November 15, Colombo (LNW): Hayleys PLC has achieved a landmark in Sri Lanka’s corporate history, becoming the first company listed on the Colombo Stock Exchange to generate more than US$1 billion in revenue during the first six months of a financial year.
For the six-month period ending 30 September 2026, the diversified conglomerate reported consolidated revenue of Rs. 358 billion from continuing operations, representing a substantial 33% increase compared with the corresponding period last year. Profit before tax (PBT) climbed 49% to Rs. 21.31 billion, highlighting the strength of its businesses across multiple industries.
The impressive results were driven by robust performances in export-oriented businesses, transportation and logistics, as well as the consumer and retail segments. The Group’s broad business portfolio and established presence in both local and overseas markets enabled it to benefit from emerging commercial opportunities despite an increasingly challenging economic landscape.
Although Sri Lanka’s economy continued to show signs of recovery, businesses faced mounting pressure from inflation and higher operating expenses. Internationally, geopolitical tensions, fluctuations in commodity prices and changing patterns in global trade added further uncertainty. Nevertheless, Hayleys maintained its growth trajectory through careful financial management, operational improvements and continued investment in strategic business areas.
The Group’s earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) rose by approximately 46% to Rs. 39.13 billion. This growth translated into a 49% improvement in PBT, notwithstanding higher net finance expenses. Profit after tax from continuing operations also recorded a significant 60% increase, reaching Rs. 13.63 billion.
In another important development, Hayleys PLC secured a ‘B+’ international foreign currency credit rating with a Stable Outlook from S&P Global Ratings. The assessment recognises the Group’s diversified operations and foreign currency revenue streams, while strengthening its standing among international investors and potentially broadening its access to overseas funding opportunities.
Chairman and Chief Executive Mohan Pandithage said the latest results represented an important achievement for the Group, reflecting the consistent implementation of its business strategy and the ability of its companies to identify and capitalise on opportunities in different markets.
He noted that Hayleys would continue to strengthen its operational capabilities, expand its market presence and make investments that enhance competitiveness. The Group’s priority, he added, would be to build a stronger and more adaptable business portfolio capable of delivering sustainable growth and lasting value to stakeholders.
Environmental responsibility also remained central to the Group’s business agenda during the reporting period. Energy consumption intensity was reduced by 17% year-on-year to 2,902.6 gigajoules per million US dollars of revenue. Water consumption intensity recorded a further improvement of 13%, declining to 3,228 cubic metres per million US dollars.
These achievements form part of Hayleys’ wider sustainability programme, which targets a 30% reduction in both energy and water consumption intensity by the 2029/30 financial year, measured against the respective baseline years.
Beyond its commercial achievements, the Group continues to make a considerable contribution to employment and social development in Sri Lanka. Its businesses provide direct employment to more than 38,200 people, making it one of the country’s largest private-sector employers. Meanwhile, community programmes covering education, livelihood development and social welfare reached over 193,330 beneficiaries during the six-month period.
Hayleys also maintained its position as Sri Lanka’s leading listed company in the LMD 100 rankings for the 11th consecutive year, further consolidating its reputation as one of the country’s most influential corporate groups.
Looking towards the remainder of the financial year, the Group expects external economic conditions and shifting international trade patterns to remain important factors influencing business performance. Its immediate focus will be on improving productivity, protecting margins, enhancing returns from existing investments and identifying fresh avenues for expansion.
With its historic revenue achievement, stronger profitability and continued investment in business resilience, Hayleys has reinforced its position as a major force in Sri Lanka’s private sector.
The Board of Directors comprises Chairman and Chief Executive Mohan Pandithage, Co-Chairman Dhammika Perera, Sarath Ganegoda, Rajitha Kariyawasan, Dr Harsha Cabral PC, Ruwan Waidyaratne, Jayanthi Dharmasena, Rohan Karr, Gamini Gunaratne, Timothy Speldewinde, Yohan Perera, Jonathan Alles and Rumal Fernando.