There’s nothing quite like knowing that the person behind your daily cuppa truly cares about every tea leaf in your cup.
Ultimately, the perfect tea is the one that makes you happy.
We sat down with our Tea Sourcing Director, James, to learn what fuels his passion for ethical sourcing, his involvement with the Ethical Tea Partnership, and why the future of tea depends on doing the right thing - even when no one’s watching.
His journey started with a simple job advert and has blossomed into over twenty years of devotion to quality, community, and conscience.
From Engineering Dreams to Tea Reality
First things first, how did you get into tea, and what led you to Ringtons?
I studied Chemical & Process Engineering at university, picturing a future in pharmaceuticals or oil & gas. As I neared graduation, I realised that I wanted to do something more people-focused. I spotted an advert for a Trainee Tea Buyer at Ringtons, penned by our now-retired Chairman, Nigel Smith. The passion in his words drew me in. Learning about tea origins, cultures, and the art of great tea gripped me - so I applied. The rest is history.
Sometimes, following your heart rather than your original plan leads to the most meaningful paths. That one advert opened the door to a world where engineering meets human connection and every decision matters - from leaf to cup.
Why Ethics Matter at Ringtons
What does it mean and why is ethical sourcing important to Ringtons?
Ringtons exists to create daily moments of care and joy - whether it’s through our teas or our relationships with customers and suppliers.
Ethical sourcing means acting with real integrity, working with producers and suppliers for the long-term, and helping their farms and factories to thrive. The best way forward is through respectful, long-standing relationships.
Those moments of morning joy with your steaming cup are connected to real people and communities. Our approach to ethics is about expanding our care far beyond our kettle, wherever we can.
Understanding the Ethical Tea Partnership
I know tea and ethics is particularly important to you, and Ringtons is a member of the Ethical Tea Partnership (ETP). Can you tell us more about who they are and what they do?
The ETP brings together the tea industry to tackle sector challenges. The world produces more than seven billion kg of tea every year (and counting), which comes with all sorts of social, political, and environmental challenges. ETP partners aim to spark real, lasting change.
Surprisingly, the UK imports a small share of the world’s tea - less than 2% - so our influence can be somewhat limited, but we still lead by example and do our fair share.
Seven billion kilos is a mind-boggling figure - each leaf, each tea bag, each cuppa represents many peoples work across the world. ETP’s mission makes clear that meaningful change takes teamwork from the whole industry.
Guiding Industry Change from the Boardroom
You're on the ETP board, what does that involve?
I’ve had the privilege of spending the past 23 years learning from the world of tea. On the ETP Board, my job is to help set the biggest priorities and figure out where we can make the most difference.
It’s about more than Ringtons - it’s about what’s best for the whole tea industry and how ETP can make a positive impact for the most people and communities.
We really believe real progress in ethical business comes when leaders look beyond their own interests for the greater good - a sustainable future, cup by cup, for all.
Projects That Touch Hearts and Change Lives
The ETP do some amazing work - is there a project that's had a real impact on you?
There have been many, but the 'Healthy Diets for Tea Communities' project stands out. It worked to improve nutrition for tea growers and workers in Kenya, Malawi, and India through more varied diets.
These are essential tea growing regions, and it’s sobering that workers there still sometimes struggle to access nutritious foods as easily as they should. Find out more here.
Knowing the people who grow our tea sometimes lack proper nutrition brings home how ethical sourcing isn’t just about fair prices - it’s about basic human wellbeing.
The Challenges Facing Tea Growers Today
What challenges do tea growers and the industry face today?
Biggest challenges? Climate change and working conditions. Growers face unpredictable weather and more frequent pest attacks. Old methods aren’t as reliable, and it’s tough to plan ahead.
Growing and picking tea is demanding work, often done in challenging environments. Making life better for those who bring us tea will shape the industry’s future."
Climate change isn’t an abstract idea when your livelihood depends on each harvest. Supporting growers means working with them to face these very real, daily challenges.
A Growing Awareness Among Tea Drinkers
Do you think people are more conscious of where their tea comes from now?
I think so. People want to know about the products they love - where they’re grown, who makes them, and how they can enjoy them.
Interest in origin has really grown, just like we see with wine. Many now know about classic origins like China and India, but excellent tea is also coming from newer producers like Kenya, Rwanda, and Malawi.
Like appreciating the character of a good wine, tea drinkers are discovering the story and flavour of tea from each new region and their varieties - and it makes every cup that much richer.
Finding Your Perfect Cup
How can shoppers choose the right tea for them?
Ultimately, the perfect tea is the one that makes you happy. Maybe you love one blend all day, or switch depending on your mood. The taste, smell, and feeling matter most.
I hope our blends brighten your day, while we diligently work away to keep them consistent and made with care, now and in the future.
The Future is Brewed with Care
After nearly a quarter-century in tea, James’ enthusiasm is as fresh as ever. His commitment to the Ethical Tea Partnership is a reminder that the best cup of tea is one brewed with care - from the grower to you.