03.12.2025 10:51
The UK-based tea brand Lipton has officially ceased its tea production in Turkey, which it has been conducting for 39 years. Two tea processing facilities located in the districts of Pazar and Fındıklı in Rize have been transferred to Öz-Gür Çay following the necessary official approvals.
The UK-based tea brand Lipton has officially ended its tea production in Turkey, which it has maintained for 39 years. According to a report by CNBC-e, two fresh tea processing facilities located in the Pazar and Fındıklı districts of Rize have been taken over by Öz-Gür Çay following the approval of the relevant authorities.
THE SALES PROCESS WAS ANNOUNCED IN OCTOBER
In news that emerged in October, it was stated that Lipton's facilities would be transferred to Öz-Gür Çay. In a statement from Lipton, it was mentioned that an agreement had been reached in the negotiations, stating: "An agreement has been reached for the transfer of the shares of Lipton Tea Production Inc., which owns the fresh tea processing facilities in Rize Pazar and Fındıklı, to Öz-Gür Çay Inc. The matter has been submitted to the Competition Authority as required by legal process."
LIPTON'S OPERATIONS IN TURKEY WILL CONTINUE
Although tea production has ceased, Lipton is not completely exiting Turkey. The brand will continue the operations of its innovation, blending, and packaging facility established in Sakarya with an investment of 30 million euros in 2025. This facility will play a significant role in the shipment of products to different markets from Turkey.
A BUSY YEAR IN THE TEA SECTOR
This year, another significant acquisition took place in the Turkish tea sector. The US-based JDE Peet's transferred its owned Ofçay brand to the local producer Efor Çay. This sale accelerated the restructuring process in the sector.
OVER 150 YEARS OF BRAND HISTORY
Founded in 1871 by Sir Thomas Lipton, the brand operated under Unilever for many years. In 2022, it was acquired by CVC Capital Partners for approximately 4.5 billion euros, entering a new era. Today, Lipton is among the most recognized names in the tea market with over 150 years of brand history worldwide.