Mid-Atlantic Tea Business Association

The Mid-Atlantic Tea Business Association (MATBA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the knowledge of tea through networking and educational opportunities. Founded in 2005, it serves tea entrepreneurs in the Mid-Atlantic region, which includes Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington, D.C., and West Virginia. Additionally, the organization welcomes members from outside this region[1][3].

Mission and Activities

MATBA's mission is to enhance the understanding and appreciation of tea by providing a platform for tea professionals to exchange ideas, discuss industry challenges, and learn from each other. The association achieves this through regular meetings, often held quarterly, where members visit each other's businesses to share experiences and explore new trends. These sessions have increasingly been conducted via Zoom, allowing broader participation from both in-region and out-of-region members[1][2].

MATBA has hosted various events featuring renowned speakers and has facilitated trips to member businesses as far as herbal farms in the Bahamas. The organization focuses on fostering a collaborative environment where businesses support each other without feeling competitive, exemplified by initiatives like the Hot Tea Month Promotion, where members collectively promote each other's offerings[2].

Membership and Leadership

The association's membership includes a diverse range of tea-related businesses such as importers, blenders, tea rooms, retailers, and educators[2]. As of 2024, the executive board comprises:

• President: Karen Donnelly
• Vice President: Melissa Fitch Ciccotelli
• Secretary: Marnie D'Amato
• Treasurer: Kathleen Hippeli
• Information Officer: Nancy Reppert
• Membership Officers: Kathleen Hippeli and Deb Raab[1].

Successes

One of MATBA's significant achievements is its ability to remain cohesive and productive for over fifteen years by fostering a collaborative environment where all members contribute and learn from each other. This approach has led to successful events like the Hot Tea Month Promotion, which highlighted member businesses and showcased their offerings across social media platforms[2].