On a recent road trip I spent some time touring the facility of a company that's been a favorite of mine for over 35 years – Celestial Seasonings in Boulder, Colorado. And for me to be able to say that, means I love their product, trust their principles and connect with what they stand for.
The company history describes the very early days when the founders picked herbs in the hills around Boulder and first started blending teas. My brother had met co-founder Mo Siegel before that time in another small Colorado town , which might have been why I was aware of the company in the first place. I was one of the college students in Boulder who bought the tea in the small hand sewn (original sewing machine used was on display during the tour) muslin bags at the Green Mountain Grainery, our local natural foods store. And I remember clearly when the "big" grocery store King Soopers started carrying the teas.
Over the years Celestial Seasonings has been owned by Kraft Foods and in 2000 became part of the Hain-Celestial group. Yet the personal touches that gave the company its spirit, and the practices they established that fostered their ability to maintain decades-long relationships with quality growers around the world speak to the integrity of the brand.
My visit to the company, and an inside look at a product I've known for so many years was a lot of fun, but it also made me think a lot about what it takes for any business to create success and maintain it over the years.
Time for a cup of Raspberry Zinger!
When I read about Celestial Seasonings a few years ago, I liked their story, which made me want to buy their products. The problem with that is that I'm not a big tea drinker. But then I discovered their Raspberry Zinger. I've tried other flavors, but this one is my favorite. I especially enjoy it with a few drops of the cinnamon flavored Liquid Stevia Drops.
LJ
Posted by: Laura Jo Richins | Saturday, May 17, 2008 at 09:39 AM
Laura Jo, Raspberry Zinger is a new blend for me too, but I love it! One thing I've discovered over the years is that some of the blends are especially suited for iced teas too. Cranberry Cove mixed with orange juice is wonderful - no sweetner needed. And I had no idea Stevia drops came in cinnamon - I'll look for them. :D
Posted by: janbeasley | Tuesday, May 20, 2008 at 04:29 PM