World Tea Expo 2024: Full Schedule

9:00am PDT

World Tea Expo Beverage Challenge (Judging)

Embark on a journey that celebrates the rich tapestry of teas from around the world. This spirited competition will captivate taste buds and elevate the art of tea-making.

The World Tea Expo Beverage Challenge is a professionally judged competition, directed by Ravi Pillai. Entries open on October 2, 2023, and close on January 31, 2024. Want to submit? View all details here:
(link to http://www.worldteaexpo.com/worldteaexpocom/beveragechallenge)

Winners will be announced onsite during the World Tea Expo Keynote presentation on Tuesday, March 19, 2024 at 8:00 a.m. Bonus! Sample winning teas at the Tea Bar located on the Expo Hall Floor.

Categories include:

Grand Champion (Highest scorer across all tea types and origins)
Best Leaf (Highest leaf score across all tea types and origins)
Best Liquor (Highest liquor score across all tea types and origins)
Best White Tea (Awards for Winner and Runner-Up)
Best Green Tea (Awards for Winner and Runner-Up)
Best Oolong Tea (Awards for Winner and Runner-Up)
Best Black Tea (Awards for Winner and Runner-Up)
Best Pu-erh (Awards for Winner and Runner-Up)
Best Tea by Origin (One winner awarded for each origin submitted)

Director

Ravi Pillai

Director, Global Tea Beverage Challenge

An expert in the industry with 40 years of experience, Ravi began his career running tea plantations in Ceylon (Sri Lanka) and progressed through all facets of the teacup from planting, production, international marketing, buying, selling, blending, consulting, quality control and... Read More →

Sunday March 17, 2024 9:00am - 6:00pm PDT
Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall

Competition

Registration Pass Expo Pass, Full Conference Pass, Tea Guru Pass

11:00am PDT

Registration/Badge Pick-up

You can pick-up your badge or register at the Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall or in the back of the building there is a satellite registration station.

Sunday March 17, 2024 11:00am - 5:00pm PDT
Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall

Registration/Badge Pick-up

Registration Pass Expo Pass, Full Conference Pass, Tea Guru Pass

1:00pm PDT

Tea Primer - Covering the Basics

You will taste the five types of tea and learn evaluation and preparation techniques drawn from Kyle Stewart's creative collaborations with renowned chefs, sommeliers, sensory evaluation scientists, and worldwide tea experts. The classroom tasting and demonstration experiences provide you with a tea knowledge base for the Tea Incubator.

What Is and Isn’t Tea
A Brief History of Tea
How are Tasting Tea and Tasting Wine Similar and Different
What are the factors that make each tea type look and taste different
Using Sensory Memory to Taste Tea
What are the Five Tea Types

Speakers

Kyle Stewart

Co-Owner, The Cultured Cup

An endlessly curious person who grew up in a small Iowa town, Kyle has music degrees from several renowned music schools. After stints teaching college music and arts and humanities, managing international marketing support for a company, Kyle and his partner Phil bought a coffee... Read More →

Sunday March 17, 2024 1:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall

Incubator Skills

Registration Pass Tea Guru Pass, Add Separate
Level Beginner
Track Teas and Botanicals

5:30pm PDT

Meet & Greet with Jeni & Chris - Open to All

Whether it’s your first time attending or you’re a World Tea Expo veteran, you won’t want to miss this opportunity to meet friends new and old before the madness begins! Join us for a cup of tea, icebreaker games, and camaraderie with others who share your passion for tea. This casual networking opportunity is the perfect way to kick off your event experience!

Speakers

Jeni Dodd

Owner, Jeni Dodd Tea

Jeni Dodd, a native of America's heartland, has traveled to tea-growing regions across the globe in search of the perfect cup of tea. She has visited all of the original tea-producing countries, as well as up-and-coming regions like Nepal, witnessing the hard work and dedication of... Read More →

Chris Anderson

Owner, Tea Balance

Chris Anderson has collaborated with World Tea Expo conference organizers for the past six years. He has extensively journeyed to tea-growing regions worldwide, immersing himself in the presence of dedicated tea industry leaders to gain an authentic and firsthand understanding of... Read More →

Sunday March 17, 2024 5:30pm - 7:00pm PDT
Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall

Networking

Registration Pass Expo Pass, Full Conference Pass, Tea Guru Pass
Level Beginner-Intermediate-Advanced

7:00am PDT

Registration/Badge Pick-up

Monday March 18, 2024 7:00am - 6:00pm PDT
Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall

Registration/Badge Pick-up

Registration Pass Expo Pass, Full Conference Pass, Tea Guru Pass

9:00am PDT

Tea Business Incubator

Tea Business Incubator is for anyone interested in starting a tea business or wanting more business insight about the tea industry. We cover the business of tea, it is strongly suggested that for the basics of tea, you attend our Tea Primer on Sunday, March 17, 2024.

The schedule will be as follows:

9:00 am to 9:45 am - Navigating the Pitfalls of a Tea Business: Keeping Your Dreams and Giving You Success- Don Mei
So you have a passion for tea and want to make it a thriving business? Great. But what are the main challenges that you will face and how can you work on your business strategy to overcome them? Let's explore the creation of a sustainable business that fulfills your passion and dreams by dealing with the obstacles head-on.

9:45 am to 10:30 am --- Curating Your Brand's Tea Selection - Do's & Don't's - Don Mei
A tea business's success is dependent on the quality, range, and pricing of the teas which you are offering. How do you go about finding the right teas for your brand and what should your ideal menu of teas look like? We will explore some of the common mistakes made when curating your tea offerings and how to overcome them for a winning selection.

20 Minute Break

10:50 am to 11:35 am ---- Financial Concepts and Strategies for Business: Pricing your product to cover all of your costs including Yourself - by Doyle Mullins
Understanding how to price your products to cover all of your costs can be confusing and feels like an exercise in futility sometimes. I will help you identify what costs change, and what costs stay the same, no matter if you sell 1 unit or 1 million. Once you determine what changes and what stays the same, you still need to figure out how to determine a price that covers those costs based on your projected sales. That is why knowing what your break-even number can be is so critical. The concepts are straightforward, the math is really easy. We will use spreadsheets exclusively to help determine these factors, so a laptop during class will go a long way to help you understand the concepts.

11:35 am to 12:35 pm --- Lunch Break

12:35 pm to 1:20 pm --- Legally Tea: Be Sure to Dot Your I's and Cross Your Tea's - Jeni Dodd
As a non-revenue generating expense, many new tea entrepreneurs consider legal work the initial start-up expense they can avoid by doing it through the internet and on their own. We don’t want to be crass, but this path leads to being legally tea’d. Not understanding the complexities and interplay between local, state, and federal regulations can lead to long-term legal consequences, as well as, spending more money, time, and resources in the future. Avoid getting tea’d by knowing which legal issues you should seek legal advice on now. We will discuss legal issues from formation to day-to-day operations to intellectual property, and even how to find the right attorney for your business so that you can legally dot your I’s and cross your tea’s.

1:20 pm to 2:05 pm --- From Leaf to AI: Modern Tools to Serve Timeless Tea Traditions - Tamay Shannon
Steeped in tradition yet brimming with innovation, the tea industry is ripe for transformation. 'Mastering ChatGPT for Tea Entrepreneurs,' and discover how to infuse modern AI technology into your age-old business. Learn how to train ChatGPT to assist with tasks from trend analysis to engaging with curious customers. We'll whisk you through evaluating the AI's responses for authenticity and relevance.

20 Minute Break
2:25 pm to 3:10 pm --- Tea Trends: Past Present & Future-- Tania Stacey & Kym Cooper
Learning past trends helps to understand present and future trends. Kym and Tania will discuss how you can find opportunities to understand tea trends.

20 Minute Break

3:30 pm to 4:15 pm ---- Steeping Innovation: Disruptive Thinking and Practical Application in the Tea Industry-- by Sherolyn Sellers
Join us for an immersive workshop designed to introduce tea business owners to the power of disruptive thinking. More than just a lecture, this session will blend theory with hands-on exercises, guiding attendees through real-life daily scenarios in the tea industry. By challenging traditional paradigms and applying innovative approaches, participants will discover new avenues for growth and differentiation in the evolving tea market.

4:15 pm to 5:00 pm --- Q & A with Wrap Up
All the speakers will return to answer questions from the audience.

Speakers

Jeni Dodd

Owner, Jeni Dodd Tea

Sherolyn Sellers

Founder, Urban Tea Company

Since 2006, Sherolyn Sellers has served as the TEO of the Urban Tea Party located in Atlanta, GA. Her mission as TEO is to normalize the daily tea experience, especially for black women. The Urban Tea Party is the essence of Sisterhood, Spirituality, and Soul. In today's session... Read More →

Doyle Mullins

Co-Owner, New World Spice & Tea Traders

Doyle holds a B.S. degree in Finance and Real Estate from Florida State University and a Master’s Degree ALM from Harvard University with a concentration in Corporate Finance. Doyle’s professional career has primarily been in Corporate Finance and small business development... Read More →

Don Mei

Director, Mei Leaf

Don Mei is the founder of Mei Leaf 0 a world-renowned tea brand with a London teahouse and a website offering pinnacle tea to tea lovers worldwide.Don has been studying tea and sourcing from origin for over 20 years. He tastes about 1000 teas every year to curate the highly regarded... Read More →

Tania Stacey

Co-Founder, East Forged

Tania entered the tea industry in 2013 after sharing a cup of green tea with a teapot shop owner in China. The green tea was so delicious she knew she had to learn more about tea. As a 20-year Sales veteran, she believes that you should know your product well to sell. Her... Read More →

Kym Cooper

Co-Founder, East Forged

Kym came into the tea industry in 2015. In the decades before, a sense of connection and curiosity for exploring the tea plant's possibilities had formed. A culture bridge connecting her Taiwanese heritage and Australian upbringing. Through her tea business, The Steepery Tea Co... Read More →

Tamay Shannon

Founder, W2SMarketing

In the world of small business advocacy and entrepreneur mentorship, Tamay Shannon stands unparalleled. With over a decade of deep immersion in the ever-evolving social media landscape, Tamay has honed an approach uniquely her own, aptly named "Where2Start." This perfect blend of... Read More →

Monday March 18, 2024 9:00am - 5:00pm PDT
Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall

Incubator

Registration Pass Tea Guru Pass
Level Beginner-Intermediate
Track Business Strategies

9:00am PDT

World Tea Expo Beverage Challenge (Judging)

Embark on a journey that celebrates the rich tapestry of tea from around the world. This spirited competition will captivate taste buds and elevate the art of tea-making.

The World Expo Tea Beverage Challenge is a professionally judged competition, directed by Ravi Pillai. Entries open on October 2, 2023, and close on January 31, 2024. Want to submit? View all details here:
(link to http://www.worldteaexpo.com/worldteaexpocom/beveragechallenge)

Winners will be announced onsite during the World Tea Expo Keynote presentation on Tuesday, March 19, 2024, at 8:00 a.m. Bonus! Sample winning teas at the Tea Bar located on the Expo Hall Floor.

Categories include:

Grand Champion (Highest scorer across all tea types and origins)
Best Leaf (Highest leaf score across all tea types and origins)
Best Liquor (Highest liquor score across all tea types and origins)
Best White Tea (Awards for Winner and Runner-Up)
Best Green Tea (Awards for Winner and Runner-Up)
Best Oolong Tea (Awards for Winner and Runner-Up)
Best Black Tea (Awards for Winner and Runner-Up)
Best Pu-erh (Awards for Winner and Runner-Up)
Best Tea by Origin (One winner awarded for each origin submitted)

Director

Ravi Pillai

Director, Global Tea Beverage Challenge

Monday March 18, 2024 9:00am - 6:00pm PDT
Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall

Competition

Registration Pass Expo Pass, Full Conference Pass, Tea Guru Pass

10:00am PDT

Tea Business Incubator Advanced - Business Strategies

Calling all veteran tea business owners who are ready to ascend to new heights of success! This is your opportunity to have your questions answered by our panel of tea industry luminaries. They’ll share the strategies, techniques, and insights that separate the exceptional from the ordinary. The challenges of tomorrow are different than the challenges of yesterday so let our experts give you the tools to tackle those obstacles and turn that bottom line from red to black!

Speakers

Don Ho

Founder & Owner, B D H Consultants

Don is the Founder and Owner of BDH Consultants. Don has been involved in the food service industry since 2013 when he decided to get out of the daily grind of corporate life after discovering his passion for tea. He sold his law firm and turned his hobby into a business. Don traveled... Read More →

Kevin Gascoyne

Co-Owner, Camellia sinensis

Kevin first bought tea in Asia in 1989 and has since spent every Spring there as for almost 25 years. Aside from his obsessive quest for Darjeeling’s finest leaf, his interest in the teas of Nepal, Sri Lanka, and the African continent have added these regions to his repertoire.Born... Read More →

Monday March 18, 2024 10:00am - 2:00pm PDT
Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall

Incubator Skills

Registration Pass Tea Guru Pass
Level Intermediate or Advanced
Track Business Strategies

6:00pm PDT

Opening Night Reception - Open to All!

Raise your (tea)cup to a night of mingling with fellow tea business owners, growers, distributors, and industry pioneers. This evening promises to captivate, connect, and celebrate the vibrant tea industry! Together, let's open the doors to a world of tea delights and connections.

You must bring your World Tea badge (or show your registration email confirmation on your phone) and photo ID to enter venue.

Monday March 18, 2024 6:00pm - 7:30pm PDT
Rose Rooftop at Resorts World

Networking

Registration Pass Expo Pass, Full Conference Pass, Tea Guru Pass

7:30am PDT

Registration/Badge Pick-up

Tuesday March 19, 2024 7:30am - 6:00pm PDT
Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall

Registration/Badge Pick-up

Registration Pass Expo Pass, Full Conference Pass, Tea Guru Pass

8:00am PDT

World Tea Expo Beverage Challenge - Winners Announced!

Drumroll please...find out who won the World Tea Beverage Challenge! Categories include:

Grand Champion (Highest scorer across all tea types and origins)
Best Leaf (Highest leaf score across all tea types and origins)
Best Liquor (Highest liquor score across all tea types and origins)
Best White Tea (Awards for Winner and Runner-Up)
Best Green Tea (Awards for Winner and Runner-Up)
Best Oolong Tea (Awards for Winner and Runner-Up)
Best Black Tea (Awards for Winner and Runner-Up)
Best Pu-erh (Awards for Winner and Runner-Up)
Best Tea by Origin (One winner awarded for each origin submitted)

Keynote presentation to immediately follow the announcement. You must be registered to attend all events at World Tea Expo.

Director

Ravi Pillai

Director, Global Tea Beverage Challenge

Tuesday March 19, 2024 8:00am - 8:15am PDT
Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall

Competition

Registration Pass Expo Pass, Full Conference Pass, Tea Guru Pass

8:00am PDT

Keynote Speaker TBD

Keynote for the Tea Industry (Upstairs in the BRE Conference area Rooms 222 & 223)

Tuesday March 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am PDT
Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall

Keynote

Registration Pass Expo Pass, Full Conference Pass, Tea Guru Pass
Level Beginner-Intermediate-Advanced

9:30am PDT

Authenticity in a Social Media Age: How to Develop Your Own Voice & Build Community

The social media space is fickle, overcrowded, demanding and forever changing. It can however be the difference between success and failure for most businesses. How can you devise a social strategy which is manageable and effective? How can you build a community of potential clients when the competition for attention is so high? I will share some of my insights into the highlights and lowlights of social media and offer advice to take your social marketing to the next level.

Takeaways:
What makes good social content
How to contend with the pitfalls of social media marketing
How to maximize the effectiveness of your content generation

Speakers

Don Mei

Director, Mei Leaf

Tuesday March 19, 2024 9:30am - 10:15am PDT
Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall

Conference Session

Registration Pass Full Conference Pass, Tea Guru Pass
Level Beginner-Intermediate
Track Business Strategies

9:30am PDT

Clone Wars: Ten Tea Cultivars You Should Know

As a key element of the producer’s approach to delivering top quality, climate-change resilience, or products that support producers’ abilities to remain economically viable, cultivars are an increasingly important part of the tea world. But many of us don’t know how they are developed, which ones are worth seeking out, and what qualities they offer the planter, plucker, packer, or consumer. This session will navigate the background of cultivars by comparison with tea grown from seed before diving into a review of ten of the tea world’s most significant cultivars and what makes them special.

P126 – Golden Tip, Assam- Look at leaf samples
AV2- Taste, Darjeeling
K1- Assam Raspberry Jam flavour- Taste Tea
Yabukita- Japan Green Tea
Big White/Da Bai- China White Tea Look at the leaf
TRFK 306/1 Kenya Purple Tea
Malawi SC SFS204- Slide with an image of beautiful liquor
Taiwanese Oolong Jin Xuan- Taste Tea
China Dragonwell Long Jing #43
Ceylon Clone TRI2043- Look at a silver-tipped leaf

Tasting of two highlighted teas.

3 takeaways:

Awareness of the impact of plant material on tea quality
Awareness of how the process of plant research works and its marriage with climate change resistance and market development
Understanding of how well-executed cultivar development can create teas that are much superior in quality

Will expects to bring samples of each of the teas discussed to distribute to attendees for take away in a clear plastic pouch.

Speakers

Will Battle

Director, Fine Tea Merchants

Will Battle has worked in the tea industry for more than 25 years. He started his career at Tetley in the UK and trained in India, Sri Lanka, Kenya, and Malawi. He has blended for factories in consumption markets as diverse as Australia, Pakistan, Europe, Russia, South Africa, and... Read More →

Tuesday March 19, 2024 9:30am - 10:15am PDT
Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall

Conference Session

Registration Pass Full Conference Pass, Tea Guru Pass
Level Intermediate or Advanced
Track Teas and Botanicals

9:30am PDT

Conscious Commerce: Empowering Customers Through Responsible Sourcing--Panel

In today's conscientious marketplace, the story behind the products we consume matters just as much as their quality. Join us for an engaging panel discussion that delves into the intersection of responsible sourcing and successful tea business strategies. Discover how your tea business can not only thrive but also make a positive impact on communities and the environment through responsible tea-sourcing practices.

Uncover strategies to effectively communicate your commitment to responsible tea sourcing, resonating with the growing number of consumers who prioritize ethical consumption. We will also delve into the significance of certifications, traceability, and partnerships with tea-growing communities in enhancing the credibility of your sourcing practices.

Join us to learn how responsible sourcing isn't just a responsibility—it's a potent tool for attracting conscious customers and fostering long-term success while fostering a positive impact on the tea industry.

Speakers

Chris Olsen

Chief Business Development Officer, Teatulia

Chief Business Development Officer, Chris Olsen, has spent the last decade helping Teatulia Organic Teas grow from a start-up tea company into one of the world’s fastest-growing international tea brands. Olsen is the ultimate tea industry ambassador responsible for Teatulia’s... Read More →

Kelly Amorosa

Senior Coffee and Tea Buyer, Allegro Coffee Co./Whole Foods Market

Kelly Amoroso, senior tea and coffee buyer at Allegro Coffee Company has been involved in the beverage industry for more than 20 years in various aspects as a tea buyer, coffee buyer, quality control manager, tea/coffee promotion, and tea/coffee tasting competitions. Her regions of... Read More →

Seth Lantz

Business Development Manager, Allegro Coffee Co./Whole Foods Market

For over 20 years, Seth Lantz has pursued his passion for food and beverages in a variety of roles. He has worked with grocery stores, cafes, bakeries, and manufacturers. His skill set includes category analysis, developing operational excellence, growing revenue and profitability... Read More →

Lindsay Miesner

Quality Assurance Manager, Allegro Coffee Co./Whole Foods Market

Lindsay Miesner, Food Safety and Incident Team Leader for Allegro Coffee Company. Her experience with managing risk-based controls in the coffee and tea industry started 13 years ago and evolving alongside the regulatory space. She is driven by a commitment to customer excellence... Read More →

Tuesday March 19, 2024 9:30am - 10:15am PDT
Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall

Conference Session, Panel

Registration Pass Full Conference Pass, Tea Guru Pass
Level Beginner-Intermediate
Track Industry Analysis

9:30am PDT

Promotion of Tea: A Global Perspective

Promoting tea sounds like a straightforward proposition, but if you’re marketing globally, it’s critical to consider what tea means in different parts of the world and adjust your messaging accordingly. Come unpack common messages – whether around health, ritual, well-being, or lifestyle – and gain insights on creating an effective global campaign for the world's most important beverage.

Speakers

Shabnam Weber

President, Tea and Herbal Association of Canada

For almost two decades, Shabnam Weber owned and operated her own tea company in Toronto, Canada. With retail stores and a wholesale business, her company was one of the first of its kind in Toronto. Her passion and love of tea led her to become involved with the Tea and Herbal Association... Read More →

Dr. Sharon Hall

Chief Executive, UK Tea & Infusions Association

Dr. Sharon Hall is the Chief Executive of the United Kingdom Tea and Infusions Association (UKTIA), a role she took on in 2018. Her previous roles include Director General of both the Potato Processors’ Association (PPA) and the Snack, Nut & Crisp Manufacturers’ Association (SNACMA... Read More →

Tuesday March 19, 2024 9:30am - 10:15am PDT
Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall

Conference Session

Registration Pass Full Conference Pass, Tea Guru Pass
Level Beginner-Intermediate-Advanced
Track Data & Trends

9:30am PDT

Tea Incubator Skill Building: Explorations into Sensory Language

Step into a world of sensory delight as we embark on a captivating journey to explore the intricate dimensions of tea. In this intensive session, we invite you to delve beyond the ordinary cup and into the realm of the senses. Understand the importance and involvement of each sense in tea tasting. Master the language to name sensations, refine perceptions, optimize tea analysis, and encourage discussions. Learn how differences in cultivars, processes or age change the sensory profile of teas, and how understanding sensory aspects of tea impacts gastronomical pairings. Learn to appreciate tea as an art form that engages all the senses. Join us to unlock a world of sensory revelations that will forever change the way you experience tea.

Goals

Understanding the importance and involvement of each sense in tea tasting.
Learning the olfactory language and other senses to name sensations, refine perceptions, optimize tea analysis, and encourage discussions.
Recognizing tea typicity through sensory perception
Optimizing processes thanks to a better understanding of profiles
Highlighting tea with the right, common words
Pairing

Teaching method:

A mix of theoretical and practical approaches
Olfaction sessions and sensory games to master the role of the 5 senses in tea.
Various tea tastings to practice and apply the concepts covered.

Speakers

Carine Baudry

Founder, La QuintEssence

Carine Baudry is the nose who graduated from ISIPCA International Institute of French Arts of perfumery, cosmetic and food flavorings. Her ten-year experience in creating aromas and fragrances has enabled her to develop a detailed knowledge of sensory evaluation and creation. She... Read More →

Tuesday March 19, 2024 9:30am - 1:30pm PDT
Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall

Incubator Skills

Registration Pass Tea Guru Pass
Level Beginner
Track Teas and Botanicals

10:30am PDT

How to Break Into Fine Dining

Learn to speak fine dining. For years only a few tea companies seemed to be able to connect successfully with the hospitality side of tea. We would like to change that and make it possible for more specialty teas to show up in fine dining, hotels, and shops. This session will guide you through the process of learning the points to cover when approaching a buyer for your brand.

Speakers

Chris Villano

Majority Partner, serendipiTea

Chris Villano was born and raised in New York into a family of restaurateurs & specialty food entrepreneurs. He received a business degree in hospitality from Boston University and worked at several corporate hotels and restaurants while there. He furthered his studies at the... Read More →

Brian Friese

CEO, Sencha Tea Bar

Brian Friese is the majority owner of Sencha Tea Bar, an award-winning tea bar where they make “tea your way”. Sencha Tea Bar is the culmination of a lifetime of tea drinking and business learning and has plans to dramatically increase its size and scope in the very near future... Read More →

Tuesday March 19, 2024 10:30am - 11:15am PDT
Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall

Conference Session

Registration Pass Full Conference Pass, Tea Guru Pass
Level Intermediate - Advanced
Track Business Strategies

10:30am PDT

Identifying Issues in Sustainability & Traceability in Tea

Words like “sustainability,” “traceability,” and “greenwashing” are getting thrown around a lot these days, but what do they mean? A panel of experts will examine the trends, concerns, and opportunities related to sustainability initiatives. Discover the core concerns of the tea industry and how they relate to sustainability and traceability. Hear about the strategies, programs, and methods being employed successfully, and which sustainability/traceability practices are currently considered essential. This is an interactive session that will answer questions from the audience, so come prepared!

The panel will cover:
1. What are we seeing as core concerns of the tea industry? How are the concerns related to sustainability and traceability?
2. What are strategies, programs, or methods being employed?
3. What sustainability/traceability practices are currently considered essential?

Speakers

Michael Ham

Co-Founder/President, Wild Orchard Tea Company

Michael Don Ham, WELL AP & Faculty, is passionate about regenerative agriculture and is a founding member of the Wild Orchard Tea Company which was created out of the desire to share the world’s purest and highest quality organic teas, backed by an unmatched regenerative and biodynamic... Read More →

Tuesday March 19, 2024 10:30am - 11:15am PDT
Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall

Conference Session

Registration Pass Full Conference Pass, Tea Guru Pass
Level Beginner
Track Industry Analysis

10:30am PDT

Practical Tea Chemistry: Food Preservation With Tea

This session will describe the science behind several "old school" food preservation techniques using tea. Discover different extraction methods to get the most out of a leaf and create new products, You’ll leave with the tools to begin utilizing them immediately in both your business and daily life.
Takeaways:
1) Learn the science behind several historical food preservation techniques, utilizing tea.
2) Gain knowledge on different extraction methods to create new products.
3) Leave with clear instructions on how these methods could be used in business or daily life.

Speakers

Phil Attee

Sales Manager & Distilling Consultant, Mammoth Distilling

With a professional background working in biology and chemistry labs, Phil decided to pursue a career with a little more spirit... literally. For several years, he trained in the art and science of distillation and cocktail making. He is currently the Sales Manager and Distilling... Read More →

Tuesday March 19, 2024 10:30am - 11:15am PDT
Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall

Conference Session

Registration Pass Full Conference Pass, Tea Guru Pass
Level Intermediate - Advanced
Track Innovation

10:30am PDT

What Lessons Can We Learn from the Data?

There is so much more data available currently than there was in the past, what is the best way to use it and benefit from these findings? Ian Gibbs, Chairman of the International Tea Committee, will unlock the mysteries of data & trends in the Tea Industry. Ian has his finger on the pulse of the industry and has traveled worldwide to gather insights that will help you grow and build your tea business.

Speakers

Ian Gibbs

Chairman, International Tea Committee

Ian Gibbs was elected Chairman of the International Tea Committee (ITC) in May 2016. On leaving school Ian served fourteen years with the British Army, which included tours in Belize and Berlin, and short spells in Australia and Kenya. He joined tea brokers Wilson Smithett in the... Read More →

Tuesday March 19, 2024 10:30am - 11:15am PDT
Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall

Conference Session

Registration Pass Full Conference Pass, Tea Guru Pass
Level Intermediate - Advanced
Track Data & Trends

10:30am PDT

Assamica Producers' Collaboration

Never before has anyone brought together 3 different specialty tea producers from around the globe to collaborate, move out of their comfort zone, and offer an honest comparison of the Assamica Tea varietal.  World Tea Expo is proud to present 3 award-winning tea masters working together on this unique experiment.  
  
Each producer will aim to craft the best possible teas exclusively from Assamica varietals. All produced in a limited window from September 2023 till January 2024. During this 5-month period, they would need to craft 1 tea in each of the following categories: white tea, black tea, and freestyle.  

The results of this unique collaboration will be exclusively presented during this session at the World Tea Expo. During this session, you will get a better understanding of the difficult choices and compromises required during the tea crafting process due to their terroir, the weather, seasonality, and more.

Meet the tea makers as they share their open and honest view of their successes and failures, and how advice from the other collab partners helped to improve. Learn why these collaborations are important and how they can bring tea-making to another level! For each tea, we will give technical details on plucking dates, weather previous to pluck, style of pluck, altitude, sunlight hours, relative humidity during processing, and much more.  

This is the first of its kind session at the World Tea Conference. Don't miss out!

Satemwa Tea Estate – Lead by Alexander Kay – Thyolo, Malawi (Africa)
https://www.satemwa.com
Tea Studio Project – Lead by Kevin Gascoyne – Nilgiri, India
https://www.teastudio.info/
Bitaco – Lead by Santiago Gonzalez – Valle del Cauca, Colombia
https://www.agricolahimalaya.com/

Speakers

Wouter Verelst

Sales & Marketing, Satemwa Tea & Coffee Estates

WOUTER VERELST lived and worked with his family in Malawi for 7 years. About 5 years ago he returned back to Belgium to set up the Satemwa Europe direct trade office close to Antwerp. Wouter keeps close relations with different international tea education programs to educate tea... Read More →

Kevin Gascoyne

Co-Owner, Camellia sinensis

Alexander Kay

Third Generation Tea Maker, Satemwa Tea Estates

Alexander Kay from Satemwa Tea Estates in Malawi is a third-generation tea maker. His passion is to craft the best possible teas for his international customers.Alexander is the grandson of the founder of Satemwa. Alexander currently leads the team at Satemwa and is also involved... Read More →

Santiago Gonzalez

Director, Agricola Himalaya/Bitaco

Tuesday March 19, 2024 10:30am - 12:30pm PDT
Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall

Conference Session

Registration Pass Full Conference Pass, Tea Guru Pass
Level Intermediate - Advanced
Track Teas and Botanicals

11:30am PDT

8 Ways to Grow Your Tea Shop by Re-Thinking Your Strategy

It’s no secret that tea is having a moment! In addition to the broader trend towards health-conscious lifestyles, the next generation is embracing tea in many forms – traditional, iced, Matcha, or even cocktails! All of this spells opportunity for savvy tea shop owners.

People don't plan to fail, they fail to plan. This enlightening session will explore eight strategic ideas to capitalize on these changing market dynamics and grow your business.

Speakers

Scott Lyttle

Co-Owner, Tea Zaanti

Becky Lyttle

Co-owner, Tea Zaanti

A lifelong tea drinker and wine enthusiast for the last 20 years, there is nothing Becky loves more than enjoying an interesting beverage over great conversation. When she isn’t researching or hosting wine events for Tea Zaanti, she is a full-time product marketer for a marketing... Read More →

Tuesday March 19, 2024 11:30am - 12:15pm PDT
Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall

Conference Session

Registration Pass Full Conference Pass, Tea Guru Pass
Level Beginner-Intermediate
Track Business Strategies

11:30am PDT

Brews and Stews: Everyday F & B Applications for Your Tea Chemistry Experiments.

This session will explore how to use tea extractions and elixirs in both non-alcoholic drinks and cocktails, as well as in cooking. Discover how to layer flavors with tea and other ingredients to create something new and exciting for your customers. Attendees will be able to sample various products and get ideas and recipes to take home, as well as insider tips on how to best integrate these exciting new products into their business.

Takeaways:
1) Learn how to use tea chemistry in cocktails and other n/a beverages
2) Get practical using tea in all its forms in cooking
3) Learn how to layer flavors with tea and other ingredients to create something new and exciting for your customers.

Speakers

Lisa McDonald

Owner, TeaHaus

Lisa, a displaced Colorado native, spent 14 years in Europe where she worked as a consultant and received extensive training as a tea sommelier. After moving to Ann Arbor, she opened TeaHaus, a loose-leaf tea store and cafe/restaurant in 2007. It was a busy week, holding her 3-day-old... Read More →

Tuesday March 19, 2024 11:30am - 12:15pm PDT
Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall

Conference Session

Registration Pass Full Conference Pass, Tea Guru Pass
Level Beginner-Intermediate-Advanced
Track Innovation

11:30am PDT

Implementing Sustainability & Traceability in Tea

In a world that increasingly values responsible consumption and ethical sourcing, understanding what traceability and sustainability mean is only the beginning. This interactive panel discussion extends from the previous session to explore how tea businesses enact a plan toward sustainability goals.

In this session the panel will explore the difference between sustainability and traceability, current requirements and practices, and what gaps or further opportunities are on the horizon. Examine what is impeding our progress in these areas, and what small tea businesses should be doing in terms of compliance.

Whether you're a seasoned tea industry professional or an aspiring tea enthusiast, join us to explore how your involvement can drive positive change, ensuring that every sip of tea resonates with environmental responsibility and social consciousness. 

The panel will cover:
1. What’s the difference between Sustainability and Traceability and current requirements/practices- What gaps or further opportunities are on the horizon?
2. What is impeding our progress in these areas?
3. What should a small tea business be doing in terms of compliance and beyond?

Speakers

Jason Walker

Marketing Director, Firsd Tea

Jason Walker is Marketing Director for Firsd Tea North America. Prior to his work with Firsd Tea, Jason served in a variety of roles in marketing and operations. His 15 years of tea and beverage experience includes marketing consulting services for tea brands... Read More →

Michael Ham

Co-Founder/President, Wild Orchard Tea Company

Shabnam Weber

President, Tea and Herbal Association of Canada

Briana Buckles

Global Senior Sustainability Mgr., Yogi Tea

Briana Buckles is the Global Senior Sustainability Manager for Yogi where she has worked since 2019 as the company’s first full-time sustainability employee. The majority of her work focuses on evolving and implementing the company’s ingredient sustainability strategy from an... Read More →

Tuesday March 19, 2024 11:30am - 12:15pm PDT
Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall

Conference Session

Registration Pass Full Conference Pass, Tea Guru Pass
Level Beginner-Intermediate
Track Industry Analysis

11:45am PDT

Red Carpet & Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

Join us as we officially open World Tea Expo 2024!

Tuesday March 19, 2024 11:45am - 12:00pm PDT
Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall

Expo Hall - Open to All

Registration Pass Expo Pass, Full Conference Pass, Tea Guru Pass

12:00pm PDT

Expo Hall - Tea Bar + Beverage Samples

Tea Bar: Experience the Latest Tea Beverages.

Located on the Expo Hall | Included in all passes.

Tea Bar is a dynamic experience at World Tea Expo showcasing the latest teas, cocktails, RTDs, and innovation
that is shaping the future of industry.

Discover today’s most popular types of tea beverages, plus network with new suppliers, distributors, and your peers and learn which products are in hottest demand. Open to all attendees during expo hall hours!

NEW! Sample winning teas from the 2024 World Tea Expo Beverage Challenge: Grand Champion,
Best Leaf and Best Liquor.
NEW! Industry Meetups - Find your tribe, talk shop, grow your network, and solve business challenges
with like-minded peers.
NEW! Nooks for intimate meetings.
Complimentary tea samples.
More coming soon!

Tuesday March 19, 2024 12:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall

Expo Hall - Open to All, Tea Bar

Registration Pass Expo Pass, Full Conference Pass, Tea Guru Pass

12:00pm PDT

Expo Hall Hours

Tuesday March 19, 2024 12:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall

Expo Hall - Open to All

Registration Pass Expo Pass, Full Conference Pass, Tea Guru Pass

6:00pm PDT

First-Time Attendee Happy Hour

Are you ready to blend and connect new opportunities? Elevate your tea journey with like-minded enthusiasts and professionals. Whether you're looking to discover fresh ideas, explore collaboration opportunities, or simply unwind after a busy day, our Networking Happy Hour is the place to be.

Network with fellow tea enthusiasts, growers, distributors,
and industry experts in a relaxed and inviting atmosphere.
Delight your taste buds with complimentary cocktails from our sponsors.
Explore new partnerships, share ideas, and cultivate relationships to help shape the future of your business.

Tuesday March 19, 2024 6:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
AZILO Ultra Lounge, SAHARA Las Vegas

Networking

Registration Pass Add Separate

6:30pm PDT

Industry Networking Happy Hour

Network with fellow tea enthusiasts, growers, distributors,
and industry experts in a relaxed and inviting atmosphere.
Delight your taste buds with complimentary cocktails from our sponsors.
Explore new partnerships, share ideas, and cultivate relationships to help shape the future of your business.

Tuesday March 19, 2024 6:30pm - 8:00pm PDT
AZILO Ultra Lounge, SAHARA Las Vegas

Networking

Registration Pass Add Separate

7:00pm PDT

Kevin Gascoyne's Rare Teas

Indulge your senses and expand your tea shop's horizons in this captivating conference session dedicated to the world of rare teas. Kevin Gascoyne sets the mood with music and an immersive tea experience where you'll delve into the fascinating realm of unique and exquisite teas that have the potential to transform your tea shop into a haven for tea connoisseurs.

Whether you're an established tea shop owner looking to elevate your offerings or an aspiring tea entrepreneur seeking to carve a unique niche, this session is your gateway to a world of unparalleled taste and opportunity. Join us for an unforgettable expedition into the world of rare teas and watch your tea shop bloom into an oasis of exceptional flavors and experiences.

This evening session is always sold out and is in high demand, with limited seating of only 40 guests. Don’t miss out – purchase your ticket today!

Speakers

Kevin Gascoyne

Co-Owner, Camellia sinensis

Tuesday March 19, 2024 7:00pm - 8:30pm PDT
Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall

Add-on Ticket

Registration Pass Add Separate
Level Intermediate - Advanced

7:00pm PDT

Tea & Chocolate Pairing (Limited to 100 attendees)

Prepare to tantalize your taste buds as we invite you to a sensory exploration like no other. Join us for a delectable session that unveils the secrets behind creating perfect symphonies of flavors through the art of tea and chocolate pairings.
After a short explanation of chocolate and chocolate-tasting techniques, we will explore pairing chocolate with tea and indulge ourselves with excellent Belgian chocolate and tasteful teas. The combinations we make are based on pure single-origin chocolate, bean-to- bar and chocolate bonbons from award-winning Belgian chocolatiers. This special session is limited to 100 attendees, get your ticket before it is sold out!
This special session is limited to 100 attendees, get your ticket before it is sold out.

Speakers

Stijn VanSchoonlandt

Director, Kruze

Stijn Van Schoonlandt grew up in the food industry and his passion for food and exotic flavors istherefore no surprise. He runs the coffee and tea business Kruze in Belgium, the chocolate capital ofthe world. Besides roasting his own coffees and making his own tea blends, Stijn works... Read More →

Tuesday March 19, 2024 7:00pm - 8:30pm PDT
Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall

Add-on Ticket

Registration Pass Add Separate
Level Beginner-Intermediate-Advanced
Track Teas and Botanicals

7:30am PDT

Registration/Badge Pick-up

Wednesday March 20, 2024 7:30am - 5:00pm PDT
Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall

Registration/Badge Pick-up

Registration Pass Expo Pass, Full Conference Pass, Tea Guru Pass

9:00am PDT

How to Dominate in the New Reality

2020 was the year the world changed. We are living in a new normal ... the new reality. We all need to learn a new set of tools to compete and win. This important session is a master class for succeeding in today's disruptive, connected, fast-paced business world. It is divided into four parts: moonshot thinking, compelling marketing, five-star customer service, and exponential technologies. What would you do if you cannot fail? You need to have unreasonable expectations to dominate the new reality. This dynamic session is sure to inspire you to bring your tea business to the next level!

Speakers

Greg Lui

Founder, Gregory Lui Consulting Inc.

Wednesday March 20, 2024 9:00am - 9:45am PDT
Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall

Conference Session

Registration Pass Full Conference Pass, Tea Guru Pass
Level Intermediate - Advanced
Track Business Strategies

9:00am PDT

How to Navigate and Profit with Tea in E-commerce

E-commerce is the fastest-growing channel for food and beverage sales in the US, and understanding it is critical for tea brands to effectively reach the modern American consumer. This session will take listeners through the e-commerce landscape for tea and answer pressing questions like: Why is tea a much larger share of online grocery sales than offline? Who are the retailers that sell the most tea online? What sort of flavors, functionalities, and price points are most associated with online success? What has been the impact of the rising cost of living on e-commerce and how can brands adjust?

Speakers

Matthew Barry

Insight Manager, Euromonitor International

Matthew Barry is an Insight Manager at Euromonitor International, specializing in food and beverage products with a particular focus on hot beverages. His analysis of the industry is often shared in business and trade press, including The Wall Street Journal, The Economist, and The... Read More →

Wednesday March 20, 2024 9:00am - 9:45am PDT
Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall

Conference Session

Registration Pass Full Conference Pass, Tea Guru Pass
Level Beginner-Intermediate-Advanced
Track Data & Trends

9:00am PDT

Step into a Sustainable Tea Future

Join us for a captivating session that dives deep into why sustainability is set to steal the spotlight in the tea industry over the next decade. Discover how visionary companies are harnessing the magic of technology to make this dream a reality. Through transparency and traceability, they're crafting a bridge between tea enthusiasts and the passionate farmers who cultivate this ancient art.

With consumers increasingly basing purchasing decisions on sustainability factors, learn how to create an actionable plan to add purposeful and sustainable initiatives to your own business. Even the smallest efforts can spark remarkable transformations on the producers' side. Get ready to explore the intriguing relationship between sustainability, climate change, and the delightful brew that warms our hearts.

Speakers

Nishchal (Nish) Banskota

Founder, Nepal Tea Collective

Nishchal Banskota is a 2nd generation tea producer and the founder of Nepal Tea Collective which directly brings certified organic teas from Nepal to the American market. His vision is to create a tech-enabled transparent tea trade that bridges the gap between the primary producers... Read More →

Wednesday March 20, 2024 9:00am - 9:45am PDT
Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall

Conference Session

Registration Pass Full Conference Pass, Tea Guru Pass
Level Beginner, Beginner-Intermediate
Track Niche Market

9:00am PDT

Tea and Technology: AI The Next Disruptive Brew?

With so much buzz around AI, it’s hard to know whether this is a passing fad, or a transformation akin to the internet that you ignore at your peril. In this session, we will demystify AI and demonstrate how it can be the catalyst for propelling your tea business to new heights. We’ll explore practical examples of AI can supercharge your business. from automating content creation and enhancing customer interactions to optimizing operational efficiencies, Learn how to devise an effective AI implementation plan that aligns with your business goals. It's time to discern the potential of AI as the next disruptive force in the tea industry. Let's sift through the hype and steep your business in the power of AI.

AI Decoded: Build a solid understanding of AI and its specific applications in the tea industry.
Real-World Applications: Delve into practical examples of AI integration in business operations.
Crafting Your AI Strategy: Learn to devise an effective AI implementation plan that aligns with your business goals.

It's time to discern the potential of AI as the next disruptive force in the tea industry. Let's sift through the hype and steep your business in the power of AI. Join us on this transformative journey to shape the future of your business, so you are not left behind like those who saw the internet as a fleeting trend

Speakers

Stijn VanSchoonlandt

Director, Kruze

Wednesday March 20, 2024 9:00am - 9:45am PDT
Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall

Conference Session

Registration Pass Full Conference Pass, Tea Guru Pass
Level Beginner-Intermediate-Advanced
Track Innovation

9:00am PDT

Teas' Journey Inside Your Body

In a world where wellness takes center stage, the spotlight on tea has never been brighter. This enlightening session will delve into the science-backed health benefits of Camellia sinensis, including the four key elements that play significant roles in our body and the mindfulness that tea offers in each sip. She will also present a video to showcase Yunnan's Puerh Tea processing and the beautiful landscape of Yunnan, China.

3 TAKEAWAYS:
4 key elements that play significant roles in our body
Teas' health benefits
Tea Mindfulness skills

Speakers

Jia Li

Founder, Tea Tell Truth

After completing my medical doctorate and residency at Kunming Medical University in China and later while working for more than a decade as a research associate at UMass Chan Medical School in Massachusetts, I established Tea Tell Truth in 2018 in West Palm Beach, Florida, to honor... Read More →

Wednesday March 20, 2024 9:00am - 9:45am PDT
Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall

Conference Session

Registration Pass Full Conference Pass, Tea Guru Pass
Level Beginner-Intermediate-Advanced
Track Teas and Botanicals

9:00am PDT

Tea Flights

Dive into a world of flavors and cultures as Tea Flights transcends borders and transports you to distant lands with every sip. This fun-filled session is a perennial favorite!

Join us as producers from six different regions offer up the best their region has to offer. By savoring teas from different corners of the globe, you’ll open yourself to a world of sensory delights and gain a deeper understanding of the people and places behind each cup.

Schedule:
9:00 am to 9:30 am Vietnam - Thuy-Giao Tran
9:40 am to 10:10 am China - Lydia Kung
10:20 am to 10:50 am Japan - Kimiko Uriu
10:50 am to 11:30 am --- Break
11:30 am to 12:00 pm Nepal -- Nishchal Banskota
12:00 pm to 12:30 pm Mayanmar (formerly Burma) -- Joyce Maina
12:30 pm to 1:00 pm Rooibos --- TBD

Speakers

Joyce Maina

Consultancy, Advisory & Training, Cambridge Tea Consultancy

Daniel Lewis

Founder, T By Daniel

Author, entrepreneur, and motivational speaker Daniel Lewis is the proud founder of the award-winning tea company T By Daniel. His people-focused outlook on entrepreneurship and his experiential business tactics have garnered him and his company national recognition and many awards... Read More →

Lydia Kung

Owner, Verileaf

Lydia considers the best part of her job as a tea buyer/importer the opportunity to sample teas on a daily basis. LydiaWithout fail, even prosaic teas offer lessons anew. Her view is that enjoyment of teas should not be limited to rare teas; an “everyday” cup can still spark wonder... Read More →

Nishchal (Nish) Banskota

Founder, Nepal Tea Collective

Kimiko Uriu

Owner, Kimicha Tea

Owner KIMICHA TeaKimiko is a Certified Tea Specialist, esteemed educator, skilled blender, and visionary behind the award-winning KIMICHA tea company. Her illustrious journey spans every aspect of tea from sourcing, to production, to distribution. From the fields of cultivation to... Read More →

Thuy-Giao Tran

Co-founder, TeaJTea

Thuy TranCo-Founder/owner of TeaJTeaThuy Tran, a Vietnamese American with a deep passion for tea and her native country, has visited many tea-growing areas in Vietnam. Driven by a thirst for knowledge, she has continued learning about tea through her travels. Grateful for the opportunity... Read More →

Wednesday March 20, 2024 9:00am - 1:00pm PDT
Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall

Incubator Skills

Registration Pass Expo Pass, Full Conference Pass, Tea Guru Pass, Add Separate
Level Beginner-Intermediate-Advanced
Track Teas and Botanicals

10:00am PDT

Charting the Course of Tea Trends: Build Your Strategy Using Health & Consumer Data

Tea, a timeless beverage, is undergoing a transformation driven by health consciousness and evolving consumer choices. In a world where tea is not just a beverage but an experience, understanding the intricate dance between health and consumer expectations becomes paramount. This session revolves around the power of strategic thinking, allowing us to harmonize wellness aspirations with the changing tastes of tea enthusiasts. Learn how strategic thinking helps us predict health preferences and transform them into tea choices aligned with modern lifestyles and embrace a consumer-centric approach to understanding tea trends. Discover how to decode consumer behaviors and translate insights into innovative tea offerings that will breathe new life into your business.

Objectives:

An understanding of the elements influencing tea trends to successfully navigate them
Techniques to align health considerations with consumer preferences
Insights into interpreting consumer behavior for informed decision-making

Speakers

Suzy Badaracco

President, Culinary Tides

Suzy Badaracco is the President of Culinary Tides, Inc. and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminalistics, an Associate degree in Culinary Arts, and a Master of Science degree in Human Nutrition. Suzy has been trained in military intelligence, Chaos theory, and predictive... Read More →

Wednesday March 20, 2024 10:00am - 10:45am PDT
Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall

Conference Session

Registration Pass Full Conference Pass, Tea Guru Pass
Level Beginner-Intermediate
Track Data & Trends

10:00am PDT

Essential Insights for Success in the Ready to Drink Market

Recently, the Ready-To-Drink tea market has been showing growth in fresh and experiential tea beverage ideas. This growth has placed pressure on available retail shelf space in fridges and ambient aisles, so finding a unique selling proposition has proved to be more important. The innovation of this tea segment has been driven by multiple changes in the market which are important to understand when considering entering the RTD market. This session will explore the current range of RTD teas and discuss the differences between iced tea, cold brew tea, nitro tea, and sparkling tea. You’ll leave with valuable insights on how you can capitalize on this growing market.

Top 3 Takeaways

1. Learn the key differences between RTD teas

2. Learn how the customer is creating change in the tea beverage world

3. The importance of a unique selling proposition for Retail

Speakers

Tania Stacey

Co-Founder, East Forged

Kym Cooper

Co-Founder, East Forged

Wednesday March 20, 2024 10:00am - 10:45am PDT
Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall

Conference Session

Registration Pass Full Conference Pass, Tea Guru Pass
Level Beginner, Beginner-Intermediate, Intermediate - Advanced
Track Innovation

10:00am PDT

Steeping Success: Crafting Effective Educational Programs for Tea Newcomers

Last year, this dynamic duo led one of the most popular sessions of the conference when they described strategies to identify and welcome the next generation of tea drinkers. This year they’ll dive deeper into what it takes to plan, build, and execute the educational programs that help engage these audiences and expand the tea world. From research on audience, partners, and pricing to meeting people where they are, you’ll leave a framework to start your own successful programs and events. Let's help grow this delicious tea world together!

3 takeaways:

The importance of setting a good foundation with proper research on audience, partners, and pricing.
Actively listening to what people want and not telling people what they want.
Speaking the right language to people we are welcoming in, meeting them where they are, and helping them discover this world of tea we all love so much.

Speakers

Justine Duquette

Co-Owner, Cup of Communitea

Justine: As both the Co-owner of Cup of Communitea and, by day, a leadership project manager Justine has an eye for programming and a passion for education. Taking her skills to the tea world she has helped to develop educational tea programming that is inclusive to all.

Melissa Duquette

Co-Owner, Cup of Communitea

Co-owner of Cup of Communitea, a K-12 English as a Second Language Instructional Coach, and a mom of two. Some may think those are three very different roles but Melissa enjoys finding ways to weave them together to create inclusive educational tea programming for all ages and ba... Read More →

Wednesday March 20, 2024 10:00am - 10:45am PDT
Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall

Conference Session

Registration Pass Full Conference Pass, Tea Guru Pass
Level Beginner-Intermediate
Track Business Strategies

10:00am PDT

Tea Defects: Learn What Can Go Wrong in Tea Processing

Alexander Kay from Satemwa Tea Estates in Malawi is a third-generation tea maker with a passion for crafting the best possible teas for his international customers. Crafting the most delicious and perfect-looking tea is the ultimate aim and the key to success… But a lot can go wrong in the process of tea making. This interactive class will give you an insight into what can go wrong, including bad plucking, over-withering, over-oxidizing, over-firing, and more. You will analyze the leaves and taste the outcome – and judge for yourself whether a defect is always a real defect.

Speakers

Alexander Kay

Third Generation Tea Maker, Satemwa Tea Estates

Wednesday March 20, 2024 10:00am - 10:45am PDT
Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall

Conference Session

Registration Pass Full Conference Pass, Tea Guru Pass
Level Intermediate or Advanced
Track Teas and Botanicals
about ALEXANDER KAY is a third-generation tea planter leading the team at Satemwa Tea Estates in Malawi. Being brought up on a family tea estate and having been involved professionally in tea production for over 20 years, Alexander is focused on bringing value back to the producer community by focusing on quality, innovation, and sustainability. Alexander has been involved in directing the strategic direction of the tea industry in Malawi for over 10 years and sat on the research committee of the Tea Research Foundation of Malawi whose core function is plant breeding. Alexander and his team at Satemwa Tea Estates have produced some world-class teas from a region previously not regarded as a quality producer and are actively adopting alternative agricultural methods in an effort to mitigate against the very real effects climate change is having in Southern Africa. Alexander holds a BSc. In Horticulture from the University of Natal and an MBA from the University of Cape Town.

10:00am PDT

WINE & TEA: Elevating Hospitality Experiences

Join us for an engaging session that delves into the art of incorporating tea and wine selections into your menu to enrich the customer experience and boost profitability. By elevating tea beyond a mere after-meal drink and embracing it as a sensory experience or food pairing, you can significantly increase its value. This informative session will describe how to effectively combine wine and tea, how to choose the best teas for pairing, and more.

You’ll leave with a step-by-step guide to craft a personalized tea program for your business and see a demonstration of an original tea service infused with an Italian twist!

-Step-by-step guide to creating your own tea program -
-Unlocking the synergy of tea-food
-Teaching you the tea service with an Italian twist

Speakers

Fabiola Ruggiero

Founder, Cose di Te

Fabiola Ruggiero was born in Italy and raised between the captivating landscapes of Italy and France. With a background in marketing and communication and a passion for wine, she discovered her true calling – tea. In 2007, Cose di Tè, her tea business was born and in 2017 was... Read More →

Wednesday March 20, 2024 10:00am - 10:45am PDT
Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall

Conference Session

Registration Pass Full Conference Pass, Tea Guru Pass
Level Intermediate - Advanced
Track Niche Market

10:00am PDT

Tea Business Incubator Advanced - Business Strategies - Encore Session

Speakers

Don Ho

Founder & Owner, B D H Consultants

Jeni Dodd

Owner, Jeni Dodd Tea

Kevin Gascoyne

Co-Owner, Camellia sinensis

Wednesday March 20, 2024 10:00am - 2:00pm PDT
Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall

Incubator Skills

Registration Pass Tea Guru Pass, Add Separate
Level Intermediate or Advanced
Track Business Strategies

11:00am PDT

Adapting to Adaptogens

Adaptogens are plants and mushrooms that help your body respond to stress, anxiety, fatigue, and overall well-being. With much of the renewed consumer interest in tea relating to its many health benefits, being well-versed and able to educate your customers on these benefits is key. Join Dr. Nada to gain insights on the most commonly used adaptogens, the reasons for their surge in popularity, evidence of their medical benefits, and more. Learn how these powerful adaptogens can be coupled with the synergistic effects of tea for an enhanced result.

Speakers

Dr. Nada Milosavljevic

Founder, Sage Tonic

Dr. Nada Milosavljevic (“Dr. Nada”) is the author of the critically acclaimed book, Holistic Health for Adolescents, and the Founder and CEO of Sage Tonic, an innovative holistic program for wellness. Proceeds from Sage Tonic benefit high school students by providing education... Read More →

Wednesday March 20, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am PDT
Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall

Conference Session

Registration Pass Full Conference Pass, Tea Guru Pass
Level Beginner-Intermediate-Advanced
Track Data & Trends

11:00am PDT

Flavoring 101 : Exploring Its Place In The Tea Industry

Join DAVIDsTEA and McCormick Flavor Solutions as they examine the role of flavoring in the tea industry. Dive into the composition of flavoring—exploring the differences between artificial and natural flavor—while discovering the wide range of flavor applications and benefits across various tea formats including ready-to-drink, tea bags, and loose leaf. You will walk away armed with baseline knowledge of flavoring and an understanding of its potential to unlock new possibilities for your company.
Takeaways:
1. What is flavoring?
2. Uses of flavoring in the tea industry
3. Is flavoring right for you?

Speakers

Billy Dietz

Tea Innovation Advisor, David's Tea

Meet William Dietz, a seasoned tea connoisseur with 15 remarkable years in the tea industry. With a profound love for the world of blended teas, William's expertise shines brightest in the realm of flavored teas. William has been working in the flavored tea industry for a decade... Read More →

Michael Petrone

Principal Beverage Scientist, McCormick Flavor Solutions

With over 18 years of experience as a scientist and innovator in the tea and coffee space, Michael Petrone has solidified his position within the beverage industry as a passionate and influential figure. Michael is a Principal Beverage Scientist for McCormick’s Flavor Solutions... Read More →

Wednesday March 20, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am PDT
Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall

Conference Session

Registration Pass Full Conference Pass, Tea Guru Pass
Level Beginner-Intermediate
Track Teas and Botanicals

11:00am PDT

From Leaf to Logo: Trademark Management for Tea Business Owners

All the time, money, and resources spent building your brand are for nothing if you’re not able to protect it! Fortify your tea enterprise by learning to navigate the intricate landscape of intellectual property. Discover how to register and maintain your trademark, strategies for monitoring and safeguarding trademarks against unauthorized use, and the pivotal role trademarks play in upholding brand reputation. Leave armed with the knowledge to counter infringement effectively and protect one of the most important business assets - your brand.

Session Take-Aways

How to maintain trademark protection for your mark after the initial registration
The importance of policing your trademark and how to police your trademark to guard against unauthorized use of your mark and degraded brand reputation
Enforcement and defense strategies for protecting your trademark

Speakers

LaBrae McMillan

Owner, McMillan-McCalla Law

I am a long-time tea enthusiast and business attorney. With a bachelor's in business administration from Clark Atlanta University and a J.D. from Florida A&M University College of Law, I've practiced law for over 5 years, serving as in-house counsel for Fortune 500 companies. I am... Read More →

Wednesday March 20, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am PDT
Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall

Conference Session

Registration Pass Full Conference Pass, Tea Guru Pass
Level Beginner-Intermediate
Track Business Strategies

12:00pm PDT

Expo Hall - Tea Bar + Beverage Samples

NEW! Sample winning teas from the 2024 World Tea Expo Beverage Challenge: Grand Champion,
Best Leaf and Best Liquor.
NEW! Industry Meetups - Find your tribe, talk shop, grow your network, and solve business challenges
with like-minded peers.
NEW! Nooks for intimate meetings.
Complimentary tea samples.
More coming soon!

Wednesday March 20, 2024 12:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall

Expo Hall - Open to All, Tea Bar

Registration Pass Expo Pass, Full Conference Pass, Tea Guru Pass

12:00pm PDT

Expo Hall Hours

Wednesday March 20, 2024 12:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall

Expo Hall - Open to All

Registration Pass Expo Pass, Tea Guru Pass, Full Conference Pass