Thatchers collaborates with Aardman Animations in new commercial

Thatchers Cider unveils a new TV commercial today which sees the Somerset cider-maker collaborate with multi-Academy Award winning studio, Aardman.

Airing for the first time at 9.15pm on 25 May, the commercial uses stop motion animation to bring the viewer through the gates of Thatchers’ own Myrtle Farm home in a light-hearted and affectionate way.

Iconic elements of Myrtle Farm such as its orchards, help tell the story of carefully crafting the perfect drop of cider. Some familiar faces make an appearance throughout the commercial, including fourth generation cider maker Martin Thatcher making a big entrance for the weekly 12.30 tasting. Viewers may also recognise the iconic Thatchers hot air balloon from previous ads, as well as Myrtle, the family dog.

Thatchers Cider, with market leading premium brands including Thatchers Gold, Haze and Blood Orange, is still making cider at the same family farm where founder William Thatcher first grew and pressed apples almost 120 years ago. The Pint-Sized Perfection commercial tells the story of the Thatchers commitment to crafting the tastiest ciders.

“Partnering with Aardman, a truly iconic brand with such amazing creative genius, and situated in the West Country as we are, allows us to introduce consumers to a new light-hearted, storytelling creative about our ciders," said Martin Thatcher, who has had cameo appearances in all of Thatchers recent TV ads.

“With total commitment to quality, perfection and sustainability every step of the way, the commercial shines a spotlight on the Thatchers world in this contemporary way.”

The commercial will have a multi-media launch, the campaign continuing through to August. This will include linear TV, broadcast video on demand, cinema and YouTube. This will be enhanced with 48 sheet and 6 sheet OOH, and a consumer focussed social media campaign.