GUINNESS has launched its first ever cider on the Irish market.

The new product, Hudson Blue, will compete with brands owned by the Clonmel based company Showerings which dominates the £70 million market.

Guinness Ireland is investing £6 million in the new brand and will introduce Hudson Blue to 750 pubs throughout the State over the next few weeks.

The cider is being produced for Guinness Ireland by H.P. Bulmers in Hereford and will be kegged in Waterford. H.R Bulmers previously owned the leading Irish cider, Bulmers, which is now owned by Showerings. H.P. Bulmers also makes Cashel's cider, which Guinness Ireland exports to continental Europe.