Looking Ahead: The Next Chapter for the ACA
The American Cider Association is making changes to how we operate in response to shifts across the cider industry and the broader beverage alcohol landscape. Our focus is on strengthening how we serve members, deliver more value through advocacy, education, and connection, while building a more sustainable and focused organization for the future.
This transition includes a staff-led operating model with clear ownership across key areas, along with an updated approach to how we deliver CiderCon® to better meet the needs of our membership. We recognize that this is a significant update and may raise questions, and we want to provide additional clarity on what this means for you and your membership. Below are answers to some of the questions we anticipate members may have. We encourage you to reach out to ACA staff at any time.
What does this mean for me as a member?
Our goal is to provide clearer, more focused value across the areas that matter most: advocacy, education, and member resources. You will see more consistency, stronger communication, and continued investment in programs that directly support your business.
Who is leading the organization now?
ACA has shifted to a staff-led structure with clear ownership across key areas:
- Jenn Martell – Advocacy and industry partnerships
- Jennie Dorsey – Education and certification programs
- Ellen Husch – Membership engagement and CiderCon operations
The Board of Directors continues to provide strategic oversight, support and industry leadership.
Is this change related to financial challenges?
Like many organizations in today’s environment, ACA is adapting to changes in the industry and event landscape, including rising costs. This transition reflects a strategic decision to align our structure and resources with current needs, allowing us to focus on the areas that deliver the greatest impact for members while building a more sustainable operating model for the future.
Will my membership or benefits change?
Membership remains central to ACA’s work, and we are focused on delivering clear, meaningful value to our members. As part of this restructuring, we are streamlining our resources to make them easier to access and prioritizing core benefits, including:
- Monthly educational webinars
- Preferred vendor discounts
- Industry insights and business tools
- Sensory programming and networking opportunities
Will CiderCon® change?
Yes. The ACA is reenvisioning CiderCon® to better align with industry needs and ensure long-term financial sustainability. The event landscape is changing, and we are making meaningful updates to how CiderCon® is structured so it can continue to deliver value to members.
What will not change is the core of what makes CiderCon® unique. CiderShare, technical cider-focused education, and the informal networking that defines the experience (LobbyCon) will remain central to the event and continue to provide a distinctly cider-focused conference experience.
More details will be shared soon, including an announcement about CiderCon 2027 at GLINTCAP.
How can I share feedback or get involved?
We welcome your input! Member feedback is an important part of shaping ACA’s direction. Please reach out to info@ciderassociation.org with questions, ideas, or feedback or contact a member of staff directly.
###