The American market for loose leaf tea has a rich history, with its origins dating back to colonial times. However, over the years, the consumption of loose leaf tea has decreased and the market has been largely confined to iced tea and tea bags. Despite this, there is a growing resurgence of interest in loose leaf tea in the United States. This is being driven by an increased awareness of the health benefits and the superior quality of loose leaf tea compared to tea bags. This renewed interest in loose leaf tea presents new opportunities for entrepreneurs who wish to market and sell loose leaf tea.
In recent years, the total number of loose leaf tea products and the annual volume and value levels within the U.S. have reached record levels. In fact, in 2003, sales levels of loose leaf tea sold in the U.S. reached nearly $1.1 billion, representing an increase of 15% over the previous year. Total sales of all types of tea, both conventional and specialty, in the U.S. topped $5.1 billion in 2003, with virtually all of the volume and value growth being derived from value-added, loose leaf teas.
The Tea is ‘Hot’ Report, published annually by Sage Group International, forecasts that tea sales will reach $10 billion by 2010. This is largely based on the projected demands of American “baby boomers” who are increasingly embracing loose leaf tea as their primary daily beverage. This rapid growth and demand for loose leaf tea is driven by quality, as loose leaf tea is all about quality and only those tea companies that maintain consistent product quality will grow along with the market.
In conclusion, the market for loose leaf tea in the United States has been traditionally small, but there is a growing resurgence of interest in loose leaf tea in the United States, driven by an increased awareness of the health benefits and the superior quality of loose leaf tea compared to tea bags. This renewed interest in loose leaf tea presents new opportunities for entrepreneurs who wish to market and sell loose leaf tea, with the key to success in this market is maintaining consistent product quality.
