Tea business receives council grant to support its growth
A local tea company has received a Business Incentive Grant of £750 from Test Valley Borough Council to help it grow and manage future demand.
Albion Tea Ltd, run by owner Angela Pryce, blends and packs loose‑leaf tea from a workspace at The Commercial Centre in Picket Piece. Angela imports tea from China, India and East Africa and creates her own blends, including some made with local ingredients. These include Earl Grey with Hampshire lavender and a Bourne Valley breakfast blend.
The business is becoming well established, with sales through her website, direct orders from local businesses, and regular appearances at community events and fetes. Angela has also secured orders from Selfridges and ‘Discover London’ at Gatwick Airport, along with Winchester Cathedral gift shop, the Greengrocers of Stockbridge and several local farm shops.
Angela said “Receiving this grant will make a real difference as I continue to grow the business. Ordering tea in larger quantities is essential because of the shipping costs, so having support with cash flow has really helped.”
Councillor Donnelly, ward member for Andover Downlands, said: “Albion Tea is a great example of a small local business starting to make its mark. Angela has developed a unique range of blends and it’s good to see her products reaching more customers. We wish her every success as she continues to grow the business.”
Test Valley Borough Council is committed to supporting local businesses through various initiatives and grants. The Business Incentive Grant is designed to help new businesses located in Test Valley achieve their goals and contribute to the local economy. You must apply for the grant within eight weeks of starting to trade, and the council will award the money once you have been up and running for a minimum of six months.