Category: Daily Financial Times

Delmege Consumer, the flagship FMCG cluster of the Delmege Group, has evolved into one of Sri Lanka’s most trusted household names, building lasting relationships with communities across the island through a diverse portfolio of quality products that have become an integral part of consumers’ everyday lives for generations.

Renowned for enriching households with Delmege’s own brands, leading local brands, and world-renowned international brands, the company continues to strengthen its presence, reputation, and connection with consumers nationwide.

A key strength of the FMCG cluster lies in the strong and enduring partnerships it has cultivated with suppliers, enabling the company to establish a responsive, time-sensitive, and mutually beneficial distribution network that has made a significant impact across Sri Lanka. Through its extensive reach and customer-focused approach, Delmege Consumer serves retail, wholesale, HoReCa, export, and modern trade channels, supported by flexible channel management strategies and winning consumer-centric propositions that cater to evolving market needs.

Further strengthening its distribution network and expanding its digital footprint, Delmege Consumer has partnered with Daraz, Sri Lanka’s leading e-commerce platform, to offer customers a more convenient, seamless, and accessible way to purchase its extensive range of FMCG products online.

Delmege Consumer CEO Anil Meegahage said: ‘At Delmege Consumer, we are committed to innovation, continuously strengthening our product portfolio, and enhancing customer convenience and experience. Our partnership with Daraz enables us to serve customers across the country more efficiently by providing them with an easy, secure, and reliable platform to purchase trusted Delmege FMCG products online.’

Head of Group Marketing Baratha Piyadigama said: ‘This partnership with Daraz marks another important milestone in our journey to enhance brand positioning, visibility, and awareness, especially at a time when digital and online commerce continue to gain significant momentum. As one of Sri Lanka’s leading FMCG distributors, we are proud to extend our trusted portfolio of products into the digital space through Daraz, ensuring customers across the island can conveniently access their favourite products with just a few clicks.’

Delmege’s extensive FMCG portfolio includes well-known Delmege branded products such as Canned Fish, Hiru Kahata Tea, Delmege Soya, Flavours and Colours, Delmege Pasta, Delmege Noodles, and Salt, together with the much-loved Motha range of dessert ingredients, beverages, and mixes. The company also represents globally renowned international brands including Kellogg’s cereals such as Corn Flakes, Muesli, and Oats; Pringles; and the Ferrero portfolio featuring Ferrero Rocher, Nutella, Kinder Joy, and Tic Tac. Through its diverse and trusted brand portfolio, Delmege Consumer continues to reinforce its position as one of Sri Lanka’s leading FMCG companies.

Daraz, Sri Lanka’s most trusted online shopping platform, continues to enhance customer convenience through reliable service, secure payment options, and islandwide delivery. Customers are encouraged to visit the official Delmege FMCG store on Daraz via www.daraz.lk to explore the full range of premium products and enjoy exclusive online offers.

The Court of Appeal yesterday said they would deliver judgement on 3 July on the petition filed by Yoshitha Rajapaksa challenging his indictment in the High Court.

Yoshitha’s Rajapaksa challenged the continuation of proceedings against him in the High Court of Colombo in which he and his 98 year old Grand Aunt were indicted for charges of Money Laundering.

When the matter was argued yesterday Counsel Hafeel Farisz appearing on behalf of the younger Rajapaksa told Court that the entire process which resulted in him being made to stand alone in a charge of conspiracy was illegal.

He said that the process commencing from the discharge of his Grand Aunt without the charge of conspiracy being withdrawn was illegal.

Earlier Rajapaksa filed a revision application to the Court of Appeal challenging the order of the High Court which held that the indictment and the conspiracy charge can continue against Rajapaksa despite the discharge of his Grand Aunt.

Senior Deputy Solicitor General Janaka Bandara responding for the Attorney General said that although there maybe issues in the process no serious prejudice has been caused to Rajapaksa by the process and that the conspiracy charge can be maintained against him.

Having heard the submissions of both parties the two judge bench compressing of Justices R.A. Ranaraja and Dr. Sumudu Premachandra fixed the matter for order on 3 July.

Counsel Hafeel Farisz, with N.K Ashokbharan, Sanjeewa Kodithuwakku, Shannon Tillekeratne, and Ashwin Pragash instructed by Sanduni Rathnayaka, appeared for Rajapaksa.

Senior Deputy Solicitor General Janaka Bandara, with Oswald Perera represented the Attorney General.

Prime-Melwa has become the largest property investor in Port City Colombo, following the acquisition of their third and one of the most coveted land parcel in the Marina District.

The purchase lifts the partnership’s combined holding to approximately 16 acres, establishing it as the largest property investor in Port City.

For Prime and Melwa, the acquisition marks the next strategic step in a shared ambition to elevate Sri Lankan real estate to international standards and the vision of taking Sri Lankan Real Estate to the world.

The Marina District is among the most distinguished and sought-after addresses in Port City, and indeed in Sri Lanka, commanding high demand, premium positioning and strong value appreciation over short periods. Marina-front properties remain among the most prestigious and rarest categories in luxury real estate worldwide, particularly within international financial and lifestyle destinations.

The partnership’s concentration in the Marina is a deliberate, strategic choice. The marina district accounts for only around 1% of the entire Port City, making it exceptionally limited and exclusive. Crucially, it is also set to be completed within the next five years, well ahead of other development within Port City.

The newly acquired parcel will be developed as a mixed-use development, adding to the partnership’s growing presence in what is fast becoming Sri Lanka’s premier marina and waterfront destination. The investment showcases the confidence of both organisations in the country’s long-term prospects and in Port City’s standing as an emerging international real estate destination.

Prime Group Chairman Premalal Brahmanage said: ‘Becoming the largest investor in Port City Colombo is a significant milestone that reflects our confidence in Sri Lanka’s future and the immense potential of this transformative development. With the Marina District set to emerge as a world-class waterfront destination, our ambition is our nation Sri Lanka, Port City Colombo and Sri Lankan Real Estate to the world. delivering iconic developments that showcase the very best of Sri Lanka’s capabilities and potential to the world.’

The partnership’s first project, Prime Marina, has already proven a resounding success. Its grand launch on 10 June was a world-class occasion unlike Sri Lanka has witnessed before, followed by record-breaking sales demonstrating strong confidence local and overseas buyers have placed in Prime and Melwa.

With three strategic land acquisitions now secured, Prime and Melwa have positioned themselves at the forefront of Port City’s development, reinforcing real leader in Sri Lanka’s real estate sector and helping to establish Colombo as a rising destination for global property investment.

Former Sri Lanka captain Anura Tennekoon has advised Indian teenage sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi to stay focused on his game and ignore the outside noise surrounding his rapid rise in cricket.

Tennekoon, who had travelled to Dambulla to watch the India ‘A’-Sri Lanka ‘A’ Tri-Nation One-Day Series match, met the 15-year-old after the game and offered words of encouragement.

According to reports, Suryavanshi sought Tennekoon’s blessings before the former Sri Lanka captain shared his advice.

‘You focus on your game and cut out the outside noise,’ Tennekoon told the youngster. ‘Today, unfortunately, you couldn’t get going. But that’s part of the game, you can’t get going every day.’

Tennekoon, Sri Lanka’s first ODI captain, described Suryavanshi as a ‘generational talent’ and praised the youngster’s fearless batting.

‘I was really impressed by his batting in the IPL. Hitting those sixes and fours the way he does is something unbelievable. I hope he continues in this way,’ said Tennekoon.

Suryavanshi scored 21 runs in the match as India ‘A’ suffered a dramatic Super Over defeat to Sri Lanka ‘A’ in Dambulla.

Prime and Melwa has become the largest property investor in Port City Colombo, following the acquisition of their third and one of the most coveted land parcel in the Marina District. The purchase lifts the partnership’s combined holding to approximately 16 acres, establishing it as the largest property investor in Port City.

For Prime and Melwa, the acquisition marks the next strategic step in a shared ambition to elevate Sri Lankan real estate to international standards and the vision of taking Sri Lankan Real Estate to the world.

The Marina District is among the most distinguished and sought-after addresses in Port City, and indeed in Sri Lanka, commanding high demand, premium positioning and strong value appreciation over short periods. Marina-front properties remain among the most prestigious and rarest categories in luxury real estate worldwide, particularly within international financial and lifestyle destinations.

The partnership’s concentration in the Marina is a deliberate, strategic choice. The marina district accounts for only around 1% of the entire Port City, making it exceptionally limited and exclusive. Crucially, it is also set to be completed within the next five years, well ahead of other development within Port City.

The newly acquired parcel will be developed as a mixed-use development, adding to the partnership’s growing presence in what is fast becoming Sri Lanka’s premier marina and waterfront destination. The investment showcases the confidence of both organisations in the country’s long-term prospects and in Port City’s standing as an emerging international real estate destination.

Commenting on the acquisition, Premalal Brahmanage, Chairman, Prime Group said: ‘Becoming the largest investor in Port City Colombo is a significant milestone that reflects our confidence in Sri Lanka’s future and the immense potential of this transformative development. With the Marina District set to emerge as a world-class waterfront destination, our ambition is our nation Sri Lanka, Port City Colombo and Sri Lankan Real Estate to the world. delivering iconic developments that showcase the very best of Sri Lanka’s capabilities and potential to the world.’

The partnership’s first project, Prime Marina, has already proven a resounding success. Its grand launch on 10th June was a world-class occasion unlike Sri Lanka has witnessed before, followed by record-breaking sales demonstrating strong confidence local and overseas buyers have placed in Prime and Melwa.

With three strategic land acquisitions now secured, Prime and Melwa have positioned themselves at the forefront of Port City’s development, reinforcing real leader in Sri Lanka’s real estate sector and helping to establish Colombo as a rising destination for global property investment.

Sri Lanka Women recorded a memorable five-wicket win over defending champions New Zealand Women in their ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 Group 2 encounter, completing a challenging run chase with two balls remaining at the Rose Bowl in Southampton.

After being invited to bat, New Zealand posted 150 for 6 from their 20 overs. Captain Amelia Kerr and veteran all-rounder Sophie Devine were the main contributors with 45 runs each, helping the White Ferns build a competitive total after a cautious start. For Sri Lanka, Kavisha Dilhari was the most effective bowler, finishing with figures of 2 for 35.

Sri Lanka began their reply positively, with skipper Chamari Athapaththu setting the tone through a brisk 27 off 19 deliveries. New Zealand, however, struck back during the middle overs to keep the contest evenly balanced and increase the pressure on the chasing side.

The turning point came through Nilakshi de Silva, whose composed half-century provided the foundation for Sri Lanka’s successful pursuit. She struck 54 from 37 balls, blending sensible accumulation with timely attacking strokes to keep the required rate under control.

With the match going down to the closing moments, Sri Lanka held their composure to reach 153 for 5 in 19.4 overs and secure their first victory of the tournament. The result earned them two important points after their opening defeat to England.

The loss leaves New Zealand searching for its first win of the campaign after suffering a second successive setback, while Sri Lanka will take confidence from a result that revives its hopes of progressing from the group stage.

The Government of India has donated defence and medical equipment valued at $ 5 million to the Sri Lanka Army, underscoring growing defence cooperation between the two countries.

The equipment was formally handed over at Army Headquarters in Akuregoda by Indian High Commissioner Santosh Jha to Defence Secretary Air Vice Marshal (Retired) Sampath Thuyyakontha. Sri Lanka Army Commander Lieutenant General Lasantha Rodrigo was also present.

Speaking at the ceremony, Jha described the donation as a reflection of the longstanding partnership between the armed forces of Sri Lanka and India, noting that cooperation has expanded beyond military training and humanitarian assistance to include capacity building, infrastructure development and defence equipment support.

He also recalled India’s assistance during Cyclone Ditwah through Operation Sagar Bandhu, under which Indian authorities worked with Sri Lankan counterparts on search and rescue operations, medical assistance and infrastructure restoration.

Thuyyakontha, on behalf of the Government and Ministry of Defence, expressed appreciation for India’s support, describing New Delhi as a longstanding partner in areas including disaster response, economic recovery, capacity development and defence cooperation.

Senior officials from the Ministry of Defence, Sri Lanka Army and the Indian High Commission attended the event.

Kapruka Holdings PLC has posted a definitive return to profitability for the quarter and year ended 31 March 2026, marking an inflection point in its transformation into an AI-powered digital commerce ecosystem.

For the quarter, group revenue grew 19% year-on-year (YoY) to Rs. 547.53 million, while gross profit expanded 39% to Rs. 215.51 million, reflecting a deliberate shift toward higher-quality, asset-light revenue.

The group swung to an operating profit of Rs. 10.22 million from a Rs. 42.82 million loss a year earlier (a 124% improvement), while Profit Before Tax reached Rs. 22.25 million, up 160% on the prior-year loss. For the full year, the group delivered revenue of Rs. 1.92 billion and Profit Before Tax of Rs. 37.56 million, a 132% turnaround from the prior year.

The results reflect a deliberate two-year restructuring that tightened cost discipline, reweighted the business toward asset-light revenue, and laid the technology foundation for the next phase of growth.

A key driver is Kapruka Partner Central, the group’s marketplace, which expands gross margin and capital efficiency by enabling third-party sellers to plug into Kapruka’s customer base, logistics, and payments infrastructure, adding revenue without adding inventory risk.

Building on this, the Kapruka Services Platform extends the business beyond physical goods into bookable digital services, opening a new high-margin addressable market on top of the same customer network. In parallel, Kapruka Cross Border continues to scale the Group’s USD revenue base as an e-distributor for Sri Lankan brands on Amazon US, UK, and Canada, serving as both a structural hedge and a long-duration growth lever.

The most significant strategic shift this year is the embedding of AI across operations, from customer service and product discovery to supply chain and back-office processing. Kapruka is on track to reach 40% back-office automation within the next several quarters, which it expects to translate into lower unit costs and improved operating margins as volume grows. The Group has also commenced converting its entire delivery fleet to electric vehicles, a multi-quarter program designed to de-risk one of the most volatile line items on its P and L and deliver a steady tailwind to logistics margins.

Chairman and CEO Dulith Herath said: ‘In practical terms, AI is allowing us to scale revenue without proportionally scaling headcount or fixed costs. That is the definition of operating leverage, and it is the lever that turns a profitable quarter into a structurally more profitable business. We have rebuilt the engine, and the runway ahead is long.’

Kapruka said it enters the new financial year with a stronger balance sheet, a returning profitability profile, USD revenue diversification, and a cost base increasingly insulated from fuel and FX shocks, positioning the Group to create meaningful, durable value for shareholders.

Dharmaraja College produced a good performance to defeat Maliyadeva College 31 points (5 tries, 3 conversions) to 12 points (2 tries, 1 conversion) in their Dialog Schools Rugby League 1B Under-19 encounter at the Nittawela Rugby Stadium recently.

Rajans and Vidyartha, who occupy the top two positions, will clash for the championship on 20 June, though both have already secured promotion to the Division 1A Schools Rugby League for the 2027 season.

The Rajans’ tries were scored by Naveen Rajapakse, Sasidu Dissanayake, Wageesha Dissanayake, Janith Vimalananda and Pawan Manodya. Sanuka Bandara added three successful conversions to complete the scoring.

Maliyadeva responded with tries by Adithya Ratnayake and Vihanga Nanayakkara. One of the conversions was successfully taken by Menuka Dissanayake.

The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has submitted the names of several individuals to the Colombo Fort Magistrate’s Court, alleging their involvement in an organised effort to obstruct justice and undermine ongoing investigations into the Easter Sunday terrorist attacks.

In a report filed before court, the CID alleged that former Parliamentarians Wimal Weerawansa and Udaya Gammanpila, MP Dilith Jayaweera, former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s private secretary Sugishwara Bandara, Sri Lanka Mahajana Party leader Asanka Navaratne and Senior Lecturer Mahinda Pathirana were linked to a coordinated campaign aimed at influencing public opinion and interfering with the judicial process.

The development comes as former State Intelligence Service Director Suresh Sallay, a suspect in the Easter Sunday investigations, remains under detention orders and is currently receiving treatment at the National Hospital.

According to police, the CID informed court that false and misleading information had been disseminated through electronic and social media platforms with the intention of creating public distrust, suspicion and hostility towards the judiciary, thereby undermining the integrity of the ongoing investigation.

The CID has requested the Colombo Fort Magistrate’s Court to consider legal action against the individuals concerned for allegedly acting in contempt of court and intentionally disrupting the high-profile probe, police said.