English Tea Shop Organic is delighted to announce the opening of its exclusive Duty-Free store at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA). Travelers can purchase English Tea Shop’s organic teas and exquisitely handcrafted gifts at this one-of-a-kind store, which is located at Shop 13-D in the Departure Terminal.
English Tea Shop, a globally renowned 100% organic specialty tea brand available in over 55 countries, is celebrated for its distinctive range of ethically sourced teas. The collection at BIA offers something for discerning tea enthusiasts, encompassing the rich flavours of classic black, green, and white teas and the vibrant infusions of delightful herbs, spices, and botanicals.
English Tea Shop has expanded its position in the travel retail market with this new location, providing travelers with excellent organic tea and a wide range of occasion-based and seasonal gift alternatives. As the only exclusive English Tea Shop outlet in Sri Lanka, the duty-free shop at BIA is a must-visit for tea enthusiasts.
The CEO of English Tea Shop, Suranga Herath, stated, “We are proud to welcome travelers to experience the soul of organic teas at our new duty-free store—the only place in Sri Lanka to find our signature products. More than just a store, it’s a celebration of what truly defines us: Prajava—our sustainability philosophy rooted in empowering Sri Lankan people. As an employee-owned business, we believe sustainability isn’t just an approach—it’s our ethos, built on people, powered by community, and driven by impact. With every cup, we honor our commitment to nurturing the planet and uplifting the communities behind our tea. As travelers pass through our island’s gateway, they can carry a piece of Sri Lanka with them—a meaningful gift steeped in tradition, care, and the essence of conscious luxury”.
English Tea Shop is more than simply a tea brand; it has established a reputation for being an ethical, sustainable, and 100% organic tea brand. Its B Corp certification is given to companies that go beyond business-as-usual while maintaining the highest levels of social and environmental responsibility, reflecting its dedication to sustainability and ethical sourcing. In 2020, English Tea Shop received the esteemed Queen’s Award for Enterprise in Sustainable Development, further demonstrating their commitment to sustainability.
Being a business rooted in sustainability, English Tea Shop has produced vibrant, meaningful packaging that embodies both its commitment to sustainability and the community (Prajãva is the company’s philosophy). Its travel-friendly and high-quality gifting ranges are perfectly crafted for anyone looking for a unique tea experience while celebrating the finest of Sri Lankan ingredients.
English Tea Shop’s business strategy is built on the principles of Creating Shared Value (CSV), ensuring that every part of its value chain is strengthened and empowered. The company supports the livelihoods of over 3,500 farmers and their families by working with small-scale farmers in seven farming areas in Sri Lanka. English Tea Shop meets the highest global standards for verified social and environmental performance as a Certified B Corporation. Through its innovative Employee Share Ownership Plan (ESOP), 77% of the company’s workers, including their shop floor packing cadre, are shareholders, making it a 30% employee-owned business.
English Tea Shop is dedicated to improving families throughout its value chain. By focusing on improved education, healthcare, and overall well-being, it has established Sri Lanka’s first-ever Parent & Child Benefit Program, which presently supports more than 200 children in its value chain.
English Tea Shop holds over 24 certifications spanning environmental sustainability, social empowerment and transparency, food safety, product excellence, and system quality, including ISO 22000, BRC Food, Fairtrade, Carbon Neutral, and SMETA.
English Tea Shop provides BIA with a unique, thoughtful gifting experience with its vibrant packaging, products produced ethically, and dedication to sustainability. This store is a must-visit before leaving Sri Lanka, whether you’re seeking a thoughtful present for a loved one or the ideal travel tea companion.
