Date: 31.03.2026
IVA PLANTS has been named a regional finalist in the UK StartUp Awards 2026 in the Food & Drink StartUp of the Year category for London.
The UK StartUp Awards recognise new businesses across the country that are building with purpose and resilience. Being shortlisted places IVA PLANTS among a group of emerging brands shaping their industries in the early stages of growth.
For founder Alexandra Ghemu, the recognition reflects a business built from a personal need rather than a traditional plan. While working night shifts at Heathrow Airport, she experienced the impact of disrupted sleep and daily imbalance. That experience led to the development of functional tea blends designed to support sleep, energy and overall wellbeing.
“I don’t build products to follow trends, I build them to solve real needs and to be trusted over time,” Alexandra says. “Being shortlisted shows that even a small business can be recognised for staying consistent with its values.”
Since its launch in 2024, IVA PLANTS has focused on small-batch production, direct customer engagement, and a clear approach to product quality. The brand has gained recognition through its Sleep Well tea, which received a 1-star Great Taste Award in 2025, followed by Bronze awards at the Farm Shop & Deli Product Awards in both 2025 and 2026.
Looking ahead, IVA PLANTS continues to develop its presence through markets, independent retail, and new opportunities in both the UK and international markets.
About IVA PLANTS
IVA PLANTS is a West London based tea company founded in 2024. The brand creates thoughtfully developed herbal blends such as Sleep Well, Energy Rise and Vitamin Boost, along with Vanilla&Cacao black tea. All teas are hand-blended and packed in the UK. In 2025 IVA PLANTS received a Great Taste 1-star for its Sleep Well tea.
Motto: Always fresh, always natural.
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For further information, photos and product samples, please contact Alexandra Ghemu at IVA PLANTS on alexandra@ivaplants.co.uk
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