Whiteways Cyder Co. Ltd Round Black Backed Steel

Whiteways Cyder Co. Ltd black backed tray dating from 1931.

Origins of the Business

The business was established in Whimple, Devon, in 1893.
The Company's extensive orchards, amongst the largest in the world, were a famous feature on the Devon landscape.
After the end of prohibition, Whiteways exported thousands of gallons of cyder to the USA.
Along with Bulmers, Coates, and Gaymers, Whiteways became one the most famous British cyder manufacturers.
The Company produced two well-known brands, Cidrax and Peardrax.

Merger with Showerings Ltd and William Gaymer & Sons Ltd

In 1971, Showerings Ltd of Shepton Mallet became the dominant partner after a merger with Whiteways, and William Gaymer & Son Ltd of Norfolk.
When Whiteways sales decreased in the 1980s, the end was near for its cyder factory and its orchards.
Whiteways was closed in 1989 and the factory land was sold for housing development.
The orchards became redundant but thankfully have recently found a new lease of life due to renewed demand for real cyder.

The manufacturer's mark states - "Hancor" Mitcham IOM 1.31.1
This tray is highly unusual in that it has a small change tray attached to it.
The proper title of these items are "waiter trays" and here is a fine example of where a waiter would serve the beer or cider and place the change in the dish attached.