Who Owns Clipper Tea

The market for organic and fairtrade tea has rapidly expanded, with Clipper Tea standing out as a key player in this domain. This renowned UK-based tea brand has garnered a loyal following over the years. But who owns Clipper Tea today?

The Current Owners of Clipper Tea

Clipper Tea is currently owned by a consortium consisting of PAI Partners and Charles Jobson, operating under the group Kallo Foods, which is now integrated into Ecotone UK. This ownership structure reflects a series of strategic acquisitions and rebrands, demonstrating the brand’s continuing evolution within the organic and ethical sourcing space.

A Brief History of Clipper Tea

Founded in 1984 by Mike and Lorraine Brehme in the idyllic setting of Beaminster, Dorset, Clipper Tea’s journey is a tale of consistent growth and values-focused business practices. The brand prides itself on ethical sourcing and organic production, principles that have remained central to its operations despite its growth.

Clipper Tea experienced its first change of hands in 2007 when it was acquired by Fleming Family & Partners. This shift set the stage for future growth and expansion. It wasn’t until 2012 that the brand was acquired by Royal Wessanen, a Dutch health foods company, marking another pivotal point in its history.

Under Wessanen’s ownership, Clipper Tea continued to reinforce its commitment to health-conscious and environmentally friendly products. However, it wasn’t the final stop on its journey as ownership eventually transitioned to its current stakeholders through a series of business decisions aiming to optimize the brand for a global audience. Despite these changes, the team’s initial principles have continued to guide its actions and innovations.

The Ethical Focus of Clipper Tea

Ethical sourcing and sustainability are at the heart of Clipper Tea. The brand not only champions Fairtrade but also ensures all its tea products are organic. This commitment sets Clipper apart in the competitive tea market and is integral to its global appeal.

Its blending and packaging operations are still based in Beaminster, Dorset, a testament to maintaining its roots even amid growth and international reach. The decision to expand its infusions range with new flavors and sustainable packaging reflects its ongoing commitment to innovation and environmental responsibility.

Conclusion

The narrative of who owns Clipper Tea is as rich and complex as its variety of infusions and teas. With a consortium led by PAI Partners and Charles Jobson at the helm under Ecotone UK, Clipper Tea has consistently navigated the intricate pathways of acquisition and growth while steadfastly sticking to its core values of ethical and sustainable business practices. As the brand continues to innovate within the tea industry, it remains a prime example of how to operate efficiently and ethically on a global scale.

For more on Clipper Tea’s journey and details on their comprehensive commitment to sustainability, visit Clipper’s official website.