Maeda-en is a premier Japanese tea company headquartered in Irvine, California, with a legacy rooted in traditional Japanese tea cultivation and a mission to bring authentic green tea experiences to the global market. Established as a U.S. extension of a historic Japanese tea heritage, Maeda-en is renowned for its wide array of matcha, loose-leaf teas, tea bags, and Japanese sweets that emphasize quality, tradition, and innovation.
Core Business and Product Offerings
Maeda-en operates as a vertically integrated importer, wholesaler, and distributor of premium Japanese teas and tea-related products across North America. The company maintains deep connections with tea farms in Japan, ensuring the authenticity and freshness of every product.
Key Product Categories:
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Matcha (Green Tea Powder):
- Ceremonial Quality Matcha: Ideal for traditional Japanese tea ceremonies
- Universal Quality Matcha: Versatile for both drinking and light culinary use
- Culinary Quality Matcha: Formulated for baking, lattes, and desserts
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Loose Leaf Teas:
- Sen-cha: Lightly steamed green tea, Japan’s most common tea
- Houji-cha: Roasted green tea with a rich aroma
- Genmai-cha: Blend of green tea with roasted brown rice
- Gyokuro: Shade-grown premium green tea with umami depth
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Tea Bags:
- Individually wrapped and bulk Sen-cha, Houji-cha, and Genmai-cha options
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Bulk Products:
- Commercial-grade matcha and loose leaf teas for foodservice and manufacturers
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Teaware and Accessories:
- Authentic chawan (matcha bowls), whisks, teapots, cups, and storage canisters
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Japanese Sweets & Snacks:
- Mochi Ice Cream: Kyoto-style ice cream desserts in matcha and assorted flavors
- Green Tea Ice Cream: Made using Maeda-en’s proprietary matcha powder
Maeda-en products are distributed across retail outlets, online marketplaces, Asian supermarkets, cafés, and specialty foodservice operations.
Specialization and Unique Value Proposition
Maeda-en distinguishes itself as one of the few vertically integrated Japanese tea brands operating in the U.S., offering authentic and full-spectrum green tea products. Key competitive advantages include:
- Direct Sourcing from Japan: All teas are grown, harvested, and processed in Japan under traditional methods
- Matcha Expertise: Offers one of the most diverse matcha product lines in the U.S. market
- Heritage & Education: Promotes the art of Japanese tea through educational content, recipes, and ceremonial teaware
- B2B & Retail Integration: Serves both individual consumers and large-scale commercial clients, including restaurants, bakeries, and ice cream producers
Financial and Market Presence
Although Maeda-en is privately held and does not disclose financial statements, it commands a significant presence in the North American Japanese tea segment:
- Distributed through major chains including Mitsuwa Marketplace, Nijiya Market, and H Mart
- Available on global platforms such as Amazon, iHerb, and Yamibuy
- Recognized as a category leader in matcha and traditional Japanese teas within Asian foodservice distribution networks
Its strong presence in the Asian specialty retail and B2B manufacturing sectors indicates high-volume throughput and consistent demand.
Export and Shipment Activity
While based in the United States, Maeda-en’s products are regularly exported to international regions via distributors and direct online orders:
- Export destinations include Canada, Mexico, Southeast Asia, Australia, and the UK
- According to trade intelligence sources, Maeda-en records regular shipments of matcha and green tea powders under HS Codes 0902 and 2101
- Active in both B2C exports (online) and B2B global partnerships for matcha ingredients
Target Market
Maeda-en serves a wide and evolving customer base:
- Traditional Tea Drinkers: Customers seeking ceremonial-grade Japanese teas
- Culinary Professionals: Bakers, chefs, and food producers requiring high-quality matcha
- Health-Conscious Consumers: Attracted to matcha's antioxidants, L-theanine, and natural energy
- Retail & Foodservice Buyers: Grocery chains, cafés, dessert shops, and tea boutiques
The company also actively engages with consumers exploring wellness, mindfulness, and Japanese cultural traditions.
Capabilities and Infrastructure
- U.S. Distribution Headquarters: Located in Irvine, California, with warehousing and logistics operations
- Integrated Supply Chain: From Japanese farm to U.S. shelf, ensuring traceability and quality
- Private Label Capabilities: Offers co-packing and OEM solutions for tea and matcha under private labels
- E-Commerce Fulfillment: Ships directly to consumers via online store and major platforms
Certifications and Compliance
Maeda-en ensures all products meet stringent food safety and sourcing standards:
- USDA Organic Certified options available for selected matcha and tea lines
- Non-GMO Verified on labeled items
- HACCP-Compliant Facilities for handling, packaging, and storage
- Kosher Certification on select items
These certifications reinforce the brand’s commitment to transparency, food safety, and ethical sourcing.
Customer Testimonials and Industry Recognition
Maeda-en receives consistent praise for product quality, flavor integrity, and cultural authenticity:
- "Best matcha powder I’ve found in North America. Smooth and vibrant." – Verified Buyer, Amazon
- "Our pastry team swears by their Culinary Matcha for mochi cakes and mousse." – Bakery Chain Owner, California
- "Authentic taste, beautiful packaging, and true to Japanese traditions." – Tea Retailer, New York
Maeda-en has been featured in publications and food blogs focused on Japanese cuisine, wellness, and premium beverage trends.
Major Achievements
- Introduced the U.S. market to affordable, foodservice-grade Japanese matcha in bulk formats
- Developed proprietary blends for cafés and dessert brands across North America
- Launched digital content campaigns promoting traditional matcha recipes and tea education
- Participated in Japanese cultural festivals and tea expos to promote the art of tea
With a legacy of quality, deep ties to Japan’s tea culture, and a commitment to innovation, Maeda-en continues to lead the Japanese tea category in North America and beyond, bringing the essence of Japanese tea to every cup, bowl, and dessert it touches.
