What challenges do you face as a mead producer in the current beverage market? Like most small businesses, we face a range of challenges. Rising production costs and shifts in consumer spending habits are real issues, especially with pubs and restaurants closing at unprecedented rates, which limits our distribution. Brexit disrupted our export routes, and recent excise duty hikes in 2023—with more expected in 2025—are squeezing margins across the industry. But the biggest challenge is changing perceptions of mead. Many people think of it as overly sweet, due to mass-produced versions. Our mission is to show that naturally made mead can be as refined and complex as wine. How does sustainability play a role in your production process? Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. We prioritise working with other small, family businesses, which supports local economies and reduces supply chain waste. We’ve also switched to energy-e cient LEDs and water heaters, and we ferment in plastic vessels. This might seem counterintuitive, but plastic has a lower carbon footprint overall, as it doesn’t require the extensive cleaning and temperature control of stainless steel. What new products or plans can customers expect from Lancashire Mead Company in the coming year? We’re excited about a couple of limited-edition releases. We’re using a unique honey from Stockport that’s “too moist” for traditional use but perfect for a special mead batch. Additionally, we’re exploring the use of hops, which could add a new dimension to our Thor’s and Thrud’s Meads. We’re also planning a brand refresh to appeal to a wider audience while remaining true to our values. It’s an exciting time with a lot of innovation on the horizon!
2024/2025 Events
Ormskirk Artisan Market // 1st December 2024 // Moor St, Ormskirk, L39 2XN
Goosnargh Christmas Market // 7th December 2024 // Whittingham and Goosnargh Social Club, Whittingham, Preston, PR3 2JE
Oxton Christmas Market // 8th December 2024 // Oxton Cricket Club, Townfield Ln, Birkenhead, CH43 2LH
Northwich Artisan Market // 14th December 2024 // Witton St, Northwich, CW9 5AE
Lark Lane Farmers Market // 21st December 2024 // Lark Lane, Aigburth, Liverpool L17 8UP
An Evening With - Ticket required // 19th February 2025 Barley Hall, 2 Co ee Yard, York YO1 8AR
10th Century Traders // 21st-23rd February 2025 // Merchant Adventurer's Hall, Fossgate, York, YO1 9XD
Heysham Viking Festival // 19th - 20th July 2025 Carr Ln, Heysham, Morecambe LA3 2RL
Visit Lancashire Meads Online Shop at; lancashiremeadcompany.co.uk
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