The Apple Thief is a premium craft cider producer based in Batlow, New South Wales, Australia, a region renowned for its high-quality apples. Founded by David Purcell, the company is dedicated to creating exceptional small-batch ciders made from 100% locally grown apples and pears, with no added concentrates or artificial flavors. The Apple Thief has gained recognition as one of Australia’s top boutique cider brands, offering a range of refreshing, naturally fermented ciders with a strong focus on quality and sustainability.
Core Business and Product Offerings
The Apple Thief produces premium, all-natural ciders using Batlow-grown fruit, ensuring a crisp and authentic taste that highlights the unique characteristics of each variety.
Product Range:
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Apple Ciders:
- Granny Smith Cider – A sharp, tart, and refreshing cider made from premium Granny Smith apples.
- Pink Lady Cider – A naturally sweet, crisp, and aromatic cider crafted from Pink Lady apples.
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Pear Cider:
- William Pear Cider – A delicate and smooth cider made from William pears, delivering a light, fragrant, and subtly sweet experience.
Unique Selling Proposition (USP)
- 100% Australian-Grown Fruit – All ciders are made from fresh Batlow apples and pears, ensuring superior flavor and authenticity.
- No Artificial Additives – The Apple Thief ciders contain no concentrates, preservatives, or added sugars, resulting in a pure and natural taste.
- Crafted for Perfection – Each cider is produced using traditional cold fermentation techniques, preserving the fruit’s natural characteristics.
- Award-Winning Quality – Recognized at Australian and international cider competitions for its superior taste and craftsmanship.
- Sustainable & Ethical Production – The company follows eco-friendly production practices, reducing waste and supporting local farmers.
Financial Strength and Market Reach
The Apple Thief has experienced consistent growth in sales, driven by increased demand for craft beverages and premium ciders in the Australian and international markets.
Shipment and Export Data:
- Annual Production Volume: Over 250,000 liters of craft cider per year
- Number of Shipments: More than 1,500 national and international orders annually
- Key Export Markets: Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, UK
Target Market and Customer Segments
The Apple Thief serves a broad range of customers across the hospitality and retail sectors, including:
- Retail Consumers – Available in bottle shops, supermarkets, and specialty beverage stores.
- Bars & Restaurants – Featured in craft cider bars, gastropubs, and fine-dining establishments.
- Events & Festivals – A popular choice for food and beverage festivals, music events, and cider tastings.
- Online & Direct-to-Consumer – Available via e-commerce platforms and subscription-based cider delivery services.
Certifications and Compliance
The Apple Thief adheres to strict quality control and food safety standards, ensuring compliance with:
- HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) Certified
- Australian Alcohol & Beverage Safety Standards
- GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) Compliant
- Sustainable Brewing Practices
Customer Testimonials
- "The Granny Smith Cider is the best cider I’ve ever had—crisp, tart, and full of flavor!" – Michael Thompson, Sydney
- "The Apple Thief Pink Lady Cider is our top seller—customers love the natural sweetness and fresh apple aroma." – Sophie Williams, Craft Beer & Cider Bar Owner
Major Achievements and Recognitions
- Winner of ‘Best Craft Cider’ at the Australian Cider Awards (2023)
- Ranked in the Top 10 Boutique Ciders in Australia by Gourmet Traveller
- Expanded Distribution to Over 500 Retail Outlets Nationwide
- Official Partner of Major Food & Beverage Festivals in Australia
- Recognized for Sustainability Initiatives in Apple Sourcing & Production
With its commitment to craftsmanship, sustainability, and premium quality, The Apple Thief continues to grow as one of Australia’s leading craft cider brands, delivering exceptional cider experiences to consumers around the world.