Newcastle based specialist tea merchant ‘brews up’ growth plans via new funding

A specialist tea merchant, which sources some of the rarest and most unusual varieties of Britain’s favourite brew, is hoping to tap into Newcastle’s bustling night scene by “pioneering” a unique day-into-night venue at its Heaton based headquarters.

The Estate Tea Company was launched in 2014 by Tom Webb, who drew inspiration from a project he worked on whilst studying at Northumbria University. Upon graduation, Tom decided to revisit the business idea and set about scouring tea producing countries across the world to source rare and unusual varieties of tea and bring them to the North East.

Today, the Estate Tea Company has secured collaborations with a range of small single estate tea growers from tea producing countries including India, Japan, China, Sri Lanka and Taiwan.

The company also blends its own variations of popular brews, including English Breakfast Tea and naturally infused flavoured teas, which are sold to cafes, restaurants and grocery stores across the UK, and even in Selfridges.

Having opened a café in Gateshead, Tom decided to refine his business model during the Covid-19 pandemic, and when an opportunity arose to relocate the business to larger premises, Tom didn’t hesitate to make the move, successfully transforming a former plumber’s merchant into a haven for tea lovers.

The larger premises provided Estate Tea with the space needed to increase production of its tea varieties, and the café quickly attracted a loyal customer base. However, Tom recognised that large parts of the building were under-utilised and he began exploring ways of maximising the premises.

Drawing inspiration from Japanese bars, which combine a small tapas-style menu alongside a relaxed environment, Tom realised that his business could increase its customer base by offering an evening menu. To bring his growth plans to fruition, Estate Tea needed to secure the funds needed to upgrade its kitchen equipment and refurbish the empty space.

After having his application declined by a high street lender, Tom decided to approach Finance For Enterprise for advice. Following an initial phone call, Tom met face-to-face with experienced business lending manager Jeremy Meadowcroft, and within a matter of weeks, he received the funds his business desperately needed.

Tom and his team worked around the clock to develop the new bar. He called on friends, family members and his staff to complete the renovations, often working into the early hours to enable the business to continue trading.

Since completing the work, the Estate Tea Bar has proved to be a popular addition to Newcastle’s night scene; at the same time, Tom has seen his business triple its workforce, rising from just four members of staff to a close-knit team of 12.

By Matthew Neville – Senior Correspondent, Bdaily

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