Four months after acquiring the exclusive rights to First Colony’s coffee brands, White Coffee Corp., Long Island City, N.Y., announced the acquisition of Bencheley Teas from First Colony Coffee & Tea Co., Norfolk, Va., on Dec. 1.
White Coffee will obtain exclusive rights to market Bencheley branded teas to wholesalers, retailers and consumers nationwide. Bencheley Teas are known by the distinctive coat of arms featuring a “B” on the label and are currently offered as loose teas as well as individual tea bags sold in tins at in supermarkets, specialty stores, department stores, mass retail outlets and online.
Terms of the acquisition were not disclosed.
“Bencheley has a loyal following and an excellent reputation in the specialty tea industry,” says Jonathan White, executive vice president of White Coffee Corp. “We are confident that this is a perfect fit with our other specialty offerings. Bencheley Teas allow our customers to diversify product lines for their consumers and help them grow their profits.”
Originally founded as the James G. Gill Co., First Colony Coffee & Tea Co. has roasted and blended coffees and teas since 1902. Primarily a regional coffee and tea company offering products in the Southeast region, the First Colony name was adopted to reflect the company’s Commonwealth of Virginia history and the commitment to premium teas and coffees.
White Coffee Corp. is a third-generation family-owned coffee importing and roasting business in operation since 1939. Its offerings include specialty single origins, certified organics, fair trade and Rainforest Alliance coffees.
