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Unilever Sri Lanka inaugurates Foods Factory for brands Viva and Horlicks

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Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Sunil Handunneththi, starts operations at the newly opened Unilever Foods Factory in Sapugaskanda in the presence of Chairman and CEO of Unilever Sri Lanka Ali Tariq and other representatives of Unilever.

Unilever Sri Lanka inaugurated a new Foods Factory at the Lindal Industrial Processing Zone in Sapugaskanda, graced by Sunil Handunneththi, Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development. The construction commenced during the economic crisis and reinforces Unilever Sri Lanka’s strategy to strengthen local manufacturing. This not only removes the pressure on forex but also offers nutritious food products to Sri Lankan households at affordable prices.

The factory will produce Unilever’s malt-based food drink brands Viva and Horlicks. These were previously imported. The facility enjoys cutting-edge technology that guarantees high-quality, sustainability as well as efficiency. It will also generate local employment in the eco-system of businesses that serve the factory.

Ali Tariq, Chairman and CEO of Unilever Sri Lanka, stated: “This investment in the country reinforces Unilever’s commitment to the Sri Lankan consumers and economic development. The brand range we will produce at the factory, will provide consumers access to nutritious products at affordable prices. Furthermore, the localization of the production will generate employment, reduce foreign currency outflow as well as create production capacity for potential exports to other markets”

Damith Abeyratne, Supply Chain Director, emphasized: ‘’This facility is evidence of our commitment to operational excellence. We are prepared to innovate, increase efficiency, and contribute to the national causes of strengthening food security, food safety, and sustainable industrial practices.

Sunil Handunneththi, Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development remarked: “The investment made by Unilever Sri Lanka is a big step toward self-sufficiency in food manufacturing introducing global best practices. This facility will contribute to the Sri Lankan economy at a much-needed time by increasing local production, generating jobs, technology transfer, and sustainability.”

The new factory is the fourth addition to Unilever Sri Lanka’s local manufacturing sites. The other three are situated in the Horana BOI zone, Lindel Industrial Estate and Agarapathana. With this investment, Unilever Sri Lanka will manufacture 98% of its volumes locally.

The newly opened Unilever Foods Factory in the Lindal Industrial Processing Zone in Sapugaskanda



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Business

Constituent Change in the S&P Sri Lanka 20 Index

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The Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) announces the following change in S&P Sri Lanka 20 index constituents made by S&P Dow Jones Indices at the 2026 Mid-Year rebalance.

The exclusion and inclusion as announced by S&P Dow Jones Indices, effective from 22nd June 2026 (after the market close of 19th June 2026) are presented below.

The S&P SL 20 index includes the 20 largest companies, by total market capitalization, listed on the CSE that meet minimum size, liquidity and financial viability thresholds. The constituents are weighted by float-adjusted market capitalization, subject to a single stock cap of 15%, which is employed to reduce single stock concentration.

The S&P SL 20 index has been designed in accordance with international practices and standards. All stocks are classified according to the Global Industry Classification Standard (GICS®), which was co-developed by S&P Dow Jones Indices and MCSI and is widely used by market participants throughout the world.

To be eligible for inclusion, a stock must have a minimum float-adjusted market capitalization of 500 million Sri Lankan rupees (Rs), a six-month median daily value traded of Rs 0.25 million and have positive net income over the 12 months prior to the rebalancing reference date. For information, including the complete methodology, please visit: www.spindices.com

Effective from 22nd June 2026 the stocks in the S&P Sri Lanka 20 in alphabetical order are as above.

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Teejay Group navigates industry headwinds with financial strength and strategic focus

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Teejay Lanka Chairman Ajit Gunewardene and CEO Pubudu De Silva

The Teejay Group recorded revenue of LKR 60.04 billion during the period, reflecting a 10% year-on-year decline, primarily due to continued softness in global textile demand. This performance was largely impacted by reciprocal tariffs imposed by the United States, intensified pricing pressures across key markets, and the resulting decline in volumes, all of which collectively weighed on topline growth.

Group Gross Profit declined by 36% year-on-year to LKR 5.02 billion, mainly attributable to lower production volumes, underutilization of plant capacity, sustained pricing pressures, and an unfavorable product mix. Together, these factors adversely affected margin performance amid a challenging operating environment.

The Group reported a Profit After Tax (PAT) of LKR 54.7 million, representing a 98% year-on-year decline. This was primarily driven by higher rupee-denominated costs and non-recurring items, provision for doubtful debts, and restructuring costs associated with right-sizing initiatives.

Ajit Gunewardene, Chairman of the Teejay Group said, “The year was marked by persistent global demand softness and pricing pressures, which impacted results. Despite this, we focused on operational efficiency, cost discipline, and strengthening our financial resilience. These actions position the Group to navigate ongoing uncertainty while remaining committed to long-term value creation for our shareholders.”

Despite these near-term challenges, the Teejay Group continues to maintain a strong financial position, supported by disciplined working capital management and a robust liquidity base. As at 31 March 2026, cash and cash equivalents stood at LKR 8.3 billion, while the Group’s net asset base increased by 3% year-on-year to LKR 32.4 billion, reinforcing the resilience of its balance sheet.

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Fairfirst celebrates 7 years of supporting the Sri Lanka Police K9 Unit

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Fairfirst Insurance has once again partnered with the Sri Lanka Police K9 Unit, continuing its support for the seventh consecutive year. This partnership reflects the company’s long-standing commitment to giving back to the community.

Through this initiative, Fairfirst will provide comprehensive insurance coverage for the highly trained canines attached to the Sri Lanka Police K9 Unit. These dogs play a critical role in supporting police operations across the country, assisting with crime detection, narcotics investigations, search and rescue missions, and public safety efforts.

As a company that believes business should create a meaningful impact beyond insurance, Fairfirst remains committed to initiatives that support communities and recognise the vital contributions of those who help keep society safe. This shared commitment to protection and responsibility continues to drive the company’s long-standing partnership with the Sri Lanka Police K9 Unit.

Commenting on the continued partnership, Ravishankar Wickneswaran, CEO of Fairfirst Insurance, said, “It is a privilege for us to continue supporting the Sri Lanka Police K9 Unit for the seventh consecutive year. These dogs serve the country with incredible discipline and loyalty, often in challenging situations. Supporting their wellbeing is one small way for us to give back, and it reflects the FairfirstWay of standing by those who protect and serve our communities every day.”

Fairfirst looks forward to continuing this partnership and contributing to the wellbeing of the Sri Lanka Police K9 Unit in the years ahead.

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