Tazo partners with Issa Rae to celebrate local, independent cafes
Tazo is teaming up with entrepreneur, producer and actress Issa Rae on a new initiative that celebrates local and independent cafes, and the innovative beverages they provide their communities with.
The Tazo Café Collective is calling on local and independent cafes across the United States to become a part of the collective and help create new tea and latte drinks with its Chai Concentrate and Iced Passion Concentrate products.
“Local cafes are vital to communities—they’re where great ideas happen and where innovative drinks are served,” said Galila Gray, Tazo brand purpose and content lead. “They take care in serving their neighborhoods, just like Tazo takes care in crafting distinct, delicious tea blends. We’re excited to see what we make together.”
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Those selected by the company to join the program will receive funding and marketing to help their businesses, as well as free and discounted products.
“When I was just getting my start, community cafes were spaces where I found inspiration for some of my favorite stories. Now as a cafe owner, I’m excited to join Tazo to support more of these spaces and the communities they inspire,” said Issa Rae, co-owner of Hilltop Coffee + Kitchen.
Rae’s Hilltop Coffee + Kitchen is the Tazo Café Collective’s funding partner. To mark the launch, Rae’s establishment debuted the Tazo Passion Twist beverage, which will be served at all Hilltop locations, the company said.
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“For as long as we can remember, cafes are core to the communities they serve. They are a conduit for creativity and connection,” said Ajay Relan, Hilltop Coffee + Kitchen co-owner. “At Hilltop, our goal is to leave our patrons better than we found them. Shout out to Tazo for highlighting businesses like ours across the country and reminding us that we're all in this, together.”
Tazo’s portfolio of iced tea and latte mixes are available in grocers and retail stores nationwide.