India is the second-largest producer of tea in the world, and the tea industry plays a crucial role in the country’s economy and culture. With a rich history dating back to colonial times, tea is deeply woven into the fabric of Indian life, enjoyed by millions each day. From bold black teas to rejuvenating green teas, India offers a wide variety of flavors that cater to different preferences.
Want to know which companies are leading the charge in this thriving industry? Stick around as we unveil the top 10 tea manufacturing companies in India that are reshaping how the world enjoys tea.
In this article, we highlight the top 10 tea manufacturing companies in India that have shaped the tea landscape, both domestically and internationally. These companies are recognized not only for their high-quality products but also for their contribution to the global tea industry, making Indian tea renowned worldwide. For more information on the Indian tea industry, you can visit Tea Board of India.
Top 10 Tea Manufacturing Companies in India
These companies represent the pinnacle of India’s tea industry, known for their excellence in quality, innovation, and sustainability. They have not only dominated the domestic market but also made a significant impact globally. For a deeper understanding of the tea manufacturing process, check out this useful guide on tea production by the Tea Board of India.
1. Tata Tea
Tata Tea, a part of the Tata Group, was established in 1964. It is one of the largest tea brands in India, known for its diverse range of high-quality teas that cater to every taste.
- Headquarters: Kolkata, West Bengal
- Market Share: 21-22%
- Revenue (FY 2023): ₹12,000 crores
- Product Range: Black tea, green tea, herbal teas
- Key Selling Points: Strong market presence, innovation, social impact (Jaago Re campaign)
- Sustainability Initiatives: Rainforest Alliance certification, water conservation
- Expert Quote: “Tata Tea has revolutionized the Indian tea market by making premium quality tea accessible to the masses while maintaining a strong focus on sustainability and social causes.” – Rajiv Lochan
2. Brooke Bond
Brooke Bond, one of India’s oldest tea brands, is known for its high-quality, affordable teas that have been a household favorite for generations.
- Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra
- Market Share: Significant share in black tea segment
- Revenue (FY 2023): ₹45,000 crores (HUL)
- Product Range: Black tea, masala chai, specialty blends
- Key Selling Points: Quality and affordability
- Sustainability Initiatives: Sustainable sourcing, Rainforest Alliance certification
- Expert Quote: “Brooke Bond’s legacy in India is unmatched. It has been instrumental in shaping the tea culture by providing affordable and consistent quality tea to millions of Indians.” – Dr. Anil Kumar
3. Wagh Bakri Tea
Wagh Bakri Tea is a trusted brand with a legacy of over a century, offering flavorful blends that appeal to both traditional and modern tea lovers.
- Headquarters: Ahmedabad, Gujarat
- Market Share: Top 3 in packaged tea
- Revenue (FY 2023): ₹1,500 crores
- Product Range: Black tea, green tea, masala chai
- Key Selling Points: Strong taste, community-focused initiatives
- Sustainability Initiatives: Welfare programs for tea estate workers
- Expert Quote: “Wagh Bakri has successfully combined tradition with modernity, offering blends that resonate with both older and younger generations.” – Deepak Patel
4. Assam Tea Company
Assam Tea Company is renowned for producing some of the finest premium Assam teas, emphasizing quality and traditional cultivation.
- Headquarters: Assam, India
- Market Share: Significant in premium Assam tea
- Revenue (FY 2023): Steady revenue
- Product Range: Black tea, specialty Assam blends
- Key Selling Points: Premium quality, traditional cultivation
- Sustainability Initiatives: Sustainable farming practices
- Expert Quote: “Assam Tea Company has set the benchmark for premium Assam teas.” – Priya Singh
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5. Lipton India
Lipton India, owned by Unilever, is a global brand offering a wide variety of teas, with a strong focus on health benefits and sustainability.
- Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra
- Market Share: Major in green and iced tea
- Revenue (FY 2023): €3 billion (Unilever)
- Product Range: Black tea, green tea, iced tea, herbal teas
- Key Selling Points: Health benefits, sustainability focus
- Sustainability Initiatives: Rainforest Alliance certification, sustainable sourcing
- Expert Quote: “Lipton’s global influence on the tea industry cannot be overstated.” – John Miller
6. Society Tea
Society Tea, established in 1933, is known for its aromatic flavors and has been a popular choice in Western India for decades.
- Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra
- Market Share: Significant in Western India
- Revenue (FY 2023): ₹500 crores
- Product Range: Black tea, masala chai, premium blends
- Key Selling Points: Aromatic flavors, strong regional presence
- Sustainability Initiatives: Sustainable sourcing and packaging
- Expert Quote: “Society Tea’s focus on consistency and quality has made it a household name in Western India.” – Arvind Sharma
7. Goodricke Group
Goodricke Group is known for its premium Darjeeling and Assam teas, offering estate-specific flavors that are beloved by tea connoisseurs.
- Headquarters: Kolkata, West Bengal
- Market Share: Leading in Darjeeling tea
- Revenue (FY 2023): ₹700 crores
- Product Range: Black tea, Darjeeling tea, green tea
- Key Selling Points: Premium quality, estate-specific flavors
- Sustainability Initiatives: Rainforest Alliance standards
- Expert Quote: “Goodricke’s Darjeeling teas are among the finest in the world.” – Lisa Thompson
8. Organic India
Organic India is a pioneer in organic and herbal teas, committed to promoting health and sustainability through its products.
- Headquarters: Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
- Market Share: Prominent in organic tea
- Revenue (FY 2023): ₹300 crores
- Product Range: Herbal tea, green tea, tulsi tea
- Key Selling Points: Organic certifications, health focus
- Sustainability Initiatives: Sustainable agriculture, fair trade practices
- Expert Quote: “Organic India’s commitment to organic farming has set a benchmark in the herbal tea industry.” – Vandana Gupta
9. Pataka Tea
Pataka Tea is known for providing affordable, high-quality teas that cater to both rural and urban markets in India.
- Headquarters: Kolkata, West Bengal
- Market Share: Key in affordable tea
- Revenue (FY 2023): ₹200 crores
- Product Range: Black tea, masala chai
- Key Selling Points: Affordable, strong flavor
- Sustainability Initiatives: Ethical sourcing, community support
- Expert Quote: “Pataka Tea has managed to strike a balance between affordability and quality.” – Rohit Verma
10. McLeod Russel India Limited
McLeod Russel is one of the largest tea producers globally, known for its large-scale production of premium teas and commitment to sustainability.
- Headquarters: Kolkata, West Bengal
- Market Share: Major globally
- Revenue (FY 2023): ₹1,000 crores
- Product Range: Black tea, green tea, specialty blends
- Key Selling Points: Large-scale production, premium quality
- Sustainability Initiatives: Environmental conservation, welfare of workers
- Expert Quote: “McLeod Russel’s scale of production and focus on quality make it a leader in the global tea market.” – James Richardson
Conclusion
India’s tea industry is vast and diverse, with numerous companies offering unique blends and flavors that cater to different preferences. The top 10 tea manufacturing companies listed here have played a significant role in making Indian tea renowned both domestically and internationally. These companies are not only known for their high-quality teas but also for their commitment to sustainability, innovation, and community development.
As tea consumption continues to evolve, there is a noticeable shift towards organic and sustainable teas, with many brands, such as Organic India, leading the way. Whether you prefer a robust cup of Assam tea or a calming herbal blend, these companies offer a wide variety of options to suit your taste.
Explore the different teas these manufacturers provide and experience the rich flavors that have made Indian tea a beloved beverage worldwide.
FAQs
The largest tea manufacturing company in India is Tata Tea, part of Tata Consumer Products. Tata Tea holds approximately 21-22% of the branded tea market in India and has a significant presence both domestically and internationally.
Organic India is one of the leading tea companies in India that offers organic tea. The brand focuses on herbal and organic blends, with certifications to ensure the quality and health benefits of its products. Other companies, such as Goodricke Group and Wagh Bakri, also produce organic tea varieties.
Several Indian tea brands are popular internationally, including Tata Tea, Lipton India, McLeod Russel, and Goodricke Group. These brands have a strong presence in countries across Europe, North America, and Asia, known for their high-quality teas and diverse product offerings.
