Ah, Twinings. That comforting brand of tea that promises centuries of tradition and refinement. But let’s not kid ourselves—those centuries come with a rather uncomfortable side of history. Behind the elegant tins and polite marketing lies a family history entwined with the East India Company and, yes, even the Royal African Company.
Richard Twining: Director, Tea Merchant, Colonial Enthusiast
Richard Twining (1749–1824) wasn’t just steeping leaves for breakfast—he was a director of the East India Company. While history remembers him fondly for helping regulate tea prices and curb smuggling, let’s not forget that the East India Company was also a major engine of colonial exploitation. Monopolies, forced labor, and a healthy dose of imperial self-interest were all part of the daily grind.
Meanwhile, his father, Thomas Twining, dabbled in the Royal African Company—an enterprise heavily involved in the transatlantic slave trade. His investment was brief, but it’s telling that even tea royalty could be quietly tied to such ventures.
Twinings’ Modern Response: A Gentle “Oops”
Fast forward to today, and Twinings acknowledges the awkward truth. Their statements politely note that yes, some of their directors were involved in companies tied to empire and slavery. They even go so far as to promise vigilance over modern supply chain ethics. Charming. It’s the corporate equivalent of murmuring “Sorry” while still sipping your ethically sourced Earl Grey.
A Legacy Worth Stirring
The Twining family’s story is a reminder that British commerce, even when focused on something as seemingly innocent as tea, was never far removed from exploitation and empire. Twinings’ apology—or acknowledgment—is a start, but history is messy, inconvenient, and, frankly, much spicier than a peppermint infusion.
If curiosity hasn’t been piqued, perhaps it should be. Look into the East India Company. The Royal African Company. The Twining family. You might never see your morning cuppa the same way again. And that, dear reader, is the point.
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