Bigelow Tea to buy Shelton acreage for expansion

Fairfield-based Bigelow Tea announced it has entered into an agreement to buy approximately 25 acres of land in Shelton.

The city of Shelton owns the property, known as the Mas site. The vacant property is roughly bordered by Bridgeport Avenue, Sunwood Drive, Kings Highway and Walnut Avenue.

The purchase price is for $2.3M, according to the company.

The family-owned company is known for its selection of teas, which include more than 150 varieties. 

According to an announcement, Bigelow plans to build a large warehouse in Shelton within five years to handle distribution needs that will cover the next two decades.

Cindi Bigelow, third generation president and CEO, said the company is blessed to be a growing family business.

“We are also expanding our other two facilities in Louisville, Kentucky and in Boise, Idaho,” Bigelow said. “We feel very fortunate to be in this position and take our commitment to our communities very seriously.” 

Shelton Mayor Mark Lauretti could not immediately be reached for comment. 

Any development would need to be reviewed and approved by local land use boards.

Bigelow said the company is thrilled to remain and grow in Connecticut. The company also opened a new warehouse distribution center in Orange in 2020.

Bigelow launched about 75 years ago and produces roughly 2 billion tea bags each year. It is known for flavors such as Constant Comment, a blend of orange rind and sweet spice, and holiday teas such as Peppermint Bark. It sells traditional, green, decaffeinated, organic and wellness teas. In 2020, it launched its Bigelow Botanicals Cold Water Infusions. 

Contact Michelle Tuccitto Sullo at msullo@newhavenbiz.com.