International Tea Day falls on Wednesday 21 May and this year’s theme is Women in Tea. So, we’d like to tell you a little more about three amazing women who have made tea their business.
What Roles Do Women in the Tea Industry Have?
All tea is produced from the fresh leaves and buds of one plant species, Camellia sinensis. This vibrant green bush is cultivated in plantations across the globe. The regions in which it thrives are often rural and remote; places where there are limited jobs and tea provides an opportunity to earn.
The vast majority of pickers are women, who work long hours to fill baskets with tea leaves. In ethical tea plantations, they receive a fair wage and have safe working conditions. However, not all women benefit from these basic human rights. International Tea Day aims to raise awareness and standards for women in all regions.
Historically, women played an important role in the opening of tea rooms across the UK. An alternative to bars, pubs, restaurants and clubs, these were one of the only respectable places for women to socialise. In part, this was because women tended to own and operate them. Yes, tea rooms provided one of the first opportunities to manage a business and gain financial independence.
Now there are plenty of renowned females sourcing, blending and supplying premium quality teas across the globe. In addition, many produce tisanes, widely called herbal teas, for wider health benefits. Let us tell you about three of our customers who are proud to be women in tea.
Holy Cow Tea
Based just outside Aylesbury, tea sommelier, Poonam Gupta, founded Holy Cow Tea and sources ethically produced, premium tea leaves from around the globe. Her selection of straight teas and bespoke blends includes Oolong, Purple Tea, White Needle and single-origin black and green varieties. All are sold loose leaf, for a richness of aroma and flavour.
“I became more passionate about tea myself just listening to this wonderful lady share her knowledge and passion for teas. She runs a lovely business… Incredible blends of teas that she creates herself. I loved what I tasted and walked away with a few new teas!! – Holy Cow Customer Review
With a focus on sustainable packaging, Holy Cow Teas are sold in reusable caddies, with refill packs or jars. However, Poonam approached us looking for bespoke gift boxes for a selection of teas and tea accessories. Our solution was a one-size branded box, with three insert options. This custom solution provide the perfect fit and protection for selling and shipping tea gifts.
Mother Cuppa Tea
Mother Cuppa was set up by another local tea sommelier, Candice Mason, yet her focus is quite different. Candice focuses on creating herbal tea blends with specific health benefits for women. Having researched the natural properties of the ingredients in her Energise, Hydrate, Relax and Clarity range, she knows they don’t just taste good, they also do good!
“Loving these teas! The packaging is tasteful and the tea bags themselves look quality. A lot of thought has gone into these products and it shows.” – Mother Cuppa Customer Review
Before launching her business, Candice came to us with a fantastic print design and vision for her three box packs of tea. She was determined to set the right tone from the start with high-quality packaging. A personal message on the inside of her boxes is a lovely way to connect with customers. We’ve been following her progress and it is great to see her tea business grow.
Purify Herbs
Our most recent customer is Purify Herbs, which includes herbal teas and tinctures as part of a holistic detox process. Founder Zoe Ekin is a qualified herbalist and naturopath who draws on her expertise to support individuals through a 2 or 3-week cleanse to renew and health.
The brief for this packaging design was a luxury bespoke box, which would provide a mindful unboxing experience and premium presentation of the Purify Herb products. Our first concept did hit the mark, but we listened to the feedback. Then, we went back to the drawing board and produced exactly what she was looking for.
Supplier of Boxes for Tea
The common factor in all of these businesses is tea, yet each has a unique product and very different ideas about the packaging. In each case, we’ve designed and manufactured bespoke boxes to match expectations and brand values.
Our support for tea enthusiasts doesn’t stop there! We also produce boxes to hold 6 cans of Kaytea, an iced tea brand, along with bottle boxes for two tea-based non-alcoholic, sparkling drinks companies, Saicho and Real.
So, whichever format you favour, we can design, manufacture and supply tea boxes for your business. To discuss your requirements, give our friendly team a call 01296 436888 or email enquiries@abcbox.co.uk.
