Securing important early listings is a milestone of any new business. And earlier this spring, Red Fin Cider did just that by sealing a listing for both its Fresh Apple and their Meloncherry styles at Waitrose.

44 Waitrose stores now stock Red Fin Cider, a product launched by three industry veterans and friends, Freddie Rouse, Dave Tugwell and Graeme Baldwin, who saw a need for a new and vibrant brand in the category that was both independently craft but also accessible and a real celebration of Somerset apples, delivering a cider that stacks up in the world of craft beer.

This follows on from the business quickly establishing itself in the on-trade, already gaining a significant national presence and loyal following since its launch in June 2024, becoming one of the fastest-growing cider brands and drinks brands in the UK.

So what better time to revisit our conversation with co-founder Dave Tugwell. In this episode we reflect on how launching a new business is always an exciting time and a challenging one, too.

He talks through the company’s journey so far. We also discuss the trio launching into a competitive category, its place in the wider world of craft beer and its commitment to showing consumers that cider can, and should be, fun.

#174 | Early milestones and building business