Tea is the most consumed hot drink in the world. Increasingly mindful of health and the environment, consumers, producers and major brands are turning to organic tea, valued for its antioxidant properties and many other qualities. The range of organic teas and herbal infusions continues to grow, and sales are on the rise, particularly in France.
Global production in a growing sector
China, and in particular the Yunnan region, is the world's leading producer of organic tea. A market that began in the 17th century with the Netherlands, tea is now experiencing strong growth. An increase of 6.6% is projected between 2020 and 2027, with green tea forecast to grow by 9.8%. Black tea remains the top seller.
The current success of tea is rooted in two initiatives launched in the 1990s to support both production and consumption. Growth is further driven by strong demand for organic teas, herbal infusions and new varieties, though it faces some competition from the steadily rising popularity of coffee.
Teas and herbal infusions: plant-based drinks meeting the demands of brands and discerning consumers
Organic tea and herbal infusion drinkers have become increasingly knowledgeable, and they expect quality in every cup. This trend accelerated throughout 2020 in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic. Millennials, attuned to environmental issues, are seeking authenticity and new taste experiences.
Organic tea, sustainability and fair trade are becoming key concerns for consumers and major tea brands alike, including Lipton (Unilever group), Tetley and Twinings. Distribution is increasingly focused on loose-leaf organic tea, which offers better quality and a smaller environmental footprint than tea bags.
The thriving organic tea and herbal infusion market in France
In France, organic tea figures point to a growing market worth close to 500 million euros. Two in three French people drink tea (around 250 g per year), and one in two drink herbal infusions. French businesses are adapting, and tea trade revenues reflect robust growth in both sales and distribution channels. Tea room franchises and specialist shops are expanding rapidly. French consumers are increasingly willing to pay a premium for organic teas and infusions. The cup of tea still has a bright future ahead.