CHANCE CLEAN CIDER has been announced as the Headline Sponsor of the Cheshire & North Wales Food and Drink Festival, marking the first major festival backing for the UK’s dedicated non-alcoholic cider producer.
The popular event will return to Chester over the Easter Bank Holiday after being safeguarded earlier this year, ensuring the continuation of a long-standing fixture in the regional food and drink calendar.
The brand was established by drinks industry professional John Logue, who previously held senior roles with Rekorderlig, CROSSIP and Lucky Saint. Producing a 0.5% ABV cider made entirely from British apples in Worcestershire, CHANCE has rapidly positioned itself within the expanding alcohol-free market. The sponsorship represents a step into large-scale public events.
For the company, the collaboration reflects both brand development and the growing mainstream acceptance of alcohol-free options.
The partnership also carries a personal dimension, as John first moved to Chester as a student in 1999 and has remained in the city ever since.
He said: “This is a landmark moment for CHANCE. It’s the first festival we’ve sponsored, and it reflects both the growth of the brand and the growing demand for premium non-alcoholic options at major events. Consumers want choice, quality and inclusivity, and festivals are evolving to reflect that.”
Backing local producers and independent businesses was another factor in the decision, aligning with the festival’s ethos.
The event is now organised by Steven Hesketh and Katie Isaacson, who stepped in earlier this year to secure its future.
Steven said: “Having the UK’s first non-alcoholic cider brand as our Headline Sponsor reflects the direction the industry is moving in. The drinks landscape is changing rapidly, and we want this festival to reflect modern tastes while continuing to support independent producers.”
Taking place from Friday 3 April to Monday 6 April, the festival will feature leading chefs, artisan traders and family activities.
CHANCE will be represented throughout the venue, with products stocked across bar areas and a dedicated space within the Beer & Cider section. John Logue will also appear on stage as part of the event programme.
Matty Edgell is scheduled to headline on Saturday, with Brin Pirathapan appearing on Friday. Further names include Aiden Byrne, Neil Aitken, Lumberjaxe (Jaydon & Brendon), Paul Askew, Brian Mellor, Harry Elliott, Naomi Griffiths, James Ellams and Felix Shore, with an additional headliner yet to be revealed.
Trader applications and ticket sales are now open, and organisers advise early booking due to high demand.
More information is available at www.cnwfoodanddrinkfestival.com