Unicorns Podcast: How East Forged is reading the tea leaves to success

The Unicorns Podcast connects you to some of the best and brightest founders, CEOs, executives, business owners, innovators, entrepreneurs and inspiring leaders who make things happen and inspire others.

Host Justin Kelly – former broadcast journalist and PR veteran – chats with leaders from across Australia and internationally on business strategy, what it takes to build a successful company, how to overcome challenges, and advice for those on a similar journey.

In this episode, Justin interviews Kym Cooper, the co-founder of premium cold brew, nitro tea producer, East Forged.

Founded in 2019, East Forged is an Australian company dedicated to crafting premium cold brew tea infused with nitrogen for a creamy, textured drinking experience. Using Australian-grown teas and whole plant-based ingredients, East Forged delivers healthy, ready-to-drink tea beverages that challenge the norms of the traditional tea industry.

Co-founded by tea specialists Kym Cooper and Tania Stacey, East Forged is committed to promoting ethical sourcing, sustainability, and innovation in tea. The brand is rapidly expanding nationally and internationally, with an initial focus on South Korea and Southeast Asia.

Since its inception in 2020, East Forged has carved out a unique space in the beverage industry by offering the only iced tea cold brewed naturally without added sugars, colours, or artificial flavours. Available at Harris Farm, select IGAs, and WHSmith stores across Australia, East Forged’s ready-to-drink range has captured the attention of ethically-minded, health-conscious consumers looking for a refined alternative to sugar-laden iced teas.

East Forged has just completed a $1.5 million capital raise led by Global Mind Agriculture Australia (GMAA), the venture capital arm of Vietnam’s leading agribusiness TTC AgriS. The funding will accelerate East Forged’s production capabilities, support its expansion into key Asian markets, and solidify its position as a leader in the rapidly growing craft tea movement.

This podcast was developed in collaboration with East Forged, a Stockhead advertiser at the time of publishing.

The interviews and discussions in this podcast are opinions only and not financial or investment advice. Listeners should obtain independent advice based on their own circumstances before making any financial decisions.