With reports that the ethical food and drink sector grew by 36% in 2012 and recent research from Horizons highlighting the fact that consumers are now, more than ever, considering ethical factors when purchasing food and drink both in and out-of-home, it has become increasingly important for caterers to ensure their menus meet the demands of this £10 billion market.
John Sutcliffe, out of home & convenience controller, Taylors of Harrogate, said: “The ethical food and drink market is one that will keep growing so it’s important for operators to get behind organisations such as the Rainforest Alliance and show customers that they are environmentally and socially conscious.
"We’re committed to improving the lives of tea-growers, workers and their families worldwide and are proud of the work we do to minimise the effect that tea-growing can have on the environment. Now that Yorkshire Tea is 100% Rainforest Alliance Certified, it’s easy for caterers to get on board and respond to this growing market.”
Sutcliffe added: “Research shows that 63% of people would purchase Yorkshire Tea out-of-home if it was available on menus and, crucially, a further 46% would pay more for a cup of Yorkshire Tea. This, along with our commitment to sustainability, gives operators an easy way to satisfy the demand for a proper brew and profit in the process.”
Yorkshire Tea is part of Taylors of Harrogate’s range of quality hot drinks; the out-of-home range also includes the UK’s number one roast and ground coffee brand Taylors Coffee, as well as the new fruit and herbal infusions range authenticated by the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.