Good Earth Tea closes plant, moves to New Jersey
One of the first American herbal tea companies, Good Earth Tea, is closing its main production unit in Santa Cruz, CA. The company, founded in 1972, is relocating to New Jersey and laying off 47 employees, according to the plant manager. Good Earth Tea was purchased in 2005 by a subsidiary of Tata Global Beverages, the world's second largest tea manufacturer. At the time of purchase, the buyer was committed to stay, citing the moderate climate of Santa Cruz as an excellent place to blend and pack tea. Six years on, only one employee decided to relocate.