Popularity of tea increases among Generation Z

It’s not unusual for Gold Leaf Spice & Teas in Downtown Salinas to be busy.

“The younger generation is turning to teas,” said Gold Leaf Spice & Teas Owner, Terri Madrid.

Ellie Milanesa just finished up her second year at West Point.

“I just love coming to this tea shop whenever I get home. I love the variety,” said West Point Student and Salinas Resident, Ellie Milanesa.

With her younger sister Abby by her side, they catch up over tea.

“I actually hated tea before this, and then my sister dragged me here because she wanted to socialize with friends. I tried it and I really loved it. I’ve been drinking tea ever since,” said Abby Milanesa.

The idea of drinking tea might seem like an old tradition, but it’s trending among younger Americans. New research shows that those born between 1995 to early 2000’s prefer tea and coffee equally.

“Oh I love both, I generally drink coffee during the school year,” said Ellie Milanesa

And tea when she has time to relax. Owner Terri Madrid said that’s what she envisioned back in 2009.

“The dream I had was about a place where people can come into and sit at a bar without alcohol and fellowship over a cup of tea,” said Madrid.

Tea is the second most widely consumed beverage worldwide, following only water.

“We’re getting more and more new businesses that want to start using our teas and bring it into their location,” said Madrid.

And there’s no sign of the growing trend losing steam.

“We even had a wedding. They decided tea was a part of their life. So they came in and we had a minister do a wedding,” said Madrid.