Exhibitor Spotlight: Katú

We're highlighting exhibitors as we get closer to the 2025 World Tea Expo, returning to the Las Vegas Convention Center March 24-26.

This week, we spoke with Katú, a premium, ready-to-drink (RTD), loose leaf beverage brand under Tuka, specializing in sustainably sourced yerba mate and botanical-infused drinks. With a focus on direct-to-consumer sales, strategic wholesale partnerships, and experiential marketing, Katú is redefining the energy drink market with authentic, functional, and flavorful offerings.

1. Tell our readers more about your company.

At Tuka, we are dedicated to introducing Yerba Mate to a broader audience. Rooted in a rich South American tradition, our Katú brand presents a contemporary approach to RTD tea beverages and premium loose-leaf yerba mate. Our products provide clean energy and mental clarity without excessive sugar or artificial ingredients.

What makes us unique is our direct partnerships with farmers in Paraguay, ensuring high quality, ethical sourcing, and sustainability. This allows us to maintain high-quality Yerba Mate, available in both organic and non-organic varieties.

We offer:

• RTD Yerba Mate Beverages – Lightly sparkling, nitro-infused, and naturally caffeinated.
• Loose-Leaf Yerba Mate – Traditional cuts with bold, robust flavor.
• Functional Botanical Blends – Infused with hibiscus, peppermint, and other adaptogens.

2. Why are you exhibiting at World Tea Expo?

The World Tea Expo provides an excellent platform to connect with industry professionals, retailers, and tea enthusiasts seeking innovative and high-quality tea products. Our goal is to introduce Yerba Mate to a wider audience and highlight its versatility as both a traditional brew and a convenient RTD beverage.

Additionally, we aim to expand our wholesale partnerships, explore private-label opportunities, and collaborate with specialty retailers and food service providers.

3. What do you hope to gain from the Expo?

We are looking to:

• Increase Awareness – Educate industry professionals about the benefits of Yerba Mate.
• Connect with Retailers & Distributors – Develop partnerships to expand our reach.
• Gather Consumer Insights – Gain valuable feedback for future product development.
• Expand Sales Channels – Explore opportunities in corporate wellness programs, cafes, and health-focused markets.
• Showcase RTD Innovations – Highlight the growing appeal of Yerba Mate RTDs.

4. What products/services will you be showing at the Expo?

Katú RTD Yerba Mate

• Sparkling Hibiscus Yerba Mate – A floral, antioxidant-rich infusion.
• Nitro Yerba Mate Latte – A nitrogen-infused yerba mate latte made with plant-based ingredients.
• Nitro Cold Brew Yerba Mate – Naturally caffeinated, low-sugar, and refreshing.
• Nitro Yerba Mate Mocha – A smooth cacao blend with a hint of toasted vanilla.

Loose-Leaf Yerba Mate & Herbal Blends

• Traditional Yerba Mate – Dried and hand-harvested.
• Botanical Blends – Yerba Mate infused with peppermint, rose petals, and adaptogens.
• Roasted Yerba Mate – A deeper, richer flavor profile achieved through proprietary hand-roasting process.

5. What role do RTDs have to play in the tea industry?

RTDs offer convenience and accessibility, making functional tea beverages more available to busy consumers. Yerba Mate RTDs provide a natural source of energy without synthetic additives, offering a healthier alternative to traditional energy drinks or sugary teas.

Yerba Mate provides sustained energy without the crash, making it ideal for those seeking a balanced caffeine source. As demand for clean-label, plant-based options continues to grow, Yerba Mate is emerging as a compelling choice for consumers prioritizing both functionality and great taste. Its rich antioxidant profile and naturally occurring polyphenols further enhance its appeal as a wellness beverage. Additionally, RTD formats introduce Yerba Mate to new audiences who may not be familiar with traditional brewing methods, broadening its reach beyond conventional tea drinkers.

6. What challenges do you see members of the tea industry facing in 2025, and how can your product/service help them overcome these obstacles?

In 2025, the tea industry will face:

• Market Saturation – Differentiation is key. Yerba Mate provides a unique and compelling alternative to traditional teas.
• Consumer Education – Many consumers are unfamiliar with Yerba Mate. We emphasize sampling and digital education to bridge the knowledge gap.
• Sustainability – Ethical sourcing remains a priority. We work directly with farmers to ensure fair trade and minimal environmental impact.
• Retail Disruptions – The rise of e-commerce is reshaping distribution. We balance wholesale partnerships with a strong direct-to-consumer presence.

7. What trends are you seeing in the tea industry?

• Functional Ingredients – Adaptogens, nootropics, and botanical infusions are becoming increasingly popular.
• Reduced Sugar – Consumers are shifting towards low-sugar and naturally sweetened beverages.
• Cold Brew & RTD Growth – Ready-to-drink teas are dominating the market, offering convenience and versatility.
• Sustainability & Transparency – Consumers demand ethically sourced, eco-friendly products.
• Hybrid Beverages – Tea-based drinks incorporating botanicals, carbonation, and innovative formats are gaining traction.

Katú aligns with these trends by offering clean, energizing, and sustainably sourced Yerba Mate that meets modern consumer demands.
 

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!

Also, be sure to stay connected with World Tea Expo on social media for details and insights about the event. Follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.