Meet the Makers Mini Interview: Wize Tea
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Arnaud petitvallet and max rivest
Wize Tea Mini Interview
Let us introduce you to Arnaud and Max, co-founders of Vancouver-based Wize Tea, the revolutionary low-sugar, lightly caffeinated line of coffee leaf beverages that not only taste great, but also make a positive impact on the coffee industry, environment, and the livelihoods of coffee farmers and their families. Wize Tea addresses the issue of seasonal unemployment faced by coffee farming communities during the off-season by creating sustainable and flavourful “tea” from the coffee leaves, instead of traditional coffee from the beans. It’s a genius concept overlooked by modern society for generations, yet prized by ancient cultures. Thanks to Max, Arnaud, and their Nicaraguan farming partner, Enrique, we can enjoy these awesome drinks while supporting the positive impact they create. It’s a win-win! Let’s get to know one of the founders, Arnaud Petitvallet.
Share your story with us in 150 words or less.
I am the co-founder of Vancouver-based Wize Tea, a tea brand made from upcycled coffee leaves, which gives coffee farmers an additional revenue throughout the year. After seeing the lack of low sugar options that actually taste good without being full of artificial sweeteners or packed with very high caffeine levels, we launched our Sparkling Iced Teas line, now available throughout Canadian grocery stores.
Getting from an idea to a small business is a lot of work! When did it first sink in for you that ‘this is really happening’?
When we first got accepted in an incubator, which gave us an office to work out of every day, that made us realize we were really doing this. That and the first invoice we got for packaging—we knew we needed to start selling quick!
Out of all your products, which is your personal favourite and why?
Our line of sparkling iced teas, which are great on their own but also make a mean cocktail with a dash of juice, mint and vodka. Perfect for summer!
What motivates you on a day-to-day basis?
The impact we’re making on both the customers (helping them live a healthier life by removing overly sweet beverages from their diet) and the farmers (each can we sell creates 2 minutes of work for coffee farmers when they need it the most in the off-season).
What’s your favourite thing about the town or city you live in?
I live in East Vancouver. I love the proximity to all the Vietnamese food; it’s seriously outstanding and makes all my friends jealous when they see what I can get within a 5-minute walk!
Describe your ideal Sunday morning, including your breakfast.
Watching a TV show I love, walking to get a coffee or a treat at one of my local coffee shops. For food, egg bennies with smoked salmon is a top option.
What are your personal top three tips for feeling amazing?
Put your phone away when you’re relaxing.
Take time off, you need it as much as the time on to recharge and be creative.
Get out of your car and bike to work.
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