The UK Tea Academy and the Women in Tea & Coffee Conference, run by Tea & Coffee Trade Journal, announced on 27 August 2026 the launch of a new award — the Women in Tea Award — within the international Leafies competition. The recognition honours women who show leadership, innovation or a commitment to empowering others at any stage of the tea chain: growing, production, sourcing, education, retail and hospitality.
The announcement coincides with 2026, designated by the UN as the International Year of the Woman Farmer. According to UK Tea Academy director Jennifer Wood, statistics show the significant contribution women make at every stage of the industry. The Leafies, launched in 2022 with Fortnum & Mason, has become one of the sector’s most prestigious competitions, with some winning teas going to the Rare Tea Counter at the London store.
Source: Tea & Coffee Trade Journal