Our Story

A Family Business

GASSCO began with a boy, a board, and a dream.

Clinton Gass, born and raised in South Africa, grew up surfing with his mates and studying hard at school—but always searching for something more. That search led him across the globe, eventually landing him in Japan, a country with a culture unlike any other.

While teaching English in the snowy north of Hokkaido, Clinton’s colleagues—curious about his roots—asked if he could bring rooibos tea from South Africa. At the time, rooibos was nearly impossible to find in Japan. He brought a few packs back, and as his friends and peers embraced the tea, something clicked. There was real joy in every cup—and perhaps, a future.

That spark led him to connect with a Japanese company importing rooibos, where he was soon hired. When the company was later acquired, the opportunity seemed lost. But Clinton had formed a direct bond with a rooibos farm in South Africa. They offered him one container. If he could sell it, he’d earn a lasting business partnership.

And he did.

What followed was a commitment to quality: investing in state-of-the-art Japanese machinery to refine the process and bring out the smoothest, richest rooibos flavor possible. Today, rooibos is one of the most loved teas in Japan, alongside barley and green tea. GASSCO now offers a growing collection of original blends, including rare and powerful honeybush—a close cousin to rooibos, known for its calming properties and low caffeine.

This story is more than a business. It’s a family journey.

Now, Clinton’s eldest son, Cian Gass, carries the torch in the UK. Growing up with rooibos in his cup—and sometimes even in his bath—Cian knows first-hand the physical and mental benefits of this remarkable tea. In a world overflowing with sugary, heavily caffeinated drinks, he’s bringing something different to the table:
No additives. No chemicals. Just clean, honest tea.

At GASSCO, we believe in a new kind of luxury—not material, but meaningful:
Good health.
A peaceful mind.
And a great cup of tea, shared with the people who matter.

A Vision for the Finest Rooibos Tea

At GASSCO UK, we believe in the power of nature’s finest ingredients to enhance health and well-being. Our journey began with Clinton Gass, a pioneer in the rooibos tea industry, who recognized the untapped potential of this South African treasure.

Founded in January 2005, GASSCO Japan is built on the vision of bringing the purest, highest-quality rooibos to the world. Clinton Gass is also the founder of Rooibos Marketing Limited, Japan’s largest supplier of rooibos tea, renowned for its exceptional safety and taste, achieved through the finest Japanese processing technology. And now expanding globally.

Rooibos has long been an underappreciated gem, facing challenges from climate change, political instability, and lack of awareness. But Clinton saw something different—a tea rich in antioxidants, naturally caffeine-free, and capable of transforming health and lifestyle.

By merging the Japanese pursuit of quality and excellence with the vibrant energy and natural power of South Africa, we have curated the best selection of rooibos tea and unique blends, ensuring every cup delivers pure goodness and rich tradition.

Who We Serve

We cater to tea lovers who value:

  • Premium quality – Every batch is carefully selected for taste, safety, and purity.
  • Wellness & balance – Our tea supports Anti-Aging, relaxation, and recovery.
  • A taste of culture – Whether you’re a rooibos connoisseur or a newcomer, we bring you the best of South Africa and Japan in every cup.

How We Operate

  • Finest Sourcing – We partner with Rooibos Marketing Ltd and their South African farms, ensuring the purest and most nutrient-rich rooibos.
  • Precision Processing – We use state-of-the-art Japanese machinery to guarantee the safest and tastiest tea.
  • Quality Assurance – Every product undergoes rigorous testing to meet the highest standards.

Why GASSCO UK?

  • Rooibos charity – For every cup of tea you drink, we donate 1p to Surfers not street children.
  • Premium & Pure – Our tea is sourced, processed, and packed with unmatched care.
  • Japan’s #1 Rooibos Supplier – With a legacy of excellence, we supply the largest rooibos market in Japan.
  • Sustainable & Ethical – We ensure fair trade practices and environmentally friendly production.
  • A Tradition of Wellness – Rooibos is more than tea; it’s a lifestyle, a ritual, and a health companion.

Join the GASSCO Experience

Discover the finest rooibos tea and indulge in a blend of South African vitality and Japanese craftsmanship.