Business
Browns Fabric supports USD earning apparel industry – signs BOI agreement
The Board of Investment Sri Lanka (BOI) recently signed an agreement with Browns Fabric Limited for a state-of-the-art, modern and one of the largest Weft Knit Fabric production facilities in Kurunegala, North Western Province. A newly established fabric manufacturing plant with an investment of 52.3MN USD and a plan to commence operations in August 2023, the Company has taken the initiative to bridge a significant vacuum in supply and demand, flexibility and speed to produce fabric to the export-oriented US Dollar earning apparel industry in Sri Lanka.
Based on key strategic principles of innovation, quality and acceleration, Browns Fabric is equipped to empower renowned fashion retailers through its multi-faceted fabric solutions while remaining committed to sustainability at all times. With the infusion of technologically advanced machinery, systems and LEAN design, the fully accredited and certified facility is armed with the expertise to provide a plethora of options to direct brands, regional hubs and apparel manufacturers.
Using the finest fibres and yarns in collaboration with regional spinning and knitting partners, the Company’s production capability encompasses knitting, dyeing, finishing and printing along with value added mechanical finishes of suede, brush, pre-shrunk and specialized chemical finishes such as bio, antimicrobial, easy-care and water repellent. Located 65Km from Colombo at the Browns Industrial Park, Pannala, North Western Province the infrastructure spans 22.5 acres and is strategically located within close proximity to many major apparel companies and a two hour delivery radius to serve the key industrial zones in the Western and Central province.
Browns Fabric strives to be the preferred fabric source in Sri Lanka, Asia and Africa while achieving high nomination for major global brands across the US, Europe, UK and Asia. With this project, the Company is generating much needed direct employment and improving livelihoods of over 800 people whilst uplifting over 2,000 people and related businesses in the North Western Province and surrounding areas. The project is driven by a passionate, dynamic and energetic team with high proficiencies who bring over two decades of experience, knowledge and skill from the textile industry and the corporate sector to deliver on far reaching goals to Browns Fabric.
A subsidiary of Browns Group PLC, the Company draws from a rich heritage of over 147 years and is backed by a legacy of one and a half centuries.
The agreement was signed by BOI Board Member, Athula Haputantri and Browns Fabric Limited Chairman, Sanakan Thamotharampillai.
Browns Fabric Chairman, Sanakan Thamotharampillai stated “We are pleased to be a part of an initiative that will reap benefits on a cross-section of levels; from targeting foreign revenue and increasing exports, to fostering the local economy and providing much-needed job opportunities, Browns Fabric Limited will consistently and diligently work towards evolving into the leading fabric manufacturer in Sri Lanka.”
Established in 1875, Browns has flourished over the years to grow into a household name with a reputation as strong as its years are long. Today, the prestigious Browns Group is one of Sri Lanka’s largest diversified conglomerates, which manages a fast growing and valuable portfolio of brands across several key industry sectors, such as automotive; power generation; agriculture and plantation; pharmaceuticals; investments; marine and manufacturing as well as leisure.
Business
AHK Sri Lanka champions first-ever Sri Lankan delegation at Drupa 2024
The Delegation of German Industry and Commerce in Sri Lanka (AHK Sri Lanka) proudly facilitated the first-ever Sri Lankan delegation’s participation at Drupa 2024, the world’s largest trade fair for the printing industry and technology. Held after an eight-year hiatus, Drupa 2024 was a landmark event, marking significant advancements and opportunities in the global printing industry.
AHK Sri Lanka played a pivotal role in organising and supporting the delegation, which comprised 17 members from the Sri Lanka Association for Printers (SLAP), representing eight companies from the commercial, newspaper, stationery printing, and packaging industries. This pioneering effort by AHK Sri Lanka not only showcased the diverse capabilities of Sri Lanka’s printing sector but also facilitated vital bilateral discussions with key stakeholders from the German printing industry.
Business
Unveiling Ayugiri: Browns Hotels & Resorts sets the stage for a new era in luxury Ayurveda Wellness
In a captivating reimagining of luxury wellness tourism, Browns Hotels & Resorts proudly unveiled the exquisite Ayugiri Ayurveda Wellness Resort Sigiriya. This momentous occasion, celebrated amidst a vibrant and serene grand opening on the 6th of June, heralds a new chapter in the Ayurveda wellness tourism landscape in Sri Lanka. Nestled amidst 54 acres of unspoiled natural splendour, Ayugiri features 22 exclusive suites and stands out as the only luxury Ayurveda wellness resort in the country offering plunge pools in every room, rendering it truly one-of-a-kind.
The grand opening of Ayugiri Ayurveda Wellness Resort was an enchanting event, where guests were captivated by the melodies of flutists and violinists resonating through Sigiriya’s lush landscapes. As traditional drummers and dancers infused the air with vibrant energy, Browns Hotels & Resorts’ CEO, Eksath Wijeratne, Kotaro Katsuki, Acting Ambassador for the Embassy of Japan and General Manager, Buwaneka Bandara, unveiled the resort’s new logo, marking a significant moment witnessed by distinguished guests from the French Embassy, Ayurveda and wellness enthusiasts along with officials from the Sigiriya area, LOLC Holdings and Browns Group.
“Our strategic expansion into wellness tourism with Ayugiri Ayurveda Wellness Resort Sigiriya symbolises a significant milestone for Browns Hotels & Resorts. Wellness tourism has consistently outperformed the overall tourism industry for over a decade, reflecting a growing global interest in travel that goes beyond leisure to offer rejuvenation and holistic well-being. By integrating the timeless wisdom of Ayurveda with modern luxury, we aim to set a new standard in luxury wellness tourism in Sri Lanka. Whether your goal is prevention, healing, or a deeper connection to inner harmony, Ayugiri offers a sanctuary for holistic well-being” stated Eksath Wijeratne.
Ayugiri encapsulates the essence of life, inspired by the lotus flower held by the graceful queens of the infamous Sigiriya frescoes. Just as the lotus emerges from the murky depths, untainted and serene,
Ayugiri invites guests on a journey of purity and rejuvenation, harmonised with a balance of mind, body and spirit, the essence of nature, echoes of culture and the wisdom of ancient Ayurvedic healing.
Business
HNB General Insurance recognized as Best General Bancassurance Provider in Sri Lanka 2024
HNB General Insurance, one of Sri Lanka’s leading general insurance providers, has been honored as the Best General Bancassurance Provider in Sri Lanka 2024 by the prestigious Global Banking and Finance Review – UK.
The esteemed accolade underscores HNB General Insurance’s unwavering commitment to excellence and its outstanding performance in the field of bancassurance. Through dedication and hard work, the HNB General Insurance team has continuously endeavored to deliver innovative insurance solutions, cultivate strong relationships with banking partners, and provide unparalleled service to customers nationwide. This recognition is a testament to the team’s dedication and relentless pursuit of excellence in the bancassurance business.
“We are honored to receive this prestigious award, which reflects our team’s tireless efforts and dedication to delivering value-added insurance solutions and exceptional service through our bancassurance partnerships,” said Sithumina Jayasundara, CEO of HNB General Insurance. “This recognition reaffirms our position as a trusted insurance provider in Sri Lanka and motivates us to continue striving for excellence in serving our customers and communities.”