Wilmington-based Tama Tea recently announced it's reached a distribution milestone through a partnership with Coastal Beverage, one of Eastern North Carolina’s leading beverage distribution companies.  

Representatives from the company said this strategic alliance marks a significant leap forward in Tama Tea’s mission to provide natural energy drinks to health-conscious consumers across the region.  

“Coastal Beverage's extensive distribution network, which includes Lowes Foods, The Fresh Market and Harris Teeter, ensures that Tama Tea will be readily available in numerous locations across Eastern North Carolina,” said Kelly Struble, CEO of Tama Tea. “This collaboration signifies a monumental step by expanding access to premium beverage options for consumers throughout the region.”  

Tama Tea began as a tea-based café in 2015 and launched a line of craft-brewed sparkling green teas in Jan. 2019. Today, the company also has a Yerba Maté beverage line and offers six flavors of sparkling tea – all made with five ingredients or less and containing less than ten calories.
 
Tama’s sparkling teas are made with organic fruits, herbs and tea and offer a natural caffeine boost without extra sugar, additives or preservatives. The company's green tea line contains 45mg of caffeine while its Yerba Maté line contains 120mg.

“When we began having discussions with Tama Tea, our team quickly realized what a good fit our companies would have based on shared values and consumer interest in Tama Tea,” said Ian Butler, director of chain and brand sales at Coastal Beverage Company. “Coastal Beverage is extremely excited to partner with Tama Tea and bring these brands to stores and consumers across Eastern North Carolina.” 

Tama Tea is currently available at local Harris Teeter locations as well as Whole Foods, The Veggie Wagon, Biggers Market, Lighthouse Beer & Wine, Lovey’s, Tidal Creek Co-Op and Roberts Grocery.