SCEPTICS who originally questioned the value of mainboard-listed OSIM International's purchase of TWG Tea in 2011 should have mixed feelings now.

In the last few years, the luxury tea company has evolved from a loss-making Singapore start-up to a fast-expanding, profitable global brand known for its opulent, colourful salons and posh-looking tea sets.

On the other hand, a legal tussle has erupted involving both companies and a co-founder who has since left, showing that all is not well beneath the glitz and glamour.