Business
Stigma attached to menstruation seen as an obstacle to wide use of sanitary napkins among local women
By Ifham Nizam
Hemas Consumer Brands, through its FEMS line, is on a mission to change the feminine hygiene market in Sri Lanka. Sachini Gamage Welungoda, Marketing Manager for the Feminine Hygiene Category, spoke about the brand’s ambitions, challenges and its commitment to driving positive change. She said, among other things, that the stigma attached to the women’s menstruation cycle locally is one of the biggest obstacles to the wider purchase and use of sanitary napkins among Sri Lankan women.
Despite not being the market leader, FEMS is determined to change the landscape of feminine hygiene in Sri Lanka, she told The Island Financial Review when journalists visited the Hemas Manufacturing Plant in Dankotuwa recently.
Gamage stressed that the brand has been instrumental in introducing an economic range of sanitary napkins, addressing the needs of the 70 per cent of women who do not use these products regularly. “Affordability is just one aspect. We identified that only 30 per cent of females use sanitary napkins regularly, and we wanted to change that, Gamage stated.
The introduction of the economic range was a strategic move to democratize access to menstrual hygiene products. However, the brand’s mission goes beyond mere affordability. FEMS aims to ensure transparency in its processes and co-creation with consumers, believing that this approach will lead to more effective and acceptable products in the market.
FEMS prides itself on its research and development (R&D) team, which, although based locally, brings global knowledge to the table and adapts it to Sri Lankan needs, Gamage said. “We don’t just bring products from outside unless they fit with the Sri Lankan consumer. Our R&D team takes global technology and localizes it to meet the specific needs of our consumers, Gamage explained.
This localized approach ensures that FEMS products are not only affordable but also tailored to the diverse needs of Sri Lankan women. Whether addressing heavy flow or providing a lighter feel, FEMS is committed to offering a range of options that meet various consumer preferences.
Gamage pointed out that one of the most significant challenges in the market is the stigma surrounding menstruation. “The biggest problem is that people are not aware of sanitary napkins and periods are not openly discussed. This taboo creates vulnerability, she said. The lack of awareness, rather than affordability, is the primary reason for the low penetration of sanitary napkins in the market.
Looking ahead, FEMS is focusing on expanding its product range to include premium options that cater to specific consumer needs, such as different flow levels. While the current focus remains on the local market, given its low penetration rate, Gamage hinted at the brand’s potential to explore international markets in the future.
With a 33% market share, FEMS is trailing behind the market leader, who holds 60%. However, with its commitment to innovation, transparency, and consumer education, FEMS is poised to continue its upward trajectory in the Sri Lankan market, Gamage explained.
Business
Cabinet approves submission of the Annual Economic Analysis of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka for the year 2024 to the Parliament
The Cabinet of Ministers has approved the proposal forwarded by the President in his office as the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development to submit the Report on the Annual Economic Analysis of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka for the year 2024 to the Parliament.
As per section 80 (3) of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka Act No. 16 of 2023, the Minister in – charge of the subject of Finance shall submit a report on the economic situation which prevailed within the particular financial year, within four months after completion of each financial year. Accordingly, the report in relation to the financial review of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka for the year 2024 has been submitted to the President. The report has envisaged macro economic trends of Sri Lanka, situation of the financial system, as well as the major developments and a review of the policies of Central Bank of Sri Lanka.
[DGI]
Gigalingua Lanka, a premier German language institute, officially launched in Colombo with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by distinguished guests, including Dr. Felix Neumann, German ambassador to Sri Lanka. This marks a significant milestone for Sri Lankan professionals, especially nurses, looking to expand their careers in Germany’s thriving healthcare sector.
In collaboration with its strategic partner Global Care Solutions (Pvt) Ltd – a renowned company in the foreign recruitment industry – Gigalingua Lanka offers a unique pathway for Sri Lankan nurses and apprentices to master the German language and pursue rewarding career opportunities in Germany.
Dr. Felix Neumann, the Chief Guest at the event, expressed his support for the initiative, emphasizing the importance of language education as a bridge to global career prospects. In his speech, Dr. Neumann noted, “German language is not only a means of communication, it is a gateway to global career opportunities.” He commended Gigalingua Lanka for providing valuable opportunities for Sri Lankans and addressing the critical demand for skilled workers, especially in the nursing sector in Germany.
Gigalingua Lanka is the first private institute in Sri Lanka to offer comprehensive German language training up to the B2 level, and conduct TELC exam. The institution also provides language training for apprentices, allowing them to undertake the Apprenticeship Program and contribute to the growing labor market in Germany. The collaboration between Gigalingua Lanka and Global Care Solutions is designed to meet Germany’s growing need for skilled workers, particularly in the healthcare sector.
The event was attended by a number of prominent figures, including Dr. Felix Neumann , Arthur Senanayake (chairman of IWS Holdings), Eran Wickramaratne – former MP, Chandra Schaffter – ( Founder of Janashakthi Insurance ), Dhammika Attygalle (Director Upali Group of Companies and President Automobile Association of Ceylon) Former Wing Commander Buwaneka Abeysuriya (Ex- chairman Janatha Estates Development Board).
Chairman of Global Care Solutions, Thomas Michael Kriwat, who is also chairman of the Mercmarine Group of Companies in Germany, highlighted the significance of the new training center. He said, “We are bringing world-class German occupational language training to Colombo, offering a structured, career-focused pathway for Sri Lankan professionals. By introducing TELC (The European Language Certificates) as an officially certified German language test authority, we are increasing accessibility for students seeking internationally recognized qualifications.”
At the thanksgiving speech, Dr. Rajan Sara, Managing Director of Global Care Solutions and Director of Gigalingua Lanka, outlined the critical need for foreign nurses in Germany. “Germany is facing a significant shortage of nurses, estimated to need an additional 150,000 by 2025. This is exacerbated by an aging population and increasing healthcare demands. Over 47,000 vacancies in the healthcare sector remain unfilled, making it an ideal time for Sri Lankan nurses to seize this opportunity,” Dr. Sara explained. (Gigalingua Lanka)
In keeping with its vision to consistently evolve and address accelerated business growth needs, Brown & Company PLC recently unveiled its new state-of-the-art manufacturing and warehouse facility in Katunayake. Strategically located within minutes of the Bandaranaike International Airport and the nation’s rapidly evolving highway network, the space is positioned to significantly enhance Browns’ logistical capabilities. The hub will enable seamless access to key markets across the island, further solidifying the Company’s principal role in a cross-section of industries.
The inaugural event of the Browns Group Industrial Park was attended by Ishara Nanayakkara, Chairman, Brown & Company PLC and Deputy Chairman, LOLC Holdings PLC and Kapila Jayawardene, Group Managing Director/CEO, LOLC Holdings PLC along with key officials from the Browns and LOLC Group.
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