There are few things more quintessentially British than Afternoon Tea, the perfect blend of craftsmanship, flavour, and experience.
From delicately cut sandwiches to perfectly risen scones, it’s a ritual built on precision, presentation, and passion. All values that, in many ways, mirror the skills and dedication we see every day among food & drink industry professionals.
At The Oval Partnership, we’re proud to work with the talented chefs, bakers, brewers and product innovators who make celebrations like National Afternoon Tea Week possible; from the artisan producers supplying the clotted cream to the tea blenders curating distinctive infusions.
So, whether you’re a brand looking to launch the next premium tea range or a business seeking top-tier dessert or bakery talent, this week is a reminder of just how much skill, creativity, and hard work goes into creating those magical mid-afternoon moments.
A Taste of Tradition, Powered by Innovation
This year, Afternoon Tea Week runs from 11th to 17th August ,and it’s the perfect excuse to connect food & drink tradition with modern trends. Think gluten-free macarons, plant-based ‘cream’ teas, or sustainably sourced teas from single-origin growers.
The industry is constantly evolving, and those businesses who pair heritage with innovation are the ones making headlines – and hiring the best people to make it happen.
Top Tips from the Trade – Bringing Afternoon Tea to Life
1. Make It Yourself – Make It Local
Sourcing local and seasonal ingredients has never been more important for today’s conscious consumer. Afternoon Tea menus are a brilliant opportunity to showcase regional specialties – from artisan jams to heritage-breed hams. Local sourcing supports community producers and bolsters a brand’s sustainability credentials.
2. The More the Merrier
Afternoon Tea has always been a social occasion, but in hospitality it’s also a fantastic experience driver. Venues that turn Afternoon Tea into themed events, collaborations with local patisseries, or charity fundraisers generate huge word-of-mouth buzz – and that requires skilled event managers, marketing teams, and service professionals to execute flawlessly.
3. Go to Town with the Tea
Tea is the star – but the range of options is growing. From traditional Earl Grey to cold-brew matcha, the opportunity for product differentiation is huge. Talented tea buyers, blenders, and brand developers are behind the growth of this specialist category – and demand for this expertise is higher than ever.
Why We’re Raising a Teacup This Week
As a specialist food & drink recruitment partner, we love any occasion that celebrates the craft, skill, and dedication within our industry. Afternoon Tea Week isn’t just about scones and sandwiches, it’s about showcasing what happens when passionate people come together to create an unforgettable experience.
If your business is ready to build a team who can take your own Afternoon Tea (or any food & drink concept) to the next level, from product development to finished product excellence, we’ll connect you with the talent who can make it happen.
So this week, let’s toast (and sip) to the people who make the industry what it is. Because behind every perfect scone and every fragrant cup of tea, is a professional who knows their craft.
The Oval Partnership Connecting Exceptional Food & Drink Businesses with the Talent Who Make Them Shine.
