ADRA Ceylon celebrates decade of global leadership

• Redefines Sri Lanka’s  tea export narrative

ADRA Ceylon, an entity within the Pink Eagle Group, marks its 10th anniversary, celebrating a decade of remarkable transformation from a local venture into a globally recognised leader in premium Ceylon tea export. Since its inception, the company has successfully delivered exquisite teas to over 37 countries, firmly establishing its position among Sri Lanka’s tea exporters. This significant milestone reflects the strategic vision and unwavering commitment that have propelled ADRA Ceylon to international prominence.

ADRA Ceylon Founder Asitha Silva said, “We are immensely proud to celebrate a decade of excellence driven by passion, an unwavering commitment to quality, and the trust our partners place in us. As we move forward, we remain dedicated to innovating responsibly to take the taste of Ceylon to the world.”

Initially entering the global market as a bulk tea exporter, ADRA Ceylon has built a strong foundation through its steadfast adherence to exemplary product quality, consistency, and strategic market expansion. Over the years, the company has progressively amplified its business model with a focus on value-added tea products to enhance brand presence and capture greater value within global markets.

Leveraging proactive investments in operational excellence, ADRA Ceylon has successfully navigated the highly competitive international tea market and its numerous challenges. From ensuring consistent quality across diverse regions to complying with complex export regulations, ADRA Ceylon has demonstrated its capacity for efficiency and process optimisation through rigorous quality control systems from its earliest days, including expert tea tasting and strict grading protocols. Most importantly, it pursued and secured internationally recognised certifications including ISO 22000:2018, HACCP, GMP, Rainforest Alliance, Halal, and FDA approval. These certifications have been instrumental in building trust and ensuring compliance in highly regulated markets, supporting ADRA Ceylon’s growth from a handful of employees to nearly 150 dedicated professionals, and a broader workforce of close to 350 across the Pink Eagle Group.

ADRA Ceylon’s early years were characterised by rapid market penetration, followed by expanded brand development initiatives and substantial growth in value-added tea segments, positioning the company among the leading exporters of Ceylon tea to the region. Following its consolidation and entry into the export sector, the company rapidly expanded into the East Asian market by establishing a branch office in Taiwan during its second year of operations.In its 10th year of operations, ADRA Ceylon successfully penetrated the highly competitive Gulf, UK, and French markets, further strengthening the company’s presence across the Gulf region and Europe.

Director – Tea Indika Abeywickrama said, “ADRA Ceylon’s expansion over the past ten years reflects a meticulously executed global strategy. These achievements in global development have garnered industry recognition, including an honour at the NCE Export Awards in October 2019 for craft and commitment, a testament to ADRA’s unyielding commitment.”

The company’s international success is underpinned by several core strengths developed over its first decade. Meticulous sourcing from Sri Lanka’s renowned tea regions, coupled with a rigorous “leaf to cup” quality control process ensures consistent premium quality.

Furthermore, ADRA Ceylon has differentiated itself through continuous innovation, offering a diverse product portfolio that includes customised herbal infusions, bubble tea base solutions, and comprehensive private label packaging services, catering to evolving global tastes. This adaptability, combined with reliable service, has forged enduring partnerships across a diverse international customer base, including retail chains, distributors, and hospitality groups.

As ADRA Ceylon steps into its second decade, the company is poised for continued growth. Strategic plans include opening 5-6 new international branches, deepening market presence in high-potential regions, and investing in new product lines including wellness teas and innovative beverage solutions. Further factory expansions, technological upgrades, and a reinforced commitment to sustainability, including eco-friendly packaging and ethical sourcing, underscore the company’s forward-looking strategy.

ADRA Ceylon’s 10-year journey exemplifies a successful blueprint for high-growth SMEs in global markets. Through strategic foresight, continuous innovation, and a steadfast

commitment to quality, the company not only exports premium tea but significantly elevates Sri Lanka’s standing as a world-class producer of teas, shaping the future of the industry and its market one blend at a time.