Move Over Coffee, Its Tea Time

Starbucks SBUX introduced the masses to a more refined, gourmet coffee experience when the Seattle chain first began expanding to other states. However, it seems that Americans' tastes are beginning to shift as more and more people start focusing on their health; and many entrepreneurs are hoping to replace the coffee chain with a trendy tea restaurant. A New Kind Of Tea What used to be your grandmother's afternoon drink has been completely reformed by companies who hope to draw in the growing number of people who want to have healthy, natural foods. The market for specialty teas that promise everything from weight-loss to increased energy has been quietly growing throughout the US. The Tea Association found that specialty tea sellers have seen a 20 percent increase in profits over the past three years, making investment in the growing trend look especially inviting. Tea Bars Some tea enthusiasts are looking to deliver a high end experience to the customer by setting up tea bars that allow customers to learn more about the health benefits of their special brews. Minneapolis-based Verdant Tea provides a tea tasting in which customers learn more about specific leaves and flavors from their tea sommelier. Investing In The Future Cool Japan Fund, a Japanese state-linked fund, is also looking to cash in on Americans' changing tastes; the fund is planning to invest around $2.18 million in Green Tea World USA, a green tea cafe chain. The first cafe is expected to open by the end of the year in California. Starbucks is also looking to get in on the trend, the company purchased Teavana Holdings in 2012 to expand its beverage offerings to include specialty teas.