Elephant House Archives

March 25, 2024

Neptune Recyclers, Sri Lanka’s leading enabler in recyclable waste management, and Elephant House, trading as Ceylon Cold Stores (CCS), have joined hands in a ground-breaking partnership to launch an eco-friendly recycling project aimed at reducing plastic pollution and fostering sustainable practices. This strategic alliance, established in September 2023, brings together Neptune Recyclers’ expertise in collecting, sorting, and transforming PET waste into high-quality plastic materials with Elephant House’s commitment under Gunadamin Elephant House for environmental stewardship and increasing the recycling rate of the Country.

Gunadamin Elephant House serves as Elephant House’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) division, focusing on various initiatives aimed at improving society. The Waste Management pillar, along with the Community and Sustainable Sourcing pillars, constitutes Gunadamin Elephant House’s comprehensive strategy for sustainable and responsible practices.

As part of the John Keells Group, Elephant House is in line with the Group’s dedicated efforts towards Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives. This dedication encompasses interventions in waste management, carbon footprint reduction, and the implementation of sustainable and renewable energy projects.

Neptune Recyclers, on the other hand, is a pioneer in the circular economy, offering comprehensive and seamlessly integrated services in recyclable waste management. With a focus on a closed-loop system, Neptune Recyclers minimizes waste, conserves resources, and reduces the carbon footprint of the plastic industry.

In response to the evolving landscape of sustainable practices, Neptune Recyclers has introduced Neptune Circular Solutions, a new vertical dedicated to advancing plastic recycling initiatives and promoting a circular economy model. By leveraging cutting-edge technology and innovative processes, Neptune Circular Solutions focuses on transforming plastic waste into valuable resources, thereby minimizing environmental impact and promoting resource efficiency.

Through this partnership, Neptune Recyclers and Elephant House aim to expand their efforts in recycling PET bottles and further promote the adoption of sustainable packaging solutions. This collaboration signifies a significant step towards a greener and more sustainable future for Sri Lanka.

March 18, 2024

Batticaloa, March 12, 2024 – Gunadamin Elephant House of Ceylon Cold Stores PLC (CCS), the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), and Viridis Recycling recognized the contributions of women waste collectors to economic empowerment and environmental wellbeing at a ceremony at the Selvanayagam Memorial Hall in Batticaloa. The event, which celebrated Sri Lanka’s first women-led plastic recyclable collection network and material recovery facility (MRF), featured the handover of e-bikes for plastic waste collection. Funded by Gunadamin Elephant House, these e-bikes mark a significant step forward in enhancing waste management efficiency and reducing environmental impact.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Daminda Gamlath, President, Consumer Foods Sector John Keells Holdings PLC (JKH) said, “This e-bike represents our commitment to innovative solutions in environmental stewardship and community empowerment. We believe these initiatives will sustainably increase plastic collection and affirm our commitment to ESG goals, as exemplified by our partnership with Kaviya Self Development Women’s Centre.”

The half-day event saw the attendance of dignitaries to support these women’s achievements, including Douglas E. Sonnek, Deputy Chief of Mission at the U.S. Embassy; the Governor of the Eastern Province, Hon. Senthil Thondaman; and other senior government officials.

A plastic collection drive and a street drama performance with the theme of “transforming waste into wealth” took place before the ceremony.

Douglas E. Sonnek, Deputy Chief of Mission at the U.S. Embassy, highlighted the broader impact of the initiative, stating, “U.S. assistance to increase income generation opportunities for Sri Lankan women strengthens prospects for economic growth and benefits families, communities, and the country. The United States is partnering to provide equal economic opportunities to unleash women’s full potential, because women’s economic security and inclusion are key to breaking the cycle of poverty.”

The Governor of the Eastern Province, Hon. Senthil Thondaman, echoed these sentiments, expressing appreciation for the organizations involved and applauding the women in Batticaloa for their efforts. His support underscores the project’s significance as a powerful example of community-led efforts driving significant environmental and social change.

Active across five coastal provinces, these plastic waste collection networks have significantly improved the economic status of rural women. Demonstrating a circular economic model, this activity emphasizes the efficient and sustainable use of resources, recovery, and regeneration. Supported by Gunadamin Elephant House, USAID, and Viridis, the initiative trains women to identify and collect recyclable waste,

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including plastics, and incorporate them into the recycling chain. It has created approximately 200 income generation opportunities and increased the household incomes of women waste collectors.

In a testament to the project’s impact, Rohini Dharshan, a woman waste collector from Batticaloa supported by the Kaviya Self-Development Women’s Center, which played a pivotal role in encouraging local women to join this initiative said, “This project turned trash into an unexpected source of income for me. I am now not just tidying up the environment, I am also earning by doing it.”

February 29, 2024

Colombo, February 28, 2024: Reliance Consumer Products Limited (RCPL), the FMCG arm and wholly-owned subsidiary of Reliance Retail Ventures Limited (RRVL), today announced that it has partnered with Sri Lanka-headquartered Elephant House to manufacture, market, distribute and sell beverages under the Elephant House brand across India.

This association will not only help RCPL bolster its growing beverage portfolio that boasts iconic brands such as Campa, Sosyo and Raskik but will also bring exceptional new products and value propositions to Indian consumers.

Elephant House is owned by Ceylon Cold Stores PLC, a subsidiary of John Keells Holdings PLC, Sri Lanka’s largest listed conglomerate. Under the Elephant House brand, it manufactures and sells a wide range of beverages including Necto, Cream Soda, EGB (Ginger Beer), Orange Barley and Lemonade to name a few.

Speaking on the partnership, Ketan Mody, COO, Reliance Consumer Products Limited, said, “Elephant House, which enjoys strong market credibility, is an iconic brand with deep-rooted heritage. This partnership will not only add its much-loved beverages to our growing FMCG portfolio but will also offer our Indian consumers great choice and value proposition through quality products. Being the custodian of several renowned global brands in India, Reliance is well-equipped to further expand Elephant House’s established consumer brand, which has been built over 150 years.”

Krishan Balendra, Chairperson of the John Keells Group, said, “We are proud to announce the expansion of the Elephant House brand to the Indian market. Our partnership with Reliance Consumer Products Limited marks a significant milestone in the journey of our heritage brand and represents our commitment to delivering our high-quality beverages to new consumer segments. We look forward to the opportunity this partnership brings, to provide refreshing and innovative beverage options to meet the diverse preferences of Indian consumers.”

The agreement between RCPL and Elephant House underscores a shared commitment to excellence and innovation, empowering both organizations to capitalize on synergies and amplify their market presence.

RCPL’s vision is to offer Indian consumers a wide portfolio of globally recognized brands and products that stand out for their exceptional quality and value. In addition, RCPL is rapidly scaling up its multi channel operations to reach more consumers across diverse markets.

The company, currently, boasts a versatile FMCG portfolio comprising iconic beverage brands including Campa and Sosyo Hajoori, an extensive confectionery range from Lotus Chocolates, Toffeeman and snacks such as Alan’s Bugles and Masti Oye apart from Sri Lanka’s leading biscuit brand Maliban, and staples & daily convenience products under the Independence brand. In home and personal care, it has products such as dishwashing liquids, laundry detergent, soaps and toilet cleaners.

April 19, 2023

The Elephant House and Keells Foods, much loved household brands have yet again demonstrated their strength by taking home numerous awards at the SLIM National Sales Awards 2021-2022 which was held in March 2023. The brands received several accolades including 10 Gold, 7 Silver, 8 Bronze, 1 Best of the Best, and 1 Merit medal. Elephant House Frozen Confectionary won 17 honors with Elephant House Beverages achieving 8 wins and Keells Foods receiving 2 wins.

Sharing his sentiments, Daminda Gamlath, President of the Consumer Foods Sector of John Keells Holdings PLC said, “The admirable achievements and growth of the Sales team is a result of immense commitment and determination. Over the years, Elephant House and Keells Foods has placed much attention and emphasis on the Sales Team and looked at various approaches like the sales academies such as the ‘Sales Master Class’ set up by Elephant House Frozen Confectionary and Beverages as well as the ‘Sales Warriors’ training programme launched by Keells Foods in partnership with Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing (SLIM). These initiatives helped to assess competency levels and enabled targeted trainings to improve sales skills. It is encouraging to see the team’s hard work being richly recognized and rewarded.”

Remarkable and noteworthy achievements were the outstanding performance of Elephant House Frozen Confectionary Females in Sales. The team achieved a Gold and a Bronze in the Sales Executive Modern Trade category, and two Golds in the Other Sales Support – Manager and Executive categories.

Commenting on the success of the Elephant House Frozen Confectionary Females in Sales team, Sathish Rathnayake, Head of Frozen Confectionary and Senior Vice President -John Keells Holdings PLC stated, “It is encouraging to see women breaking down barriers and succeeding in new territories. These accolades are a shining example of what women are capable of when they are empowered and are given equal opportunities to succeed in their chosen fields. Their success is indeed our strength. These efforts are underpinned by the category’s Dinannee programme which aims to economically empower women to participate in the sales and distribution of ice cream”

The Consumer Foods Sector of the John Keells Group houses some of Sri Lanka’s most loved Consumer Brands under the Elephant House and Keells Krest umbrella. These legendary brands have strong brand recognition and nostalgia synonymous with over 150 years of heritage and trust.

March 30, 2023

Colombo, 30 March 2023: Marking a milestone in their journey towards sustainability, Coca-Cola Beverages Sri Lanka (CCBSL) and Ceylon Cold Stores Elephant House (EH) created history in Sri Lanka as they joined forces to enhance recyclable plastic collection along the Central Expressway. The partnership marks the joint responsibility of CCBSL and EH contributing towards Extended Producer Responsibility and recycling, as they commemorate the partnership in the month of World Recycling Day and International Day of Zero Waste.

CCBSL, EH, together with John Keells Group’s social entrepreneurship project ‘Plasticcycle’ and Eco Spindles are partnering with the Road Development Authority (RDA) to establish 16 recyclable plastic collection points across the Central Expressway. The initiative was launched in the presence of Chief Guest Mr. Anura Kehelella, Additional Director, Expressway Operation, Maintenance & Management Division, Road Development Authority at the Meerigama entrance of the expressway.

With the RDA’s approval and guidance, these recyclable plastic-collection points will be placed on the Central Expressway, in the exit locations of Mirigama, Nakalagamuwa, Dambokka, Kurunegala and Yaggapitiya. Their recycling partner Eco Spindles will collect and convert the waste into bristles for brooms and brushes and yarn for garments sold locally and internationally. This is a holistic approach to recyclable waste management in the country with each of the beverage companies playing an impactful role in the process. EH and Plasticcycle had partnered with the RDA previously to establish PET collection points on the Southern Highway, and CCBSL has done the same on the Katunayaka expressway.

The RDA noted, “Linking key cities of the country, we see the Central Expressway playing a vital role in providing access to timely transportation for hundreds of motorists on a daily basis. Reflecting on their patterns of waste disposal, it is clear that this initiative encourages proper disposal of plastic waste along the expressway, which can be recycled into finished goods that also give back to the country in terms of export earnings. This is an initiative that needs to be celebrated. I invite all corporates in the country to consider a similar approach.”

Sharing their thoughts on one of their key milestones in the sustainability journey, Coca-Cola Beverages Sri Lanka, Director – Public Affairs, Communications and Sustainability, Thamari Senanayake, said “Much has been said on waste collection and recycling, both locally and globally. However, the collective action that needs to be taken to make it happen is lacking in many industries. I am proud to see CCBSL and EH come together for one common cause, putting our differences aside. With this mentality, Sri Lanka is not far from regaining the environmental and economic prosperity we can attain!’’

Adding further thought, Head of Production and Regulatory Affairs of Ceylon Cold Stores PLC and Assistant Vice President of John Keells Group’s Ovin de Silva, stated “This partnership showcases the commitment for two leading beverage brands towards sustainability and supporting the circular economy. We will continue to work closely with our public and private sector partners in providing sustainable solutions towards reducing the plastic footprint of our industry”.

Mr. Prasantha Malimbadage, CEO of Eco Spindles Recycling added, “We are thankful to the RDA and the partners here today for their valuable contribution. Waste management is often spoken about but rarely acted on. It is refreshing to see these companies pay attention to and prioritize an often-overlooked problem. Thank you for recognizing our part in building a sustainable economy. We look forward to working together!’’

CCBSL, under its “Give Back Life” programme, which advocates for a World Without Waste, has thus far established over 500 PET plastic collection points around Sri Lanka, out of which 21 are large-scale huts with a capacity to collect 5000 kg of plastic waste. The Coca-Cola system in Sri Lanka also adopted 8 beaches and water bodies in the country, cleaned daily under their ‘‘Adopt a Beach’’ programme, and established Material Recovery Facilities (MRF) across many districts in the country. Notably, CCBSL’s efforts towards recyclable plastic collection was recognized at the Best Corporate Citizen Sustainability Awards 2022, as their comprehensive Material Recovery Facilities (MRF) was awarded under the Best Sustainability Project Award category.

This project is also one of many initiatives undertaken by Elephant House under their CSR and sustainability brand ‘Gunadamin’ Elephant House. Elephant House has also invested in MRFs across the country, providing the necessary infrastructure to collect PET waste. Gunadamin Elephant House, together with its partners, works with many collectors and recyclers to ensure that PET waste is disposed of responsibly, ultimately helping to reduce environmental impacts. One of these partners is ‘Plasticcycle’, the social entrepreneurship project of the John Keells Group, launched with the vision to be the catalyst in significantly reducing plastic pollution in Sri Lanka. Since its launch in 2017, Plasticcycle works in the 3 key focus areas of encouraging the reduction of single-use plastics through awareness creation, supporting responsible disposal with a network of over 250 bins and promoting recycling and innovation.

August 15, 2022

Elephant House together with Cleantech, recently partnered to operate another Material Recovery Facility (MRF) ” to further promote recycling and better plastic waste management practices across the country.

Located in Western Province, this recyclable Plastic Collection Centre is equipped with dedicated transport and service personnel to collect post-consumption recyclable plastic from collection points. The Centre will also have machinery investments to transform the collected plastic into value added plastic waste to supply to the recyclers in the country.

Commenting on the launch of the Centre, John Keells Group Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer Consumer Foods Industry Nelindra Fernando, said, “In today’s world we need to focus on sustainable projects that will benefit society and the environment. Through this project, we aim to promote good practices for our consumers while providing a feasible solution. Together with Gunadamin Elephant House, partnering with Cleantech, we hope to provide our consumers a valuable service and reduce the plastic pollution.”

“Investing in a MRF to collect recyclable plastic collection, a project funded by Ceylon Cold Stores PLC is a joint effort to bring together key stakeholders in our shared vision to reduce plastic pollution in Sri Lanka. Collectors of recyclable plastic waste play an integral role in a circular economy and need to be supported to expand their infrastructure, capacity and reach,” commented Kasun Karunanayake – Head of Circular Economy Services Cleantech Pvt Ltd. “We are delighted to partner with Elephant House in this journey” he further added.

Elephant House is a legendary brand with strong brand recognition and nostalgia synonymous with over 150 years of heritage and trust. Elephant house is a trusted household staple brand, loved and embraced by consumers, enabling the brand to widen its product portfolio and offerings. The organisation has engaged in several initiatives to improve their business practices and encourage protection and preservation of the environment and community wellness.

Gunadamin Elephant House is the CSR brand of Elephant House that encapsulates all initiatives that are carried out primarily for the greater good of the society. This project is a part of Waste Management pillar which, collectively with the two other pillars of Community and Sustainable Sourcing makes up the whole of Gunadamin Elephant House.

July 20, 2022

Elephant House and Keells Krest will once again proudly support the world’s second longest uninterrupted school cricket encounter, the Royal-Thomian “Battle of the Blues” Big Match as the official “Food, Beverage and Ice Cream Partner” for 2022.

This year the much awaited 143^rd annual inter-school encounter between Royal College and St Thomas’ College will be held from 21^st – 23^rd July at the Sinhalese Sports Club (SSC) Grounds, Maitland Place.

Being on board as long-standing sponsors, Elephant House and Keells Krest housed under the John Keells Holding Consumer Foods Sector, have continuously catered to meet the requirements and standard of the large crowds that had flocked the cricket grounds to catch a glimpse of the action whilst reconnecting with their alumni.

Backed by over 150 years of company tradition Elephant House, a household brand name, continues on its mission of providing high – quality refreshing products to all Sri Lankans. The wide portfolio of thirst-quenching beverages and delightfully refreshing ice creams including Imorich, the premier range, adds transcending enjoyment to the celebration of this joyous event of sportsmanship and camaraderie, enhancing the experience of ‘goodness of life’.

KEELLS KREST the proven market leader in the processed meat industry for over three decades, offers a delightful product range renowned for great taste and wholesome goodness that is truly loved by all Sri Lankans.

Both Elephant House and Keells Krest are proud to be associated with this legendary cricket encounter which will beyond doubt continue to create a strong partnership of immense trust and value.

March 16, 2022

Elephant House Ice Cream, the much-loved and well known household Ice cream brand, has taken an initiative towards uplifting women in society and supporting the communities through a novel women’s empowerment project named Dinannee.

With the support of the Women’s Bureau and other non-government agencies, the Elephant House Ice Cream Team intends to use the Ice Cream operations to reach out and support well-deserving women across the island, by providing job opportunities to women either through selling & distribution or by sourcing products required for ice cream production and selling operations. The sales operations will be further broken down to enable the hiring of female staff for the company sales team, and sales through mobile channels, ice cream parlour outlets and distribution networks.

Taking a step further, Elephant House Ice Cream sponsored ‘Aya’, a National-level empowerment and development initiative celebrating International Women’s Day, organized by the State Ministry of Women and Child Development, Pre-Schools & Primary Education, School Infrastructure & Education Services held on 8th and 9th of March. This national event was attended by the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka and attracted over 1700 female entrepreneurs.

“At Elephant House, we believe that women are at the forefront of every aspect of life, devoting their time and energy for the betterment of family and society at large. This is in alignment with John Keells Group’s One JKH program which encourages diversity, equity and inclusion in our value chains. Empowering women to take new steps and supporting them to reach new heights is our responsibility. This initiative was aptly named Dinannee to signify the winning attitude of women” commented Mr Sathish Rathnayake, Head of Frozen Confectionery Category, Vice President John Keells Holdings.

At the ‘Aya’ Women’s day event, Elephant House featured their very first female Area Sales Manager for Elephant House Ice Creams, Ms Malinthika Fernando, who spoke of her journey at Elephant House and the support anticipated from Dinannee. Females were encouraged to register for the Dinannee initiative by visiting the stall that was available at the event.

The Dinannee initiative was introduced to empower women to encourage their economic contribution to society, promoting their sense of self-worth, their ability to determine their own choices, and their right to influence social change for themselves and others. The initiative will mainly focus on the multiple roles of a woman in the family as a daughter, wife and a mother and support her to take on newer roles to harness and expand on her skills and capabilities.

February 23, 2022

Elephant House, Sri Lanka’s iconic and most respected household consumer foods brand, has been awarded Gold and Silver awards at the 29th annual NCE Export Awards 2021.

As a brand established in 1866, Elephant House is supported by a strong and vibrant heritage that has propelled it to reach its pinnacle as one of the most trusted brands in the country, winning the hearts of consumers across many generations.

Having securely established itself as one of the most recognised brands in the local and international arena, Elephant House has overcome challenges and hardships, confidently navigating through the business environment to achieve success and recognition. Winning Gold in the “Confectionary and Beverage Products ” and Silver in the “Processed Food Products ” categories have displayed the strong dedication and continued commitment Elephant House has towards their loyal consumers in international markets. These awards will undoubtedly add value to the long outstanding history of Elephant House’s achievements on multiple occasions in numerous categories.

Commenting on the new achievements, Sudantha Victoria, Head of International Marketing stated, “We are humbled and encouraged to be recognised and awarded for our contributions. At Elephant House, we are passionate and committed to venture into new territories and international markets. At the same time, our existing global brand presence in countries such as the Maldives, UK, Australia, Japan, France, Italy, UAE, India, and Seychelles were further strengthened and solidified during the last year.”

“As an organisation, we are keen to continue contributing to the export revenue of Sri Lanka, which is critically important for the nation’s growth and sustenance. Our product attributes and quality will be focused upon to ensure they meet international standards and expectations.”

The Gold award for “Confectionary and Beverage Products” in the medium category has proven and established the popularity and demand Elephant House has gained in the market. Having won a Gold award in the same product category in 2020, the current achievement of Elephant House reiterates the excellence that the brand has showcased and maintained consistently. This is the fourth consecutive year that Elephant House has been recognised and awarded for this category.

Receiving the Silver award for “Processed Food Products” in the small category displays Elephant House’s ability to produce innovative products and retain market share amidst the vast competition. Furthermore, the organisation has repeatedly proven its willingness to explore and expand whilst remaining resilient during the pandemic.

As a trusted and undisputed leader in the industry, Elephant House showcases its Sri Lankan roots and culture, elevating the brand into the international arena through new ventures and expansions. Strengthened by truly unique product ranges, Elephant House has been instrumental in placing Sri Lankan food products in global markets bringing recognition to the brand and country.

November 24, 2021

24^rd November 2021: Elephant House Ice Cream, Sri Lanka’s leader and iconic ice cream brand, recently unveiled ‘Feelgood’ its new guilt-free frozen confectionery range, supporting consumers who embrace wellness and balanced lifestyles.

Today, more individuals and households are focussing on wellness and mindful eating. This long-term commitment to health has propelled customers to make wellbeing a part of their daily routine including a reduction in sugar intake. However, that does not prevent the need to satiate cravings with no guilt attached.

Elephant House Ice Cream, as a truly Sri Lankan brand has always been associated with trusted quality and goodness, enjoyed by generations. A recognised market trailblazer, Elephant House Ice Cream continues to drive innovation in the industry to meet the rising health and wellness trends.

Understanding that consumers are exploring alternatives that are healthier and pose nutritional value, Elephant House now indulges the simple delights in life. The newly launched Feelgood collection of Frozen Yoghurt; Mixed Berry and Tropical Mango and No-Added Sugar; Chocolate and Vanilla, is crafted with carefully selected ingredients while providing a lightened indulgence. These guilt-free indulgent frozen desserts, can be even consumed as a snack during the day, helping customers stay on track with their wellness goals.

The Feelgood Frozen Yoghurt is probiotic appealing to the wide range of digestive health benefits. Moreover, the Mixed Berry and Tropical Mango Frozen Yoghurt offers an ice-cold treat using naturally sweet real fruit pieces to delight customers with healthy choices that are also guilt-free.

Similarly, the Feelgood No-Added Sugar ice cream range is also the perfect attribute for today’s health conscious consumer.

Reinforcing Elephant House’s commitment to using low-impact, environmentally friendly practices, modern innovative paper-based packaging has been used for the Feelgood range.

Explaining the new products, Sathish Rathnayake, Head of Frozen Confectionary, Ceylon Cold Stores PLC said, “We are delighted to launch our new Feelgood frozen confectionery range. As our consumers continue to look for ways to take care of their health and wellness, we have found a new way to incorporate the ideal choice for health-conscious individuals who seek a balanced lifestyle but at the same time want to indulge, to celebrate and enjoy one of life’s simple pleasures.”

The Feelgood range is now available at all supermarkets, selected groceries and pharmacies.

Older Posts

Neptune Recyclers and Elephant House Unite Forces to Combat Plastic Pollution and Foster Sustainable Practices

Empowering Women, Transforming Communities: Gunadamin Elephant House, USAID, and Viridis Drive Recycling Innovation in Batticaloa

Reliance Consumer Products Limited announces partnership with leading Sri Lankan beverage brand Elephant House

Elephant House and Keells Foods Wins Numerous Accolades at SLIM National Sales Awards 2021-2022

Coca-Cola Beverages Sri Lanka and Elephant House join forces to drive plastic waste collection together with Plasticcycle, The Road Development Authority and Eco Spindles across the Central Expressway

Elephant House and Cleantech launches a Recyclable Material Recovery Facility

Elephant House delightfully sponsors the 143rd “Battle of the Blues” encounter

Elephant House Ice Cream introduces Dinannee to empower women

Elephant House awarded Gold and Silver at NCE Export Awards 2021

Elephant House unveils ‘Feelgood’ guilt-free frozen confectionery range for customers seeking wellness and balanced lifestyles