Finlay Beverages joins Ethical Tea Partnership to strengthen global tea sustainability efforts 

UK – Finlay Beverages, one of the United Kingdom’s leading own-brand tea and coffee partners, has officially joined the Ethical Tea Partnership (ETP), a global organisation dedicated to improving the lives of people who depend on tea for their livelihoods. 

As a trusted supplier to major global retailers and beverage brands, Finlay Beverages brings significant expertise and influence to the tea supply chain. The company’s involvement is expected to enhance ETP’s collective efforts to address key challenges within the industry, including inequality, environmental degradation, and human rights concerns. 

Through this partnership, Finlay Beverages will collaborate with ETP to design and implement programmes that promote sustainable practices, improve working conditions, and strengthen community livelihoods across tea-producing regions.  

The alliance also aims to create scalable solutions to issues such as deforestation and unequal access to economic opportunities within tea-growing communities. 

Martin Short, Chief Executive Officer of the Ethical Tea Partnership, welcomed the new member, stating, “We are delighted to have Finlay Beverages join ETP. Their commitment to responsible sourcing and sustainability aligns with our mission to create lasting, positive change across the tea industry. As a respected leader with extensive connections throughout the tea and coffee value chain, their participation will enhance our shared impact.” 

Andy Bulman, Managing Director of Finlay Beverages, emphasized the importance of collective responsibility, saying, “At Finlay Beverages, we believe that collaboration is essential for progress. Joining ETP provides an opportunity to work with industry peers to build a fairer and more sustainable tea supply chain. The partnership reflects our long-standing dedication to transforming challenges into opportunities and improving the lives of tea workers and their communities.” 

ETP continues to invite other companies to join its growing network. Membership provides access to expert guidance on responsible business practices, opportunities for collaboration across the supply chain, and participation in programmes that deliver measurable social and environmental impact. 

Meanwhile, Finlay Beverages recently expanded its business footprint in North America through the acquisition of Leahy-IFP, an Illinois-based aseptic packer and formulator of natural fruit-based beverages.  

The acquisition will integrate Leahy-IFP into Finlays’ global extracts division, Finlays Solutions, forming a unified platform serving brand owners, retailers, and foodservice operators worldwide. 

Following the merger, Finlays Group Managing Director James Woodrow will serve as chair, with Mike Leahy as deputy chair and Darnell Ross as chief executive officer. 

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