Northumberland seltzer manufacturer secures jobs following contract wins

A Northumberland drinks manufacturer has announced that it has secured jobs following an increase in demand.

RIDE, the first hard seltzer fully made and canned in Britain, has secured new contracts to can other producers’ drinks following the brand’s ‘rapid’ growth.

The new contracts will also secure 13 jobs at RIDE’s parent company, Allendale Brewery, despite Covid-19’s ongoing challenges to the hospitality industry.

RIDE co-owner Lucy Hick commented: “We have been surprised and delighted by demand from other brands – a direct result of the success of RIDE - to create hard seltzer bases and can other seltzers and ready-to-drink products such as gin and tonic.

“Thanks to the investment we made in our canning plant in order to accommodate RIDE, we can offer versatility and flexibility, producing large and small batches for other brands in a range of sizes, including 330ml sleek and standard, 440ml and 250ml slim.

“Our base here in the North Pennines is rural and historic, but our canning capability is state-of-the-art.

“We knew it was a risk, investing in a brand new product and an expanded canning line during lockdown, but the rapid success of RIDE, and the associated new business it has brought to us, is transformative; keeping our people in jobs despite the impact of the pandemic on the hospitality industry.

“We’ve never seen a product grow so quickly in popularity at home and abroad.

“Now it’s brought us additional contracts which are helping to secure the future growth of the business, and secure jobs. And all from a lockdown launch. It’s exceeded all our expectations.”

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