The new additions include the introduction of new apple bays, a water transportation system, another press and six temperature-controlled fermentation tanks.
The new 100,000 litre tanks can hold the juice of around 6m apples in total and sees the cyder producer increasing its tank capacity by 60%.
According to Healeys, this new infrastructure will enhance its onsite visitor experience, as well as delivering a higher quality of juice thanks to less bruising and better cleaning of the apples.
“This latest investment shows our continued commitment to expand our production processes and enhance visitor experience. We’re committed to the long-term sustainable development of the farm, and always enjoy integrating a unique visitor experience along the way,” Joe Healey, Managing Director, trading at Healeys commented.
“We’ve introduced a new water recirculation system, which aims to filter, treat and recirculate our pressing water, so it can be reused throughout the season, which together with our rainwater harvesting, should reduce our water consumption per litre of cider produced.”
The developments are part of Cornish Cyder’s long-term vision to reduce its carbon footprint, having set itself a five-year goal to be 75% self-sufficient using renewable energy sources. Since moving to the family farm in 1986, the company has planted more than 25,000 trees and invested in wind and solar energy.
Founded in 1980, Healeys is the largest independent cyder-maker in the county and is also home to Kay’s Cyderhouse which boats a collection of Healey cars, with the family being direct descendants of Donald Healey, the inventor of the Austin Healey car.
