With autumn at hand, tea retailers are wondering what to expect from consumers. Summer 2022 proved to be unpredictable at best, with occasional rushes and frequent low traffic days. Consumers broke into the season wanting to do ‘all the things’ and yet seemingly without direction. Perhaps as school starts and routines returns, we will see slightly more predictable consumer behaviors.

How can we encourage the return to routines without glamorizing ‘the grind?’ There is a beauty, and even a need for rituals that provide comfort with their predictability, and mindfulness when we focus on their execution. Encourage teatime as a part of self-care. Encourage dessert teas to replace high carb treats. Encourage starting the day with a breakfast tea that sets the tone for the day ahead. Remind customers to take tea along for their day with a travel mugs as a companion for their weekday adventures.

A tea break can be the oasis in a busy, overstimulating day. Consider enclosing cards with each tea purchase that suggests taking their tea break away from the computer or their desk in a natural space if they can. Everyone needs to slow down, breathe, and reset their nervous system with quiet time and without digital distractions or stimulation. We all need this. We need small daily rituals to recenter and to be healthy.

Lastly, with a recession looming, consumers may be a little hesitant to spend on what might be considered an indulgence. Remind them that good quality tea is an affordable luxury that is FUN, TASTY, and GOOD FOR YOU.

[Need tea ideas? Email orders@adagio.com for tea advice or scheduling a menu review.]