Vermont Hard Cider Company (Woodchuck) delays groundbreaking on $24 million cidery until 2013

The Vermont Hard Cider Company, LLC (VTHCC) will delay the start of construction on a new $24 million cidery until 2013. VTHCC had hoped to begin construction in Middlebury this summer, it announced today, but the permitting, engineering, design and bidding process has taken longer than expected.
VTHCC is nearing completion of these preliminary hurdles, it stated, but, "to start a project of this magnitude and scope just as the ground is beginning to freeze could further complicate construction budgets and timetables," it said in a statement.
‘Construction is not something we want to rush. This new cidery will serve as the centerpiece of the Woodchuck Hard Cider brand,’says President and CEO Bret Williams. ‘It will allow us to grow as a Vermont-based company and create a destination for our passionate fans to immerse themselves in the history and story of Woodchuck. This decision allows us to continue to pursue needed permits and further vet construction plans to ensure our fans and employees get the type of facility they deserve.’
Woodchuck Hard Cider continues to grow at more than 20 percent year to date and is expected to employ 135 people by the end of 2012. The current Middlebury facility will continue to handle and meet demand growth over the next year. A more specific timeframe on groundbreaking is expected in the new year.
About Vermont Hard Cider Company, LLC
Vermont Hard Cider Company, LLC, located in Middlebury, Vermont, is the leading hard cider producer in the United States, which includes the nation’s number one cider ‘Woodchuck Hard Cider. Having won 16 IMPACT Hot Brand Awards, Vermont Hard Cider Company, LLC is recognized for its superior cider brands. Vermont Hard Cider Company, LLC handcrafts and manages all levels of quality control in Middlebury, VT by employing a team of cider makers with over 30 years of combined experience directly in cider making and a team devoted exclusively to producing, marketing, and selling hard cider. More information is available at www.woodchuck.com.
Source:VTHCC 8.30.2012