today, Woodpecker Cider is still produced, albeit in lesser quantities and with less visibility. It can be found in some stores and online, but it is no longer the popular brand it once was. Despite its decline in popularity, it still holds a special place in the hearts of those who enjoyed it in its heyday.
Conclusion: The Legacy of Woodpecker Cider
While Woodpecker Cider may not be as ubiquitous as it once was, its legacy lives on. The brand’s rise and fall provide valuable lessons about the importance of adapting to changing market trends and consumer preferences.
Here are 10 facts about Woodpecker Cider:
1. Woodpecker Cider was founded in 1894 by Percy Bulmer.
2. It was known for its distinctive green bottle and lively woodpecker logo.
3. Woodpecker Cider had a lower alcohol content compared to other ciders.
4. The brand was popular for its sweet flavor, derived from a blend of dessert apples.
5. Woodpecker Cider was particularly popular among the younger crowd in the late 20th century.
6. Changing consumer preferences in the 21st century led to a decline in the popularity of Woodpecker Cider.
7. The rise of craft ciders and artisanal brands posed stiff competition to Woodpecker Cider.
8. Heineken, the parent company, decided to focus on their more premium cider brands, pushing Woodpecker into the background.
9. Woodpecker Cider is still produced today, though in lesser quantities and with less visibility.
10. Despite its decline, Woodpecker Cider remains a memorable brand for those who enjoyed it in its prime.
FAQs
Who made woodpecker cider?
Woodpecker Cider was originally made by the Bulmers cider company in the United Kingdom.
Do Bulmers still make Woodpecker cider?
Yes, Bulmers still produces Woodpecker cider.
Has Woodpecker Cider been discontinued?
As of my knowledge, Woodpecker Cider has not been discontinued. However, it’s always a good idea to check with local retailers or the brand’s official website for the most up-to-date information on product availability.
Is woodpecker cider sweet or dry?
Woodpecker cider is generally considered to be a sweet cider.
What is similar to woodpecker cider?
Similar to Woodpecker Cider, there are several other popular cider brands available in the market. Some notable options include Strongbow, Magners, Bulmers, and Aspall. These brands offer a range of cider varieties with different flavors and strengths, catering to diverse preferences.
How strong is Woodpecker cider?
Woodpecker cider typically has an alcohol content of around 4.5% ABV (alcohol by volume).
