Index
Sr no. subject Page No.
1. About Tea 22. History of Tea 33. Heritage of Indian Tea 64. Tea And Our Health 85. An Overview Of An Indian Tea Industry 115a. Import And Export of Tea 146. Global Scenario of Tea Industry. 187. Type of Tea 207a. According to State 217b. According to Nation 237c. According to Color 298. Major Market Player in Tea Industry 379. Consumer Behavior 4610. Market Research On Consumer Behavior With Respect To
Tea Industry50
11. Bibliography
About TEA
Tea is a part and parcel of Indian social, economic and cultural life. Indians cannot think of a
day without their favorite cuppa tea. Tea is the most popular non-intoxicating beverage in the
world enjoyed by the rich and poor alike.
Tea is both an official and unofficial drink. A drink popular with the intellectuals and the
happy-go-lucky crowd. The Annual Book Fair of Kolkata, India, is dotted with tea stalls.
Indian literature and especially Bengali literature is replete with incidents of steamy
discussions over tea. In India, we have less of formal tea parties, in British style. "Adda" or
an informal get-to-gather is what we usually associate with tea. Roadside tea is immensely
popular among the masses. It is quick, convenient and has a unique taste.
The Indian Tea industry was founded in the first half of the 19 th century with the discovery of
wild tea plants in Assam. Gradually, tea was cultivated, local tea markets came up and tea
companies were formed. Tea is finally packed into wooden chests or jute bags for delivery to
warehouses before being auctioned. Tea from the gardens is also packed into consumer packs
and sent to distributors. Being one of the world's largest producers of tea, India requires a
large network of tea producers, retailers, distributors, auctioneers, exporters and packers. The
tea industry of India acts as one of the largest workforces in the country.
Tea is one of the most refreshing and popular beverages of the world. India is one the largest
Tea producer in the world. Indian tea is the finest quality in the world. Tea is being
cultivated in the high ranges of Northern and Southern India.
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History of TEA
Tea is often thought of as being a quintessentially British drink, and we have been drinking it
for over 350 years. But in fact the history of tea goes much further back.
In the world, tea is second only to water in being the beverage of choice. It has many uses,
such as to bring on sleep, restore good health, calm in times of stress, and simply add to the
enjoyment of a solitary afternoon by the fire or a good old chinwag with friends. It can be
taken hot or iced, plain or with lemon, milk or sugar, and drunk from a hefty mug.
The word tea refers to the leaves or flower buds of the shrub Camellia sinensis and is known
as pure teas; however infusions can be made from steeping any leaves, berries, flowers, root,
bark or seeds in boiling water. The Chinese first brought to light the pleasures of tea drinking
around 4,000 years ago, and called it “the gift of heaven”. It was first referred to in the
writings of the emperor Shen Nung in about 2737BC, and legend has it that he insisted that
his drinking water always be boiled, as he had noticed that those people who did so appeared
healthier than those who did not. One day as the water was boiling, some leaves from an
overhead branch blew into the pot; he was attracted by the fragrance, drank it and voila! The
venerable cup was born.
The cultivation of tea gradually spread to Japan and the Far East, and was brought to Europe
in the sixteenth century by Portuguese merchants in Lisbon. It was transported by Dutch
traders who formed the Dutch East India Company, who began to trade directly with the
Orient. It was taken in France in 1636 and Russia in 1638.As the popularity of tea drinking
grew in England in the mid 1600s, that of beer and wine declined, minimizing tax revenue; to
balance out this loss Charles II introduced the first English tea taxes in 1660. Thus the black
market in tea took hold and flourished.
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By 1750, the tea craze grew into “tea gardens”; beautifully landscaped areas where the most
fashionable people of the time would gather to discuss the topics of the day and to pose in all
of their finery. In the mid 1800s, Anna Duchess of Bedford made popular the idea of
afternoon tea in the home, when she became hungry between lunch and the evening meal
which wasn’t due to be served until at least 9 pm. She asked that a few sandwiches, cake and
a pot of tea be brought to her to stave off her hunger and the habit was born when she asked
friends to join her on subsequent occasions.
After the advent of the East India Trading Company when England began doing business
directly with the East, the first commercial tea plantations in India were started. In the 1930s
another fad hit – tea dances. These were held in hotels and local halls, and attracted hundreds
of people during weekend afternoons, where they would gather to eat, drink and dance to the
sounds of the big bands. During World War II, the government made sure that all factory
workers were provided with tea in spite of the rations, in order to maintain morale – a ritual
that was unmovable by the hand of God or man!
Tea drinking was slow to catch on in the Americas, after William Penn brought it to the
Quaker colony in 1682. Then as cities such as New York grew, tea gardens as fashionable as
those in England became popular; in the ten years before the Revolution, 7,800,000 gallons
of tea were drunk by 1.5 million people. Alas though, the issue of taxes reared its ugly head,
resulting in the famous Boston “Tea Party”, causing the rapid decline in tea as a beverage of
choice.
Herbal teas other than Camellia sinensis have been brewed for thousands of years; more often
they were drunk not just for pleasure but for healing purposes. Plato referred to them in
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410BC, Aristotle in 480BC and his student Theophrastus wrote “On the History of Plants”,
advising of the uses of herbs. The Roman Pliny the Elder in 77AD in his work “Natural
History”, referred in detail to the process of growing herbs for both culinary and medicinal
uses. In England herb teas were widely used, and many of those who came to America
brought seeds with them; chamomile, balm, elderflower and mints were the most widely
grown. After the Boston fiasco, many folk banned the use of imported tea, and so it was only
natural that domestically grown herbs took precedence; these were patriotically know as
“liberty teas”. Nowadays, the increasing interest in alternative medicines and organic foods
has helped revive the art of drinking tea, especially herbal which does not contain caffeine.
The English quickly developed an almost unquenchable thirst for the drink and began
searching for a way to get tea without having to buy it solely from China. In 1835 the English
East India Company, upon discovery of an indigenous variety of Camellia Sinensis in Assam,
India, established their first experimental tea plantation there. It was largely unsuccessful at
the beginning. In 1856 varieties of tea from the Yunnan and Keemun provinces of China
were introduced in Darjeeling, India, and soon thrived. Some of the most prized and
expensive Indian black teas come from this high mountain region. One year later tea was
cultivated in Ceylon (Sri Lanka).Luckily, for tea growers and consumers, a fungus wiped out
the coffee crop in Ceylon in 1869, then its' main export. This opened the door to increased tea
production and exportation.
By the early 1900's tea was being cultivated in Java, Sumatra, Indonesia, Kenya and other
parts of Africa. Presently, the United States has been added to the list of tea producers as
there is one plantation in North Carolina.
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Heritage of Indian Tea
Tea has found a permanent place in the lives and hearts of diverse peoples the world over,
and spread cheer and camaraderie for over 4500 years. Poets and philosophers have lavished
praise on it, and perhaps no other beverage has been the object of such ritual and ceremony
across the planet. Today, over 3 bn cups of tea are consumed every day across the globe,
making it the most popular and cheapest drink in the world after water. Its fragrance, flavor
and gentle aroma generate a sense of pleasure, well-being, and fellowship across the world,
around the clock.
India is the largest producer and consumer of tea in the world. Since the mid-
nineteenth century, tea has been one of the largest foreign exchange earners and a
major source of state and central taxes. Eco-friendly, it is also a caring industry that
generates income and livelihood for nearly 20 m. people in the country. Far from the
madding crowd, located in remote and backward areas, tea-growing regions have
silently, almost bashfully, evolved a remarkably humane corporate ethos.
The Heritage of Indian Tea provides a perspective of the history of the tea industry in India,
the role tea plays in our lives and that of our country, and wide-ranging developmental
initiatives that have for decades been undertaken by the Indian tea industry.
This is a story that needs to be told because few are acquainted with the fascinating process
through which the tea that enters their markets and homes passes, and how it beneficially
impacts the lives of millions of hitherto marginalized individuals. Most outside the distant
6
confines of the Indian tea industry will be astonished at the sheer range, scale, and scope of
the innovative welfare schemes launched by an industry that chooses to care.
A well-researched and carefully documented book, it analyses the problems that are
threatening to bring the Indian tea industry to its knees and hampering its ability to invest,
modernize, grow, and remain competitive in world markets. It raises important questions that
deserve serious attention and, above all, decisive action. The author presents a balanced,
scholarly, and comprehensive picture of the industry as a whole bringing many hitherto
unexplored facets to light that will interest tea professionals and tea enthusiasts alike.
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Tea and Our Health
We have heard that tea is good for our health. Hard to believe that something as simple as tea
can actually keep man in good health. Research suggests that tea drinkers have lower rates of
heart disease and cancer. It may promote healthy bones in mature women. And, tea can give
the man the lift that he wants from caffeine without the negative side-effects.
According to the scientists of Human Nutrition Department of a government research centre
at Adelaide in Australia, tea effectively shields skin from cancer-causing ultraviolet rays.
High exposure to sun's ultraviolet rays generates free radical oxygen atoms that mutate the
genetic code of skin cells and makes them cancerous. The antioxidants present in tea deter
this process. These anti-oxidants also help in fighting ageing.
According to studies conducted by UPASI in India, tea helps in controlling diabetes and
hyper cholesterol in humans. On a short-term basis the consumption of tea improves
alertness. Hindustan Lever has set up a tea health information research centre at Bangalore to
gather scientific data from all over the world about the role of tea in improving health and
identification of components in tea which are good for human health.
Following are the diseases that can be prevent from drinking the cup of tea:
1. Heart Disease
2. Cancer
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3. Healthy Bones
Explanation:-
1. Heart Disease:-
Heart disease is our number one killer disease. Many people die because of heart disease each
year. The heart muscle needs a constant supply of oxygen and nutrients from blood carried
through coronary arteries. Clogged arteries inhibit the heart’s supply of oxygen and nutrients.
Arteries become clogged through the buildup of plaque (a mix of cholesterol, fat, blood clots,
etc.) and can be blocked completely if a piece of plaque breaks off and gets stuck in the
artery. Then, downstream heart tissue will be starved of oxygen and nutrients.
Various studies suggest that tea plays a role in reducing cholesterol levels. In one study,
researchers found that women age 55 or older who drank as little as a cup or two of black tea
a day, were 54 percent less likely to have severe atherosclerosis, which can lead to heart
attack or stroke, than those that did not. The more tea they drank, the less their risk. This
outcome could be because the antioxidants in tea prevent “bad” (LDL, low-density
lipoprotein) cholesterol from promoting the plaque build-up that clogs arteries
It is found that cholesterol levels of subjects were inversely related to the consumption of
green tea. Tea helped to decrease the amount of cholesterol in the artery walls. It even helped
break down clots that had already formed
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2. Cancer :-
A study of more than 35,000 post menopausal women that showed those who drank at least
two cups of black tea a day were 40 percent less likely to develop urinary cancer and 68
percent less likely to develop cancer in the digestive tract than women who did not drink tea.
Other research shows that tea may be helpful in the fight against cancers of the stomach,
bladder, and esophagus. A study in China even concluded that smokers who drink tea have a
lower incidence of lung cancer.
Flavonoids are ubiquitous in the plant world, but tea is an especially rich source and tea
drinking can easily fit into a pattern of daily consumption. It’s practically like eating fruits
and vegetables. Letting the tea steep for 3 to 5 minutes extracts 69 - 85% of the flavonoids.
Many of the studies showing that tea is protective against cancer were done in Asia where
people generally drink green tea; some research has shown that green tea has more of the
powerful flavonoids called catechins than does black tea.
3. Healthy Bones:-
Tea drinkers had significantly greater bone density measurements. These findings were
independent of smoking status, use of hormone replacement therapy, coffee drinking, and
whether or not milk was added to tea. When milk was added, BMD (bone mineral density)
was much higher. The study suggests that tea has components that weakly mimic the effect of
the female hormone estrogen which may be helpful to older women.
10
Tea drinkers appear to live longer after a heart attack; Drinking 3 cups of tea each day is
associated with 11% lower incidence of heart attacks; Smokers who drank 4 cups of decaf
green tea daily had a significant decrease in signs of damage to the cells and heart.
An Overview of an Indian Tea Industry
The tea industry in India was created to satisfy England's desire for high quality black teas
without dependency on trade with China. First, the British East India Company's monopoly
of the tea trade and its dominance over India where the Company maintained the largest
private army in history had to be broken. At the same time growers and tea experts were
experimenting with seeds, plants and cuttings secured from China which they believed would
grow in India's climate. Notably, an indigenous strain of tea plant growing wild in India had
been discovered years earlier. The year 1838 marked the first Indian tea harvest, a mere 350
lbs., to be auctioned in London. It was greeted with much excitement and high reviews from
tea experts.
In 1858 the British East India Company turned its rule over India to Britain. The stage was
set for the rapid expansion of tea product. As it turned out the indigenous plants produced tea
far superior in quality to the Chinese transplants. And so the Indian tea industry was born.
Now India produces more tea than any other country.
The tea industry is also denied the benefit of deductions under section 80 HHC of the Income
Tax Act, 1961. Under section 33AB of this Act, assesses engaged in growing and
manufacturing tea are allowed a deduction limited to only 20 per cent of their profits. Other
industries are allowed 100 per cent deduction on profits from export production. (In Oct'98,
however, the union government granted this exemption to tea industry also.)
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The tea industry in India was earlier suffering from stagnant production and low price
realizations. 1996-97 was a year of turnaround and 1997-98, a year for consolidation for the
tea industry. In these years almost all the tea companies in the country have witnessed
increase in sales and profits.
The tea industry is also denied the benefit of deductions under section 80 HHC of the Income
Tax Act, 1961. Under section 33AB of this Act, assesses engaged in growing and
manufacturing tea are allowed a deduction limited to only 20 per cent of their profits.
The tea industry in India was earlier suffering from stagnant production and low price
realizations. 1996-97 was a year of turnaround and 1997-98, a year for consolidation for the
tea industry. In these years almost all the tea companies in the country have witnessed
increase in sales and profits.
The farmers invested more on fertilizers and upkeep of their plantations in 1997 and 1998
because of better price realizations which also resulted in better output in the following years.
According to the industry, subject to good weather conditions, the output in 1999 is likely to
touch still higher levels.
Indian Tea Industry at a glance:
Total turnover is approximately $2.25 billion.
Total Net Foreign Exchange earned is approximately is $413 million p.a.
Tea production, since independence has grown over 250%.
Generates income and livelihood for nearly 20 million people in the country.
Women constitute 50% of the workforce.
Tea trading in the domestic market is done in two ways- Auction and Private
Selling.
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India is the largest producer and consumer of tea in the world.
Notable Progress:-
Assistance is also being extended for establishment of a small Tea Research Field
Laboratory in Uttaranchal in order to develop a scientific package of practices
suitable for cultivation of tea in Kumaon region.
The project on ‘application of Bio-technological tools in tea breeding’ which has
been coordinated by the Department of Bio Technology and partly funded by Tea
Board is in the final stages of completion.
A pilot plant has been set up at TRA Jorhat under the project on ‘application of
electronic devices in tea manufacturing and automation’ which has been
coordinated by the Ministry of Information Technology.
With the establishment of pesticide residue testing laboratories in the North East
and South India, scientific data on residue in tea have been generated for
developing a national protocol which is now being considered by the Prevention
of Food Adulteration Authorities (PFA) and also Inter Governmental Group on
tea of FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization) towards harmonization of MRL.
The standards as stipulated in the European Commission and other countries are
also being circulated to the tea industry from time to time.
The National standard on quality of tea were revised and harmonized with the
International standards. Similarly the quality parameters of the International
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standard ISO 3720 were also revised. The drafts for revised specifications for
green tea have been finalized for publication.
Import and Export of Tea
The Indian tea industry is in a consolidation phase. Most branded tea players owning
plantations have been looking at divesting their plantation so as to focus on branding and
marketing. India continues to be the world’s largest producer and consumer of tea. Domestic
production as well as exports has been on a rise. However, due to stiff competition from
countries like Sri Lanka, Kenya, China, Bangladesh and Indonesia, and issues of quality,
realizations on Indian teas have been witnessing a downward trend.
Demand Supply Scenario:-
India’s tea production increased by 17.7% yoy to 149.8mn kg during Jan-Apr 2005.
Production in both the northern (up 23.7%) and southern (up 8.8%) regions witnessed an
upward trend. During the same period, total tea exports from India in volume terms grew by
7.5% yoy to 149.8mn kg. Exports from southern region grew sharply by 25.4% yoy however;
northern region registered the growth of 12.6% yoy in tea exports. Domestic prices (Kolkata
auctions) during May 2005 registered a decline of 5.6% yoy (8.9% mom) to Rs72.9 per kg
from Rs77.2 per kg in May 2004.
Tea production and exports
(mn kg) Jan-Apr 2005 Jan-Apr 2004 %
Production Exports Production Exports Production Exports
North India 94.1 20.2 76.1 23.1 23.7 (12.6)
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South India 55.7 32.6 51.2 26.0 8.8 25.4
All India 149.8 52.8 127.3 49.1 17.7 7.5
Source: Indian Tea Association
The estimated production of tea in India during 2003-2004 was 850.49 M.kgs as against
837.60 M.kgs in 2002-2003. However due to adverse agro-climatic conditions in the tea
growing areas in North and South India during 2004-05, the total production is expected to
decline to reach 831 M. kg. With estimates of production from April to October being at
697.19 M.kgs
Production of Tea in India during 2004-05:-
Million kgs
YEAR April-Oct 2004-05 April-Oct 2003-04
North India 543.56 571.97
South India 153.63 161.53
All India 697.19 733.50
Tea Prices:-
In the last three months, tea prices have started declining at Colombo and Mombassa
auctions. Prices at Kolkata auction had shot up to Rs80 per kg in April 2005 however, in May
the prices have declined to Rs72.9 per kg. The average worldwide tea prices declined by
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4.2% yoy and by 6.7% mom to Rs70.4 in May 2005. Tea prices at the Colombo auction fell
6.6% mom but are up marginally by 0.5% on yoy basis to Rs76.9 per kg.
Source: World Bank Development Prospects Pinksheet
Note: International prices have been converted at an exchange rate of Rs43.66
Exports:-
India is the largest producer of tea and ranks fourth in terms of total tea exporters in the
world. Total world tea exports grew by 4.4% yoy to 230.2mn kg during Jan-Apr 2005. Indian
exports in value terms grew by 7.8% yoy to Rs4.6bn during Jan-Apr 2005. Exports from
Southern region registered a strong growth of 26.9% yoy at Rs2.1bn while, exports from
Northern region declined by 4.7% yoy to RS2.4bn.
(Rs mn) Jan-Apr 05 Jan-Apr 04 Yoy (%)
North India 2,448 2,568 (4.7)
South India 2,136 1,684 26.9
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All India 4,585 4,252 7.8
Source: Indian Tea Association
Imports:-
During Jan-Mar 2005, tea imports into India increased to 4.56mn kg from 2.91mn kg in Jan-
Mar 2004. Vietnam was the major exporter at 1.78mn kg.
Tea imports into India:-
Countries Jan-Mar 05 Jan-Mar 04 Inc/Dec
(mn kg) (Rs/kg) (mn kg) (Rs/kg) (mn kg)
Indonesia 0.47 58.42 0.59 62.88 (0.12)
Nepal 0.22 55.55 0.73 50.47 (0.51)
Sri Lanka 0.05 92.74 0.40 97.72 (0.35)
Vietnam 1.78 36.44 0.60 26.88 1.18
Kenya 0.45 68.95 0.57 80.98 (0.12)
Others 1.59 50.08 0.02 N/A N/A
Total 4.56 45.53 2.91 59.39 1.65
Source: Indian Tea Association
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Global Scenario of Tea Industry
India and China rank as the largest and second largest, respectively, in tea production as well
as consumption. Together they account for around half of world's tea production. They export
about a quarter of their production. In global trade India's contribution is 17% while that of
China is 17.6% vis-à-vis the production contribution of 30% and 23% respectively. This is
because of high consumption of tea in both these countries. Other countries like Kenya, Sri
Lanka and Indonesia produce only 25% of world tea but control 50% of the global trade.
They export around 90% of their production.
In 1999 the world's total tea produce was estimated at 2.83bn Kgs as compared to 2.96bn
Kgs in 1998. This production is expected to go up to 3.1bn Kgs by 2005. The consumption of
tea too is expected to increase by 3% per annum till 2005 (on base period 1993-95) to 3.0bn
Kgs Of this 3bn Kgs nearly 2.2bn consumption is going to come from developing countries
and rest from developed ones.
During the last four decades, Kenya has increased tea production by 25 times. Chinese tea
production has witnessed a 4.6 %. The production growth has been slower in India and Sri
Lanka at 2.3% p.a. and 0.9% p.a. respectively during the same period. The area under
cultivation, during the last four decades has gone up by 33% in India whereas in Kenya, it got
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multiplied ten times during the same period. Tea production is concentrated in a few
countries due to suitable climate, soil and availability of cheap labor.
Tea consuming nations:-
Tea, as a beverage, is enjoyed by more than half of the world's population. Historically, tea
consumption has been very high in the U.K and Ireland. However, the consumption is
declining there. U.K. and Ireland accounted for one- third of the world's tea consumption in
1955. Their share in tea consumption currently is around 5%. In 1999 UK Tea popularity has
been growing rapidly in developing countries like India, China, Pakistan and the Middle
Eastern countries. Tea consumption is stagnant in other developed countries such as USA,
Canada and Japan. Instant tea market is very small at 3.7mn kg. Major instant tea consumers
are U.S.A. and West Europe and major exporters are India and Kenya.
Commodity prices and outlook:-
Although, land is the limiting factor for increasing production, no tea shortage is likely in the
foreseeable future. The global demand growth at 2% p.a. will be easily met by rising
production from Kenya, Sri Lanka, Malawi, Indonesia and other countries. These countries
are foreign exchange starved and tea is a vital part of the economy. Their tea industry is
entirely export oriented. These countries lead a price cut if there is a surplus. On the other
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hand, rising domestic demand in India and China will restrict their exportable surplus.
Pakistan is likely to emerge as one of the largest importers.
Weather changes from month to month. There have been occasions when shortfall of ten
months has been more than met in the last two months. Bad weather in some of the major
producing countries can lead to a significant price rise. However, that will be temporary.
Unlike coffee, (where Brazil is the dominant producer) tea production and exports are more
wide spread, reducing the possibility of wide swings in the prices as have been experienced in
the coffee trade.
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NATIONSTATE
Assam Tea
COLOR
Darjeeling Tea
Nilgiri Tea
Pu-erh Tea White Tea
Red Tea/ Rooibus Tea Green Tea
Bubble Tea
Oolong Tea
Scented Tea
Black Tea
Type of tea
Organic Tea
Packed Tea
Instant Tea
There are various types of tea. Tea can be described on the following basis. These teas are
further explained below in each category.
A) STATE
B) NATION
C) COLOR
EXPLAINATION:-
A) STATE:-
State wise tea can be classified into main two parts and one more in the south India are very
popular tea.
1. ASSAM TEA:-
Assam is a major growing area covering the Brahmaputra valley, stretching from the
Himalayas down to the Bay of Bengal. There are 655 estates covering some 168,000
hectares. Assam tea has distinctive flecked brown and gold leaves known as "orange" when
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dried. In flavor it is robust, bright with a smooth, malt pungency and is perfect as the first cup
of tea of the day. Such teas are used in everyday popular blends because of the full-bodied
richness. There is also an Assam Green tea with unusual light, almost sweet liquor.
First flush Assam
Assam tea bushes start growing in March and the first flush is picked for 8 to 10 weeks, first
flush Assam’s e.g. Bamonpookri, an excellent quality tea with a strong fresh flavor; are rarely
marketed in the Europe, unlike first flush Darjeeling.
Second flush Assam
The plucking of the second flush begins in June with most of the production taking place
from July to September. The second flush Assam is the best of the season and when brewed
give a rich aroma, a clear dark read liquor and a strong malt taste. Good examples of second
flush of Assam’s are, Napuk, displaying all the qualities of a well made Assam and Thowra,
which has strong spicy liquor and lots of body.
2. DARJEELING TEA:-
Regarded as the "Champagne of Teas," Darjeeling is grown on 100 estates on the foothills of
the Himalayas, on over 18,000 hectares at about 7000 ft. Light and delicate in flavor and
aroma, and with undertones of muscatel, Darjeeling is an ideal complement to dinner or
afternoon tea. The first "flushes" (pluckiness) are thought to produce the best Darjeeling
vintage but all crops are of very high quality. Darjeeling Green is rare tea similar to Japanese
Sencha with an exquisite aroma and delicate taste.
First flush Darjeeling:-
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The Darjeeling bushes' first new shoots - the first flush - are picked in April. These first teas
of the season are the finest and are much in demand, fetching incredibly high prices at
auction. Castleton First Flush has a perfect green-brown leaf and is from one of the most
prestigious gardens in the area. It gives an exquisite perfume and taste of green muscatel.
Bloomfield First Flush is again from a recognized garden and its subtle astringent flavour is
typical of Darjeeling first flush.
Second flush Darjeeling:-
Second flush Darjeeling’s are picked between May and June and produce excellent quality
teas that are considered by some to be better than the first flush as they have a fruitier, less
astringent flavor than the earlier teas. The leaves are darker brown and contain plenty of
silvery tips. Again good examples of second flush Darjeeling’s are, Putt bong, which is one
of the better second flush Darjeeling’s available, with a discernible muscatel flavor and
Namring, a fruity balanced taste perfect for afternoon tea.
3. NILGIRI TEA:-
The Nilgiri region, situated in southern India, forms a high hilly plateau at the conjunction of
the Eastern and Western Ghat mountains. More than 20,000 smallholders grow and pluck tea
with some 37,000 hectares under cultivation. Most Nilgiri teas are used for blending, but
there is a rapidly growing demand for the specialty tea of the area. Nilgiri has a bright amber
color and a refreshing, bright and delicate taste. Nunsch is a typical Nilgiri tea, large-leafed,
which gives a fruity, bright and flavorful brew.
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B) NATION:-
There are basically three types of tea which are more common in the world with different
names but they are specially produce or grown in particular region. They are as follow:
1. Pu-erh Tea:-
Pu-erh teas come from the Yunnan province in China and have a strong earthy flavor. Pu-erh
has been praised for generations for its flavor and health benefits. It's processed according to
an ancient technique (which used to be a state secret) that involves aging the leaves. It is
often formed into bricks and is one of the few teas that age well.
Pu-erh tea is moderate in taste, not as strong as black tea. It can cut grease, help digestion,
warm stomach, help produce saliva and slake thirst, dispel the effects of alcohol and refresh
one’s mind. Pu-erh tea has functions of lowering the triglyceride, cholesterol, hyperuricemia
in the body.
Pu-er tea (also called Pu-er or Pu-erh) is an ancient and rare tea, much loved in China and the
only tea for some 'hardened' tea drinkers. The processes that go into making the classic puers
are closely guarded secrets. It is fermented, sometimes twice, and is often pressed into cakes
or bricks. This makes Pu-er especially easy to store and keep for long periods. Generally they
are robust, earthy teas with a dark red or brown color and distinctive, mysterious aroma. Puer
is widely known in China to have major health benefits, especially in reducing cholesterol
and as an aid to digestion, which makes it the ideal after dinner tea.
2. RED TEA OR ROOIBOS:-
Growing on the slopes of the beautiful Cedarberg Mountains in the Western Cape of South
Africa, Rooibos is a natural herb that can be found only in this region, and very much
resembles a cedar bush in that it has fine needle-like leaves. Well known to the
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indigenous Khoisan tribe, it has been used for a wide range of illnesses for centuries and has
literally exploded onto the tea market of today. Rooibos is a member of the Aspalathus plant
group, which is part of the legume family. It is a shrub-like bush with a central, smooth-
barked main stem, known to the locals as "red bush." Near the soil surface the stem
subdivides into a number of strong offshoots, followed by delicate side branches each
bearing, singly or in clusters, soft, needle-like leaves.
History of Rooibos:-
At the turn of the last century, local people harvested Rooibos by chopping the plants
with axes and bruising the leaves them with hammers, and then leaving them to
ferment in heaps where they dried in the hot sun.
In 1904, Benjamin Ginsberg, a Russian immigrant and pioneer whose family was
involved in the tea industry, began trading and selling Rooibos.
In 1930, a Dr. P. Le Fras Nortier discovered the value of this plant as an agricultural
product. He inspired other farmers and cultivation began.
When the Rooibos market collapsed after the Second World War, the Clan William
Tea Cooperative was established in 1948 followed by the appointment of the Rooibos
Tea Control Board in 1954. The goals of the board were to regulate marketing,
stabilize prices, and improve and standardize the quality of the tea. This has been well
accomplished with the refinement of production methods and worldwide distribution.
In 1968 a Dr. Annique Theron became convinced that there were health and healing
properties in this plant, and so conducted independent studies reporting her findings in
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a book called "Allergies: An Amazing Discovery". Until then, Rooibos was
considered just a local South African tea with limited export.
In the 1980's, Japanese scientists found a powerful and stable antioxidant called
super-oxide dismutase in Rooibos tea, and in 1992, Dr. Theron brought the story of
her amazing discovery to America.
In 1993 the industry was privatized allowing all growers to market the product on
their own.
An independent scientific study was undertaken in 1995 by Professor Daneel
Ferreira, Dr. Charlene Marais, Dr. Jacobus A. Steenkamp and Dr. Elizabeth
Joubert, which confirmed Rooibo, has many health benefits.
In 1997 at the International Inventions Exhibition in Geneva, Dr. Theron was honored
with the "World Intellectual Property Organization’s" award for The Best Woman
Inventor of 1997.
Recent scientific research has added to the credibility of Dr. Theron's original findings
regarding the health and healing properties of tea. The most recent studies suggest a
beneficial link between tea consumption and cardiovascular health, reduced risk of
certain types of cancer, and an increase in bone density.
Production of Red Tea:-
Rooibos is grown in an area with winter rainfall, so that its’ active growth can begin
in the spring and increase during the summer. It is covered with small, yellow, pea-
shaped flowers during October, each of which produce a small legume containing one
small, light yellow, hard-shelled, dicotyledonous seed. Seedlings are transplanted
between June and August, and the first crops reach maturity about 18 months
later. During harvesting, each bush is cut back to 35cm above the ground. After 3 to 5
harvests, plantations have to be re-established.
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The harvested cuttings are tied into sheaves and taken to the processing yard; here
they are trimmed to a standard length and moistened to start the fermentation process.
The leaves change from green to the distinctive red-amber color and develop their
sweet aroma.
They are then bruised between rollers, and spread out on racks to dry in the sun.
Health Benefits:-
Contains antioxidants which limit the effects of free-radicals in the process of aging
and a declining immune system.
Helps prevent common infant ailments like colic and stomach cramps.
Completely pure, natural and contains no additives, preservatives or colorants.
Contains no caffeine and has a soothing effect on the central nervous system.
Have anti-spasmodic properties that help to relieve stomach and digestive problems
like nausea, vomiting, constipation, heartburn and stomach ulcers.
Benefits the management of allergies like hay fever, asthma.
Has a soothing effect when applied directly to the skin as a tincture or can relieve
itching, rashes and sunburn when added to a bath.
Supplements the daily amounts of calcium, manganese and especially fluoride,
needed for the development of strong teeth and bones.
Contains zinc and alpha hydroxy acid, which promote healthy skin, and magnesium,
which is necessary for a healthy nervous system.
Low in tannin, a substance which affects the body's metabolism by interfering with its
ability to absorb iron and protein.
An ideal drink for anyone who is watching their weight because it contains no calories, it is
less bitter than regular tea and therefore needs no sweeteners and it is naturally calming.
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Strongly recommended for people suffering with irritability, headaches, disturbed sleeping
patterns, insomnia, nervous tension, mild depression or hypertension, as it contains no
caffeine and has a soothing effect on the central nervous system.
Contains iron, potassium and copper - minerals which are essential for several
metabolic functions.
Contains magnesium - necessary for a healthy nervous system.
Contains no oxalic acid, so it can be drunk freely by people suffering with kidney
stones.
It is a pick-me-up in the morning, an excellent thirst-quencher during the day and at
night it helps you to relax and sleep well.
3. BUBBLE TEA:-
Bubble Tea is one of the newest trends in the tea market today. It originated at tea stands in
Taiwan in the 1980s, and has many other names - booboo tea, boba tea, tapioca tea, boba nai
cha, pearl tea, pearl shake, tapioca ball drink, black pearl tea, milk tea, bubble drink, zhen zhu
nai cha, momi, momi milk tea and QQ. QQ means "chewy" in Chinese, referring to the
texture of the tapioca pearls which is the feature of this unusual drink. At first, the tea did not
contain tapioca, but was so called because of the bubbles formed after the shaking given to
mix the tea and flavoring.
Tapioca pearls are made mostly from tapioca starch, which consists of the tapioca or bitter-
cassava plant, sometimes called manioca or yuca. The plant is native to South America and
being brought to Asia in the 19th century. In 1983, a man called Liu Han-Chieh began adding
the tapioca pearls, mostly to cold infused tea. After the tea and flavor were shaken, the
tapioca rose to the top, emulating bubbles. They would then would sink back to the bottom,
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so the idea of using a large diameter straw to reach them was born. It can also be made with
fresh fruits, milk, and crushed ice to create a healthy milk shake. It is certainly an acquired
taste; the consistency of the small marble sized tapioca pearls sits somewhere between jell-o
and chewing gum.... Depending on the ingredients of the pearl, the color varies, but the color
most often seen is black. Bubble tea is sweet, though it has less sugar than a typical soft
drink, and can include a variety of flavorings colors.
C) COLOR:-
In this category there are many types of tea comes. All these teas are basically related with
the color of the tea and fall under various name.
1. WHITE TEA:-
White tea is similar to green tea, in that it's undergone very little processing and no
fermentation. But there is a noticeable difference in taste. Most green teas have a distinctive
'grassy' taste to them, but white tea does not. The flavor is described as light, and sweet. You
should steep white tea in water that is below the boiling point.
There is also considerably less caffeine in white tea than the other varieties (15mg per
serving, compared to 40mg for black tea, and 20mg for green). Some studies have also shown
that white tea contains more active cancer-fighting antioxidants than green tea.
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As with all teas, there are many varieties of white tea, with poetic names such as: white
peony, golden moon, silver needle and white cloud. White teas are produced mostly in China
and Japan, but the Darjeeling region of India also produces some fine white teas.
2. GREEN TEA:-
Green tea is nothing more than the leaves of the camellia sinensis that have been processed a
certain way. Green teas, like white teas, are closer to tasting like fresh leaves or grass than the
black or oolong. They are also lower in caffeine and have higher antioxidant properties.
Preparation:-
First, the green leaves are seen how much oxidation should take place before drying them
out. Tea leaves have enzymes in their veins. When the leaf is broken, bruised, or crushed, the
enzymes are exposed to oxygen resulting in oxidation. The amount of oxidation depends
upon how much of the enzymes are exposed.
Processing of Green Tea:-
The processing of green tea is similar to that of white tea in that it does not oxidize. After the
leaves are plucked, they are (sometimes) laid out to wither for about 8 to 24 hours. This lets
most of the water evaporate. Then, in order to neutralize the enzymes thus preventing
oxidation, the leaves are steamed or pan fried. Next the leaves are rolled up in various ways
and tightness. After that, a final drying takes place. Since no oxidation took place, the tea has
more of a green appearance. From there, it goes off to be sorted, graded, and packaged.
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3. OOLONG TEA:-
Oolong teas are the most difficult of the four types of teas to process. The best way to
describe oolong tea is that they are somewhere in between green and black tea. This is
because they are only partially oxidized during the processing.
Oolong tea is gently rolled after picking allowing the essential oils to react with the air and
slowly oxidize. This process turns the leaf darker with time and produces distinctive
fragrances. When the leaf has reached the desired oxidation the leaf is heated, in a process
called 'panning', to stop the process. It's then rolled to form the tea into its final shape. The
resulting tea can be anywhere between a green and a black, depending on the processing
method. This tea is handcrafted, undergoing a labor intensive process. The tea maker must
carefully balance many elements in the critical few hours after the leaf is picked including
weather conditions, quality of the leaf, and the time the leaf oxidizes. The finest Oolongs are
often prepared and enjoyed Gung Fu style to savor their complex tastes and fragrances.
Processing: -
The processing of oolong tea requires only a partial oxidation of the leaves. After the leaves
are plucked, they are laid out to wither for about 8 to 24 hours. This lets most of the water
evaporate. Then the leaves are tossed in baskets in order to bruise the edges of the leaves.
This bruising only causes the leaves to partially oxidize because only a portion of the
enzymes are exposed to air. Next, the leaves steamed in order to neutralize the enzymes and
stop any oxidation. Oolong tea can have varying degrees of oxidation. Some are closer to
black teas, and some are closer to green.
4. BLACK TEA:-
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Black teas are the most consumed of the four types of teas. They are the highest in caffeine.
Black tea is the most popular tea in the world. It is the tea most widely used in making iced
tea and English tea. Since the process of making black tea consists of three main stages, ‘cut’,
‘torn’ and ‘curled’, it is also known as C.T.C tea. After cutting, the leaves are first spread on
shelves called withering racks. Air is blown over the leaves to remove excess
moisture, leaving them soft and flexible. These withered leaves are then crushed between the
rollers of a machine to release their flavored juices. In the tearing process the cells of the
leaves are exposed and the oxidation process begins. They are then taken to the fermenting
room where under controlled temperature and humidity, they change into copper color.
Finally they are dried in ovens, where they are curled by heat and become brownish black.
It is made by steaming the leaves in large vats. The steaming prevents the leaves from
changing its green color, hence the name. The leaves are then crushed in a machine and dried
in ovens. It is produced by using many of the same techniques that were practiced centuries
ago.
Black teas are of two types i.e. CTC and Orthodox Tea
EXPLAINATION:-
Green tea leaf is converted into black tea through two processes which produce orthodox tea
and CTC (crush tear and curl) tea. In the production of orthodox tea the tea leaves are twisted
and rolled to produce a stylish product which contains a high percentage of leaf. This tea
produces lesser cups, but the prepared tea has higher aroma and lighter colour. In CTC tea
production the leaves are crushed and torn before curling which results in the production of
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smaller size tea with higher dust content. This tea has poor aroma but stronger colour and
taste and yields more number of cups.
At present 88 per cent of the tea produced in India is of CTC variety and only 12 per cent
orthodox. The CTC tea has a strong color and strong taste while CTC tea is thin liquoring but
has strong flavor. From 1 kg CTC tea about 500 cups of tea can be made but from orthodox
tea only 250 cups are possible. In India, CTC tea has become more popular because of higher
cup page. In Kerala, where per capita tea consumption is 1.2 kg per person per year, against
an all-India average of 640 grams, the consumption ratio of CTC: Orthodox tea is 76:24.
5. SCENTED TEA:-
Scented or Flower tea is either green or white tea that has been infused with certain flowers,
which impart a delicate and interesting taste, and of course a wonderful aroma. As with black
tea and milk or sugar, flowers were added to green tea originally to disguise a less than
favorable taste in the poorer varieties. This is still the case with many commercially produced
flower teas, which hide the taste of very cheap tea behind a strong flowery presence. Flower
teas, in particular the delicious jasmine, have gained such a following both in Asia and the
Western world, that many people only drink this variety. The Seven Cups jasmine teas
combine really fine quality green and white teas with a subtle but distinct jasmine flavor, and
are a real treat, especially for dedicated jasmine fans. They are the best jasmine teas we've
ever tasted.
6. ORGANIC TEA:-
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In recent years, some planters in Darjeeling have started growing organic tea. At the end of
1997, there were 11 gardens here which produced 1.5 million kg organic tea. At present more
planters are interested in going for organic tea cultivation but there is a shortage of farmyard
manure or bio-mass. About 10 tones of bio-mass is required for every hectare of plantation
every year to produce organic tea. Though the yield in initial years falls it picks up and
stabilizes in 2 to 3 years.
The cultivation of organic tea can be taken up in regions like Darjeeling only. In Assam and
Dooars, the tea crop is often attacked by 'Helo Peltis', more commonly known as 'tea
mosquito'. Till now, no biocide has been developed which can combat tea mosquito. The
gardens in Darjeeling are not attacked by tea mosquito as it cannot survive in the colder
climates found at heights of 3,000 ft and above. In 1998, the Harrod's of London, one of the
world's most exclusive stores launched the sales of Indian 'organic tea'.
Harrod's has signed contracts with India's 4 best tea gardens Slimbong in Darjeeling,
Ambootia in Kurseong, Seeyok in Mirik and Banspatty in Karbi Anglong in Assam for
supply of tea. The teas were approved after rigourous inspections and tests conducted by
Swiss based Institute of Marketecologie. Indian Organic Chemicals Ltd. Mumbai is
producing biofertilisers and biopesticides like Bactin, Phosphin, Natrin and Naemin which
are used by farmers cultivating organic tea and other crops.
7. INSTANT TEA:-
Indian producers of instant tea have failed to create any market for this product in India. At
present, instant tea is being used in soft drinks in some western countries and is consumed to
some extent in the South Asia Pacific Rim region. In India it is being produced by Tata Tea at
Munnar in Kerala, Nestle in Gudalur in Tamil Nadu, Hindustan Lever at Etah in Uttar
Pradesh and by Goodricke Group at Dooars in West Bengal. Tata Tea has a capacity of 2.27
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million kg per annum. The other 2 companies having large capacity in the world are Lipton
and Tetley. The production of instant tea bagan in the world in 1962. Its commercial exports
started in 1967 to the US markets.
In late 1997, Tata Tea had captured 15-18 per cent of the US instant tea market. Snapple and
Coco-Cola, two beverage companies in the US were major users of Tata’s instant tea in their
iced tea beverage. The company also exports instant tea to Europe, Japan and to a lesser
extent to Australia. At present there are only 12 factories in the world which manufacture
instant tea. Of these 5 are located in India alone (Tata, Nestle, Tetley, Lipton and Goodricke).
In the US iced tea is marketed in some 52 flavor and competes directly with cola. While the
market for iced tea is growing at 8-10 per cent that for cola is growing at the rate of only 1-2
per cent in the US. The world market for instant tea is estimated at 30 million lb of which, the
US alone accounts for 20 million and the Europe 4 million.
8. PACKED TEA:-
In 1998-99 budgets, an excise duty of 8 per cent was levied on packet tea containing more
than 100 gm but less than 20 kg of tea. The consumption of packet tea in India was stagnant
for a number of years but since 1986 it started going up at the rate of about 7.2 per cent per
annum compared to 2.1 per cent of the loose tea. Tea is consumed in more than 50 per cent of
the households in India and 47 per cent of the households even in rural areas consume packet
tea. Even on the exports front, now 50 per cent of the tea exported from India is packet tea.
In 1985, the various brands of Lipton and Brooke Bond were enjoying 90 per cent share in
the packet tea market in India. Today their share has fallen to 40 percent. Tata Tea has a share
of 20 per cent and the rest is held by tea produced by AVT, Duncans, Society, and local
brands etc. Of the 640 million kg tea consumed in the domestic market, about 280 million kg
is packet tea and 360 million kg loose tea.
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In packet tea Hindustan Lever has captured a market for 110 million kg., Tata Tea 50 million
kg, Duncans 20 million kg, Girnar 13 milliom kg, Wagh Bakri 13 million kg, Goodricke 10
million kg, Jaishree 7 million kg and the rest others.
According to the findings of an Indian Readership Survey, 45.3 per cent of households with a
monthly income of Rs. 3,001 or less and 69.4 per cent of households with a monthly income
between Rs. 3,001 to Rs. 5,000 per month consume packet tea. More than 46.3 per cent of the
rural households also consume packet tea. In 1997-98, the sales of packet tea in India rose
by 4 per cent in volume and 7-8 per cent in value. The volume growth in loose tea was 2.5
per cent.
With the imposition of 8 per cent excise duty on branded tea in 1998-99, according to the
industry, the growth in sales for packet tea was likely to be negligible. In the 1999-2000
budgets, the 8 per cent excise duty on tea packets of 101 gm to 20 kg was abolished and a
duty of Rs. 2 per kg of bulk tea coming out from the factories was imposed.
Tata Tea has plans to increase its market share in the domestic packet tea market. The
company has launched several new tea brands in the market including 'Agni', Tata Tea',
'Chakra Gold', 'Kannan Devan', etc. In early 1999, the company had put more brands like
'Good Luck', 'Lucky Cup Tea', etc in the market.
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Major Market Player in Tea Industry
Tea has an enormous market. The world consumes approximately 3.5 billion cups of tea
daily. At an average of two cups a day per consumer, that is 1.75 billion consumers per day.
It is unlikely that any other beverage, other than water, is consumed to such an extent all
over the world.
The packaged tea market is highly consolidated in India, with Unilever and Tata Tea
accounting for almost half of retail value sales. Unilever (Brooke Bond and Lipton) is the
clear leader, holding over 30% of the market share, while Tata Tea (Tata) trails it with almost
20%. The remainder of the market is far more fragmented and shared between numerous
small players
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Both Unilever and Tata Tea saw a fall in retail sales as a direct result of the drop in the price
of tea between 2000 and 2003. These mainstream players also saw their margin squeezed in
the face of increased advertising spends and competition from unpackaged tea.
Of the total Indian tea market, branded packaged teas account for 33-35% by volume.
Hindustan Lever (HLL) leads with around 43-45% market share of the packaged tea market,
while Tata Tea is the No. 2 with around 17-18% market share. Apart from these two players
and Duncans, the market is extremely fragmented with many smaller /regional players. There
is other market player who gave tough competition to the leading player. Though other
players are not very popular they have their limited market for their product. Some brand has
regional market for their product and gain profit out of it. The main market leaders are TATA
TEA LTD and HLL subsidies Unilever which has dominate the tea market
Following are the some important market player in tea industry. They areas follow:
Assam Tea Company
TATA TEA LTD
Tetley Tea
HLL (Hindustan Lever Ltd) – Unilever
Brook Bond Tea
Goodricke Group Ltd
Sapat Group
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EXPLINATION:-
Assam Tea Company:-
The Assam Tea Company is the first tea company in India established 150 years ago . A
part of the UK based Duncan MacNeill Group; ASSA owns 28 tea estates in the North
Eastern part of the country. Besides bulk tea, the company sells packed tea under brands like
Regular, Jumbo, Premium and tea bags under the umbrella Assam Gold. The company also
has a large export market in Europe and is looking at expanding its presence in other
countries.
TATA TEA LTD:-
Tata tea ltd set up in 1964 as a joint venture with UK-based James Finlay and Company to
develop valued-added tea, the Tata Tea Group of Companies, which includes Tata Tea and
the UK-based Tetley Group, today represent the world's second largest global branded tea
operation with product and brand presence in 40 countries. Among India's first multinational
companies, the operations of Tata Tea and its subsidiaries focus on branded product offerings
in tea but with a significant presence in plantation activity in India and Sri Lanka.
The consolidated worldwide branded tea business of the Tata Tea Group contributes to
around 86 per cent of its consolidated turnover with the remaining 14 per cent coming from
bulk tea, coffee, and investment income. The company has its headquarters in Kolkata, and
51 tea estates in the states of Assam, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu and Kerala and one coffee
estate in Tamil Nadu.
Products and brands:-
The company has five major brands in the Indian market — Tata Tea, Tetley, Kanan Devan,
Chakra Gold and Gemini — catering to all major consumer segments for tea. The Tata Tea
brand leads market share in terms of value and volume in India and has been accorded "Super 39
Brand" recognition in the country. Tata Tea's distribution network in the country with 38
C&F agents and 2,350 stockiest caters to over 1.7 million retail outlet in India.
The company has a 100 per cent export-oriented unit (KOSHER & HACCP certified)
manufacturing instant tea in Munnar, Kerala, which is the largest such facility outside the
United States. The unit's product is made from a unique process, developed in-house, of
extraction from tea leaves, giving it a distinctive liquoring and taste profile. Instant tea is used
for light density 100 per cent teas, iced tea mixes and in the preparation of ready-to-drink
(RTD) beverages.
With an area of 26,500 hectares under tea cultivation, Tata Tea produces around 60 million
kg of black tea annually.
Exports:-
Tata Tea’s export volumes have risen through these years but realizations are at lower side.
There has been growth in exports of Sri Lankan high value teas in traditional Indian market.
This provides us an opportunity to recapture market share through quality up gradation
particularly from South India. South Indian teas are very similar to Sri Lankan teas.
Marketing Initiatives:-
Tata Tea’s top brand commands market share of 7.4%, whereas HLL’s top brand
market share is 6.9%.
Agni brand from Tata Tea stable launched two years ago has garnered a market
share of 3.5%.
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Tetley Group Ltd:-
It is Subsidiary of Tata Tea Limited.
A global player in tea: the world's Number 2 tea bag company, with a presence in
over 35 countries worldwide.
Market leader in United Kingdom and Canada, a vibrant player in other major tea
markets such as USA, Australia, Poland and France.
Pioneer in the tea industry, with an enviable record of developing some of the most
innovative concepts in the world of tea: soft packaging, perforated tea bags, round tea
bags and the Drawstring tea bags.
Unmatched global tea buying and blending skills: among the most respected name in
the industry for its expertise in buying and blending, with nearly 100 years of
experience between senior tea tasters.
Unmatched global tea buying and blending skills: among the most respected name in
the industry for its expertise in buying and blending, with nearly 100 years of
experience between senior tea tasters.
HLL (Hindustan Lever Ltd) – Unilever:-
Hindustan Lever Limited, 51.6% subsidiary of Unilever Plc, is the largest FMCG company
in the country, with a turnover of Rs118bn. The company’s business sprawls from personal
and household care products to foods, beverages and specialty chemicals. The company has a
dominating market share in most categories that it operates in such as toilet soaps, detergents,
skincare, hair care, color cosmetics, etc. It is also the leading player in food products such as
packaged tea, coffee, ice cream and other culinary products.
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HLL enters in Japan with tea bags. It’s fast moving consumer goods major, has added Japan
as its new market for tea exports and some orders have already been dispatched. HLL has
also added to its customer base the US, Australia, China, Hong Kong, the Philippines,
Singapore, Vietnam and Thailand markets. HLL established a dedicated global sourcing base
comprising factories at Pune, Kochi, Etah and Kolkata. The brands exported are Lipton,
Lipton Yellow Label, Lipton Brisk, Brooke Bond, Brooke Bond Red Label, and Taj Mahal.
All of them are in the tea bag format, apart from the West Asia business where the format is
packet tea. In addition, HLL also exports instant Tea and Lipton 3-in-1 pre-mix (tea, milk and
sugar) to some of these countries.
Brook Bond Tea:-
Brooke Bond cheers senses. Brooke Bond's heritage dates back to 1869. With its 130-year
experience in understanding tea and Indian consumers, Brooke Bond has been synonymous
with tea in India.
At Rs.1000 crores, Brooke Bond will emerge as the largest brand of Unilever in India, It will
touch the homes and hearth of over 500 million consumers -- one of every two Indians -- with
the largest footprint in the country.
Brooke Bond's logo shows green tea gardens transforming to the red liquor of tea, and a
multi-colored sun that stands for specific moments of tea consumption.
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Brooke Bond Red Label Tea was launched in the year 1903, which makes it one of the oldest
brands of tea in the country. It also has the distinction of being the largest brand of tea in
India and has a truly national presence. For years, Red Label has stood for good quality tea
and it can be easily called as one of India's favorite tea brands.
The brand was re-launched in the year 2000 with a new product formulation, wherein long
Assam orthodox tea leaves were added to the base CTC (crush tear and curl) tea to deliver
enhanced taste.
The brand is backed by the Brooke Bond Tea Excellence Centre. Selecting the best teas from
the best gardens, Brooke Bond’s specialists work hard to scientifically process green leaf to
cheer consumers. In the unique Tea Excellence Centre of Brooke Bond, tea is expertly
graded, blended and tasted to get the perfect blend.
Goodricke Group Ltd:-
Goodricke Group Ltd (GGL) is a part of the UK-based Lawrie Group. GGL has a joint
venture tea company in Nepal named Himalaya Goodricke and a subsidiary, Tiru Tea. The
Goodricke Group is the leading producer of Darjeeling Tea and the third largest tea producer
in the country. The company manages 36 tea gardens spread all over India. Incorporating the
highest technological standards in its production of tea, the company is a symbol of
excellence giving a perfect blend of quality and care in every cup of tea. Today, with
worldwide acclaim, Goodricke group manufactures and markets a wide range of tea.
Primarily a seller in the auction market, Goodricke now has an equal proportion of sales in
the bulk and packet tea segments, besides a significant presence in the export market.
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Tea major Goodricke Group Ltd, which is part of the UK-based Camellia Plc, has begun re-
launching all its packet tea brands. It also plans a new, exclusive brand for south India. To
start with, the company recently re-launched Goodricke Perfect packet teas across India. This
is a blend of 40 per cent Darjeeling and 60 per cent Assam CTC (crush tear and curl) teas.
Goodricke 3-in-1 would follow next and, later, the Zabardast brand. While Goodricke 3-in-1
is the main brand, Zabardast targets the mass segment. The company also had a soft launch
for Goodricke Premium late last year in Gujarat. This brand would soon be launched all over
India. Goodricke, which is mostly a bulk tea player, has been in the packet tea business for
over 17 years now. However, most of its packet tea sales are in the country's northern half. It
enjoys good market share in Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, West Bengal, Rajasthan,
Jharkhand and Uttar Pradesh. Goodricke's presence in south India, which is predominantly a
branded packet tea sector, is almost negligible.
Goodricke owns 10 gardens in Assam, 12 in Dooars and eight in Darjeeling. Its annual
production is 30 million kg. The company's instant tea plant, located in North Bengal, caters
to clients like Coca-Cola Ltd and Hindustan Lever Ltd. According to Grover, Goodricke's
packet tea business was growing 25-30 per cent per annum. In 2004, it sold six million kg
and expects to touch eight million kg in 2005. In the tea bag segment, the company sells
Assam CTC (crush tear and curl) under the Goodricke Fine Estate brand, mostly to
institutions such as the Indian Railways.
Sapat Group:-
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The Sapat Group of companies founded in 1897, consists of diversified businesses in tea,
pharmaceuticals, real estate to Information Technology. The group has a strong presence in
India, as well as in North America. The various Indian manufacturing units are located in and
around Nashik, with its marketing office and IT facilities located at Mumbai. With innovation
strategies over the last decade the company has grown five times touching a turnover of
almost Rs100cr., making it the largest packet tea company in the Rs500cr tea market of
Maharashtra. Currently, Sapat has over 250 distributors in Maharashtra and plans to expand
to other tea drinking states.
The tea division which is the largest of the FMCG operations was based at Nasik and a very
strong regional brand with a very good franchisee. They started with the expansion on tea and
that is being an area that they already had capabilities in. Sapat Tea is one of the top 10
companies in India today. Their Tea turnover is little more than Rs100cr. Last year,
according to some reports they were the fastest growing packet tea company in India. They
have presence in Maharashtra, large parts of MP, Chattisgarh and now we are setting up
distribution in top cities. They don’t have their own plantations. They buy the teas from
Assam.
Parivar is the largest brand. Within Maharashtra in the leaf category the market share should
be somewhere between 20-25%. And in the Dust tea category they have Sapat Chaha / Sapat
Chai a popular dust. Dust tea is a very regional play, because the market and test varies from
district to district. So in the districts in which it is very popular; it’s almost 80% market share
kind of a product. Maharashtra is the largest Dust Tea market in the country. They will have
other brands as well but starting off with the focus on Parivar because there is still lot of
potential in that brand. They do have Sapat Chai under Sapat brand but it is limited to the
dust category. They plan to use Sapat more as an umbrella brand going forward. Parivar will
be about 60% of the total turnover of Rs100cr.
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Export is a very small but a growing part of their turnover. A few years ago they were able to
start off with Masala Chai and they have been able to rope in the second largest distributor in
the US to carry out product. Tea Prices at the commodity level will be stable and are expected
to by and large remain low. They have some flavored teas, mostly in the export markets.
They are looking at that for the Indian market as well now. There is demand for it especially
at the higher end.
Consumer Behavior
The consumer is a riddle. His needs and desires are innumerable; and they vary from security
needs to aesthetic needs. These needs and desires are at different stages of emergence and
actualization. The consumer has his own ways and means of meetings these needs. Some of
these needs are within his means; he can easily meet them. Some others may be beyond
realization.
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The consumer is exposed to a word of information- about new product, new services, and
new uses for existing product, new ideas and new styles. He may ignore certain pieces of
information, whereas he may actively seek out some other information. He may read certain
messages but may not digest them. In other word, he filters the information in a rather
unconscious manner. His perception is selective in the sense that he perceive and retains only
what he would normally like to perceive and retain.
When a consumer takes a buying decision, there is no rigid rule to bind him, Sometimes; the
decision is taken on the spot. That does not necessarily mean that it is an irrational decision.
Sometime he may after a long search, after evaluating various alternatives available and
reassuring him with the opinion on those who have already purchased the product. Still he
may feel later his purchase was impulsive. He may go to shop after having taken the decision
to buy a product; but he may not still buy.
The consumer is also influenced by the social environment in which he lives- his family, his
society, his neighbors, his friends, his job, and his colleagues. Every component of his social
environment leaves some imprint on him and influences him in his day to day life. They
influence his buying behavior too.
Factor influencing consumer behavior:-
1. Information from a variety of sources.
2. Socio- cultural Environment/ Group Influence Affecting Consumer Behavior.
3. Religion and language.
4. Concern about states.
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EXPLAINATION:-
1. Information from a variety of sources:-
The consumer is exposed to a veritable Flood of information. There is a deluge of
information unleashed on him from different sources. These sources inform him about new
products and services, improved versions of existing products, new uses for existing products
and so on. The information sources that persuade people to try a product include: advertising,
samples and trials, display in shops and salesmen’s suggestions.
Each of these sources provides some information to the consumer about the products. When
the consumer sees an advertisement for a product, he is informed about the existence about
the product. Later on he may develop a positive attitude towards the product or negative
attitude or he may remain neutral. In any case a piece of information about the product is
made available to him and it has some influence on his buying behavior.
The availability of the product in the shop by itself acts as an information source to the
consumer. The consumer may evince an interest in the product, he may inquire about it. The
product advertises itself.
2. Socio- cultural Environment/ Group Influence Affecting Consumer Behavior:-
The consumer living in a society, influenced by it and in turn influencing its course of
development. He is a member of several organizations and groups- formal and informal. He
belongs to a family, he works for a certain firm, he may be a member of a professional forum,
he may belong to a particular political group, or a cultural body.
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Group influences are of two types, since there are two types of groups exercising influence on
consumer:
(I) Influence of the intimate group, and
(II) Influence of the broad social class.
Explanation:-
(I) Influence of the intimate group:-
Examples of intimate group are family, friends, close colleagues, and small, closely knit
organizations. These groups exercise a strong influence on the lifestyles and buying patterns
of the members.
In any intimate group, there is likely to be an informal group leader. The group respects him
and look upto him. Though he may not directly influence every member on his day to day
purchases, his judgment on men and matters, facts and fashions are so respected by the group
that his views and lifestyle influence their buying decisions. He is normally innovator in the
group, who first tries new products and new ideas, and then he became the propagator of
those products and ideas.
(II) Influence of the broad social class:-
The social Class is a larger group than the intimate group. The constitution of social class is
decided by the income, occupation, place of residence, etc., of the individual members. The
members of a social group enjoy more or less the same community status and prestige. Each
class develops its own standards of lifestyle and behavior patterns. And the members of the
class normally select a product or a brand which cater to their group norms.
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3. Religion and language:-
Every culture, religion and language group dictates its own unique patterns of social conduct.
Within each religion, there may be a several sects and sub-sects; there may be orthodox
groups and cosmopolitan groups. In dress and food habits, education or marriage- in almost
all matters of individual life, religion and culture- exercise an influence on the individual
directly or indirectly. The do’s and don’ts listed out by religion and culture, control
significantly the individual’s lifestyle and buying behavior.
4. Concern about states:-
People are very much concerned about their image and status in society. It is a direct outcome
of their material prosperity. Status is announced through various symbols like dress,
ornaments, possessions, and general lifestyle. The value attached to these status symbols may
change over a time. A car or a well furnished modern house may be a status symbol in a
particular society. But it may not mean to another society or to the same society after a period
of time. The desire for a self- expression and self advancement is however the common factor
in all the ideas associated with status. For several people, status is a major motive force
guiding and shaping their life. Their concept of status decides what material possessions they
should have. Even if a product that constitute a status symbol is bound their immediate reach,
their aspiration to possess it, will influence the decision making process.
Market Research on consumer behavior with respect to Tea Industry
Market research is normally done by conducting market survey. Survey is done on two bases;
i.e. from customer point of view and retailer point of view.
From Customer Point of View:-
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AGE GROUP:-
As per the above pie chart it is said that 33% of people from age group 36-45 are know
the most different type of tea available in the market. So any tea company needs to
concentrate their marketing strategy to get their customer to know about their tea. They
need to develop a good marketing skill so that they can concentrate on other segment
also.
OCCUPATION:-
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As per the above diagram it is seen that most of the house wife know the various brands of
teas even though they are not working. Companies who are want to enter into the tea market
they should concentrate on the factor that how can they convert the other segment of
occupation to used or to know about the tea.
HOW MANY PEOPLE USED BRANDED TEA / UNBRANDED TEA:-
According to survey, it is found that most of the people used branded tea i.e.76%. Those who
are not used branded tea they prefer to use loosed tea which gave them a good taste, quality
as per their views taken. There fore companies who want to enter into tea market or who are
already there they should keep in mind that they should touch feelings of other people
i.e.24% who are prefer to use unbranded tea and convert them in to use branded tea.
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HOW MANY PEOPLE HEARD THE VARIOUS TEA BRAND:-
As per the above graph, it is seen that most of the people heard the brands like society tea,
Brook bond Red Lable Tea, Tata tea, Taj Tea, Girnar Tea, Tata Gold Tea, Sapat Parivar Chai.
But in actual sense they use something else. Some companies like Tata, HLL (Unilever)
brand Brook Bond Red Lable are concentrating on their major product and ignoring the other
product in the same field i.e. tea. There fore every company should adopt such promotion
strategy that they can get the people who at least know their products of tea.
HOW MANY PEOPLE SEEN THE ADVERTISEMENT:-
According to the survey conducted, every people said that they seen the advertisement on
television of which they heard the name of tea. Most people like the advertisement. Just
because advertisement is very nice people buy the tea. Advertisement should be more
catching and convert the people from the watching, liking in to buy the particular tea.
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By concentrating on the advertisement companies can earn the more market share in the tea
industry
WHICH BRAND HAS MOST ATTRACTIVE ADVERTISEMENT:-
As per the above chart, it is seen that most people like Brook Bond Red Lable i.e.24% after
that Society Tea and Taj Tea i.e. 17% and 15% respectively. Other companies should
concentrate on their advertisement because most of the people get the information about the
tea through the television advertisement and they influenced to buy that tea. Companies also
should used some catching and attractive slogan or punch line because of which people can
like their advertisement and think to buy at least once.
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WHICH TEA IS MOST REGULARLY USE:-
According to survey, it is found that Society Tea is used by more people i.e. 32%. After that
loose tea is more used i.e.22% and then Brook Bond Red Lable i.e.20%.There fore other
companies should published or telecast their teas advertisement and influenced people to buy
tea. While using the advertisement they should adopt AIDA model i.e. (Attention, Interest,
Desire, and Action). Because most attractive advertisement is not enough to captured the
market. For example Brook Bond Red Lable Tea has good advertisement and people like
their advertisement also but less people prefer to use this tea. So all company should
concentrate on the AIDA model and can earn more market.
HOW PEOPLE BECOME TO KNOW ABOUT THEIR TEA:-
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From the above diagram, it is seen that most people come to about their tea through television
i.e. 57% people know from it and then word of mouth publicity i.e.42% Other media such as
radio, print does not have that much popularity. There fore company can introduced their
product through these media. As it required cheap cost. Company also put their hoardings in
the retail store as a print media. Because retailer can play a role to promote the tea which
create a good awareness about the tea and can increased the publicity of the tea.
BASES ON WHICH PEOPLE BUY TEA:-
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As per the survey conducted it is found that most of the people buy the tea on the quality
bases irrespective of prices. 82% people want their tea should be qualitative instead of
quantitative. People want quality in the tea it should contain good taste and flavored.
There fore while processing companies should concentrate on the quality of tea. There are
also some people looks into the prices, quantity but it because of they can not afford to
pay high prices. Some people also think other factors such as attractive, safe and durable
packaging.
HOW MUCH TEA PEOPLE BUY IN A MONTH:-
Quantity of tea to buy from shop is mainly depending on the number of family member drink
the tea. Normally people having family member not more than 6 they buy tea of 500 grams.
How much to buy is totally depends on the number of family member drink tea. But if a
company wants to launch a new product or renew the existing product then they should make
available in a small sachet. It is also useful to those who consider price as a main factor while
purchasing tea. People are also buy tea more than 1 Kg.
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PEOPLE SATISFY WITH THE PRICES:-
According to survey taken it is found that 91% people satisfy with the prices of the tea. They
don’t find prices are too high. But those think prices are not satisfying it because of their
income level and they think that quantity is not as per the price.
PEOPLE WHO THINK QUALITY AS WELL AS QUANTITY GOOD WITH RESPECT
TO PRICE:-
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As per the survey conducted, it is seen that most of the people say that whatever they pay,
they get in return in terms of quality and quantity. Around 97% people are satisfied and
get a positive reply for paying on their own favorite tea. They said that while buying they
did not take price into consideration because tastes, flavor, good feeling after drinking tea
are important. But 3% people say, they need not received the quality and quantity as per
the prices they paid, there fore these people are mostly use loose tea.
VARIOUS OTHERS SECOND PREFERENCES GIVEN BY THE PEOPLE:-
It is found while doing survey, when people are given a chance to change their tea they
are not willing to change their preference because they are too used to their favorite tea
that they are not want to switch on to other tea. These are basically including 25% of
people. There are also some people who are ready to change their own tea and used other
tea. In this around 21% people are ready to change their own tea to Society Tea. After
that they give preference to Brook Bond Red Lable Tea which has 14% of customer.
From Retailer Point of View:-
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HOW MANY RETAILER KEEP BRANDED TEA, UNBRANDED TEA OR BOTH:-
Some retailer keeps both kind of tea in their store which is branded and un-branded tea in
their shops. Un-branded tea includes basically loose tea and this is preferred by most of
customers for that retailer has to keep it. In un-branded tea there are number of tea which is
very famous as this tea carrying some special feature and for that customer like to buy it and
again retailer have to keep it. Some retailer likes to keep branded tea only.
RETAILERS KEEP THE FOLLOWING BRANDS IN THEIR STORE MOST:-
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According to the survey, it is seen that number of retailer keeps society tea in their retail
shops. It is around 80% of retailer keep society tea. After that Tata tea is also available
quickly in the retail shops and this is around 65%. In third position we have Brook Bond Red
Label, loose tea and Girnar tea etc these tea are mostly every retailer has in major quantity
and also as per the customer requirements. A retailer normally keeps the product in store
which has demand in the market by the customers.
WHAT BASES RETAILER SELECTS THEIR PARTICULAR TEA FOR THEIR STORE:-
While keeping any tea in the shop a retailer must take one thing into consideration that is
customer demand for the particular tea and quality of that tea. It is the view of most of retailer
that they like to keep those teas which normally demanded by most of customers as it is the
customers who are going to buy that tea and this is beneficial for both customer as well as
retailer. The companies also take one thing into consideration that quality of product is an
important selling factor in any tea instead of prices of tea.
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BASES ON WHICH CUSTOMER BUY TEA:-
In survey it is also found that when customer feel to buy a particular tea that time he first
think about the quality and test of that tea and after that customer decides to buy or not. And
then customer concern about quantity, price, and brand image and company reputation. The
company with a good reputation in the market should concentrate on the quality of tea and
hence they can earn various market shares in the market.
HOW MANY RETAILER SEEN ADVERTISEMENTS ON TELEVISION:-
A retailer mostly sees advertisements on the television when they are free from their own
work because most of their time is spend in their shops. 75% retailer who watches television
likes advertisement and 25% retailer said that they are not watching television
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RETAILER LIKE THE MOST ATTRACTIVE ADVERTISEMENT IS:-
As per the above graph 75% retailer who watch television like most attractive advertisement
of Society Tea i.e.59% . After that, retailers like Brook Bond Red Lable advertisement very
much i.e. 27%.
TEA WHICH HAS MORE DEMAND:-
According to the survey it is seen from the retailer that society tea has more demand by the
customer. Society has a demand of 57%. Customer likes the society tea very much even after
a price of this tea is very high this feedback normally gets from the retailer. After society
retailer have demand for the Tata tea in the customer market which is around 31%.
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WHETHER RETAILER GETS FEEDBACK FROM CUSTOMER OR NOT AND WHAT
KIND OF FEEDBACK THEY GET:-
From the above chart it is seen that around 85% retailer get feedback from customers. These
feedbacks is basically about the taste of the tea, quality, and brand image and also get extra
information like some extra benefit received from the tea relating to health. And very less
i.e.15% people are not used to give feedback. But most of the customers prefer to give
feedback to their respective retailers.
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Conclusion
As per the survey taken, it is found that most of the consumer like the advertisement of
tea but they in actual sense use some other brand. It is also found that people are not
interested in switching on the other brand. They give more preference to the brand which
is use from beginning. Consumer heard about the brand but not use the same brand.
In a survey it also found that consumer seen the advertisement and some time they like
the advertisement also but not ready to buy the tea. There fore company which is into the
tea industry, they should concentrate on the advertisement which turned the consumer
mind set and induced them to buy the tea. They should come up with the small sachet
because of which consumer can buy their brand at least once.
Companies should come with the new ideas which give the information about the how tea
is useful to our health and should concentrate on the quality of the tea. Companies should
published their advertisement through other media also i.e. print media, radio as it
required less cost and nowadays people are turning to this media also.
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Bibliography
www.google.com
www.indiainfoline.com
www.altavista.com
www.hll.com
www.tatatea.com
Marketing Management by Rama Swami.
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