Stephen Twining, a member of the 10th generation of the family that has churned out the premium tea for 310 years, was at the official launch in Myanmar on August 5. He said Myanmar offered a opportunity for high growth, with a large tea-drinking population.
“Tea is well-loved in Myanmar, so it makes absolute sense for Twinings to be here. I am delighted to experience Myanmar’s unique culture and our shared passion for tea,” he said.
“Twinings never accepts anything less than perfect. Today, Twinings tea is enjoyed by millions in 116 countries worldwide, including Myanmar.”
Five labels will be available in the market – Earl Grey, English breakfast, jasmine green tea, pure camomile and pure peppermint.
Market research was conducted before the official launch and the company decided to award the distribution rights to AB Food |& Beverages and Premium Distribution. The products are now available in supermarkets and gourmet stores in major cities and destinations including Yangon, Mandalay, Nay Pyi Taw, Bagan, Taunggyi, Inle, Ngapali and Mawlamyaing – major destinations for both local and foreign tourists.
Twining believes that the demand for high-quality tea will rise as the country opens up.
“We certainly see good prospects here in Myanmar. We will be targeting top hotels. I know Myanmar received nearly 5 million tourists last year. That is also expected to grow a great deal in the coming years. And we will also be looking to partner with supermarkets,” he said.
Twining said the company would focus on maintaining quality rather than thinking about competition. He believes in taking early-bird advantages.
“I think we are the first premium fine-quality tea company here. And we will continue to actively promote ourselves. We are working with our retail partners to reach everywhere” in Myanmar, he said.
Twinings will open a tea parlour in Myanmar in the years to come, as it did in Bangkok.
