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Companies

Health-Ade Kombucha secures series B funding from CAVU Venture

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AriZona ordered to make initial $125m payment to co-founder

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Company turns to crowdfunding to create blends with super plant

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New Zealand's iconic Bell tea brand purchased by investment firm

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Companies

Argo Tea opens fifth tea café in Manhattan

Argo Tea, a chain of tea cafés founded in Chicago, has opened its fifth New York City location in just over a year. The outlet, located in the Chelsea district, will replicate the "Argo experience" of all natural tea-based signature drinks, over 30 varieties of loose leaf teas, FairTrade organic coffee, fresh-baked pastries, specialty foods, and a selection of teaware and accessories. According to Argo Tea, the company relies on natural high quality products, earth-friendly and sustainable business practices, and industry-leading innovations. It has further 15 locations in the Chicago area and one in St. Louis. The retailer employs over 250 people.

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Companies

Cooper Tea and Third Street Chai to merge operations

Cooper Tea Co. and Third Street Chai, makers of concentrated beverages, have agreed to merge operations. Third Street sells chai and lemonade concentrates under Third Street and Pixie Mate brands. Cooper Teas specializes in iced tea concentrates. The Boulder County-based companies hope to leverage their manufacturing capabilities and expand distribution. Both operate on different markets: Cooper Tea distributes primarily to the food service and convenience store channel, whereas Third Street is established in the retail sector. The companies will operate independently under DrinkWorks umbrella brand. Third Street has 22 employees and Cooper Tea has 18. The financial details of the deal were not disclosed.

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Companies

Seattle tea shop celebrates 100th birthday

Although Seattle is usually associated with coffee rather than tea, a tea and spice shop in the Pike Place Market is celebrating its 100th anniversary. The outlet opened its doors in 1911 and remained in the same premises for the entire period. MarketSpice offers more than 100 different teas and more than 200 spices, along with coffee, candles and accessories. Apart from in-store sales, the teas are shipped across the US and internationally, as well as sold in certain retail locations. Not much is known about MarketSpice's early history, because most of the store's records were kept in a storage area that was flooded about 10 years ago.

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Companies

Sweet Leaf sees huge potential after Nestlé deal

After being fully acquired by Nestlé last week, Sweet Leaf Tea management claims that the move will mark a new era for the beverage company. The deal will grant Sweet Leaf access to Nestlé’s distribution channels and a powerful, 700 people strong sales and marketing force. The company claims there will be no immediate changes in staffing, but may consider consolidating operations as synergies between Nestlé's many brands arise. According to the company's founder, despite high commodity prices, the deal will ensure no retail price increases due to Nestlé's huge purchasing power. Nestlé hopes to double Sweet Leaf's combined turnover of $53 million in one to two years.

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Companies

Nestlé swallows Sweet Leaf Tea

Nestlé Waters North America, Inc., a subsidiary of the food giant Nestlé, has signed an agreement to acquire the Austin-based Sweet Leaf Tea Company, which owns Sweet Leaf and Tradewinds ready-to-drink iced tea brands. Its turnover is reported to total more than $53 million in 2010. Sweet Leaf Tea was founded in 1998 and sells naturally sweetened organic iced teas. Tradewinds, founded in 1993, specializes in brewed iced teas and tropical fruit juice drinks. This acquisition, which remains subject to applicable regulatory approval, will bolster Nestlé's beverage portfolio of bottled water to include high-quality iced teas, lemonades and juice drinks. Sales for Nestlé Waters North America topped $4 billion in 2010.

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Companies

Teavana prepares to go public

Teavana Holdings, Inc., a specialty tea retailer, has filled an initial public offering for up to $100 million last week with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Founded in 1997, the company now owns 146 stores in 34 states and 15 franchise stores, primarily in Mexico. Its net sales grew 38% in 2010, while comparable-store sales increased 8.7% compared to the same period in 2009. Net income was $12 million in fiscal 2010, up 126% from 2009. According to Teavana, its average transaction size is $35 and operating margins stand at 19%. The company plans to have 500 stores in the US by 2015 and expects to open 50 outlets in 2011. The share size and price, as well as the IPO date are yet to be announced.

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Companies

Rishi Tea warned by FDA over website claims

Rishi Tea, a manufacturer of organic gourmet teas, has been sent a warning letter from the FDA for promoting certain teas as drugs. According to the agency, Rishi Tea website claims establish certain products as drugs, because they are described as intended for use in the cure, mitigation, treatment or prevention of disease. The company was also notified that particular teas may not be marketed without prior approval from the FDA. Furthermore, Rishi Tea was warned about nutrient content claims and the use of the term "antioxidant", which did not meet FDA guidelines. The agency urges the company to review its website, product labels, and other labeling and promotional materials to ensure claims fall in line with current regulations.

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Companies

Canadian company presents Armenian herbal tea line

Authentic Teas, a boutique tea company based in Ontario, Canada, has launched a range of herbal teas sourced from Armenia. The teas are grown exclusively in the wild, without chemicals. The plants are then harvested and blended by hand using traditional methods, some of which were found in ancient Armenian manuscripts. The manufacturing takes place in indigenous village areas, where most of the economic benefits are returned to local artisans. The range has 6 varieties with blends of thyme, linden flowers, wild oregano and mint. A 1.75oz / 50g bag retails for approximately $11.

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Companies

Starbucks eyes single-cup machine market

Starbucks has revealed plans to offer single-serve brewing machines to rival the popular Keurig system. Keurig, the most popular brand, currently holds more than 80 percent of the market share. The brewing machines are destined to make Starbucks and Seattle's Best coffee, and Tazo tea infusions. This comes on the heels of a previous agreement between the coffee giant and Green Mountain Coffee, maker of single-cups for the Keurig system, to sell Starbucks coffee and Tazo tea pods for those machines. On a separate note, Starbucks has signed a deal to supply its products to over 500'000 luxury hotel rooms across the US.

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Companies

Socially responsible company scoops best black tea award

Ajiri Tea, a small tea company with a social mission of creating employment in Kenya, has been awarded the best black tea award in the 2011 North American Tea Championship. The tea, which competed against nearly 200 teas in 18 different categories, won for best brewed color, aroma, flavor and harmony. Ajiri Tea sells Kenyan tea to provide jobs for Kenyan women and pay school fees for orphans in western Kenya through the nonprofit Ajiri Foundation. The product packaging is handcrafted by local women from dried banana leaves. A pack of loose tea retails for $10, whereas 16 tea bags cost $9. Ajiri Tea is sold in nearly 200 outlets in the US. Other notable winners from the 2011 North American Tea Championship include Teagschwendner and Rishi Tea.

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Companies

Tea company raises funds for relief efforts in Japan

A Japanese tea company based in the UK has vowed to donate a percentage of its profits to help with relief efforts in Japan. Vitalife Matcha, a tea company that specializes in a Japanese green tea called matcha, will donate 25% of its profits over the next 4 months to the victims of the Japanese earthquake and tsunami. According to the company, the farms where it sources its tea have not been affected, yet the response to the initiative has been tremendous. Global Giving, the organization that Vitalife is using to donate their profits, have already helped to raise over £200,000 for the cause. Thousands of people have died in the disaster and thousands more are reported missing.

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Companies

Dentist creates tea that improves dental health

A former dentist is launching a ready-to-drink iced tea that can help prevent tooth decay. Tropical Breeze Beverages combines naturally caffeine-free rooibos tea with all-natural flavoring and xylitol, a key ingredient that prevents tooth decay. Xylitol fights the cause of tooth decay by significantly reducing bacteria that is responsible for increased acids in the mouth. Xylitol is naturally present in some fibrous fruits and vegetables, corncobs and stalks. The range, sold under Banks's Sun Tea brand, is available in banana, pomegranate, coconut and apple spice flavors. According to the manufacturer, there are no additives, preservatives or colorants in the tea.

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Companies

Coke buys Honest, aims to preserve entrepreneurial culture

Coca-Cola has finally bought out Honest Tea for an undisclosed amount, after having acquired a 40% stake in the organic beverage company in 2008. The move is seen as an opportunity for Coke to expand its presence in the ready-to-drink tea market, where it lags its main competitor PepsiCo. Since the beverage giant bought into the company three years ago, the number of retail outlets stocking Honest Tea has multiplied by five and now stands at 75'000. Its sales have tripled in the same period to reach $72 million. Despite the expansion, the company plans to continue to rely on "guerrilla" marketing tactics, which have been proven effective in the past. This strategy involves field marketing, innovative demos, genuine media coverage and a strong social media presence. Honest Tea will continue to operate as a separate business within Coke's Venturing and Emerging Brands unit.

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Companies

Good Earth Tea closes plant, moves to New Jersey

One of the first American herbal tea companies, Good Earth Tea, is closing its main production unit in Santa Cruz, CA. The company, founded in 1972, is relocating to New Jersey and laying off 47 employees, according to the plant manager. Good Earth Tea was purchased in 2005 by a subsidiary of Tata Global Beverages, the world's second largest tea manufacturer. At the time of purchase, the buyer was committed to stay, citing the moderate climate of Santa Cruz as an excellent place to blend and pack tea. Six years on, only one employee decided to relocate.

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Companies

Coke given green light to purchase Honest Tea

The Federal Trade Commission has announced that Coca-Cola's deal to purchase Honest Tea would meet antitrust approval. The beverage giant bought a 40% stake in the bottled tea and juice company for $43 million in 2008, with an option to buy the remaining share this year. This allowed Honest Tea to benefit from Coke's nationwide distribution network. According to sources close to the matter, discussions are now under way, although no deal has been reached so far. This deal was the first major acquisition by Coke's Venturing and Emerging Brands unit, which oversees several other similar projects. Seth Goldman, the founder of Honest Tea, is expected to stay at the company after the purchase is completed.

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Companies

TeaGschwendner pulls out of US tea retail market

TeaGschwendner, the largest gourmet tea retailer in the world, has decided to ditch its brick and mortar business in the US. The Germany-based company, with 145 outlets in nine countries on four continents, has 4 stores in the US - two in New York City and two in Illinois. The company was hoping to expand its reach by means of franchise stores. However, there appears to be insufficient interest in this business model from American entrepreneurs. Approximately 60 stores were planned to open until 2012. The US arm of TeaGschwendner will now concentrate solely on its online business.

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Companies

Canadian tea room launches gourmet tea line

Once Upon a Tea Cup, a tea store in London, Canada, is starting a luxury line of gourmet teas called LovaTea. The range, packaged in sleek steel tins, currently features 26 varieties including many flavored black, herbal and rooibos varieties and is expected to expand to 67. The company is also seeking support from celebrities to promote new varieties of tea in return for proceeds being directed to the charity of their choice. Their first charitable tea is in support of the Breast Cancer Society of Canada. LovaTea is available in select retail outlets in the US and Canada. Retail price for a 50 gram tin is between $6 and $8.

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Companies

Adagio opens second retail location

Adagio Teas is continuing its expansion into the retail market with a second store opening in Skokie, IL. The tea shop, located in the Old Orchard Mall, features a wide variety of gourmet tea varieties and creative tea accessories. The Old Orchard Mall underwent a $50 million in 2007 and is the third largest mall in Illinois. According to the company, the store is designed as a playground for tea, where customers are encouraged to create custom tea blends, brew samples of any tea available, and test tea accessories on the Cupping Table. Adagio's first store opened in Naperville, IL in October. Further locations across the US are planned for 2011.

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Companies

Legal battle brewing over Yogi name

Golden Temple, a tea and cereal manufacturer founded by a Sikh community in 1960s, has found itself in a legal battle over the use of the word "Yogi", which stems from the Sikh spiritual leader Yogi Bhajan. After selling its cereal business to Hearthside Food Solutions, Golden Temple has decided to focus exclusively on Yogi Tea brand, which has 50 employees in Oregon and about 100 employees in Europe. However, the widow of Yogi Bhajan is suing Golden Temple over the use of Yogi trademark. The widow considers that as a successor to her husband’s estate, she controls the trademarks used by or connected with her husband, while Golden Temple says that it owns the rights to Yogi trademarks. If she prevails, she plans to license the brand to another tea manufacturer.

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Snapple accused of false health claims

Snapple, owned by Dr. Pepper Snapple Group, faces lawsuits for false and misleading claims about the health benefits of its Acai Mixed Berry Red Tea beverage. Advertising for the product claims it is caffeine-free, with antioxidants and Vitamin C to support a healthy immune system. However, the attorney who filed the lawsuits in California and Florida believes the company did not have scientific studies supporting such claims. The beverage line was discontinued earlier this year due to low sales, but the company continues selling the remaining supplies. Since 2007, there were at least 3 earlier cases where Dr Pepper Snapple Group was sued in relation to health claims made about its Snapple product.

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Tea Spot cancer pledge results in record donations

The Tea Spot has donated over $20'000 in loose leaf tea and tea accessories in November, after pledging to give 10% of every sale as in-kind donation to cancer wellness and community programs. This marks their largest monthly in-kind contribution from the company since starting the initiative a year ago. The Tea Spot, a Boulder-based loose leaf tea and teaware producer, seeks to support cancer survivors and facilitate healthy habits to decrease cancer risks. The company was founded in 2004 by Maria Uspenski, a cancer survivor.

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Companies

Harney opens flagship retail store in NYC

Harney & Sons, a tea manufacturer from Salisbury, CT, is opening its flagship tea store in Soho, New York City. The tea shop houses over 250 varieties of tea from around the world and features a large tasting bar. Teas are brewed and served by master brewers using water calibrated to the exact degree necessary for each type of tea. The store also offers a range of tea kettles and other accessories. A kitchen menu will be available in the future to compliment the tea selection.

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New Leaf inks endorsement deal with football pro

New Leaf Brands, manufacturer of sweetened tea and fruit beverages, has signed an endorsement agreement with football pro Steve Smith. The wide receiver for the New York Giants, who also becomes a New Leaf shareholder, is company's first celebrity endorsement. Smith, a life-long iced tea fan, was introduced to New Leaf at a promotional signing appearance in 2009, where a variety of beverages were being sampled. According to the company, he was chosen for his notable performance on the field and his involvement in many charitable organizations.

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Companies

Honest Tea commits to full Fair Trade certification

Honest Tea announced its commitment to have the entire range of bottled teas Fair Trade certified by 2011. Over the past three years, Honest Tea expanded its Fair Trade offerings from seven to 19 varieties and with this new initiative, all 28 of its teas will become Fair Trade certified by early 2011. A Fair Trade seal requires tea gardens to comply with workplace standards and to ensure safety, equality and fairness for all workers. This month Honest Tea is also publishing its first annual mission report that details its social and environmental initiatives related to its products, packaging, employees and partners.

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Companies

PG Tips reaches full Rainforest Alliance certification

PG Tips, owned by Anglo-Dutch conglomerate Unilever, has announced that its loose leaf and tea bag ranges sold in the UK are fully certified by the Rainforest Alliance. This certification ensures that crops are grown using sustainable farming methods by workers who earn a decent living and have good working conditions. According to PG Tips, the company has improved standards of living for 75'000 workers by providing free housing, medical care and schools. Furthermore, the company has planted over 870'000 trees since 2000 and uses energy from renewable sources.

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Companies

Adagio opens first retail outlet

Adagio Teas, the leading online retailer of gourmet tea, has opened its first retail outlet in Naperville, IL. The flagship retail store provides an ideal environment for introducing new customers to the full range of Adagio's gourmet teas and engaging existing customers in a more personal and sensory-rich setting. The store carries more than 200 tea varieties and many imaginative tea accessories. Adagio's retail operations are headed by Charles Cain, who previously managed the US subsidiary of TeaGschwendner, the world’s largest tea retailer. A second store is currently being finalized in Skokie, IL. with more outlets planned for 2011.

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Companies

Two Leaves and a Bud refreshes online site

Two Leaves and a Bud Co. has overhauled its website to share stories and knowledge acquired through journeys abroad. The online store contains photographs taken during trips to tea gardens, giving shoppers a glimpse of where their tea is produced. The gourmet tea manufacturer from Colorado is also looking to lessen the intimidation factor that comes with tea - a comprehensive knowledge center is aimed to provide educational information on any tea-related topic. Other new site features include a reward points program for frequent cuppers, along with a referral program, integration with Facebook’s "like" button, and a running feed for Twitter, Facebook, tea reviews and the company’s blog.

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Companies

Social goals drive yerba mate company

Guayaki, a yerba mate manufacturer from California, has established a novel supply chain aimed at improving the sustainability and livelihood of its suppliers. The 14-year old company, currently growing at 30% a year, is creating sustainable, fair trade agricultural enterprises in Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina. With a turnover of $12 million, Guayaki has set its sight on creating 1000 jobs and restoring 200'000 acres of rainforest by 2020. To achieve this ambitious goal, it will have to become ten times bigger than it is today, increasing revenue by 25% annually for the next decade. It has 28 different varieties of dry and liquid products on the market. Guayaki's business model is being featured at this week's Clinton Global Initiative.

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Companies

Tata plans Tetley stake sale to fund international acquisitions

India's Tata Global Beverages, owner of Tetley Tea, is attempting to sell a minority stake in the tea company in order to fund an international acquisition spree. The parent company is in talks with several private equity firms, including Advent International and Blackstone, but the transaction is not expected to be completed anytime soon. Tata Global Beverages is a major international player, with large market shares in countries such as Australia, Britain, Poland and the US. It has recently announced plans to acquire companies in eastern Europe and the US which would expand its share of the tea market as well as diversify its portfolio of products.

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Tetley Tea presents new global graphics design

Tetley Tea, part of Tata Global Beverages, has unveiled its new packaging design destined for more than 70 countries. The modernized graphics were designed to evoke the warm feelings and stirring actions associated with tea drinking, to further draw consumers in to the Tetley experience at the point of purchase. The packs will retain the signature blue color of the brand. Tetley Tea packaging introduction will begin in Australia and the UK, and will hit US store shelves starting in September. All Tetley branded tea, including flavored and decaffeinated varieties, are planned to be part of the Rainforest Alliance certification program by 2016.

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East India Company relaunched after more than a century

East India Company, the world's first multinational company founded more than 400 years ago, has been resurrected as a luxury brand. The company, which lay dormant for more than a century, started selling gourmet tea and other specialty products. The "tea library" at its flagship store in London features more than 100 different types of brew, including green, black, herbal, and flavored teas. The East India Co. began as a trading monopoly under Queen Elizabeth I in 1600 to ship commodities to the West from India and China. It controlled the trade in indigo dye, cotton, silk, opium and tea. The owner has so far invested $20 million in the project and estimates that another $100 million will be needed to increase the number of retail outlets and expand into other areas of trade.

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Companies

Starbucks on course to serve Darjeeling tea

Starbucks, the world's largest coffeehouse chain, has requested a license from the Tea Board of India to import and sell Darjeeling tea. This move indicates that the company may be planning to serve tea from the Darjeeling region, dubbed the Champagne of tea, in its 17'000 outlets across 49 countries. According to local regulations, a Certification of Trade Mark license is necessary for all producers, manufacturers, packagers, blenders, exporters, and traders who wish to sell tea labeled as Darjeeling tea. Starbucks, which bought Tazo Tea for $8.1 million in 1999, subsequently teamed up with McLeod Russel, Apeejay Tea, Warren Tea and Chamong Tee Exports to source other Indian teas for the international market.

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Companies

Vibranz is first kombucha back on shelves

Kombucha manufacturer Vibranz is the first company to have its organic fermented tea back on the shelves of Whole Foods. The grocer pulled the probiotic products from its stores over worries they contained too much alcohol. Vibranz has created a new formula that reduces alcohol to fall within the limits of 0.5% alcohol by volume. Prior to last month's recall, kombucha tea was experiencing unprecedented popularity among organic beverage enthusiasts. According to market research, sales of kombucha and other "functional" juices in the US topped $295 million last year, up 25 percent over a two-year period. Vibranz Kombucha Teas retail between $4.69 and $3.89 and are available in eight flavors including Original, Blood Orange and Raspberry.

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Companies

Tea company turns to microfinancing for loans

New Mexico Tea Co., a bulk tea supplier, has turned to its customers to secure a loan through microfinancing. Its co-owner decided to appeal to their customers when his bank turned him down for a line of credit recently. He sent an email to the 3'800 people on his newsletter list with the aim to raise $5'000. To his surprise, he had raised $10'000 within the first 48 hours. The capital was made up of $4'500 in “microloans” and $5'500 in gift cards. The extra funds will allow the company to pay in advance for tea from vendors and to stock more tea, teapots, and other accessories.

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Companies

Honest Tea out to test people's honesty

Honest Tea is undertaking a novel social experiment to test the honesty of people living in big cities across the US. The guerrilla marketing coup consists of an unmanned pop-up store offering iced tea in return for 1 dollar placed in a glass box, with cameras recording how people behave. The experiment was carried out some of the biggest cities in the US such as New York City, Washington, DC, Boston and Chicago to test the honesty of their respective inhabitants. It turns out that Boston came first in the ranking, with 93% of people paying for their drink, followed by New York and Atlanta at 89%. Chicago fared the worst, attracting only 78% of paying customers. The money collected during this experiment will go to charity.

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Companies

Charleston Tea turns to RTDs after decade

Charleston Tea Plantation, the only tea plantation in the US, has introduced a range of bottled ready-to-drink iced teas. American Classic Tea comes after more than a decade without bottled drinks from the company. Three flavors are available: original(made with cane sugar), sweet with lemon and sweet green tea. The plantation, located in South Carolina, also announced a 15% rise of visitors and plans to offer a greenhouse stop on its trolley ride, where people can see in closer detail how tea grows. Its grounds include 127 acres of tea plants, a working tea factory and a gift shoppe. Charleston Tea Plantation is owned by Bigelow Teas since 2003.

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Companies

Pasteurized kombucha shines after removal of raw varieties

Following a recent removal of raw kombucha from shelves of several grocery chains such as Whole Foods due to elevated levels of alcohol, manufacturers of pasteurized kombucha are expected to cash in. Kombucha Wonder Drink, a company that was amongst the first to launch the category in the US almost a decade ago, is one of the few brands to offer a pasteurized version of the beverage, which ensures that it is consistently safe, stable and under the 0.5 percent alcohol limit set by the US authorities. Kombucha Wonder Drink is now likely to become the one of the fastest growing brands in the $300 million kombucha category as its products remain on shelves nationwide. On a separate note, the US authorities raised the possibility of treating the beverage like an alcoholic drink in terms of regulation and taxes.

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Companies

Honest picks up exceptional workplace award

Inc. Magazine and Winning Workplaces, a non-profit organization committed to helping small and mid-sized businesses create high-performance workplaces, have singled out Honest Tea in their 40 Top Small Company Workplaces of 2010. The ready-to-drink tea manufacturer was honored for its telecommuting policies (60% of employees work from home and the rest are allowed to telecommute when the need arises) and for its health and wellness programs, which provide employees with wellness intranet, alternative transportation subsidies, healthy snack packs and wellness coaches. The finalists were judged based on specific metrics and qualitative assessments of their success in creating the kind of workplaces that engage employees and deliver successful results.

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Companies

Tata selects three global power brands

After rebranding its tea subsidiary to Tata Global Beverages, the company has now unveiled three brands which will lead its global branding initiative. Tetley, Good Earth and Himalayan will be taken to developed markets such as the US, Canada and Europe, and the emerging ones of Africa and the CIS countries. The move is seen as a clear indication that tea, coffee and water are to become Tata's core segments. Company's flagship Tata Tea marque, as well as Eight O'Clock brand will continue to be managed on a regional level for the time being, with the possibility to roll them out globally later on.

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Companies

Steaz continues growth, appoints new management

The Healthy Beverage Company, owner of Steaz ready-to-drink tea brand, has reported a 38% increase in sales for the first quarter of this year compared to the same period in 2009. The company also announced the appointment of Jim DePietro, a former executive from Unilever and Pepsi Lipton Partnership, as CEO and Steven Kessler as President. According to DePietro, Steaz's growth is a result of increased consumer demand for the brand, distribution gains into strategic grocery accounts and successful targeted direct-store-delivery expansion in Southern California. The company has also received a further cash injection from its current investment group led by Switzerland-based Inventages Venture Capital.

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Companies

Nespresso tea version announced by Nestlé

In a move that is likely to have a huge impact on the tea industry, Nestlé has announced plans to sell a line of premium tea and tea brewing machines. Nestlé, the world's largest food company, plans to sell 25 'Special.T' tea varieties and a Nespresso-style tea making machine in France from September. Tea machines will cost 89 Euros ($110) and tea pods will cost 0.35 Euro cents. 'Special.T' line will be available in green, black, red and blue varieties, as well as Earl Grey lime and blueberry muffin flavors. The machines will be able to "read" each capsule and brew the tea at different temperatures and speeds, depending on the variety. The western European tea market is worth 4 billion Euros, whereas the coffee market is estimated at almost 13bn, according to Nestlé.

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Companies

Sweet Leaf increases funding to $19m

Sweet Leaf Tea Co., a manufacturer of flavored iced teas, has increased the amount it received in its latest round of funding from $14 million to $19 million. According to the latest filing with the US Securities and Exchange Commission, the company received $19 million from 17 investors, with Nestlé Waters North America investing $15.6m last year. Sweet Leaf, founded in 1998, bottles about 10'000 gallons (38'000 liters) of tea a day and is distributed in every state in the US. It employs about 36 workers.

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Companies

Tea juggernaut looking for more acquisitions

McLeod Russel India Ltd., the world's biggest tea grower, plans to use rising prices to build a 'war chest' of as much as $250 million to acquire companies. After buying plantations in Uganda, Vietnam and Rwanda, the company is looking to buy more companies in India and Africa as it targets a 50% increase in production to 150 million kilograms in three to four years. McLeod Russel expects India’s demand for tea to rise 3.5 percent annually, outpacing the estimated 1.5% increase in production this year. Prices in North India, which accounts for 70% of the nation’s output, may rise as much as 15 percent as demand for the beverage grows and costs increase.

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Companies

Tata Tea opts for new company name

Tata Tea has chosen a new company name, Tata Global Beverages Ltd., to better reflect its diversified portfolio and global ambitions. The Indian company, worth $1.07 billion, has branched out into products like coffee, energy drinks and mineral water. Tata Tea, which has a presence in 60 countries, had acquired several global companies in the past years such as Eight O'Clock Coffee and Tetley, expanding is business from a pure tea and related plantation company to a beverages major across the spectrum. It will remain part of the Tata Group, with 357'000 employees worldwide and total revenue of $70.8 billion.

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Companies

Co-founder and president of Steaz quits post

Eric Schnell, co-founder and president of the Healthy Beverage Company and creator of the Steaz brand, has exited the company. During his eight year stay, he is credited with creating the company's tea-based product innovations including the first organic soft drink in 2002, first organic energy drink in 2007 and first complete line of organic and fair trade certified canned iced tea products in 2008. Schnell's departure comes amidst ownership and management changes at Steaz, including majority ownership shifting to Switzerland-based private equity group Inventages. Schnell will retain a significant equity position in the company.

... read more about Co-founder and president of Steaz quits post
Companies

Coke to broaden Honest Tea distribution

Coca-Cola is focusing on strongly expanding the availability of Honest Tea throughout the US. The soft drinks giant, that purchased a 40% stake in Honest Tea in 2008, says the majority of franchise distributors have committed to the expansion, including retail giant Wal-Mart. Coca-Cola has also helped finance a $1 million tea brewer at one of its bottling plants to process Honest Tea, which steeps tea leaves in hot water rather than mixing a manufactured powder. Honest Tea sold about 5 million cases last year, for revenue of $47 million.

... read more about Coke to broaden Honest Tea distribution
Companies

Sweet Leaf encourages young entrepreneurs

Sweet Leaf Tea, a producer of organic ready-to-drink iced teas, is participating in an initiative to support the entrepreneurs of tomorrow. Lemonade Day, taking place on May 2nd in several US cities, is an event dedicated to teaching children the basics of building a business by having them create their own lemonade stand and unique lemonade flavors. The company, that started from scratch in Austin, Texas more than a decade ago, is playing an active role in this year's festivities and will be sponsoring several smaller fundraisers and contests in addition to the main event.

... read more about Sweet Leaf encourages young entrepreneurs
Companies

Tata Tea and Pepsi plan joint venture

Tata Tea, India's largest tea company, and Pepsi Co. are planning a joint venture to make non-carbonated, ready-to-drink beverages. The initiative, aimed at health-conscious consumers, would give a significant boost to Tata's international ambitions and help Pepsi diversify into healthier beverage sectors. This comes as the Indian company is planning to broaden its brand portfolio and expand into new product categories and markets. It is in talks with several players, including Pepsi and Coca-Cola for distribution joint ventures on a global scale.

... read more about Tata Tea and Pepsi plan joint venture
Companies

New Leaf Brands reports good results and outlook

The company has announced the successful completion of several business and product development milestones, as well as substantial volume growth in 2009. The iced tea maker sold its wholly-owned subsidiary Nutritional Specialties Inc., thereby reducing its debt to $2.7m, compared with $11m in 2008. Case volumes increased by 38% to 401'000, as the distribution network grew to 100 distributors in 35 states. New Leaf has also recently added a new product line of lemonades in three flavors and one half-and-half flavor. These new products complement its range of 14 ready-to-drink iced teas.

... read more about New Leaf Brands reports good results and outlook
Companies

Sweet Leaf acquires Tradewinds Beverage Co.

Sweet Leaf Tea, the Austin-based ready-to-drink iced tea manufacturer, has purchased Tradewinds Beverage Co., a competitor from Cincinnati. Tradewinds, founded in 1993, makes teas and juices kettle-brewed in Ohio, and will continue daily operations as normal until the label is integrated into Sweet Leaf marketing. Sweet Leaf hopes the acquisition will expand market reach in the Midwest where Tradewinds has strong distribution channels. Sweet Leaf, founded in 1998, bottles about 10,000 gallons of tea a day and is distributed in every US state.

... read more about Sweet Leaf acquires Tradewinds Beverage Co.
Companies

Lipton pulls ad amid doubts of brand success in UK

Lipton Ice Tea is scaling back its TV ad campaign in the UK as industry experts question brand's prospects on the market. The TV commercial, featuring global brand ambassador Hugh Jackman, will only be available online, despite running on TV in other countries. According to market specialists, this is due to the fact that Lipton Ice Tea does not make sense culturally in the same way as it does in the US and in other parts of Europe, because tea is consumed hot in the UK. Also, they note that Lipton's consistent marketing support over the past five years has yielded limited impact on the highly competitive UK soft drinks market.

... read more about Lipton pulls ad amid doubts of brand success in UK
Companies

Sweet Leaf founder replaced by Nestle

The founder of Sweet Leaf Tea, who started the tea company in 1998, is replaced by the company's current president, a former executive at Nestle Waters North America. Clayton Christofer is stepping down and being replaced by Dan Costello as CEO, who began managing Sweet Leaf's day-to-day operations last year when the unit of Nestle invested $15.6 million in the Austin, Texas-based company (with an option to buy it in the next three years). Christopher will stay on as a member of the Sweet Leaf Tea board of directors. Nestle and private equity firm Catterton Partners are Sweet Leaf's biggest shareholders. Catterton invested $18 million in Sweet Leaf in 2008.

... read more about Sweet Leaf founder replaced by Nestle
Companies

Coffeewiz expands range with Tavalon teas

Coffeewiz, an e-retailer of single-serve coffee and tea, has added Tavalon gourmet loose teas to its range. The online store, based in Moonachie, NJ., will source a wide range of premium loose varieties to complement its lineup of single-serve products in K-cups, Pods and T-discs. This move comes after the introduction of infuser mugs and teapots, allowing easy brewing of loose leaf tea. Tavalon, a New York City based tea company, will supply varieties such as Earl Grey Reserve, NYC Breakfast, Kama Chai Sutra and Jasmine Dream.

... read more about Coffeewiz expands range with Tavalon teas
Companies

Starbucks enters Chinese tea drinks market

Starbucks has announced the launch of nine ready-to-drink bottled tea beverages aimed at the huge Chinese tea drinks market. The products include three original-leaf Chinese-style tea drinks, four original-leaf foreign tea drinks, and two handmade special tea drinks. Apart from the beverages, Starbucks has also launched related accessory products such as tea cups and teapots. The launch of tea drinks is in response to the demands of local consumers, according to the company. China is the world's biggest tea market, with around 200 million regular tea drinkers.

... read more about Starbucks enters Chinese tea drinks market
Companies

New Leaf Brands agrees distribution deals in NC

New Leaf Brands, the manufacturer of sweetened ready-to-drink iced teas, has announced three new deals with Anheuser-Busch distributors in North Carolina. RH Barringer, City Beverage Company, and Harris Incorporated of Henderson, all distributors of alcoholic beverages and soft drinks, have begun distributing New Leaf Tea in their respective regions in North Carolina. New Leaf Tea comes in 14 unique flavors and is available in over 8,000 outlets including restaurants, delis, health food stores and other retail establishments.

... read more about New Leaf Brands agrees distribution deals in NC
Companies

Tetley to source only sustainable teas by 2016

Tetley, the world's second biggest tea company, has announced plans to source all of its branded tea from Rainforest Alliance certified farms by 2016. The company, owned by Tata Beverage Group, will start supplying sustainable teas in the UK foodservice sector by this April and in Canada by early 2011. The project will be rolled out to the US, Australia and mainland Europe in 2012. Tetley sells black, green, red, flavored and decaffeinated teas, and has a presence in 70 countries. The majority of Tetley tea comes from Kenya, Malawi and North India.

... read more about Tetley to source only sustainable teas by 2016
Companies

Whole Foods profit and outlook get a boost

Whole Foods Market reported quarterly profits 71% higher from a year ago and boosted its financial targets for 2010. Sales rose 7% to $2.6 billion and net income for the fiscal first quarter was $55.1 million, compared to $32.3 million for the same period last year. The surprising numbers are a result of managing expenses and pushing effective promotions. Identical-store sales, a key barometer of grocer health, rose 2.5% for the quarter. Whole Foods now forecasts annual sales growth of around 10%. 16 new stores are expected to open their doors in 2010.

... read more about Whole Foods profit and outlook get a boost
Companies

Bigelow Tea hires Wayne Gretzky as spokesperson

Bigelow Tea Company has enlisted the services of Wayne Gretzky to become the company's spokesperson in the US and Canada. Gretzky, who won 4 NHL championships and multiple other awards, is regarded as the best player in the history of the NHL. According to the company, Gretzky was chosen for the embodiment of sports excellence and wholesome vitality, as a perfect fit with the Bigelow Green Tea "story".

... read more about Bigelow Tea hires Wayne Gretzky as spokesperson
Companies

EcoTeas obtain Fair Trade certicifation

EcoTeas, a small organic tea company from Ashland, Oregon, has achieved Fair Trade certification for its entire range. Known for its unsmoked yerba mate products, the company now boasts an accreditation for its entire operations, including rights of workers, environmental management and trade relationships. EcoTeas also uses only organic ingredients, participates in reforestation efforts in Argentina and is on its way to 100% biodegradable / recyclable packaging.

... read more about EcoTeas obtain Fair Trade certicifation
Companies

New Leaf Tea expands into Arizona

According to a press release, New Leaf Brands, Inc. will soon be available across Arizona. The company, which manufactures flavored ready-to-drink iced teas, has reached a distribution deal with Crescent Crown Distributing. Crescent Crown sells and delivers over 26 million cases annually throughout their distribution territories in Arizona and Louisiana. Additionally, Quick Trip Convenience Stores will stock New Leaf Teas in all of its 70 Phoenix Metro convenience stores.

... read more about New Leaf Tea expands into Arizona
Companies

Starbucks moves into European RTD coffee market

Starbucks Corporation announced that it will enter the ready-to-drink coffee category in Europe. The coffee giant has signed an agreement with Arla Foods, one of the largest dairy companies in the world, for the manufacture, distribution and marketing of Starbucks-branded premium RTD coffee beverages in Europe. The market is worth approximately $550 million (€368 million). The company hopes to extend the "Starbucks experience" to consumers beyond its retail stores, while broadening global distribution channels.

... read more about Starbucks moves into European RTD coffee market
Companies

Kehe acquires Tree of Life operations in the US

Kehe Food Distributors, the leading distributor of natural and specialty food products in the US, has agreed the purchase its main rival, Tree of Life North America, from Netherlands-based Royal Wessanen for $190 million. The deal will allow Royal Wessanen to reduce its debt and focus on its European business, and will consolidate distribution opportunities for food and beverage companies aiming at the US natural foods channel. The consolidation of Tree of Life into Kehe will also extend Kehe's presence in neighboring Canada.

... read more about Kehe acquires Tree of Life operations in the US
Companies

Newby to strengthen presence in India

Newby Teas, a UK-based premium tea company, plans a further expansion in India's premium tea market. The manufacturer is looking to strengthen its position in the HoReCa sector and aims to enter the retail market thereafter. Newby plans to establish its presence more than twenty Indian cities in the first three years of operations, with Kolkata serving as a base for distribution and logistics. The company is known for its novel methods of tea preservation and quality control during the entire supply process.

... read more about Newby to strengthen presence in India
Companies

McLeod Russel buys Uganda tea plantations

McLeod Russel of India, the world's largest tea manufacturer, has acquired a 100% stake in James Finlay's Ugandan tea plantation. Mcleod's subsidiary Borelli Tea Holdings Ltd is picking up the stake for $25 million. The acquired firm is involved in growing, processing and marketing of black tea and owns six tea estates with annual production around 15 million kilograms of black tea. The new acquisition will help McLeod Russel expand its yearly capacity to 96 million kilograms.

... read more about McLeod Russel buys Uganda tea plantations
Companies

Green Mountain seals Diedrich deal

Green Mountain Coffee has secured a deal to buy Diedrich Coffee for $290 million or $35 a share. It also agreed to pay an $8.5 million termination fee to Peet's Coffee & Tea, which had agreed to buy Diedrich before Green Mountain stepped in. Diedrich makes single-serving coffee and tea packets, also known K- Cups, used in Green Mountain's Keurig coffee makers. Diedrich is Green Mountain's third significant acquisition in the last nine months, after Tully's Coffee brand and Canada-based Timothy's Coffees of the World.

... read more about Green Mountain seals Diedrich deal
Companies

Choice Organic enrolls in Non-GMO project

Choice Organic Teas is the first tea company to enroll as an official participant in the Non-GMO Project's Verification Program. The Non-GMO Project is a non-profit organization establishing a consistent non-GMO choice for organic and natural products that are produced without genetic engineering or recombinant DNA technologies. The Project verifies all types of products, including those (like tea) that are not yet produced commercially in GMO form.

... read more about Choice Organic enrolls in Non-GMO project
Companies

Bigelow Tea expands online presence

Following similar moves from its competitors, Bigelow Tea is expanding its online presence with a revamped web platform. It features a redesigned website and a blog, which is meant to keep customers up-to-date on company's latest developments. Bigelow Tea is also increasing the use of social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter, aiming to boost contact points with its customers. Several short "Tea-V" videos on tea preparation and enjoyment will be featured on Youtube.

... read more about Bigelow Tea expands online presence
Companies

New Leaf completes debt financing deal

New Leaf Brands, makers of ready-to-drink iced teas, has announced the completion of a $1.5 million private debt financing. The financing will be used for working capital and inventory to meet New Leaf's existing product demand in 2010 and execute on its plans for expansion. According to the company's CEO, the deal will help meet all existing orders and expand its footprint nationally by growing the distribution network.

... read more about New Leaf completes debt financing deal
Companies

NYC's top restaurant targets children with tea

Looking for new ways to attract customers, a New York restaurant started catering to a new clientele: kids. The Russian Tea Room, a high-end establishment with more than 80 years of history, offers tea and snack menus for children in order to attract visitors that have been neglected during better economic times. The goal is to make the lavish venue less pretentious and more welcoming to the average consumer. The city's fine dining establishments suffered a nearly 5% decline, with 30 closing in the past year.

... read more about NYC's top restaurant targets children with tea
Companies

Honest Tea to stay honest despite Coke's stake

The CEO of Honest Tea, Seth Goldman, assured attendees of 2009 Net Impact Conference that the company's commitment to produce healthy, organic and less sweet drinks has not changed since Coca-Cola became a majority stakeholder in his company last year. Some clients were put off by this partnership, including New York University, who had banned all Coke-related drinks to protest the company’s human rights record. Goldman pointed out that the deal allowed a healthy product to be made available to more customers.

... read more about Honest Tea to stay honest despite Coke's stake
Companies

Tea company creates range inspired by fashion

The Wellness Group Tea, a Singapore-based tea company which opened last year, is creating a line of teas inspired by fashion trends worldwide. The luxury tea range integrates colors and trends of fashion lines into tea blends. The concept was developed by the company's chairman, who previously worked as a brand-building executive at US designer label Tommy Hilfiger. TWG Tea is already working on its autumn/winter 2010 "collection". It will be available at luxury stores like Harrods in London and Dean and Deluca in the US.

... read more about Tea company creates range inspired by fashion
Companies

Twinings to shed several hundred jobs

Twinings, the famous British tea company, is planning to move a large part of its domestic operations to Poland and China. The company, owned by Associated British Foods, is consulting employees over plans to reorganize its tea operations, with up to 400 employees, or half of its UK staff, predicted to lose jobs. Under the plan, the company's existing Chinese factory would be doubled in size and a new factory would be built in Poland, to cater for the growing taste for tea in continental Europe.

... read more about Twinings to shed several hundred jobs
Companies

Tea room steeped in international activism opens

A tea room in Fort Collins, Co. opens with an aim to support international activism and social awareness while enjoying a nice cuppa. Happy Lucky's Teahouse and Treasures, which serves almost a hundred varieties of loose-leaf tea, is selling a range of Cambodian-made merchandise such as bags, scarves and purses. The tea room is also donating 10% of its sales to a charitable organization founded by its owners and focused on creating and sustaining schools in Cambodia.

... read more about Tea room steeped in international activism opens
Companies

New Leaf Tea poised for expansion at Whole Foods

New Leaf Brands, Inc., a company selling ready-to-drink iced teas, is expanding its distribution into Whole Foods Market in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions of the US. The beverage line, containing only natural ingredients, will be available in additional 22 stores. According to New Leaf's demo manager, the target audience at Whole Foods fits the niche of people looking for something sweeter without having to choose something with high fructose corn syrup.

... read more about New Leaf Tea poised for expansion at Whole Foods
Companies

Honest Tea hires Coke exec to head distribution

Honest Tea announced the hiring of a Coca-Cola executive to expand its distribution. The Bethesda-based company, part-owned by Coca-Cola, will tap the experience of Chuck Muth, a 30-year veteran of the bottling industry, who most recently worked as senior vice president of sales and marketing for the Philadelphia Coca-Cola Bottling Co. Coca-Cola bought a 40% stake in the company for $43m in 2008. Honest Tea is on track to make $50 million in sales this year, up from $38 million the year before.

... read more about Honest Tea hires Coke exec to head distribution
Companies

Coca-Cola tests tea brewer for restaurants

Coca-Cola, the world’s largest soft-drink maker, is testing a machine for restaurants that can brew more than 18 different kinds of iced tea. The device, called the Flex Fresh, can make tea by the glass, pitcher or gallon, with a possibility to add sweeteners and flavors. The move is aimed at boosting sales volume by offering more variety, as Coca-Cola continues to trail PepsiCo on the ready-to-drink tea market. PepsiCo has 39 percent of the ready-to-drink tea market in the US, compared to Coke's 9.6%.

... read more about Coca-Cola tests tea brewer for restaurants
Companies

Lipton plant completely avoids landfill waste

After a two-year effort, Lipton's tea plant in Suffolk, Virginia has been announced as "zero landfill". The plant, which produces tea bags and other products, recycles 70% of the waste, with the remainder being composted or converted into renewable energy. Initiatives include eliminating plastic strapping on pallets, replacing non-recyclable cleaning wipes with reusable rags and using reusable plastic pallets instead of wooden ones. Suffolk's plant, Lipton's only plant in the U.S., is the largest plant in the country.

... read more about Lipton plant completely avoids landfill waste
Companies

Celestial Seasonings celebrates 40th anniversary

Celestial Seasonings celebrated its 40th anniversary this week at its headquarters in Boulder, Colorado. Over the years, the company, specialized in teas, herbs and coffee, and focused on social responsibility and sustainability, has grown from a small supplier of herbs to a major player in the tea business, with sales over $100 million worldwide. Celestial Seasonings' products are currently sold in 60 countries and ingredients are sourced from over 35 countries.

... read more about Celestial Seasonings celebrates 40th anniversary
Companies

UK tea room offers teas from 5 continents

One of Britain’s award-winning tearooms is claiming to be the first tearoom to offer teas from five continents. Peacocks, owned and run by George Peacock and Rachel Lemkov, has been operating for five years in Ely, Cambridgeshire, and has won several awards from the UK's Tea Guild. In 2007, it was named Tea Guild's Top Tea Place. The menu contains 66 teas from around the world, including varieties from Brazil and Australia.

... read more about UK tea room offers teas from 5 continents
Companies

McLeod Russel buys Rwandan tea factory

McLeod Russel, the world's largest tea producer, has purchased a controlling stake in Gisovu Tea Company via its UK arm. The Rwandan tea company has an annual output of 1.7 million kilograms of tea, which would bring McLeod’s annual production capacity close to 82 million kg. Borelli Tea Holdings Ltd, a wholly-owned subsidiary of McLeod Russel in the UK, will pay $2.75 million for a 60% stake in the company, with the rest of the shares owned by the Rwandan government and local co-operatives.

... read more about McLeod Russel buys Rwandan tea factory
Companies

PepsiCo buys bottlers to consolidate business

In a move to cut costs and boost profits, PepsiCo agreed to buy bottlers Pepsi Bottling Group and PepsiAmericas in a $7.8 billion (EUR 5.4 bn/£4.6 bn) deal. The second-largest soft drink maker in the U.S. will pay a premium of about 45% to the bottlers' closing prices the day before Pepsi launched unsolicited bids in April. Buying the bottlers will consolidate 80% of Pepsi's North American beverage volume, which will speed decision-making and eliminate friction between the companies.

... read more about PepsiCo buys bottlers to consolidate business
Companies

McLeod Russel looking for acquisitions in Africa

The world's largest tea producer, India's McLeod Russel, has set its sight on African tea plantations, according to a company official. The company, which produces approximately 80 million kilograms of tea annually and exports around 30 million kilograms, is focusing primarily on Kenya and hopes the acquisitions can add 5 to 10 million kilograms in the near future. McLeod Russel plans to source between 20 and 30 percent of its production from outside India in the next five years.

... read more about McLeod Russel looking for acquisitions in Africa
Companies

Starbucks tests new coffee and tea store concept

Starbucks, owner of Tazo Tea, is experimenting with a new store concept in its home town of Seattle. One of the stores will reopen under the name "15th Avenue Coffee and Tea", featuring live music performances and poetry readings to give the premises a more local and grassroots touch. Also, beverage menu will be enlarged to include alcoholic drinks such as beer and wine. This comes as a response to customers reigning in spending during the recession and rival businesses upgrading their coffee menus.

... read more about Starbucks tests new coffee and tea store concept
Companies

Lipton tops buyers' list in Kenya's auction

Lipton has been confirmed as the biggest buyer of tea during the first half of the year at weekly auctions held in Mombasa, Kenya. The company, owned by anglo-dutch conglomerate Unilever, bought 32 million kilograms of tea in that period, according to the founding brokerage firm of the auction. The amount represents a fifth of all tea sold in Mumbasa. Global Tea Commodities Ltd. came in distant second with 14 million kg, followed by James Finlay Ltd. with 13.5 million kg. Kenya is the world’s biggest exporter of black tea.

... read more about Lipton tops buyers' list in Kenya's auction
Companies

Top Irish hotel cuts price of afternoon tea

The price of afternoon tea at Dublin's exclusive Gresham hotel has been cut by nearly 30% due to a decrease in customer spending. The tea, served with a three-tier cake, will be available for €18 ($25), instead of the previous price of €25. This comes in stark contrast to Britain, where prices for such treats remain high due to a comeback of this typically British pastime, with one in ten Britons planning to succumb to the pleasures of afternoon tea.

... read more about Top Irish hotel cuts price of afternoon tea
Companies

Lipton to highlight its sustainability practices

Lipton has teamed up with National Geographic to accentuate its sustainability efforts during the launch of its Rainforest Alliance-certified teas in the US. National Geographic will create photographs and videos documenting the company's journey and commitment to sustainability. The material will feature images from Lipton's Tea Estate in Kericho, Kenya and will be distributed via multiple National Geographic media platforms.

... read more about Lipton to highlight its sustainability practices
Companies

Brazil approves Coke's acquisition of Matte Leao

The Brazilian Justice Ministry approved the acquisition of local bottled-tea maker Leao Junior by US beverage giant Coca-Cola. However, to avoid market concentration, Coke must sell its local Nestea brand for the deal to go through. Matte Leao is Brazil's leading maker of bottled teas. At the end of 2006, the latest data available, Matte Leao held a 45.7% share of the bottled-tea market, compared with AmBev-distributed Lipton, at 24.7%, and Nestea at 24.4%.

... read more about Brazil approves Coke's acquisition of Matte Leao
Companies

Narien Teas debuts premium Hawaian tea

Narien Teas introduces Hawaii-grown tea and thereby becomes the first US mainland tea retailer to offer tea from the exotic island. The Florida-based company started selling Kilinoe, or "misty rain", green tea sourced from Hawaii's Big Island Tea. The company believes that Hawaii's fertile volcanic soil, wafting mists and unique island weather patterns make it an ideal spot for tea farming. The price for spring-harvest tea will start at $9 for five grams.

... read more about Narien Teas debuts premium Hawaian tea
Companies

Tata Tea's latest net profit in free fall

India's Tata Tea has reported a staggering 55 percent fall in consolidated net profit for 2008-2009 period. Net profit came in at Rs. 700.55 crore ($148m) for the year ending March 31, 2009 against Rs. 1,542.55 crore in the previous year. A sharp rise in input costs and fluctuations in the commodity and currency markets have negatively impacted the results, according to the company.

... read more about Tata Tea's latest net profit in free fall
Companies

Numi aims to offset emissions in 2009

Numi Tea has recently partnered with Big Tree Climate Fund to offset its carbon footprint. The partnership is based on a twofold offsetting program, which includes purchasing renewable energy certificates and carbon offsets. The Oakland-based company underwent an annual emissions audit through calculations of carbon output in electricity and natural gas usage, employee air travel, use of company car, pounds of landfill use and overall shipping for 2008. Big Tree will then source and supply the equivalent amount of carbon offsets and renewable energy certificates.

... read more about Numi aims to offset emissions in 2009
Companies

Ito En operating profit set to fall sharply

Ito En, the Japanese beverage manufacturer, is expected to announce a 46% drop in consolidated operating profit to about 10.3 billion yen ($108.7 million) for the fiscal year ending in April 30. Causes for the unexpected fall include higher materials costs, concerns about produce grown in China and weak consumer spending, which forced the company to sell more products at discounted rates. Overall sales are expected to remain unchanged at 328 billion yen ($3.45 billion) even though the firm had anticipated a 3 percent increase.

... read more about Ito En operating profit set to fall sharply
Companies

Coca-Cola cool on Huiyuan takeover

Coca-Cola, the world's largest beverage maker, is said to abandon its bid for Chinese Huiyuan Juice Group, after a full $2.5 billion (£1.65 bn) takeover was blocked by Chinese regulators. The Atlanta-based US company was set to take a compromise minority shareholding, but sources now say that Coke wants complete control of the company or no involvement at all. Huiyuan Juice has a 44 percent share of China's pure juice market.

... read more about Coca-Cola cool on Huiyuan takeover
Companies

Honest Tea adopts new lightweight packaging

Honest Tea will be the first company to use a new lightweight bottle in the hot-fill category, developed by Graham Packaging Company. The new packs are on average 20% lighter than similar PET bottles on the market today, which means they necessitate less resources to make the bottle and fewer energy to transport it. While the bottle initially will be used for teas, juices, and isotonic drinks, it is also suitable for jellies, jams, and salsas.

... read more about Honest Tea adopts new lightweight packaging
Companies

Peet's original shop reopens its doors

The founding site of Peet's Coffee and Tea Company has reopened after renovation. The Vine Street shop was opened in 1966 by Alfred Peet in North Berkeley, bringing the aroma of coffee beans he roasted himself to the neighborhood. The renovations were focused on a new room dedicated to the nationwide chain, with antique coffee roaster, tasting supplies, ledgers and original Peet's coffee bags on display.

... read more about Peet's original shop reopens its doors
Companies

Bigelow Tea teams up with Van Houtte for K-Cups

Bigelow Tea has partnered with Van Houtte, a Canadian gourmet coffee maker, to develop the US K-Cup market. A K-Cup is a plastic container with a filter inside, allowing a brewing machine to force hot water through it into a mug. For Bigelow, the business has expanded at a 45% annual rate since its beginnings four years ago. The Bigelow K-Cups include English Breakfast, Green Tea, Earl Grey, Cozy Chamomile, Mint Medley, and Green Tea with Pomegranate varieties.

... read more about Bigelow Tea teams up with Van Houtte for K-Cups
Companies

Coca-Cola buys stake in Innocent Drinks

Innocent Drinks, the UK-based smoothie drinks company, has sold a minority stake to the Coca-Cola Company for £30m ($44m). Under the terms of the deal, the beverage giant will receive 10 to 20 percent stake in the ethically-minded smoothie company founded in 1998 by four mates after a successful try-out at a music festival with £500 worth of fruit. Innocent Drinks, which operates in 13 European countries and had a turnover of £100m ($145m) last year, will use the funds to bolster its presence across key European markets.

... read more about Coca-Cola buys stake in Innocent Drinks
Companies

Sweet Leaf Tea gets Nestle cash infusion

Nestle Waters North America, a subsidiary of Swiss food giant Nestle, has invested $15.6 million in Sweet Leaf Tea Co. with an option to buy the entire company in three years. The funding should help Austin-based Sweet Leaf expand its distribution nationwide within the next two years. Sales of ready-to-drink teas have slowed in the recession, although the category has held up better than sodas, rising 1.3% in 2008, after double-digit growth in previous years. Sweet Leaf Tea was founded in 1998 and today carries a line of 10 classic iced-tea flavors and one lemonade flavor.

... read more about Sweet Leaf Tea gets Nestle cash infusion
Companies

Tata Tea in major beverage unit consolidation

Tata Tea, part of Tata group, is reportedly planning to consolidate its vast beverage business under a single entity to enhance operational performance and reduce costs. Tea, water and soft drink units would likely be housed by Tata International, resulting in a clear holding, operating and reporting structure. The group is also looking at merging Mt Everest Mineral Water and Himalayan brands with Tata Tea. Financial experts believe that a single consolidated entity could also be used to raise money for future expansion needs and to reduce the group’s debt.

... read more about Tata Tea in major beverage unit consolidation
Companies

Coca-Cola acquires Bazza tea beverage brand

Beverages and Beyond Brands Inc., a subsidiary of Coca-Cola Bottling Co., has recently bought Bazza High-Energy Tea brand, a company specializing in new and alternative beverages, from Louisville-based Cooper Tea Company. Bazza High-Energy Tea is a blend of green tea, guarana and yerba mate, containing a high concentration of epigallocatechin gallate, or EGCG, antioxidants. The deal gives Beverages and Beyond the rights to North American, Mexican, Canadian and Caribbean markets.

... read more about Coca-Cola acquires Bazza tea beverage brand
Companies

Gong Fu Tea featured in the Oscars

Gong Fu Tea, a Des Moines, Iowa-based tea shop, was among the very few companies selected to supply gifts to Hollywood's elite at this year's Oscar pre-party. The tea samplers, included with other five products, were given to every guest at a fundraiser for research on cancer and Alzheimer's disease, which included many A-list celebrities. The party planners in Hollywood found the shop online using Google and contacted them directly to see if they'd be interested in contributing to the gift bags.

... read more about Gong Fu Tea featured in the Oscars
Companies

Whole Foods shares surge after upgrade

The share price of Whole Foods Market, America's largest premium grocery chain, rose 37% on Thursday after two upgrades from analysts assessing its earnings report. The Austin, Texas-based company reported a better-than-expected 17% decline in first quarter income due to slowing store traffic. Yet analysts were encouraged by more value offerings and many internal expenditure cuts to reverse the decline in its operating performance. Sales for the 16 weeks up to January 18 were unchanged at $2.5 billion.

... read more about Whole Foods shares surge after upgrade
Companies

Restaurant launches Prêt-à-Portea for NY Fashion Week

BG restaurant at Bergdorf Goodman in New York City is looking to add a little flair to its tea menu during the New York Fashion Week. From 13 to 20 February, the restaurant, located on the top floor of the Fifth Avenue luxury store, will launch its version of Prêt-à-Portea, an afternoon tea originally conceived by the Berkeley Hotel in London. The restaurant will serve cookies, petits fours and layered desserts based on the creations of various fashion designers, available for sale in the store below.

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Companies

Tata undertakes major restructuring in the US

Tata Tea has started a huge restructuring plan of its US operations to scale down costs and grow revenues in a challenging environment. The company has shut down Tetley's office in Shelton, Connecticut, and is also in process of relocating the administrative, marketing and sales offices of Good Earth Corp, a specialty tea company it purchased in 2005. Tata thereby hopes to take full advantage of economies of scale from a join venture with Harris Tea Company, the largest blender and packer of private label teas in North America.

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Companies

Lancashire Tea struggles for survival

The company behind Lancashire Tea says the future of the brand is under threat after it was removed from most Sainsbury's stores - one of the biggest supermarket chains in the UK. Sainsbury's reduced the company's exposure to 33 stores compared with more than 300 previously. Lancashire Tea, which has lost money since it was founded three years ago, could face collapse within 12 weeks unless sales rise. The founders plan a "save Lancashire Tea campaign" and hope local people will help save the brand.

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Companies

Makeover for Clipper tea after a decade

Clipper tea has come out with a re-branded look after nearly a decade. The company that pioneered organic and Fairtrade teas in the UK hopes to highlight its commitment to great tasting tea through a clearer and more attractive packaging. Before introducing the new look, Clipper included over one million inserts in its tea range to give consumers a sneak preview of the new design. Clipper is the UK's biggest Organic tea brand, and the number one selling Fairtrade tea brand. It also has the second largest share of the Green Tea market.

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Companies

Advocacy group sues Coke over VitaminWater claims

The Center for Science in the Public Interest, a nutrition advocacy group based in Washington, DC., has sued Coca-Cola over "deceptive" health claims relating to VitaminWater drinks. It accuses Coke of selling sugar water using false claims about vitamin content that is supposed to boost immunity and reduce the risk of disease. Coca-Cola spokesperson has dismissed the lawsuit as "ridiculous and ludicrous". Coca-Cola bought Glaceau's VitaminWater for $4.1 billion in June 2007.

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Companies

Drinkers opt for cheaper alternatives - Twinings

Twinings, one of UK's top tea brands, has reported that sales of premium teas have fallen in face of the current economic slowdown. The company, which has been around for more than 300 years, says that tea drinkers in the UK and the US were more likely to choose "everyday" tea instead of more expensive brands. Responding to this trend, Twinings will expand its offer of low priced teas as UK's major supermarket chains launch their own budget ranges.

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Companies

Mighty Leaf partners with James Beard Foundation

Mighty Leaf Tea has announced that it is teaming up with James Beard Foundation as the official tea supplier. James Beard Foundation, a nonprofit organization based in New York City and dedicated to preserving and promoting American food heritage, will use Mighty Leaf teas for their chefs' cooking. The donations are part of the recently launched Mighty Leaf Tea Foundation aimed at supporting artisans in their communities.

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Companies

Starbucks opts for more tea-based drinks

In an attempt to widen its offer of healthy beverages, Starbucks is launching three new tea-based lattes and two tea drinks. The new lattes are made with steamed milk and Tazo full-leaf tea bags, whereas Tazo Tea Infusions will feature a mix of black tea and fruit juice. The latte drinks cost between $2.85 and $3.50 for a tall. The infusions will be priced at $2.40 to $2.70 for the same size.

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Companies

Whittard close to administration

Whittard of Chelsea, a British chain of tea shops, is near administration according to latest reports. The owners of the business, which sells tea, coffee and accessories, are actively seeking a buyer, while accounting firm Ernst & Young are already on standby as administrators. Whittard is owned by an Icelandic investment company Baugur and was purchased in 2005 for about £21m ($31.8m). Baugur was hit by turmoil in Iceland's economy earlier this year. Whittard, founded in 1886 by Walter Whittard, has 130 stores in the UK.

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Companies

Aiya receives ISO 22000 certification

Aiya Co. Ltd., the world's leading manufacturer of Matcha green tea, has earned the respected ISO 22000 certification for food safety management. The accreditation, issued by International Organization of Standardization, guarantees a high level of food safety practices in the entire manufacturing chain, thereby providing a seal of quality to buyers and retailers. Aiya is the first in the Matcha industry to receive such certification.

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Companies

PepsiCo: no new acquisitions in drinks sector

The CEO of PepsiCo, the second largest soft drink manufacturer in the US, has revealed that the company plans no new acquisitions in the current economic climate, despite sales of carbonated soft drinks falling three percent in North America. Instead, the New York-based PepsiCo will focus on acquisitions in the growing snacks sector. Before the economic slump, the company purchased beverage companies Izze, Naked Juice and a major juice maker in Russia. It also owns Tropicana, SoBe LifeWater and Gatorade brands.

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Companies

Honest Tea sees robust growth ahead

After growing only 19 percent in November, the North American sales of Honest Tea beverages should pick up in December, according to CEO Seth Goldman. Goldman, who co-founded the start-up beverage company, expects sales growth to climb to 85 percent in December - giving the Bethesda, Maryland-based company annual sales growth of roughly 70 percent. Honest Tea expects gross revenue to amount to $39 million in 2008, compared with $23 million the previous year. The company, partly owned by The Coca-Cola Company, projects to double sales in 2009 to about $80 million.

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Companies

Ito En shares slide after latest profit decline

The shares of Ito En Ltd. dropped the most in three months in Tokyo after reports of a profit decline. Japan's largest maker of green tea beverages lost 103 yen, or 6.7 percent, and closed at 1426 yen due to declining operating profit from higher promotion costs and sluggish sales of vegetable and green tea beverages. At the same time, Goldman Sachs lowered its rating on the company from "neutral" to "sell" with a price target of 1000 yen.

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Companies

Lancashire Tea puts packaging up for vote

In a novel approach to determining the next packaging design of their products, the UK-based Lancashire Tea has decided to let its customers decide what they should look like. The Rehab Agency, a local design firm in charge of the project, has asked Facebook users to vote for their favorite packaging from three possible concepts or to retain the old design. The new design options include a brightly-colored range of Lancashire faces, a postcard montage and black-and-white photos of old-fashioned scenes such as women in bathing suits. The original packaging carries a map of the region.

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Companies

Revolution partners with Kraft in foodservice

Revolution Teas is partnering with Kraft Foodservice to expand nationally in the foodservice channel beginning in May. Kraft’s catering division will distribute Revolution’s premium iced tea beverages and individually packaged teas to restaurants, hotels and other dining outlets, as companies target rising demand for high-quality tea and premium beverage growth.

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Companies

Numi gets backing from TBL Capital

TBL Capital is investing $1.8 million in Numi Tea to broaden the premium tea company’s reach, backing market expansion, product development and increased marketing activity. The socially responsible venture fund’s commitment underscores investor appetite for health- and sustainability-focused beverage brands that continue to drive growth across the natural drinks sector.

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Companies

India's Tata Tea buys Good Earth

Tata Tea has acquired California-based Fmali Herbal, Inc and Good Earth Corp for an undisclosed sum, strengthening the Indian group's push into the fast-growing US specialty tea market. Good Earth, with about 3.7 percent share, sells herbal, fruit-flavored, medicinal and traditional teas, broadening Tata Tea's international portfolio and consumer reach.

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