She Started a Sparkling Tea Business With Her Husband; Alcohol-Free

Key Points:

• Natalie Chiu, cofounder of Saicho, was inspired to create sparkling tea due to her alcohol intolerance and desire to enjoy fine dining experiences with inclusive beverage options.
• With a background in food science and flavor chemistry, Natalie balanced academic research and a full-time job while gradually building Saicho with her husband, Charlie, investing personal savings and competition winnings.
• In 2018, the couple won a university entrepreneurial competition, and by 2019 Saicho began trading, with Natalie eventually leaving her job to focus on the business full-time as it gained momentum.
• Natalie and Charlie's complementary personalities and shared scientific backgrounds have strengthened both their personal relationship and business partnership, allowing them to navigate challenges effectively.
• Five years after launching, Saicho has expanded to a team of 24 employees and its sparkling tea products are now featured in Michelin-starred restaurants, reflecting growing acceptance of the innovative concept.