TYNESIDE-BASED tea merchants Ringtons has unveiled a cutting-edge barista training room at its Newcastle head office.

Following a significant investment, Ringtons Beverages, the food service division of Ringtons, launched the state-of-the-art facility which features the industry’s latest range of hot beverage machines and accessories.

Ringtons Beverages specialises in supplying high-quality tea and coffee to clients throughout the UK, including restaurants, coffee shops, department stores, offices, hotels and gyms.

The firm’s newest asset will allow clients to benefit from tailored barista training programmes, as well as offering them the opportunity to try out new products and equipment, including machines from Bravilor, Bunn and La Cimbali.

Known primarily for its tea, Ringtons has roasted coffee for more than 80 years and the launch of Ringtons Beverages’ training facility forms part of a £500,000 investment in its coffee strategy, which has also seen the company install a new profile coffee roaster at its manufacturing plant in Longbenton, Newcastle.

Stephen Drysdale, head of department at Ringtons Beverages, said: “Clients can now benefit from heightened support service that encompasses all aspects of the industry, ranging from beverage equipment and training to products and support.

“Our personalised training programmes are designed to meet the exact needs of each barista, to ensure the development of their knowledge and skills in delivering consistent quality coffee.”

Ringtons Beverages blends and packs its products within its own UK-based factory which gives clients a detailed insight into the sourcing, blending, packaging and roasting process. Following its investment, Ringtons Beverages has also expanded its sales team with the appointment of two new business development managers, as the North East-based firm looks to further its regional geographical reach and to build on its national presence in the catering and hospitality industry.