Fresh-Pressed apple cider for markets and shops

Farmers market shoppers, local grocery and specialty stores, cafes, farm stands, schools and families around fall events.

Sales by the bottle, half gallon or gallon, plus bulk orders from shops and cafes. Add-ons like cider donut partnerships or event pop-ups can increase sales in the busy fall season.

• Basic food handling and cleanliness
• Sourcing and buying produce
• Selling face to face at markets

• Rules on pasteurization, UV treatment or warning labels for fresh juice vary by state and by how you sell, so check with your state and the FDA guidance
• Food business permit from your health department and any required food safety training
• General liability and product liability insurance
• Sales are very seasonal, so plan cash flow for the off months
• Cold storage and a reliable cold chain for transport

Startup costs are typically around $8,000 to $35,000, depending on your press, bottling and cold storage equipment and the space you rent or convert. Treat these as estimates and get quotes before buying.

Monthly revenue is typically around $1,500 to $7,500, depending on how much cider you press and where you sell it. Sales are very seasonal, so plan your cash flow for the off months.

Rules on pasteurization, UV treatment or warning labels for fresh juice vary by state and by how you sell, so check with your state and FDA guidance. Also check for a health department food business permit and any required food safety training.