GRUPO EL GAITERO – A Tradition of Excellence in Cider and Beverages
GRUPO EL GAITERO, headquartered in Villaviciosa, Spain, is a renowned producer of traditional Asturian cider, wines, fruit juices, and confectionery products. With a history dating back to 1890, the company has become synonymous with premium-quality beverages and a commitment to innovation, sustainability, and heritage preservation.
Core Business and Specialization
El Gaitero is recognized for its expertise in cider production, combining centuries-old techniques with modern brewing technology to create authentic and innovative beverages. The company specializes in:
- Sparkling and natural ciders, made from high-quality Asturian apples.
- Premium wines, under the Real Agrado brand, sourced from Rioja vineyards.
- Fruit juices, particularly apple and pear concentrates.
- Prepared foods and confectionery, including traditional sweets and baked goods.
Product Portfolio
Grupo El Gaitero offers a diverse range of beverages and food products, catering to both local and international markets.
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Ciders
- Traditional Sparkling Cider
- Natural Sparkling Cider
- Alcohol-Free Cider
- Organic and Premium Ciders
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Wines (Real Agrado Brand)
- Rioja Crianza
- Rioja Reserva
- Tempranillo Blanco
-
Juices
- 100% Natural Apple Juice
- Pear Juice Concentrates
-
Prepared Foods & Confectionery
- Traditional Spanish Pastries
- Ready-to-Eat Apple-Based Dishes
Financial Performance and Growth
Grupo El Gaitero continues to expand its global footprint, driven by strong domestic sales and rising international demand for Spanish ciders and beverages.
- Annual Revenue (2023 Estimate): €90-110 million.
- Export Share: Over 40% of total production is exported internationally.
- Production Volume: Over 30 million liters of cider annually.
Global Presence and Export Markets
Grupo El Gaitero has solidified its presence in over 50 countries, supplying top retail chains, restaurants, and distributors worldwide.
- Top Export Destinations: United States, United Kingdom, Germany, Mexico, France, Japan.
- Key Retail & Distribution Partners: Carrefour, El Corte Inglés, Tesco, Auchan, Costco.
- Private Label & OEM Partnerships: Supplying cider and juice for international beverage brands.
Target Market
Grupo El Gaitero caters to a wide range of consumers and businesses, including:
- Retail consumers, looking for high-quality cider and traditional beverages.
- Hotels, restaurants, and cafés (HoReCa), serving premium ciders and wines.
- Gourmet and specialty food stores, stocking Spanish delicacies and beverages.
- Private-label partners, collaborating on customized beverage solutions.
Certifications and Compliance
Grupo El Gaitero is committed to food safety, quality assurance, and sustainability, holding multiple internationally recognized certifications.
- ISO 22000 Certified – Global food safety management.
- IFS (International Featured Standard) Food Certification – Ensuring high food safety and quality standards.
- Organic Certification (EU) – For select cider and juice products.
- BRC (British Retail Consortium) Certification – Meeting UK and EU food safety requirements.
- PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) for Asturian Ciders – Ensuring authenticity and local sourcing.
Sustainability Initiatives
The company prioritizes sustainability and environmental responsibility, implementing eco-friendly practices throughout its production process.
- Sustainable Apple Farming: Partnering with local Asturian orchards to ensure high-quality, responsibly sourced apples.
- Zero-Waste Production: Utilizing apple by-products for animal feed and biogas production.
- Eco-Friendly Packaging: Reducing plastic use and transitioning to recyclable glass bottles and biodegradable materials.
- Renewable Energy Investments: Incorporating solar energy and energy-efficient equipment in production facilities.
Consumer and Industry Testimonials
Grupo El Gaitero has received global recognition for its commitment to quality, tradition, and innovation.
- "El Gaitero’s sparkling cider is the best I’ve ever tasted—crisp, refreshing, and perfectly balanced!" – Wine & Spirits Enthusiast, USA.
- "Their Real Agrado Rioja wines are on par with some of the finest Spanish wineries. Exceptional quality!" – Sommelier, UK.
- "The company’s dedication to sustainability and traditional Asturian cider-making is truly commendable." – Food & Beverage Distributor, Germany.
Major Achievements
- 2023 International Cider Awards – Gold Medal Winner for Traditional Sparkling Cider.
- Top 3 Spanish Cider Exporter, serving over 50 global markets.
- Expansion into Asian Markets, securing new partnerships in Japan and China.
- Sustainable Beverage Innovation Award, recognizing eco-friendly production methods.
Grupo El Gaitero remains a market leader in premium Spanish ciders and beverages, blending tradition, sustainability, and innovation to bring the authentic flavors of Asturias to the world.
