Hayleys Group Archives

March 25, 2024

Sri Lanka’s leading value-added eco-friendly coir fibre exporter charts journey towards purpose-led future

Hayleys Eco Solutions, Sri Lanka’s leading traditional and value-added exporter of coconut fibre and coco peat-based products and a member of the Hayleys Group announced the launch of “Entwine”, its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Roadmap for 2030.

Derived from the concept of intertwining, “Entwine” signifies the profound connection between the business, people and the planet. Aligned with the Hayleys Lifecode, Entwine is anchored to four pillars: Nurturing Our Planet, Optimising Resources, Improving Lives, and Responsible Leadership.

The launch of Entwine took place during a special ceremony attended by Hayleys PLC Chairman and Chief Executive – Mohan Pandithage, Eco Solutions Sector Deputy Chairman – Rajitha Kariyawasan and Managing Director – Rajeeve Goonetileke, and employees representing all departments of the Eco Solutions sector.

“Sustainable innovation has been a core pillar of our export manufacturing businesses for more than 146 years. Eco friendly products made out of coconut fibre –considered as a by-product – was the very first business on which the Hayleys Group was founded and continues to thrive.

“The launch of Entwine, therefore represents a significant milestone for the Hayleys Group. By formally integrating ESG principles into its operations, Hayleys Eco Solutions is aligning itself with the broader commitments set out in the Hayleys Lifecode, and ensuring that our unbroken legacy of sustainable innovation continues to thrive as we move forward,” Hayleys Group Chairman and Chief Executive, Mohan Pandithage said.

Aligned to Hayleys Eco Solutions’ overarching purpose of “inspiring innovative and inclusive eco-friendly living”, Entwine will serve as a blueprint, detailing its 2030 ESG targets and action plans.

These include a 15% reduction in Scope 1 & 2 Green House Gas emissions; increased reliance on sustainable and renewable energy sources to 65%; achieving 10% reduction in energy intensity; 75% sustainable packaging material; and zero waste-to-landfill of coir-based material.

“The Entwine ESG Framework strengthens our existing link between environmental stewardship and economic success, and represents our commitment towards our sector’s journey to integrate ESG principles deeply within our operations, to ensure that as we continue to grow and innovate, we also ensure that we have a lasting positive impact on our planet, our people, and our future,” Eco Solutions Managing Director, Rajeeve Goonetileke said.

With a rich heritage spanning 146 years, the Hayleys Eco Solutions Sector is Sri Lanka’s foremost manufacturer and exporter of coconut fibre-based products. Offering an expansive portfolio, the sector delivers innovative, sustainable, and high-quality products for diverse applications in both domestic and industrial spheres.

This includes woven and non-woven geotextiles for natural shoreline stabilisation, horticulture and bedding products such as coir molded items and moisture retainers, and growing media like grow bags for open field and protected cultivation. Additionally, 100% biodegradable solutions like needled felt, coir twine, and twisted fibre are provided for domestic and commercial markets. In the brushware category, natural fibre brushes and brooms are manufactured for various applications.

For floor coverings, a diverse coir-based portfolio, including scraper mats, boot scrapers, flocked mats, PVC back tufted coir mats, woven coir mats, combination mats, and rubber mats, provide eco-friendly solutions to keep homes and workspaces clean from snow, dust, dirt, and mud.

Globally recognised for its product capabilities, domain knowledge, and competitive edge, Hayleys Eco Solutions has expanded its customer footprint to over 40 countries across all continents. As the traditional origins of the Hayleys Group, the Sector remains a symbol of leadership in sustainability and corporate responsibility.

January 18, 2024

Advantis, a leading transportation and logistics services provider in the South Asian and South East Asian regions and a subsidiary of the Hayleys Group, achieved international acclaim by securing the distinguished titles of the ‘Best Transportation and Logistics Company in Sri Lanka and South Asia’ by the Global Brands Magazine, UK.

The Global Brands Magazine recognises excellence in performance across various sectors worldwide. Advantis stood out as the sole Sri Lankan brand acknowledged in the ‘Logistics and Supply Chain’ category, surpassing noteworthy brands in the same category, including numerous global giants.

Advantis has positioned itself as a key player, offering end-to-end logistics solutions across various regional industries. The Company’s customer-centric approach, coupled with a commitment to reliability and excellence, not only contributes significantly to its global recognition but also ensures that the Group consistently offers peace of mind to its valued customers.

In addition to acknowledging the Company’s operational excellence, the awards highlight Advantis’ commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles. Advantis recently launched a comprehensive Group ESG strategy, which reflects the company’s impressive pledge to reduce absolute greenhouse gas emissions by 45% by 2030. This commitment reflects the Group’s proactive stance in addressing climate change and contributing to a more sustainable future.

Commenting on this remarkable achievement, Managing Director of the Advantis Group, Ruwan Waidyaratne, expressed pride in the Company’s commitment to excellence, stating, “Advantis has consistently prioritised delivering optimal solutions for its customers, ensuring proactive and effective action to meet their diverse needs. Our accolades attest to our team’s unwavering commitment to pioneering, adaptable strategies, and their remarkable dedication and consistency in executing operations across the board.”

Group Strategy Officer and Finance Director of the Advantis Group, Virendra Perera, emphasised the significance of the awards, stating, “We are thrilled to be recognised on a global platform, competing alongside renowned brands. Our strategy for regional expansion has not only led Advantis to achieve remarkable growth but has also played a pivotal role in advancing other businesses. In addition to providing unique solutions to our clients, we have created numerous employment opportunities, solidifying our position as a leading force in the industry”.

Commenting on the importance of brand strategy, Dilum Fernando, Director of Subsidiary and Head of Group Strategy, Marketing, and Digital Solutions of the Advantis Group, highlighted, “In our brand evolution journey, we take pride in the transformative impact of our growth strategy. Embracing change and consolidating multiple brands under the Advantis banner has supported our strategic advancement. This shift emphasises our adaptability to market dynamics, showcasing our commitment to meeting evolving customer needs. We are proud to be recognised as the best in South Asia and eagerly anticipate the future growth and success of the Advantis brand”.

December 11, 2023

Contributed 5.5% of Sri Lanka’s total export earnings in 2022/23
Recognised for innovative, value-added export portfolio

Sri Lanka’s most diversified conglomerate and exporting powerhouse, Hayleys and its subsidiaries were celebrated for their unwavering commitment to excellence, value-addition and innovation, clinching 17 awards at the 25th Presidential Export Awards.

Accounting for 5.5% of the nation’s total export income, the recognition won by the Hayleys Group at this year’s awards further consolidates its role as an essential contributor to an export-led Sri Lankan economic revival, capturing new markets with sustainable innovations.

The Hayleys Group export manufacturing strategy places strong emphasis on value addition to sustainably and ethically sourced homegrown raw materials. In turn, this creates positive value for the national economy. Its purification, eco-solutions, agriculture and hand protection sectors are among the Group’s leading examples of significant value addition on local raw materials.

Organised by the Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB), the prestigious awards celebrate excellence in export performance, showcasing the country’s most innovative and dynamic exporters.

“Our export portfolio is built on a foundation of inclusive business models, where sustainable supply chains comprised of large numbers of smallholders with shared benefits are connected to sophisticated global markets. By harnessing sustainable innovation and value-addition that integrates communities across the island with economic opportunities, we continue to expand our presence with products that effectively serve the needs of consumers and businesses across the globe,” Hayleys PLC Chairman and Chief Executive Mohan Pandithage stated.

“These awards are a symbol of our unwavering commitment to supporting our nation’s economy. We proudly contribute 5.5% of Sri Lanka’s total export income, and exceeded USD 650Mn in the last financial year; a testament to our people’s dedication and the impact of diverse business sectors.”

The Group’s purification sector, led by Haycarb won top honours for the coconut shell products sector as the recipient of the Best Exporter Awards for 2021/22 and 2022/23.

Dipped Products PLC received the ‘Best Exporter in Rubber Products’ for 2022/23, while Alumex PLC was crowned as the Overall emerging exporter for the year 2021/22. Alumex also won a merit award in the Light Engineering Products category for 2022/23.

Similarly, Hayleys Agriculture subsidiary Quality Seed Company (Pvt) Ltd. was presented with the Overall Best SME Exporter of the Year 2022/23, in addition to winning the Best Exporter Awards in the Floriculture category for both 2021/22 and 2022/23. HJS Condiments Limited, the exporter of value-added agri-produce, was recognised as the Best Exporter in the Processed fruits, nuts and vegetable category for 2021/22 and 2022/23.

Meanwhile, three subsidiaries of the conglomerate’s transportation and logistics arm, Advantis, won a total of five awards. Advantis – Free Zone received the awards for ‘Best Exporter Hub Operations and Entrepot Trade for 2021/22 and 2022/23’, Advantis – Bunkering won the awards for ‘Best Exporter Marine and Offshore Services for 2021/22 and 2022/23’, and Hayleys Energy Services, won a Merit award in the ‘Marine and Offshore Services’ category for 2021/2022.

Hayleys Fabric received merit awards in the Knitting Fabric sector for both 2021/22 and 2022/23.

The Hayleys Group is a centerpiece of the Sri Lankan economy, maintaining a global presence across five regions with business interests spanning 16 diverse sectors. Accounting for over USD 650 million of the country’s foreign earnings and 5.5% of the nation’s total export income, Hayleys is a champion of sustainable innovation and represents one of Sri Lanka’s most prominent success stories.

Hayleys is ranked Sri Lanka’s number one corporate for 2022 (Business Today Top 40). The diversified conglomerate is currently assigned a National Long-Term Rating of ‘AAA’ (lka) by Fitch Ratings and is the only corporate to be awarded the nation’s Best Corporate Citizen on five separate occasions.

October 16, 2023

Appointed a member of Hayleys Group Management Committee and drives Group ESG strategy and targets
Views sustainable business practices as a critical prerequisite in driving long-term shareholder value

Group Chief Financial Officer and Head of ESG of the Hayleys Group, Milinda Hewagama was recently appointed to the Board of the United Nations Global Compact Network Sri Lanka.

A dynamic professional, Hewagama brings over 17 years of diverse experience in Financial Management, Reporting, Budgeting and Financial Planning & Analysis. Beginning his career at Hayleys in 2010, Hewagama enjoyed a rapid ascent within the Group, rising from Executive to Group CFO within 13 years.

In his unique role, which combines both financial and ESG performance, he also drives the Group’s ESG Roadmap – the Hayleys Lifecode. This roadmap seeks to integrate environmental, social, and governance best practices across all aspects of the Group’s operations.

“For generations the Hayleys Group has demonstrated that environmentally and socially conscious business models yield strong financial returns. With the Hayleys Lifecode, we sought to prove that ESG standards and targets could be managed as meticulously and rigorously as any financial metric on our balance sheet.

“A commitment to continuous learning and refinement is the only way to drive lasting progress. I am honoured to serve on the Board of Network Sri Lanka. I am eager to learn from our fellow members and to share the remarkable experiences in our ongoing efforts to embed ESG thinking and best practices across the Hayleys Group,” Hewagama said.

His journey to Group CFO is marked by determination, hard work, and a commitment to excellence. He pursued his Bachelor of Business Administration at the University of Colombo, subsequently obtaining an MBA from the same institution in 2015. He is also a Member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Sri Lanka.

Commenting on the ever-evolving role of a CFO, he states: “Today’s operating landscape demands CFOs to be more agile. Whether it’s financial or ESG audits, data-driven approaches to decision making and automation play an increasing role. Digitalisation of financial and non-financial reporting has sharpened our decision-making, while we continue to set up real-time data dashboards across all key metrics.”

Good governance, according to Hewagama, is vital for ethical business management, risk mitigation and steering resources towards sustainable investments. “At Hayleys, we’ve fortified our oversight on ESG matters with the establishment of an ESG Steering Committee that includes Director and GMC representation.

“To embrace truly circular, sustainable business models, companies need to be introspective and act decisively. That’s the challenge each Hayleys Group Sector is embracing, with the support of our Hayleys Lifecode targets.”

He also emphasises that in the struggle for driving macro-targets, companies should never lose sight of their values in the day-to-day. “Sustainability has to start from within. Treating everyone in the organisation and across hierarchy with respect is vital.

“In tough times, many face equally tough choices. Leading with empathy and facilitating meaningful dialogue becomes ever more crucial. Navigating the economic downturn is challenging, especially considering its impact on our employees. Our priority is ensuring their financial security and well-being, which we have done by resolving some of their most urgent needs including employee commuting, food security, welfare and both physical and mental wellbeing.

“From our experience, it is clear that embedding ESG into strategy supports the creation of more resilient businesses and drives sustainable value chains and innovations sought after by global buyers. We look forward to working with Network Sri Lanka towards these vital objectives,” Hewagama said.

August 21, 2023

Leading export manufacturer of hand protection solutions and member of the Hayleys Group, Dipped Products PLC (DPL), announced the launch of its new ESG roadmap ‘DPL Pulse’.

‘DPL Pulse’ builds on the environmental and social consciousness already rooted within the organisation and aligns with the Hayleys Group’s long-term sustainability aspirations as outlined in the Hayleys Lifecode.

Amidst the disconcerting forecast made by UN climate scientists that July 2023 would be the hottest month on record, UN Secretary-General António Guterres declared that “the era of global warming has ended” and “the era of global boiling has arrived.” Although climate change is evident, to stop the worst, “we must turn a year of burning heat into a year of burning ambition,” he stated in a recent UN report.

At the company’s launch to its employees, DPL Managing Director Pushpika Janadheera said, “As an industry pioneer in sustainability, DPL Pulse formalises our efforts and initiatives with purpose and direction. This commitment comes at a critical time, with escalating impacts of global climate change and widening socio-economic disparities. As an organisation that relies primarily on agricultural materials, we have always been acutely aware of the impact of climate change on our business and communities and we are firmly committed to effecting positive change and building resilience.

“Economic growth should never undermine the balance between social and environmental progress; simply, there is no compromise. This ethos is deeply ingrained within the core of our management philosophy at Hayleys and DPL. We recognize the increasing call for sustainable sourcing across the world, a demand that compels us to protect not only the hands of millions but also the world they touch. Our gloves stand as a symbol of protection, encompassing both physical safety and concern for the environment and society,” Janadheera added.

DPL Pulse is built on the four key pillars of Planet, People, Products and Partnerships which ensure a holistic focus across the value chain. Aligned to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the Roadmap sets out clearly defined targets under each pillar, including a 20% reduction in carbon footprint (Scope 1 and 2).

As a result of DPL’s proactive approach in adopting renewable energy sources, 93% of its energy needs are currently met by biomass and other renewable sources. DPL has set forth plans to invest Rs. 1.6 billion in solar energy spanning all six manufacturing locations, with five based in Sri Lanka and one in Thailand. Additionally, DPL is committed to achieving a zero landfill goal as part of its ongoing efforts.

The recently established sports glove complex demonstrates the company’s environmental dedication. Striving for Platinum LEED certification, the facility is powered by 325 kWp solar rooftop panels and a Rain Water harvesting system with a capacity to serve 50% of its domestic usage in the rainy season.

DPL is targeting 30% sustainable water sourcing and 55% reuse of treated wastewater through its 2030 Roadmap. A water recycling project at its Hanwella site, is a shining example of sustainable water practices in action. Used discharged water undergoes treatment at an effluent treatment plant, and is subsequently reused, saving nearly 40% of the site’s water consumption.

Strengthening its competitive advantage in niche export markets, DPL aims to ensure that a minimum of 10% of its product portfolio is eco-rated and will increase the use of recycled raw materials in its manufacturing process by at least 30%. DPL also plans to increase the environmental screening of suppliers by 40%, in addition to doubling the beneficiaries of its CSR programmes.

For a comprehensive view of DPL Pulse and its 2030 roadmap, visit www.dplgroup.com/pulse/.

Established in 1976, Dipped Products PLC is one of the world’s leading non-medical rubber glove manufacturers, accounting for a 5% global market share. Recognised for its innovative and sustainable hand protection solutions, DPL specialises in industrial, household, sports and medical gloves. Headquartered in Colombo, the exporter has established manufacturing facilities in Sri Lanka and Thailand, with marketing arms in Italy, Poland, France and the Middle East.

July 6, 2023

Hayleys Group Companies Haycarb PLC and Dipped Products PLC, are expanding manufacturing capabilities in response to growing demand for sustainably manufactured, innovative products and solutions in global niche markets.

Doubling down on driving exports-focused innovation, both companies have been investing in Research and Development, leveraging home-grown scientific innovation to move up global value chains.

“One of Sri Lanka’s greatest resources is our ability to use science and technology to create local solutions to global challenges. Drawing from the Hayleys Group’s long legacy of innovation, as a socially conscious enterprise we create products that drive value to our customers and help purify the world, and change lives of many around our planet including at grassroot Sri Lankan communities by generating opportunities for real economic progress,” Haycarb PLC Managing Director, Rajitha Kariyawasan stated.

Already a leading global player in the sustainable production of activated carbon derived from coconut shell based charcoal, over the past 50 years, Haycarb has continuously discovered powerful new applications for its products. As a result, its wide range of high value applications comprise water and air purification, gold mining, lifesaving medicines and alternative energy storage devices such as supercapacitors and batteries, helping to power many new generation technology applications.

This same intrapreneurial spirit of utilising in-house talent, ingenuity and sustainable innovations to turn the simple rubber commodity to globally competitive high value exports, is also at the core of Dipped Products PLC’s success. Having gained significant traction over the past two years across 70 countries with its innovative specialised industrial, medical, and household glove solutions, Dipped Products continues to take aim at emerging opportunities world-wide.

“For nearly half a century, DPL has steadily moved up the value chain in hand protection. In that time, we have developed an unmatched reputation for quality, and served as a hub for high-level product innovation and best practices in sustainable manufacturing and an authentic commitment to ESG.

In addition to consolidating our reputation as a global leader in sustainable and ethical manufacturing, we recently accelerated our R&D programmes and expanded our production capacity to create new export innovations that will help drive export earnings to our nation,” Dipped Products PLC Managing Director, Pushpika Janadheera said.

The recent initiatives on-ground included the streamlining of domestic supply chains with the opening of a state-of-the-art new centralised warehouse facility in January 2023, and the successful operationalising of a new sports glove manufacturing facility in March 2023, that blends the team’s industry-leading scientific and technical expertise to produce sophisticated, globally sought-after sports gloves.

Simultaneously, DPL is strengthening their presence in the US and Europe to capture the niche sports market segments, including cycling, equestrian, golf, baseball, mountain biking and running.

June 13, 2023

Advantis and Cordelia Cruises partner to pioneer cruise sailing operations around the island
The MS Empress arrives with 1,600 passengers onboard
Anticipates 80,000 tourist arrivals in the first 4 months alone
Advantis appointed General Sales Agent and Port Agent in Sri Lanka for Cordelia Cruises

Ushering in a new wave of inbound luxury cruise tourists to Sri Lanka, Advantis, the transportation and logistics arm of the Hayleys Group, welcomed the Ms Empress of Cordelia Cruises today.

Leveraging the newly forged partnership with India’s top cruise line Cordelia Cruises, the Advantis team warmly welcomed 1,600 tourists from Chennai, as they made their inaugural stop at the Hambantota International Port. Disembarking passengers were garlanded with flowers and treated to a warm Sri Lankan welcome complete with Kandyan dancers and traditional drummers.

“We are delighted to welcome Cordelia Cruises and embrace a completely new segment of luxury cruise tourists. Today marks a significant milestone in our efforts to revitalise and unlock substantial commercial opportunities for the tourism value chain, as well as capitalise on our island’s vast untapped potential as a global hotspot for cruises,” Hayleys Group Chairman and Chief Executive Mohan Pandithage said.

With Advantis and Cordelia Cruises combining their expertise and resources, their shared mission is to unlock the full potential of Sri Lanka and position the country as a top destination for luxury travellers seeking exceptional experiences.

“Our partnership with Advantis is the first step in positioning both Sri Lanka and India as premier destinations for discerning travellers across South Asia. By seamlessly integrating these unique and diverse holiday destinations, we aim to chart new horizons for tourists and stimulate economic growth for both nations,” Cordelia Cruises President and CEO Jurgen Bailom stated.

The MS Empress boasts 796 cabins across five distinct categories, each filled with state-of-the-art amenities, providing unparalleled luxury and comfort to its 1,600 passengers. Setting the stage for an unforgettable journey around the island for passengers, the vessel embarked on its inaugural sailing to Sri Lanka from the Port of Chennai on 5th June 2023.

Commenting on the partnership, Advantis Managing Director, Ruwan Waidyaratne said, “As an island nation, Sri Lanka has attracted maritime trade and travel for centuries. However, in the modern age, our nation is yet to leverage its natural advantages to the best of our ability. Through our alliance with Cordelia Cruises, we are able to facilitate the first-ever cruise sailing operation around the island, offering a remarkable opportunity for travellers to explore the rich heritage, breathtaking natural beauty, and vibrant cultural diversity of Sri Lanka. We look forward to working in close partnership with the Cordelia team to attract at least 80,000 visitors within the next four months alone.”

The Travel and Aviation arm of the Advantis Group will serve as the General Sales Agent, while Clarion Shipping, a subsidiary of the Advantis Group, will act as the Port Agent for Cordelia Cruises in Sri Lanka.

Advantis is Sri Lanka’s most diversified transportation and logistics provider, with over six decades of experience and operations spread across Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, the Maldives, Myanmar, Singapore and Thailand. Backed by the blue-chip multinational conglomerate Hayleys PLC, Advantis is at the forefront of the transportation and logistics industries providing end-to-end solutions covering

Integrated Logistics, Projects and Engineering, Marine and Energy, International Freight Management and Travel and Aviation.

May 29, 2023

Advantis appointed as General Sales Agent and Port Agent in Sri Lanka for India’s premier cruise liner
First-ever cruise sailing operation around the island
Anticipates approximately 80,000 tourist arrivals in first 4 months alone

The transportation and logistics arm of the Hayleys Group, Advantis, announced a groundbreaking partnership with India’s top cruise line, Cordelia Cruises to usher in a new wave of inbound luxury tourists to Sri Lanka.

Leveraging their newly forged partnership, Advantis – Travel and Aviation will serve as the General Sales Agent, while Advantis Group subsidiary, Clarion Shipping will serve as the Port Agent for Cordelia Cruises in Sri Lanka.

Cordelia Cruises aims to revolutionise the tourism market in the region by offering an extraordinary cruise experience that exudes style and luxury through its crown jewel – “The Empress”, an iconic vessel that first set sail with the name The Nordic Empress. With 796 cabins in 5 distinct categories filled with state-of-the-art amenities, the ship is capable of accommodating 2,000 passengers. The luxury cruise line will embark on its inaugural sailing to the island, in June 2023.

The collaboration marks a milestone in Sri Lanka’s efforts to revitalise inbound tourism and capitalise on the island’s significant untapped potential as an international hotspot for cruise tourism. Embarking on a Cordelia Cruise journey to Sri Lanka opens up a world of thrilling shore excursions for travellers, with Jaffna, Hambantota, and Trincomalee serving as bases. These exceptional locations offer an opportunity to embark on unforgettable adventures that showcase the very best of Sri Lanka’s rich heritage, breathtaking natural beauty, and vibrant cultural diversity. A significant boost to the Sri Lankan tourism industry is anticipated, attracting an estimated 80,000 tourists within the first four months alone.

This surge is set to unlock significant commercial opportunities for the tourism value chain, drive economic growth and position Sri Lanka as a premier destination for discerning travellers, providing a timely impetus to the country’s travel and tourism industry

Cordelia Cruises President and CEO, Jurgen Bailom stated that: “Sri Lanka is truly one of the most uniquely diverse holiday destinations in the Asian region. Combined with the invaluable support of our local partners Advantis, and the Hayleys Group, we see immense growth potential in synergistically integrating Sri Lankan and Indian destinations into a single, unforgettable luxury travel and hospitality experience.”

Hayleys Group Chairman and Chief Executive, Mohan Pandithage noted the collaboration with Cordelia Cruises would inject much needed energy into the country’s tourism sector. “One of Sri Lanka’s most urgent national priorities is to ensure a rapid increase in tourist arrivals. We believe that this partnership holds the potential to significantly boost arrivals, and over the medium-long term, attract an entirely new segment of travellers to our shores.”

Commenting on the partnership Advantis Managing Director, Ruwan Waidyaratne said: “We are pleased to partner with Cordelia as their General Sales Agent and Port Agent in Sri Lanka. This partnership promises to channel much needed support for Sri Lanka’s resurgent tourist industry, and we are confident that this partnership will help our nation promote its attractions year-round. As a pioneer in transportation and logistics, with special expertise in maritime services, we are focused on supporting all opportunities for generating growth in travel and tourism.”

Passengers aboard Cordelia Cruises can expect curated itineraries that cater to both business and leisure travellers, including 2-night, 3-night, and 5-night journeys.

These itineraries are enhanced by an array of unparalleled onboard experiences, such as exquisite fine dining restaurants, vibrant pubs, a fully-equipped fitness centre, spa and salon facilities, a casino, a swimming pool, a nightclub, engaging retail activities, and much more. Moreover, “The Empress” hosts a diverse range of live entertainment, including captivating music performances, mesmerising magic shows, stand-up comedy, Bollywood music comedy, burlesque performances, DJ parties and movie nights, ensuring that every moment is filled with excitement and delight.

Advantis is Sri Lanka’s most diversified transportation and logistics provider, with over six decades of experience and operations spread across Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, the Maldives, Myanmar, Singapore and Thailand. Backed by the blue-chip multinational conglomerate Hayleys PLC, Advantis is at the forefront of the logistics and construction industries providing end-to-end solutions covering Integrated Logistics, Projects and Engineering, Marine and Energy, International Freight Management and Travel and Aviation.

April 26, 2023

Producing specialised gloves for leading global brands across 10 sports
Eco-friendly facility fulfils requirements for platinum LEED certification
Up to 60% of raw materials sourced locally including recycled PET fabrics

Global pioneers in sustainable integrated glove manufacturing, Dipped Products PLC (DPL), a subsidiary of the Hayleys Group, commenced commercial operations at its state-of-the-art manufacturing plant in Biyagama, in line with its ambitious diversification into precision engineered sports gloves.

Constructed with an investment of Rs. 1.3 Billion, the new facility aims to leverage DPL’s exceptional scientific and technical expertise in producing gloves for industrial, household and medical applications to design and build sports gloves that offer the maximum in performance, protection and comfort.

“We are excited to formally commence the production of DPL’s precision-engineered sports gloves. Globally the segment is expected to hit US$ 1.7 billion by 2027, and we see immense potential for DPL to capture significant market share. Our goal is to combine our nation’s well-established apparel manufacturing capabilities with DPL’s highly advanced technical capabilities in industrial hand protection to produce high quality, premium sports gloves right here in Sri Lanka,” DPL Managing Director Pushpika Janadheera said.

DPL will initially produce 10 new categories of custom-designed sports gloves including cycling, mountain biking, golf, baseball batting, American football, equestrian, winter sports, running and functional fitness, motorbikes and weight lifting.

Weaving sustainability into its core process, the manufacturer has taken measures to locally source up to 60% of its raw materials – which include recycled yarn from PET bottles and recyclable/biodegradable packaging.

DPL is pursuing Platinum LEED certification: the highest level of certification awarded by U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). Developed by USGBC, LEED is a globally recognized programme for buildings that are designed, constructed, maintained, and operated for improved environmental and human health performance. LEED buildings have a positive impact on the triple bottom line: people, planet and profit—reducing pollution, increasing efficiency and lowering emissions, while also creating healthier places for people.

Accordingly, DPL will be investing into the holistic enhancement of sustainability standards spanning energy and water consumption – including the establishment of comprehensive water treatment and recycling as well as rainwater harvesting facilities, in addition to waste management, materials, health, and indoor environmental quality.

The facility will also feature significant solar power generation capabilities, utilising 17,000 square feet of rooftop to produce 325 kilowatts – equivalent to approximately 110% of the facility’s total energy requirements

Established in 1976, Dipped Products is one of the world’s leading rubber glove manufacturers and accounts for a 5% global market share. With a manufacturing capacity of 16 million, DPL is the largest household gloves producer in Sri Lanka. The company’s products now reach 70 countries.

February 2, 2023

Hayleys Advantis, the transportation and logistics arm of the Hayleys Group, recently donated a pre-fabricated research laboratory in support of the scientists involved in the accelerated natural regeneration of mangroves at Anawilundawa. This project was completed under the first phase of the ‘Advantis Blue C’ programme, which was launched as a strategic sustainability initiative with the aim of conserving and restoring blue carbon ecosystems.

In collaboration with stakeholders, such as the Department of Wildlife Conservation (DWC), the Central Environmental Authority (CEA) and the Wildlife and Nature Protection Society (WNPS), Advantis Blue C will help accelerate the vital regeneration of mangroves at the RAMSAR accredited wetland, Anawilundawa. Mangroves are a vital component in the replenishment of blue carbon resources as they store over ten times more carbon compared to terrestrial forests.

Led by Prof. Sevvandi Jayakody, Chair Professor at Wayamba University and Chairperson of the National Mangrove Expert Committee, the team handling scientific research at the site, is set to gather and study valuable topographical data, floral distribution, faunal habitations, hydrological models, and soil and water samples across the site. This study will lead to an improved understanding of how mangroves propagate and which areas or conditions are best suited for the seeds to take root and thrive.

“Effective mitigation of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions remains one of the key challenges in the international transportation and logistics industry. With the launch of Advantis Blue C, we believe that we are doing our part to mitigate this by lending our expertise,” said Ruwan Waidyaratne, Managing Director of Hayleys Advantis Limited.

Pre-fabricated and installed to minimise any construction-related impact on the environment, the new lab facility constructed by Advantis Engineering will also serve as a base of operations for international scientists and students hoping to study the mangrove system at Anawilundawa.

Additionally, Hayleys Advantis will also assist the research process by deploying its staff in the field to assist with the gathering of floral and faunal data while providing technical assistance to establish a database for all the scientific findings. This may lead to the compilation of information that can be later shared with the global scientific community.

“Our efforts to replenish Blue Carbon resources are a part of a global effort to better understand these vital ecosystems, threats faced, and necessary measures to create the conditions for nature to heal itself. It is important that we work with all stakeholders to conserve the environment. The data that we will be able to collect, thanks to the support of Hayleys Advantis, will serve as the foundation of local and global efforts to restore coastal ecosystems and effectively combat climate change,” stated Prof. Jayakody.

Group Director of Hayleys Advantis, Capt. Lasitha Cumaratunga explained, “With our involvement in marine operations, and our wealth of maritime knowledge and expertise, we took leadership to address this global challenge in alignment with our evolving ESG commitments under the ‘Hayleys Lifecode’. By partnering with key government and conservationist organisations, we aim to give life to our coastal and marine ecosystems, which will, in turn, enable exponential increases in carbon sequestration, potentially serving as a powerful offset to GHG emissions globally.”

Hayleys Advantis is Sri Lanka’s most diversified transportation and logistics provider, with over six decades of regional experience and operations. Backed by the blue-chip multinational conglomerate Hayleys PLC, Hayleys Advantis is at the forefront of the logistics industry providing end-to-end solutions covering Integrated Logistics, Projects and Engineering, Marine and Energy, International Freight Management and Aviation. It is committed to innovating the industry, setting the pace and shaping the logistics sector.

Older Posts

Hayleys Eco Solutions Unveils “ENTWINE”: holistic ESG Roadmap for 2030

Advantis named Best Transportation and Logistics Company in Sri Lanka and South Asia by the Global Brands Magazine, UK

Exports powerhouse Hayleys Group sweeps Presidential Export Awards with 17 accolades

Hayleys Group CFO Milinda Hewagama Appointed to UN Global Compact Network Sri Lanka Board

Dipped Products PLC sets standard for sustainable growth: launches ESG roadmap ‘DPL Pulse’

Haycarb and Dipped Products ramp up high-tech exports to fuel economic recovery

Sailing into Paradise: Advantis Welcomes Cordelia Cruises at Hambantota

Advantis and Cordelia Cruises unite to unleash the ultimate cruising experience in Sri Lanka

Dipped Products launches ambitious new venture into high-tech sports gloves for EU & US

Hayleys Advantis supports mangrove regeneration: installs a pre-fabricated research lab under Advantis Blue Carbon Drive