High-profile UK delegation explores Unilever’s operations at Horana factory

A delegation led by Lord Davies of Abersoch, UK Prime Minister’s Trade Envoy to Sri Lanka and Andrew Patrick, British High Commissioner to Sri Lanka visited Unilever Sri Lanka’s factory in the Horana BOI Zone recently to experience the facility’s advanced capabilities in manufacturing, social and environmental governance.

The esteemed delegation was given a tour of the Horana factory to witness first-hand, the local production of some of the best-known global British brands, and understand key sustainability initiatives, community engagement activities and upskilling programmes spearheaded by Unilever in Sri Lanka. Unilever’s manufacturing journey in Sri Lanka began with the setting up of its first manufacturing facility in 1940 which was subsequently relocated to Horana in 2012 with an investment of LKR 5 billion. In 2017, a further investment of LKR 7.5 billion was made to transform it into a state-of-the-art facility. Today some Sri Lanka’s best loved brands including Sunlight, Lux, Lifebuoy, Signal, and Pears Baby are manufactured at the Horana factory.

Lord Davies of Abersoch, UK Prime Minister’s Trade Envoy to Sri Lanka added, “We were amazed to see the capabilities of the Horana factory which reflect strength and innovative spirit of Sri Lanka, made possible by Unilever Sri Lanka leadership’s commitment to developing a competitive business environment and focusing on developing specialized talent and expertise. I was pleased to learn how these brands have become local household favourites and Unilever Sri Lanka’s pivotal role for over 85 years in raising the industrial sector’s contribution to the national economy. I am keen to support British companies as they look to enter or grow their existing business with Sri Lanka improving ease of doing business and to support Sri Lanka’s path towards sustainable economic recovery.”

Andrew Patrick, British High Commissioner to Sri Lanka noted, “I am happy to see Unilever Sri Lanka’s Horana factory employ some of the latest technologies and advanced solutions in the fields of manufacturing and warehousing, in addition to maintaining the high standards of sustainability and alternative energy. I am pleased that Unilever has recently laid the foundation for a new factory and invested in an ambitious solar project at the Horana factory, which further demonstrates the company’s long-term plans and commitment to the Sri Lankan market.”

Commenting on the occasion, Hajar Alafifi, Chairperson and Managing Director, Unilever Sri Lanka said, “We were honored to host the distinguished UK delegation led by His Excellency Andrew Patrick, British High Commissioner to Sri Lanka and Lord Davies of Abersoch, the UK Prime Minister’s Trade Envoy to Sri Lanka, and other UK dignitaries at our Horana premises.