Exploring the Most Popular British Tea Brands in 2023
Tea is an integral part of British culture, and it comes as no surprise that there are numerous brands that have made a significant impact on the tea market. From household names like PG Tips and Tetley to up-and-coming favorites, this article dives into the most popular British tea brands today.
Key Players in the Market
The main brands now are PG Tips, Tetley, Yorkshire, Typhoo, and Twinings. Yorkshire Tea, for instance, is still a family-owned company that has seen a huge increase in popularity over the last fifteen years or so. It now ranks third by sales, with PG Tips, owned by UK multinational Unilever, and Tetley, owned by Indian multinational Tata, leading the way.
Sales Leadership
PG Tips and Tetley have maintained their positions at the top of the sales charts, while Yorkshire Tea, despite its family-owned status, has made a significant impact. In recent years, there has been a noticeable increase in the popularity of Yorkshire Tea, which has become a popular choice among tea enthusiasts, especially in the UK.
Supermarket Brands and Specialist Options
Supermarket brands are also popular, with Waitrose Gold offering a decent and cost-effective alternative to the main brands. For those who seek a more specialized and premium tea experience, there are numerous options available both in shops and online. Websites like provide real UK tea aficionados with a wide range of high-quality teas.
My Personal Preferences
For tea bags, 96% of the tea drunk in Britain is made from teabags. My favorite brand is Lifeboat tea, produced by Williamsons. Lifeboat tea not only offers a superior taste but also donates money to the Royal National Lifeboat Institution. Williamsons were the first people to grow tea in Kenya, and I have not found a better brand for personal use. However, the RNLI has recently introduced a new inferior tea called Lifesaver, making it increasingly difficult to find high-quality Lifeboat tea.
Teas Beyond the Mainstream
For a more distinctive taste, you can opt for brands like Whittard, which offer a range of high-quality teas. Whittard still offers characterful and unique teas while maintaining the convenience of teabags.
High-End Tea Options
When it comes to upmarket tea, Tea Pigs is a great choice, although the prices can be quite eye-wateringly expensive. For a premium tea experience, you might also want to explore other options like Ceylon, Darjeeling, and Lapsang Souchong.
Rooibos and Herbal Teas
In addition to traditional teas, many Britons enjoy Rooibos or Redbush tea, which is not strictly tea as it does not come from the Camellia plant. Instead, Rooibos tea has a pleasant, tea-like flavor that is caffeine and tannin-free, making it perfect for late-night consumption. It also does not stain your teeth or taste bitter if left to steep for too long.
Conclusion
From popular household brands to up-and-coming favorites, the British tea market is diverse and dynamic. Whether you prefer traditional favorites like PG Tips and Tetley or are seeking something more specialized, there is a wide range of British tea brands to choose from. Each brand offers its unique taste and character, contributing to the rich tea culture of the UK.