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Monday, March 24
 

8:30am PDT

Business Incubator Advanced - Business Strategies
Monday March 24, 2025 8:30am - 12:30pm PDT
Calling all veteran tea business owners who are ready to ascend to new heights of success! This is your opportunity to have your questions answered by our panel of tea industry luminaries. They’ll share the strategies, techniques, and insights that separate the exceptional from the ordinary. The challenges of tomorrow are different than the challenges of yesterday so let our experts give you the tools to tackle those obstacles and turn that bottom line from red to black! 
This was one of the most popular sessions of the 2024 conference, it was sold out so come early.
Speakers
avatar for Desiree Nelson

Desiree Nelson

Business Development, QTrade Teas & Botanicals
Desirée Nelson is a seasoned Specialty Tea Master Blender and Industry Specialistwith over two decades of experience and certification from the Specialty TeaInstitute. She is a driving force for innovation and sustainability in the tea world.Desirée currently holds pivotal committee... Read More →
avatar for Nishchal Banskota

Nishchal Banskota

Founder, Nepal Tea Collective
Nishchal Banskota is a 2nd generation tea producer and the founder of Nepal Tea Collective which directly brings certified organic teas from Nepal to the American market. His vision is to create a tech-enabled transparent tea trade that bridges the gap between the primary producers... Read More →
avatar for Ravi Pillai

Ravi Pillai

Director, David's Tea
An expert in the industry with 40 years of experience, Ravi began his career running tea plantations in Ceylon (Sri Lanka) and progressed through all facets of the teacup from planting, production, international marketing, buying, selling, blending, consulting, quality control and... Read More →
avatar for Don Ho

Don Ho

Co-Founder, BDH Consultants
Don is the Founder and Owner of BDH Consultants. Don has been involved in the food service industry since 2013 when he decided to get out of the daily grind of corporate life after discovering his passion for tea. He sold his law firm and turned his hobby into a business. Don traveled... Read More →
avatar for Kevin Gascoyne

Kevin Gascoyne

Co-Owner, Camellia-sinensis
Kevin first bought tea in Asia in 1989 and has since spent every Spring there as for almost 25 years. Aside from his obsessive quest for Darjeeling’s finest leaf, his interest in the teas of Nepal, Sri Lanka, and the African continent have added these regions to his repertoire.Born... Read More →
Monday March 24, 2025 8:30am - 12:30pm PDT
Room #229/30
  Incubator
 
Tuesday, March 25
 

8:00am PDT

Mastering the Art of Mocktails: Boost Your Business with Innovative Drink Menus
Tuesday March 25, 2025 8:00am - 9:00am PDT
As the trend for non-alcoholic beverages grows, café and tea business owners have a golden
opportunity to enhance their offerings and appeal to a more educated and health-conscious clientele. Join Dr. CJ Sugita-Jackson, a Certified Nutritionist, Master Herbalist, and expert tea blender, for an engaging workshop designed to elevate your drink menu and boost your business.
"Mastering the Art of Mocktails: Boost Your Business with Innovative Drink Menus" is tailored for businesses without a liquor license but eager to tap into the lucrative mocktail market. This session will provide you with the knowledge and inspiration to create a premium, high-priced mocktail menu that draws in discerning customers seeking sophisticated, non-alcoholic options.
Key highlights include:
  • Understanding Your Audience: Learn how to identify and cater to the preferences of health-conscious and sophisticated consumers.
  • Menu Design Principles: Discover the secrets to creating a balanced and appealing mocktail menu, incorporating seasonal and locally-sourced ingredients to elevate your offerings.
  • Live Mocktail Demonstrations: Watch Dr. Sugita-Jackson demonstrate several innovative mocktail recipes, and enjoy tasting these unique creations to inspire your menu development.
  • Marketing Strategies: Gain insights into effective marketing techniques, including social media tips and influencer collaborations, to attract a high-value customer base.
  • Physical Takeaways: Leave with recipe cards, ingredient lists, and other takeaways to kickstart your mocktail offerings.
Whether you’re a café owner or tea shop manager, this workshop will provide actionable strategies to enhance your business and delight your customers with premium non-alcoholic beverages.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. C.J. Sugita-Jackson

Dr. C.J. Sugita-Jackson

Professional Speaker & Educator, Certified Nutritionist, Master Herbalist, and PhD
Dr. CJ Sugita-Jackson is a distinguished Certified Nutritionist, Master Herbalist, and PhD in Philosophy, with over 20 years of experience in the health and wellness industry. As a master tea blender, he has crafted signature teas for top restaurants for over 15 years, making him... Read More →
Tuesday March 25, 2025 8:00am - 9:00am PDT
Room #224/25

8:00am PDT

Sourcing Tea Directly from Origin Can Offer a Significant Edge
Tuesday March 25, 2025 8:00am - 9:00am PDT
In today's competitive tea market, sourcing tea directly from origin can offer a significant edge. This session will provide a detailed guide on how to establish direct trading relationships with tea producers, ensuring quality, authenticity, and a unique market position. We'll explore the benefits, challenges, and practical steps involved in sourcing tea directly from its origin.TakeAways:
  • Build initial relationships with Growers: 
  • Resources on how to make the first contact with tea growers. 
  • Logistics and Legal Considerations: Sourcing tea directly involves navigating complex import regulations. 
  • The session will provide an overview of the necessary paperwork, permits, and certifications required to import tea in the US. Marketing Your Direct-Sourced Tea: 
  • One of the biggest advantages of direct sourcing is the story behind the tea. Learn how to effectively share this story with your customers through your website, social media, and packaging.

Speakers
avatar for Pratik Rijal

Pratik Rijal

Co-founder, COO, Nepal Tea Collective
Growing up in a family with 40 years of experience in the tea industry, I never thought I’d want to be part of it. Life has a way of bringing you back to your roots. After earning my finance degree, I started a corporate career. However, in 2016, I couldn’t resist the pull of... Read More →
Tuesday March 25, 2025 8:00am - 9:00am PDT
Room #229/30

8:00am PDT

Tea Marketing Mastery: Branding Strategies to Elevate Your Business
Tuesday March 25, 2025 8:00am - 9:00am PDT
Unlock the secrets to successful tea marketing with an exclusive workshop hosted by the Boulder Tea Company. Join Sara Stewart Martinelli, owner and master tea blender, and Nathan Pulley, Director of Operations, as they share their expertise in both print and digital marketing. This hands-on workshop will cover everything you need to know to elevate your tea business.
Sara and Nathan will guide you through the nuances of traditional print marketing as well as effective strategies for digital platforms.
This workshop is ideal for tea business owners and entrepreneurs, marketing professionals in the tea industry, aspiring tea brand creators, and anyone passionate about tea and eager to learn more about marketing.


TakeAways:

Learn how to craft compelling stories and engaging content that highlight the unique qualities of your teas.

Discover the art of tea photography, from lighting and composition to styling and editing, ensuring you capture the beauty of your tea products in every shot. 

Build a strong, recognizable brand that resonates with your target audience through branding techniques that create a cohesive and appealing brand identity across all marketing channels.
Speakers
avatar for Sara Martinelli

Sara Martinelli

Owner, Boulder Tea Company and The Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse
Sara Stewart Martinelli is the dynamic owner of Boulder Tea Company and The Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse. With a degree in anthropology from the University of Colorado and a certification in graphic design from The Colorado Institute of Art, Sara combines her diverse academic background... Read More →
avatar for Nathan Pulley

Nathan Pulley

Director of Operations, Boulder Tea Company
Nathan Pulley is the Director of Operations at Boulder Tea Company, bringing his extensive expertise in business management and operations to the forefront of the tea industry. With a strong background in strategic planning and organizational development, Nathan plays a crucial role... Read More →
Tuesday March 25, 2025 8:00am - 9:00am PDT
Room #221

8:00am PDT

The Spectrum of Flavor Journey: Hot vs. Cold Tea Experience
Tuesday March 25, 2025 8:00am - 9:00am PDT
Kevin will address the reaction of taste receptors as it pertains to hot and cold beverages. Only to bring it forth to why it may be so that some people prefer hot tea brew and some may prefer cold tea brew scientifically.

Takeaways
(1) Science behind temperature tea tasting

(2) Choosing which teas taste better cold or hot

(3) Geographically preference
Speakers
avatar for Kevin Griffin

Kevin Griffin

President, Tea Cell
Kevin was born in Marrero, Louisiana. He went to Alabama State University and got his Bachelor of Science in Biology.  Then he went to the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences and obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Nuclear Medicine.  He has written a book “Guerdon... Read More →
Tuesday March 25, 2025 8:00am - 9:00am PDT
Room #231/32

10:15am PDT

Explore & Experience the Multifaceted World of Japanese Tea
Tuesday March 25, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am PDT
With the increasing popularity of matcha, the presence of Japanese green tea on the world market is stronger than ever before. Yet despite the abundance of instragrammable green lattes and smoothies out there, much of what Japan has to offer still remains largely undiscovered by the international tea community. Take a closer look, and Japanese green tea will appear surprisingly multifaceted, spanning from the fresh forest-like flavor of a classic Sencha to the nutty roasted aromas of Hojicha and much more in between. New and exciting initiatives such as the single origin tea movement are also taking Japanese tea into unexplored territory, making for new taste experiences previously unavailable. The art of roasting green tea has also being further refined, and is ripe for experiencing. A must for anyone interested in gaining or deepening their knowledge of green tea.

Takeaways:

Explain the background behind the great variety of flavor experiences.

Cover everything from tea plant cultivars to terroir.

Explore the long traditions and new bold initiatives that make the cultivation and processing possible.

Brewing techniques will be introduced,

The secrets behind a good Hojicha

Tasting:
・Cold brewed Single Estate Japanese Tea
・Freshly roasted Hojicha

Speakers
avatar for Oscar Brekell

Oscar Brekell

Founder, SENCHAISM
As an author of several books on Japanese tea published in three languages and many years of experience in tea education in more than 15 countries, Tokyo based Oscar Brekell is widely considered to be a front runner in the field of Japanese tea. Born in Sweden in 1985, Oscar developed... Read More →
Tuesday March 25, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am PDT
Room #231/32

10:15am PDT

How to Succeed With Premium Tea in a Budget-Conscious Era
Tuesday March 25, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am PDT
Years of inflation at the grocery store has made it harder that ever to convince consumers to pay extra for value-added attributes. How can premium tea navigate such a challenging environment and convince consumers to spend on high-quality tea when they are watching every dollar? In this session, we will look at what the rise in grocery prices has done to consumer mindsets and shopping patterns in the last few years and then describe the strategies that are working in the premium space: Leading with wellness, embracing “Little Treat Culture”, and targeting the luxury segment.  It is possible for value-added categories to succeed and tea basically has three options. The first is wellness, because data indicates where consumers are willing to spend extra their top choice is wellness because it is “investing in themselves” and so makes financial sense even in tough times. The second is “Little Treat Culture” or what in traditional economic terminology is known as the “Lipstick Effect” or the idea that if budgets are stretched, people turn to small, affordable splurges to make themselves feel better. The third is to appeal to consumers whose incomes are high enough they do not really feel the sting of inflation, who are not numerous but who do have high spending power. The idea of this presentation is to lay out the consumer mindset as it currently stands and then take them through the routes where premium tea can succeed.

You will better understand how consumers:
  • currently shop for food and beverage products
  • under what circumstances they will pay more for higher-quality teas  
  • what strategies might work for them specifically to appeal to consumers in this environment
Speakers
avatar for Matthew Barry

Matthew Barry

Insight Mgr. F & B, Euromonitor
Matthew Barry is an Insight Manager at Euromonitor International, specializing in food and beverage products with a particular focus on hot beverages. His analysis of the industry is often shared in business and trade press, including The Wall Street Journal, The Economist, and The... Read More →
Tuesday March 25, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am PDT
Room #221

10:15am PDT

Tea Crémant: Redefining Luxury in Non-Alcoholic Gastronomy
Tuesday March 25, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am PDT
a Crémant: Redefining Luxury in Non-Alcoholic Gastronomy
Tea-based RTDs are redefining the non-alcoholic wine category, offering a sophisticated alternative that preserves the complexity and indulgence of fine wines while seamlessly integrating into the refined atmosphere of high-end dining and hospitality. With their carefully crafted complexity, layered flavors, and elegant textures, tea crémants provide a premium experience that appeals to discerning guests. Their wellness-driven appeal, rich in antioxidants and low in sugar, aligns with the growing demand for health-conscious indulgence. Perfectly suited for food pairings, curated menus, and elevated beverage programs, tea crémants bring innovation to the forefront of luxury dining and hospitality, offering a unique way to enhance the guest experience and set establishments apart.

TAKEAWAYS:
  1. Beyond Dealcoholization: A New Approach
  2. Elevating Non-Alcoholic Beverages Without Imitation
  3. Meeting the Growing Demand for Sophisticated Options
  4. Tea as a Terroir-Driven Beverage
  5. A New Chapter for Tea in the Culinary World

Speakers
avatar for Benjamin Garant-Pruneau

Benjamin Garant-Pruneau

Fondateur, Maison Theier
Benjamin Garant-Pruneau is the CEO of Maison Théier, a company dedicated to creating refined, non-alcoholic alternatives to Champagne. A long-time advocate for sobriety, Benjamin sought to bring the elegance and complexity found in fine wines to non-alcoholic beverages. After over... Read More →
Tuesday March 25, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am PDT
Room #224/25

10:15am PDT

Tea Tastings – An Opportunity to Attract, Engage, and Retain Customers.
Tuesday March 25, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am PDT
“Tea tastings aren’t just about sipping a great cup—they’re a powerful tool for growing a dedicated customer base and driving long-term sales. In this seminar, Sean Cyre shares insights from his years at The Cultured Cup, where structured tastings and classes transformed casual tea drinkers into engaged advocates while increasing annual sales by 20%.
Attendees will explore how to create tasting experiences that not only introduce customers to quality tea but also foster loyalty and deepen engagement. Whether you’re looking to attract new customers, train passionate employees, or tap into the next generation of tea professionals, this session will provide actionable strategies to make tastings a core part of your business growth.”
Key Takeaways:
  • How tastings drive long-term sales
  • How tastings build a loyal customer base
  • How tastings train dependable and passionate employees




Speakers
avatar for Sean Cyre

Sean Cyre

Business Development, The Cultured Cup
Sean Cyre has spent over seven years managing The Cultured Cup in Dallas, Texas, where he was mentored by Certified Tea Specialist/Mentor Kyle Stewart. There, he cultivated his passion for tea and developed deep expertise in tea selection, brewing techniques, and customer engagement... Read More →
Tuesday March 25, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am PDT
Room #226/27

2:00pm PDT

Speaker Meet & Greet
Tuesday March 25, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
The World Tea Expo conference program brings together some of the most knowledgeable and respected names in the tea industry. Don't miss this opportunity to get your questions answered by our expert faculty at this casual meet-up in the Tea Bar!
Tuesday March 25, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Expo Hall - Tea Bar

3:00pm PDT

From Tea Leaves to Cheers – Experience the Perfect Blend of Japanese Tea and Alcohol with Ochawari
Tuesday March 25, 2025 3:00pm - 3:30pm PDT
Discover a modern twist on traditional ocha-wari (tea-based cocktails) at the Tea Bar, where Wakoen’s finest Japanese teas meet premium spirits. As interest in Japanese tea and shochu grows in the U.S., we invite you to explore this unique fusion of deep umami and refined flavors. Join us for an unforgettable tasting experience that blends tradition with innovation.

Session takes place at the Tea Bar.
Speakers
avatar for Kilala Barnes

Kilala Barnes

Bartender, Japan Ochawari Association/ Cocktail Enthusiast
Tuesday March 25, 2025 3:00pm - 3:30pm PDT
Expo Hall - Tea Bar
 
Wednesday, March 26
 

8:30am PDT

"Taming the Tea Trade: Key Components of Effective Tea Supply Contracts"
Wednesday March 26, 2025 8:30am - 9:30am PDT

Navigate the contractual complexities of the tea trade with confidence! "Taming the Tea Trade: Key Components of Effective Tea Supply Contracts" will provide actionable insights into crafting contracts that protect your business and foster long-term supplier relationships. Discover practical strategies to mitigate risks, secure favorable terms, and negotiate like a pro—ensuring your tea business thrives in today’s competitive marketplace.
Key Takeaways:
  1. Master Contract Essentials: Identify and understand the critical components every tea supply contract must include to safeguard your business interests.
  2. Mitigate Supply Chain Risks: Learn proactive strategies to address common challenges like shipment delays, quality discrepancies, and pricing fluctuations.
  3. Enhance Negotiation Skills: Gain negotiation techniques to secure more favorable terms while building 

Speakers
avatar for Don Ho

Don Ho

Co-Founder, BDH Consultants
Don is the Founder and Owner of BDH Consultants. Don has been involved in the food service industry since 2013 when he decided to get out of the daily grind of corporate life after discovering his passion for tea. He sold his law firm and turned his hobby into a business. Don traveled... Read More →
Wednesday March 26, 2025 8:30am - 9:30am PDT
Room #221

8:30am PDT

Brewing Excellence: Elevating Tea Service in Hospitality
Wednesday March 26, 2025 8:30am - 9:30am PDT
Since the late 90s tea taster Kevin Gascoyne of Camellia Sinensis has been selling teas, consulting start-ups, creating tea-menus and developing training programs for the hospitality industry.   From the Ma and Pa corner café to the elaborate curated collections of Michelin star restaurants and everything in between.  He explores the romance and realities, the complexities and logistics of serving good tea in a spectrum of hospitality settings.

Takeaways:
  1. Realistic Tea Service Plans
  2. How to Up Your Service Game
  3. Essential Elements of a Good Tea Menu

Speakers
avatar for Kevin Gascoyne

Kevin Gascoyne

Co-Owner, Camellia-sinensis
Kevin first bought tea in Asia in 1989 and has since spent every Spring there as for almost 25 years. Aside from his obsessive quest for Darjeeling’s finest leaf, his interest in the teas of Nepal, Sri Lanka, and the African continent have added these regions to his repertoire.Born... Read More →
Wednesday March 26, 2025 8:30am - 9:30am PDT
Room #224/25

8:30am PDT

Challenges and Opportunities When Developing RTD Teas
Wednesday March 26, 2025 8:30am - 9:30am PDT
In this session we'll explore the challenges and opportunities in developing RTD teas, including balance of ingredients, scaling formulations, brewing, and reviewing essential regulatory considerations.

Diving deeper into these topics:
  • Balancing tea, flavor, juices, sweeteners and other ingredients in formulating your tea
  • Differences between brewed tea leaves, tea extracts, tea concentrates, tea powders, tea distillates and tea flavors
  • Technical limitations and opportunities in scaling your lab formulation to production
  • Key regulation and compliance considerations in RTD teas




Speakers
avatar for Michael Petrone

Michael Petrone

Principal Scientist, McCormick Flavor Solutions
With over 18 years of experience as a scientist and innovator in the tea and coffee space, Michael Petrone has solidified his position within the beverage industry as a passionate and influential figure. Michael is a Principal Beverage Scientist for McCormick’s Flavor Solutions... Read More →
Wednesday March 26, 2025 8:30am - 9:30am PDT
Room #226/27

8:30am PDT

Supply Chain and its Role in the Tea Industry
Wednesday March 26, 2025 8:30am - 9:30am PDT
The supply chain for teas, herbs, and spices is a complex and intricate system that begins with cultivation in diverse climates around the world. Growers harvest these products, which then undergo processing, including drying, grinding, and blending. From there, they are transported around the world to brands, contract manufacturers, distributors and retailers. Along the way, stringent quality control and compliance with food safety standards are crucial. Each step, from farm to cup, involves coordination among farmers, processors, logistics companies, and retailers, all working together to deliver high-quality products to consumers around the world.

Takeaways:
  •  Planning and Demand Management
  • Procurement (Sourcing)
  • Production
  • Inventory Management
  • Transporation

Speakers
avatar for Mark Arathoon

Mark Arathoon

CEO, Blue Ocean Tea Company Inc.
CEO/PresidentBlue Ocean Tea Co Ltd-2013-Till DateInstrumental in building the enterprise value of this specialty tea trading group.We currently operate in North America and Europe and working on expanding our global footprint. I am assembling a rock star team of highly motivated... Read More →
Wednesday March 26, 2025 8:30am - 9:30am PDT
Room #229/30

8:30am PDT

The Rooibos Journey: Unpacking the Rich History and Global Rise of this Unique Botanical
Wednesday March 26, 2025 8:30am - 9:30am PDT
The topic explores Rooibos, a caffeine-free herbal tea from South Africa, focusing on its
history, cultivation, and global rise. Originating with the indigenous Khoisan people, Rooibos
is grown in the Cederberg region and undergoes a unique process of planting, harvesting,
and fermentation. This herbal tea is valued for its antioxidants, essential minerals, and
nutritional benefits, making it a popular choice for promoting well-being. With various
grades and cuts affecting its flavor and quality, Rooibos has expanded internationally, now
used in beverages, food, and skincare. It is also recognized as a beneficial, sugar-free
alternative for children.


Takeaways:
Rooibos as a Versatile Beverage and Functional Food
Well-being Benefits and Wellness
Innovation and Economic Impact





Speakers
avatar for Ditshego (Dee) Sedikela

Ditshego (Dee) Sedikela

Founder, Tlou Tea
Owner and founder of Tlou Tea, Ditshego Sedikela, comes with over 10 years’experience in the South African Tea Industry and has explored many forms of wellness;from mental and spiritual to physical wellness. This then led her to start exploring thebenefits of tea, the ingredients... Read More →
Wednesday March 26, 2025 8:30am - 9:30am PDT
Room #231/32

8:30am PDT

Artisan Teas of the World
Wednesday March 26, 2025 8:30am - 12:00pm PDT
Discover the rare, hidden gems of the tea world in this unique tasting opportunity .
This course takes you on a global journey to experience unique and rare teas from exclusive tea-producing regions. You will experience the distinct flavors, traditions, and stories behind these exceptional teas. 
Perfect for specialty tea enthusiasts looking to expand their palate and knowledge, this course will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the art of tea. Join us and indulge in the rare and exquisite world of artisan teas.
Speakers
avatar for Sharyn Johnston

Sharyn Johnston

Director, World Tea Academy
Sharyn has a long corporate career and has worked in over 20 different countries. She founded Australian Tea Masters in 2011 with a primary focus on education and consultancy and later launched Australian Tea Masters Wholesale and Blending in 2017. Australian Tea Masters expanded... Read More →
Wednesday March 26, 2025 8:30am - 12:00pm PDT
Room #233

9:45am PDT

Demystifying Chinese Tea: Understanding Categories, Traditions, and Market Potential
Wednesday March 26, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am PDT
China, the cradle and “motherland” of tea, boasts a long history and profound culture of tea planting, processing, and drinking. Throughout this development, our diligent and wise ancestors continuously invented new techniques for tea planting, processing, and brewing.
The most authentic and traditional Chinese teas are categorized into six basic types, known as the “Six Major Tea Categories” by tea professionals. As market demand continues to grow, it is essential to educate tea merchants, professionals, and our expanding community of tea drinkers about these categories. Through this forum at the tea expo, we aim to clarify misconceptions and correct misunderstandings regarding tea types, business practices, and consumption.
In the West, consumers are generally familiar with green tea, black tea, and Pu-erh tea. However, following recent trends in Chinese tea culture, more people are becoming aware of white tea and oolong tea. Each of these major categories includes representative and renowned subcategories, which will be a key topic of our discussions.
Additionally, different types of tea are produced through various processing methods, each requiring specific brewing techniques.

Three Takeaways: 
1. Brief History of Tea Drinking.
2. China’s authentic and traditional basic categories of teas—six major tea categories: Green tea, White tea, Yellow tea, Oolong tea, Black tea, Dark tea.
3. Brewing methods for different teas—water temperature, tea amount, brewing/steeping time.

Speakers
avatar for (Ping) Lauren Luo

(Ping) Lauren Luo

Founder, CEO, Certified Tea Specialist & Certified Tea Evaluation Specialist, JingWei Fu Tea
Ping Luo / (Ms. Lauren) —— Founder, CEO, Certified Tea Specialist & Certified Tea Evaluation Specialist In 2018, Ping (Lauren) Luo founded JingWei Fu Tea USA in Irvine, California, where she serves as CEO, overseeing operations, sales, and marketing. As the first Certified... Read More →
Wednesday March 26, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am PDT
Room #224/25

9:45am PDT

Our 'Nectar of Nature' and its Richness of Sensory Space
Wednesday March 26, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am PDT
Come join Kurush Bharucha on a guided 'tea cupping' odyssey, as we taste his global 'flavourites' - their aromas and attributes ; their terroirs and tales.  Each sip will unveil a unique 'nature and nurture' fingerprint.....and make you smile

Join in the 'jelly-bean' test, as a first step in appreciating the nuances of tea tasting.

This session is to awaken your inner Tearista and help YOU in your tea journey - from infusiast to teaholic

Key Takeaways :
1. Appreciate the fundamentals of tasting (its why, how and what) - as you TEAse apart the subtleties between flavour, taste and aroma.
2. Understand the key sensory directions of the different types of tea....and start to build your own vocabulary of descriptors.
3. Learn to tell your recipe love story from 'tea-bud to taste-bud', using a 6P framework (provenance, plantation, processing, product, planet, people) ---Class limit of 50
Speakers
avatar for Kurush Bharucha

Kurush Bharucha

Tea Industry Expert, Consultant
Kurush has spent the past 39 years of his professional life in Tea, ALL with Unilever/Brooke Bond/'Lipton Teas and Infusions'.His experience has covered various Industry roles - specialist tea taster, buyer and blender, trainer and educator, product innovator and developer, sommelier... Read More →
Wednesday March 26, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am PDT
Room #231/32

9:45am PDT

Top 10 Ways to Build a High Profit Online Tea Business
Wednesday March 26, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am PDT

When it comes to starting an online tea business there is much to consider as you get started and Dean will cover all the important considerations. From capital startup investments to suppliers, inventory, shipping, and pricing. It is important to consider and evaluate everything. If you are looking for a place to start or something to reconsider this is the place to be.

Takeaways:

Where do I start.

A Guide to follow for success.

Questions answered.



Speakers
avatar for Dean Jablon

Dean Jablon

Business Development, Lifetime Tea
About Dean Jablon and Lifetime TeaAn internationally recognized tea expert, marketing leader and speaker, Dean advises clients throughout theUnited States and around the world about the challenges and trends impacting the tea industry. His pragmatic,action-oriented style inspires... Read More →
Wednesday March 26, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am PDT
Room #221

9:45am PDT

Unlocking 30% More Revenue: Mastering Email Marketing for Small Tea Businesses
Wednesday March 26, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am PDT
In the bustling world of e-commerce, email marketing stands out as a crucial tool for driving revenue and fostering customer loyalty. For small tea businesses, leveraging email marketing can make the difference between a good year and a great one. If you're not generating between 30-35% of your e-commerce revenue through email marketing, this talk is essential for you. We'll explore practical strategies and actionable insights to help you harness the full potential of email marketing, ensuring your business thrives in a competitive market.

By the end of the session:

1) You'll be able to map out and implement a customer journey that maximizes acquisition and retention, enhancing customer loyalty and increasing lifetime value.

2) You'll walk away with ready-to-use templates that can be customized to fit your brand, helping you launch high-performing email campaigns that drive engagement and sales.

3) You'll learn how to create and optimize automated email flows that save you over 50 hours of work, allowing you to focus on other critical aspects of your business while your email marketing runs seamlessly in the background.


Speakers
avatar for Nishchal Banskota

Nishchal Banskota

Founder, Nepal Tea Collective
Nishchal Banskota is a 2nd generation tea producer and the founder of Nepal Tea Collective which directly brings certified organic teas from Nepal to the American market. His vision is to create a tech-enabled transparent tea trade that bridges the gap between the primary producers... Read More →
Wednesday March 26, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am PDT
Room #229/30

9:45am PDT

Water You Waiting For? A Path to Sustainability
Wednesday March 26, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am PDT
As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change, water scarcity, and environmental degradation, the tea industry has a unique opportunity to lead the way in sustainable practices. Individual consumers play a crucial role in driving this change. Here are three simple yet effective ways everyone can make a difference, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable tea industry.
Key Takeaways
  1. Eat More Plant Based: Animal agriculture is a significant water user, so incorporating more plant-based meals can help reduce water consumption. As tea is often enjoyed with food, choosing plant-based options can complement sustainable tea choices.
  1. Compost and Reduce Waste: Composting food waste reduces the amount of energy and water needed to produce new fertilizers. This practice also promotes sustainable tea production, as tea estates can adopt organic composting methods to maintain soil health.
  1. Use Less, Choose Sustainable: Being mindful of overall resource usage can significantly impact water conservation. In general, every product we use daily takes resources to create. When choosing tea products, opt for sustainable packaging,  and eco-friendly brands that prioritize water efficiency in their production processes.


Speakers
avatar for Erin Resch

Erin Resch

Water Service Conservation Mgr., California Water Service
With over 13 years of experience in the food and beverage industry, I’ve worked at the intersection of CPG, sustainability, and water conservation, driving impactful change in the way we source, consume, and protect our resources.As a former Conservation Manager at California... Read More →
Wednesday March 26, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am PDT
Room #226/27

11:00am PDT

Finessing the World's Fractured Tea Markets
Wednesday March 26, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Authentic brands deliver on their promise of a fine product and a rewarding taste experience in sincere and engaging ways. Successful tea brands are clear and consistent about what they stand for but never entrenched. The best remain culturally relevant to their target market by continuing to evolve.

Takeaways
  • Tea’s diverse culture is simultaneously its greatest strength and the most formidable obstacle facing industrial-age commodity tea brands out of sync with consumer preferences.
  • Despite the efficiencies of scale and marketing and 150 years of competition, small brands have shown remarkable resilience, still controlling 90% of the global market. Their success is a testament to their adaptability and understanding of changing consumer preferences.
  • How we shop for tea has changed. E-commerce accelerated during the pandemic, driving record sales of packaged foods and at-home consumption. Distribution expanded, with global, national, and regional brands now selling directly to consumers, utilizing last-mile delivery managed by efficient service providers.
Speakers
avatar for Dan Bolton

Dan Bolton

Publisher, Tea Journey Magazine
Dan is a content creator dedicated to fostering genuine connections within the global tea community through insightful, educational, and captivating discussions with industry thought leaders. Over his 50-year career, his expertise has spanned various roles as a newspaper reporter... Read More →
Wednesday March 26, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Room #229/30

11:00am PDT

How Much Caffeine is in My Tea?
Wednesday March 26, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Of the many mysteries that the subjet of tea leaves us, one that I encounter the most is “how much caffeine is in my tea.” The short answer is, “it depends.” But what does it depend on? This talk gives an in-depth look into what factors go into the caffeine content of any particular tea. We will also look into some of the common myths about caffeine content and discover which ones are true or false, and why.
Takeways:
1.) Caffeine content in any particular tea is not a straightforward answer but there are clues that you can use to estimate it.
2.) Most of the myths about caffeine content in teas are misleading or false.
3.) Caffeine content in teas vary widely depending on a variety of factors other than the style of tea.
Speakers
avatar for Angela McDonald-Wilkins

Angela McDonald-Wilkins

Owner, Oregon Tea Traders
Owner of Oregon Tea Traders since 2011, Angela has a varied knowledge of the industry from being a small business owner, educator, buyer, and marketer. In addition to her knowledge of the history of tea and sales, she has an extensive knowledge of growing and processing tea from her... Read More →
Wednesday March 26, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Room #231/32

11:00am PDT

Making Permissible Labeling Claims and Staying Ahead of Class Action Lawyers
Wednesday March 26, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Statements on your label can (and should) showcase how amazing your product is. However, certain claims can run afoul of labeling laws and regulations (which are enforced by government agencies such as the FDA), or can expose your company to the risk of being sued by competitors or class action lawyers who claim that your label is inaccurate or otherwise misleading.
Session Take-Aways
 
  • The various types of claims (nutrient content, health, structure-function claims) and the importance of making permissible labeling claims.
  • “High Risk” claims - Labelling claims to avoid and claims that should be made with caution (for example: “all natural,” “Manufactured in the USA,” “Antioxidant-rich,” and “No added sugar”).
  • The increased focus on environmental factors – heavy metals, PFAS, etc. – and federal and state laws on claims like biodegradable, compostable, and “free of”
  • Strategies for proactively protecting your business against unnecessary legal distractions relating to labelling claims that can hurt your bottom line and brand reputation.
Speakers
avatar for Lindsay Aherne

Lindsay Aherne

Of Counsel, Greenberg Traurig Law
Of Counsel at the law firm of Greenberg Traurig, LLPWebsite: https://www.gtlaw.com/en/professionals/a/aherne-lindsay-nLindsay is an attorney that assists clients across the nation with regulatory compliance and litigation (including lawsuits threatened or filed against the company). Lindsay has experience representing clients in the food, beverage, dietary supplement, medical device, personal care prod... Read More →
Wednesday March 26, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Room #221

11:00am PDT

Sip Savvy: Hijacking Drink Trends to Reveal Consumer Drivers for Alcoholic & Non-Alcoholic Tea Beverages
Wednesday March 26, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Alcoholic Tea Beverages
In the evolving landscape of the beverage industry, understanding consumer preferences is key to staying ahead. This presentation dives deep into the intricate world of consumer drivers that shape beverage choices by exploring three main drivers: health, psychological drivers, and flavor trends.
Health drivers are increasingly influencing consumer choices, with a growing demand for beverages that offer functional benefits, such as low-calorie options, fortified drinks, and alcohol alternatives. We will analyze how health-conscious trends are reshaping the market and driving innovation in both alcoholic and non-alcoholic segments.
Psychological drivers, including the role of emotional connections and social influences, play a significant role in beverage preferences. This section will examine how brand perception, marketing strategies, and consumer experiences shape purchasing decisions and loyalty. Flavor drivers remain a cornerstone of consumer satisfaction. By exploring emerging flavor trends, their origins, and consumer drivers, this presentation will highlight how unique and diverse flavor profiles can captivate consumers and create lasting impressions. Attendees will gain actionable insights into leveraging these consumer drivers to develop strategies that cater to evolving preferences, ensuring success in both retail and food service settings.
 
Objectives:  
• Investigate emerging flavor trends, showcasing how innovative and diverse flavor profiles can captivate and retain customers
• Explore the psychological drivers, including emotional connections and social influences to understand how they shape consumer behavior
• Analyze how health-conscious trends are influencing consumer preferences for both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
Speakers
avatar for Suzy Badaracco

Suzy Badaracco

President, Culinary Tides, Inc,
Suzy Badaracco, President of Culinary Tides, Inc., is a foresight expert with over 19 years of experience in trends intelligence and predictive forecasting. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminalistics, an Associate degree in Culinary Arts, and a Master of Science degree... Read More →
Wednesday March 26, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Room #224/25

11:00am PDT

The Organic Dilemma: Overcoming Challenges in Organic Tea Production and Certification
Wednesday March 26, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Follow Udaya as he covers the challenges of Organic Farming in Nepal.
In the case of Nepal, small farmers produce organic tea in their small farms.
Major challenges:
  • Reduced yield
  • Susceptible to pest attacks
  • High input costs
  • Labour intensive
  • Due to open borders with the neighboring country, the prohibited inputs are easily available in the local market which is easy to access for the small farmers.
  • Household monitoring and proper record keeping, documentation etc. are additional costs.
  • There is no reputed certification agency in Nepal and still we have to be accredited by the CB of India or a European country.
  • Unfavorable climatic condition
Solutions
  • Awareness program to the farmers
  • Optimum price of the organic product
  • The government should launch a project to motivate the organic farmers/producers and there should be regular monitoring of the market to reduce the sales of the prohibited inputs.
Speakers
avatar for Udaya Chapagain

Udaya Chapagain

Founder, Gorkha Tea Estate
      Udaya Chapagain is a renowned Tea Industrialist and an experienced Organic tea Producer, recognized for his dedication to sustainable Organic farming. With over 40 years of experience in Tea Industry, Udaya Chapagain has played a vital role in transforming Nepal tea into... Read More →
Wednesday March 26, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Room #226/27
 
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