This Assam Blend Tea is part of a long tradition and holds a very special place in the hearts of generations of loyal Atkinsons customers. When Thomas Atkinson first opened the “Grasshopper Tea Warehouse” on 6th October 1837, his aim was to provide the good citizens of Lancaster with a high quality, but cheaper, alternative to the London suppliers of the day. Subsequently he came up with this, his Original Assam Blend Tea which although it comes from way back then, is still being offered for your enjoyment today!
Founding a Business – Finding a Purpose
Competition was pretty fierce in the bustling Georgian port of Lancaster. There were already six other Tea Merchants in the city when young Thomas opened his new venture. He was part of the Quaker community, the Society of Friends that traces its roots back to Lancashire. I guess they gave the new kickstarter plenty of support, although I do have this theory that he had quite a shrewd business head on his shoulders because not only did he come up with a logo, the Grasshopper, but also an awesome slogan: “The Grasshopper only eats the Finest of Leaves.” This is a mission statement for quality if ever I heard one.
This is the baton that we picked up when we acquired the company back in 2005. We identified a brand that could be built into something that could improve the quality of life with a good morning coffee or a refreshing afternoon tea.