For over three centuries, the name Twinings has been synonymous with refinement, craftsmanship, and the quiet luxury of a perfectly brewed cup of tea. This legacy travelled from London’s historic Strand to Mumbai’s contemporary culinary playground last week, as Stephen Twining, the 10th-generation scion of the legendary tea house and its most recognized global ambassador, visited India for a series of engagements that celebrated both tradition and the future of premium tea culture.
A Warm Welcome at Freshpik, Jio World Drive
One of the standout moments of his India visit was his stop at Freshpik, Reliance Retail’s experiential gourmet destination at Jio World Drive in Mumbai. Curated to bring global culinary excellence to Indian consumers, Freshpik served as the perfect setting to host a man whose life’s work is dedicated to elevating how the world understands and enjoys tea.
Stephen Twining’s arrival sparked excitement across India’s modern retail and gourmet communities. As shared by Avinash Tripathi, Vice President & Business Head – Freshpik & Fresh Signature, Freshpik was “thrilled to host the esteemed Stephen Twining… a Global Tea Ambassador with a lineage that has shaped the world’s tea rituals for over 300 years.”
An Inheritance Brewed in Royalty and Craft
Twinings’ heritage is not just storied—it is monumental. Founded in 1706, the brand is believed to have introduced the English to Earl Grey, among other timeless blends. It remains one of the few purveyors whose products have borne the Royal Warrant through centuries, serving monarchs including Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth II.
Stephen, who carries the charisma and gentle authority of someone born into a 318-year-old legacy, has spent much of his life travelling the world as an educator, storyteller, and custodian of Twinings’ philosophy: tea is not a beverage; it is an experience, a ritual, a connection.
A Conversation That Stirred New Ideas
The highlight of the visit was an engaging, insight-rich conversation between Damodar Mall, CEO – Grocery Retail, Reliance Retail, and Stephen Twining. Their discussion went far beyond the romance of tea; it explored:
- the rising wave of premiumisation in India’s beverage market,
- the growing influence of global palates on Indian gourmet shoppers,
- how Freshpik’s experiential approach to retail aligns with Twinings’ tradition of crafting moments, not just blends,
- and the emerging opportunity to introduce curated, storytelling-led tea journeys in India.
The dialogue also included early thoughts on future collaborations—from exclusive blends and experiential tastings to educational engagements that celebrate tea as culture rather than commodity.
Why This Visit Matters
India is not just the world’s largest tea-drinking nation; it is now one of the fastest-evolving gourmet retail markets. The arrival of Stephen Twining signals several deeper trends:
1. The Global Gourmet Eye Is on India
International heritage brands increasingly view India as a market ready for elevated, differentiated experiences.
2. Retailers Like Freshpik Are Building Platforms for Cultural Exchange
Freshpik is positioning itself not merely as a store but as a venue where global craftspeople, brands, and food ambassadors meet the Indian consumer.
3. Tea Is Entering a New Chapter in India
From artisanal brews to wellness infusions, tea is undergoing a renaissance. Twinings’ renewed focus on India is both timely and strategic.
A Visit that Hints at More to Come
Stephen Twining’s India itinerary, which includes visits to key retail partners, tea aficionados, and hospitality leaders, reflects his personal commitment to nurturing Twinings’ relationship with India. His presence at Freshpik marks a meaningful milestone—one that may soon translate into collaborative initiatives designed specifically for Indian consumers.
As Avinash Tripathi expressed, “We’re honored to have Stephen Twining’s presence and look forward to a potential partnership that will elevate the world of tea to new heights.”
Stephen’s visit felt less like an event and more like the beginning of a thoughtfully brewed partnership—one that blends heritage with modern retail innovation, and global craftsmanship with India’s evolving taste for the exceptional.
