I was going to stay out of this discussion. But since it comes up
about once a month or so, I thought I'd share the perspective of a
relatively ignorant tea-lover.

My opinion is that there's a difference between an evil spammer (e.g.,
EM EYE FIVE) and someone who simply leaps before they look. Not
everyone is up on Usenetiquette, and believe (however wrongly) it is
appropriate to advertise their humble site in this newsgroup. I
suggest a reply in the vein of "we hope you will contribute
information and experiences to this newsgroup, but please note that
advertising is not permitted in this newsgroup" and refer them to the
charter/FAQ. I believe that most people would reply with "thanks; I
didn't know" and become a member of the group. Ripping them a new one
merely puts them on the defensive and starts these pointless arguments
all over again, plus very likely turns away someone who could become a
valuable member of the group.

It's easy for those of us who've been reading and contributing to this
newsgroup to get fed up with yet another "go to my online tea shop"
posting and to forget that we were newbies once also. Keep in mind
that the latest poster was not part of the previous discussions on
what is and isn't appropriate to post here, so shouldn't be held to
the same standards as someone who has already had the error of their
ways pointed out to them.

I don't have my own tea farm or tea business, but I enjoy drinking and
learning about tea. That is why I came to this group. I've learned a
lot since I've been here, and no doubt many of you have forgotten more
than I'll ever know. I'd hate to think that this group is hurting
itself b

I agree with Shen that the original posting was not inadvertent.
However, I believe the offense was.

"Use what talent you possess - the woods would be very silent if no
birds sang except those that sang best. " Henry Van Dyke

Just my two cents,

Alan