Descendants of Earl Grey target lucrative export markets
Tregothnan, a tea estate in England, relies on the country's reputation as a nation of tea-lovers to promote locally grown tea abroad. The tea garden, located in southwest England, is the only tea plantation in England and is headed by the descendants of Prime Minister Charles Grey, after whom the Earl Grey blend is named. The tiny plantation that opened in 2005 currently produces about 10 metric tons of tea and infusions. Trengothnan is focused on the high-end domestic market, but is also leveraging England's perceived expertise in the tea world to garner interest from abroad. Sales are projected to exceed $3 million in 2013, with half coming from exports. The estate plans to open a franchise of teahouses in China, following serious interest from Chinese investors.