New Zealand’s alcoholic beverage company Lion NZ has acquired Teza Iced Teas.

Part of the Greenstone Drinks Company, the Teza Iced Teas products are produced using organic tea leaves, fruit juice and botanicals. They are claimed to be the first real-brewed iced teas in the country.

Available in Feijoa & Lime Blossom and Lemon & Mandarin flavours, the teas are packaged in 325ml glass bottles.

“The brand’s premium offering complements our existing range nicely and will help us deliver greater choice and convenience for consumers across more social occasions.”

Teza founder Joe Gehrke said: “We created Teza when we moved home from our stint in the UK. We noticed a real gap in the market for a premium, more natural iced tea offering and are proud of the growth we’ve achieved for the brand so far, including Australia, Japan, and South Korea.

“We’re thrilled to pass the Teza brand on to Lion who has a proven track record of nurturing and growing strong brands in the Kiwi market. Under Lion, Teza can be taken to the next level.”

The acquisition is part of Lion’s strategy to further expand its footprint in the non-alcoholic beverage segment. Teza will be part of Lion’s non-alcoholic division following the transaction, joining GoodBuzz Kombucha, Hopt and Mac’s Soda.

As part of the deal, Lion’s Drinks Collective will take full control of the Teza brand and associated assets.

Drinks Collective general manager Stefan Gray said:  “The iced tea market is in strong growth globally so we’re incredibly excited to welcome Teza Iced Teas into the Drinks Collective.

“The brand’s premium offering complements our existing range nicely and will help us deliver greater choice and convenience for consumers across more social occasions.

“We’ll be leveraging our networks to make the brand more readily available nationwide and the Teza Grassy Tea Bush Van will also be making a return to the streets of New Zealand.”

Last week, Lion acquired a 50% stake in Healesville-based distiller Four Pillars Gin.