Date: 05.08.2025
A West London–based IVA PLANTS tea company has received a business boost from retail entrepreneur Theo Paphitis.
Last week, Alexandra Ghemu, owner of IVA PLANTS, commented on Theo’s Instagram post during ‘Small Business Sunday’ and was one of six weekly winners to gain a repost by Theo to his half a million Twitter, 50k+ Instagram and almost 300k LinkedIn followers. The weekly initiative, set up by Theo in 2010, now has over 4,000 #SBS winners and supports small businesses in the UK. 2025 marks the 15th anniversary of #SBS Small Business Sunday, since Theo launched it in October 2010.
Business and retail entrepreneur and self-confessed shopkeeper, Theo re-shared Alexandra’s message to his combined 800,000 followers across Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram. As a result, www.ivaplants.co.uk has seen increased interest in its products and gained new followers across social media platforms. IVA PLANTS is also now profiled on the #SBS website (www.theopaphitissbs.com), which is exclusive to all Small Business Sunday winners.
Alexandra Ghemu said:
“We’ve only been in business a year, so getting recognition from someone like Theo is a big moment for us. It’s been challenging trying to grow visibility and get our name out there, especially as an independent tea brand. Theo’s support has brought a real boost in interest and helps spread the word about what we do.”
Small business champion and Ryman Stationery, Robert Dyas and Boux Avenue Chairman, Theo Paphitis, said:
“We are thrilled to welcome new #SBS members every week and highlight just how important it is to support our small businesses here in the UK. My vision is that everyone who has ever won an #SBS re-post from me becomes part of a friendly club, like-minded individuals who can share successes and learnings. The website will also give a valuable profile to the winners chosen and I wish IVA PLANTS every success.”
Anyone looking for a repost from Theo should post to him on X, LinkedIn or Instagram about their business on Sunday between 5 PM and 7.30 PM and include the hashtag #SBS. Six lucky businesses are reposted every Monday at 8 PM and then invited to enter their profile on the new website, attend the annual #SBS networking event and take advantage of the networking opportunities.
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For further information, photos and product samples, please contact Alexandra Ghemu at IVA PLANTS on alexandra@ivaplants.co.uk.
Check us out on socials
Instagram: @ivaplantsuk | Facebook: @ivaplantsuk
For further information about Small Business Sunday please visit www.theopaphitissbs.com.
I first came across IVA Plants and Alex their founder at my local monthly Artisan market and decided to try the Sleep Well tea and the Rose Garden Tea. I was very impressed with the lovely aroma and the quality of the ingredients. There is an online shop but I thought I would head down to the market again to stock up. This time I bought dried Chamomile flowers, Rose buds and a Houjicha roasted greentea that she suggested for me as it is lower in caffeine. I would highly recommend all of the purchases I have made.