The Tea Packers Association (TPA) and the United Kingdom Tea Association have merged to form a single trade association. The new group will operate under the name of the UK Tea Association (UKTA). UKTA brings together companies from the entire tea chain including packers, buyers, producers, brokers and warehouses. UKTA represents 95 per cent of the UK tea market. The UK Food and Drink Federation reported that the primary purpose of the Association is to act on behalf of its members as a central hub of communication with the UK Government, European political institutions, trade, regulatory or enforcement bodies and other public/private bodies where appropriate. The UKTA will provide advice and information to these bodies and to Association member companies. UKTA is advised on technical issues by the Tea Trade Technical Committee (TTTC) and works closely with the Tea Council which is dedicated to promoting tea to consumers and the catering trade. UKTA is also a member of the European Tea Committee.
