Launched by the UK Tea Academy in 2022 in collaboration with Fortnum & Mason, The Leafies are an annual focus for the international tea industry and the only dedicated tea awards in the UK.
The Leafies reputation for integrity and credibility is upheld by its judges, who are all respected tea professionals. The competition only accepts loose leaf tea with a minimum of 50g of leaf for each tea, and the leaves can be processed in a traditional or artisan style or by using modern mechanical techniques designed for high-grade teas. The teas must also contain only natural ingredients and be available for worldwide purchase.
This year, The Leafies include 12 categories for tea producers, nine categories for tea retailers, and six special awards.
Tea Producers
These tea categories are not divided into regional/country sub-categories, but all teas will be grouped and blind tasted according to region for the judges.
- White
- Yellow
- Green
- Oolong
- Black
- Blends
- Dark Teas
- Powdered Teas
- Scented Tea
- Experimental Teas
- New Regions/Producers
- Fruit and Herbal Infusions (NEW!)
Retailers
To qualify as a retailer, you must sell tea from several producers direct to consumer either online with a transactional website, or a physical retail space. Experts will assess and score tea based on every criterion from leaf quality to aftertaste.
- White
- Green
- Oolong
- Black
- Powdered Teas
- Blends
- Ready to Drink
- Fruit and Herbal Infusions
- Scented Tea
Special Awards
- Tea for Life
- Pioneer
- Gaia
- Maverick
- UKTA Lifetime Achievement Award
- Fortnum & Mason Best in Show Award
Submit to The Leafies today, and keep these important deadlines in mind:
- September 17: Deadline for completing the online Entry Form
- September 20: Deadline for receiving teas
Plan to Attend or Participate in World Tea Expo, March 24-26, 2025
To learn about other key developments, trends, issues, hot topics and products within the global tea community, plan to attend World Tea Expo, March 24-26, 2025 in Las Vegas, co-located with Bar & Restaurant Expo. Visit WorldTeaExpo.com.
To book your sponsorship or exhibit space at World Tea Expo, or to inquire about advertising and sponsorship opportunities at World Tea News, contact:
Ellainy Karaboitis-Christopoulos, Business Development Manager, Questex
Phone: +1-212-895-8493; Email: [email protected]
Looking for professional tea education, certifications, and more? Visit World Tea Academy and register for courses today!
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