A Yorkshire start-up, TEA PLUS based in Harrogate, is making the most of a health and wellbeing trend in the Middle East by launching its own range of vitamin-infused tea in Dubai.

Founder James Dawson started the business four years ago and is expanding to the Middle East following a growth in online orders from the region.

The range of healthy teas, which is already stocked in more than 2,000 UK stores, will be available in 400 pharmacies, 300 health stores and other outlets within months of its launch. The business’ expansion in Dubai is a response to the region’s growing interest in healthy living and the launch will be supported by social media, marketing and a sales teams in a central Dubai office.

TEA PLUS is now stocked in Holland & Barrett, Superdrug and Boots, and is part of the Sainsbury’s Taste of the Future range.

Dawson said: “Despite having no background in the food industry, witnessing a huge shift in trends and attitudes during my time in Dubai made me realise there was a gap in the market for a disruptive tea brand both in the Middle East and back home in the UK.

“I took a huge risk leaving a successful career and had faith in my idea, but never thought TEA PLUS would expand globally at such a rapid rate.”