Bigelow Tea, the Fairfield-based company known for its wide array of teas, opened its new warehouse distribution center in Orange this week.
The family-owned company, which sells over 150 varieties of tea, hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony Monday morning with state and local leaders.
It had announced in August that it planned to expand its presence in the state by leasing the 41,600-square-foot warehouse, which is at 35 Executive Blvd. The company signed an eight-year lease for the site, which will allow it to expand its storage and distribution capacity.
President and CEO Cindi Bigelow said the location appealed to the company because of its size and location, including its proximity to Interstate 95.
Bigelow also said she is happy the company is continuing to grow in Connecticut, and she looks forward to being part of the Orange community.
“Who doesn’t want to be here in the same town as PEZ?” Bigelow said, of the classic candy dispenser company in Orange. “Maybe I will come up with a PEZ tea next.”
Inside the company’s new warehouse and distribution center in Orange.
Demand for tea has been up, according to Bigelow. Cold weather and the desire for a comforting beverage have been factors in that increased demand. While its “Constant Comment,” is among Bigelow’s most well-known varieties, it offers teas with flavors from apple to vanilla, from oolong to matcha. For winter, it has special teas like Hot Cinnamon and Peppermint Bark.
Bigelow is also known for its iced tea. This past summer it launched its Bigelow Botanicals Cold Water Infusion line, aimed at customers who want to have a zero-calorie flavored beverage in warmer months or anytime.
The family-owned company launched 75 years ago. Now run by its third generation, it produces some two billion tea bags each year.
Orange First Selectman James Zeoli told the company Monday, “We are thrilled to have you here as part of our community.”
“As a family-owned company with a long history of community outreach and engagement, they are a perfect addition to our town,” he added.
Contact Michelle Tuccitto Sullo at msullo@newhavenbiz.com.Â
