in the early 17th century, dutch and portuguese traders were shipping tea from various asian countries to europa. tea became more and more popular and was introduced to a larger crowd in the year 1651. a few years later in 1657, thomas garway was the first person who sold tea in his in london. at that time tea was not consumed for recreational but more for medical purposes, against illnesses and diseases. tea was an exclusive product that only a small group of wealthy people could afford. in the year 1662, as queen catherine of braganza brought tea to the royal court, it became trendy among monarchs and wealthy people. at this point, tea was not just consumed for medical purposes anymore, but as a lifestyle product.