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John Keells Foundation

About Us

About Us

John Keells Group (JKH)

John Keells Holdings PLC (JKH) is the largest conglomerate listed on the Colombo Stock Exchange.

John Keells Holdings PLC (JKH) is the largest conglomerate listed on the Colombo Stock Exchange. With a heritage of over 150 years, through innovation and strategic partnerships, the John Keells Group of companies have become leaders in many key industry verticals including Transportation, Leisure, Consumer Foods & Retail, Property, Financial Services, IT and Plantation Services.

JKH is a full member of the World Economic Forum and is a member of the Global Compact of the United Nations-sponsored International Corporate Citizenship Initiative. The company has been ranked as Sri Lanka’s Most Respected Entity for the 19th year due to its commitment to community outreach, environmental sustainability, and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I). It has also been ranked by Transparency International Sri Lanka as joint-first for Most Transparent Entity in Sri Lanka.

John Keells Foundation (JKF)

John Keells Foundation (JKF) is the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) entity of the John Keells Group which- since its establishment in March 2005 - drives the Group's CSR initiatives from the centre.

John Keells Foundation (JKF) is the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) entity of the John Keells Group which- since its establishment in March 2005 - drives the Group's CSR initiatives from the centre.

A company limited by guarantee and duly incorporated under the Companies Act, No.17 of 1982 and re-registered under the Companies Act No.7 of 2007 (Registration No. GA 2); also registered under the Voluntary Social Service Organizations (Registration & Supervision) Act, No. 31 of 1980 (as amended) (Registration No. L-98004).

JKF carries out a range of medium to long-term strategic and sustainable projects within four focus areas – Education, Community & Livelihoods, Social Health & Cohesion, and Biodiversity - reflecting the diversity within the John Keells Group.

Initiatives under each focus area are aligned with national priorities, the Sustainable Development Goals, and the UN Global Compact.

Sector CSR

Group‑Wide CSR Engagement.

In addition to initiatives led by JKF, funded by the Group’s commitment of 1% of PAT, all sectors across the Group contribute to and actively participate in community engagement and development efforts. Each operation either directly implements CSR initiatives aligned with the Group’s focus areas and/or supports centrally coordinated programmes through JKF, ensuring 100% of the Group’s sectors are engaged in local community programmes.

Leisure

Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts

As a responsible corporate entity, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts is committed to delivering exceptional guest experiences while contributing positively to the communities it serves. The company actively engages both guests and community stakeholders in meaningful and sustainable practices across its hotels and in their everyday lives.

Walkers Tours Limited  

Walkers Tours Limited is one of Sri Lanka’s leading destination management companies, recognised for delivering exceptional travel experiences as well as for its strong commitment to sustainable and responsible tourism.

With over five decades of industry expertise, the company curates authentic and immersive travel experiences that showcase the richness of Sri Lanka while preserving its natural and cultural heritage. Its portfolio spans leisure groups, FIT travellers, special interest tours, and corporate travel, all delivered with a focus on minimising environmental impact and maximising positive social outcomes.

From maintaining a carbon‑neutral vehicle fleet to contributing to biodiversity conservation, Walkers Tours is committed to creating meaningful travel experiences that benefit both people and the planet. Through continuous improvement, stakeholder engagement, and adherence to internationally recognised standards, Walkers Tours strives to set a benchmark for responsible tourism in Sri Lanka.

CSR initiatives focus on education, community empowerment, environmental conservation, and inclusive tourism. From school renovations and mental health awareness programmes to beach clean‑ups and wildlife protection, the company strives to uplift lives and protect the destinations it serves. Walkers Tours works closely with John Keells Foundation, local communities, non‑profit organisations, and government bodies to ensure its impact is meaningful and aligned with real needs.

Whittalls Travels (WBTL)

As one of Sri Lanka’s largest insurance companies, Union Assurance considers it a reWhittalls Travels is one of Sri Lanka’s most respected travel companies, with a legacy of delivering exceptional travel experiences since 1993. Specialising in creating bespoke journeys for global travellers, each itinerary is thoughtfully curated by its team of Travel Experts to offer authentic and immersive experiences that capture the true essence of Sri Lanka.

Over the years, Whittalls Travels has progressively embedded corporate social responsibility (CSR) into its core operations, evolving into a structured and strategic approach to responsible tourism. The company actively promotes sustainable practices across its operations, supports local communities through community‑based tourism initiatives, contributes to environmental conservation efforts, and upholds ethical standards throughout its value chain.

Today, Whittalls Travels caters to a diverse range of travellers, including solo adventurers, honeymooners, leisure groups, and corporate clients, ensuring personalized service and attention to detail across every journey, while continuing to create meaningful social and environmental value in the destinations it serves.

Its dedicated team embodies the warmth and hospitality Sri Lanka is known for, with a shared commitment to delivering seamless travel experiences and the highest levels of customer satisfaction.

Transportation

be a leading provider of transportation solutions, services and infrastructure in the region.

The Transportation Sector of the John Keells Group is a leader in transportation services, solutions, and infrastructure in Sri Lanka. With a portfolio that is both expansive and uniquely positioned, the sector serves as a trusted partner in shaping the future of transportation in the country, delivering exceptional services across its core pillars of Ports and Shipping, Airlines and Aviation, and Integrated Logistics.

The sector operates with a strong commitment to environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and robust governance practices, creating lasting value for communities, stakeholders, and the environment.

Mack Air

Mack Air (Pvt) Ltd is a leading airline General Sales Agent (GSA) and aviation services provider in Sri Lanka, with over four decades of experience representing international airlines and delivering end‑to‑end passenger and cargo support.

The company is committed to enhancing global connectivity to and from Sri Lanka, supporting the growth of aviation and tourism, while promoting community and trade engagement, sustainable practices, and initiatives focused on knowledge sharing and skills development.

Colombo West International Terminal (CWIT)

Colombo West International Terminal (CWIT) is the promise of futurity, delivered today. A consortium comprising 49 percent local shareholding with Sri Lanka’s leading enterprise, John Keells Holdings PLC, the Sri Lanka Ports Authority, and India’s largest port operator, Adani Ports and SEZ Limited, CWIT has augmented the Port of Colombo’s proposition and provided reliable solutions for the maritime community.

CWIT is Sri Lanka’s first automated port terminal. It has commissioned remotely operated, best‑in‑class electric Ship‑to‑Shore Cranes with the ability to reach 26 rows across vessels. The fully electric cranes consist of 14 STS and 30 Dual Cantilever Rail‑Mounted Gantry Cranes, supported by state‑of‑the‑art, fully electric Inter‑Terminal Vehicles. CWIT is the deepest, widest, and longest terminal, with the ability to accommodate three ultra‑large vessels concurrently.

CWIT has redefined maritime excellence through its inclusive culture, diverse workforce, green automated port operations, and sustainable initiatives. It showcased the importance of embracing sustainability by surpassing the 1 Million TEU milestone in less than one year of commercial operations. CWIT continues to provide resilient solutions for supply chains and fulfils its credo by connecting the region, collaborating with stakeholders, and contributing towards sustainable development.

Cinnamon Air

Cinnamon Air is Sri Lanka’s premier domestic airline, offering seamless air travel that connects the island’s key destinations through scheduled, charter, and scenic flights. Operating from strategic locations across the country, Cinnamon Air plays a vital role in enhancing accessibility to remote and emerging destinations, supporting tourism growth, regional connectivity, and economic development.

With a strong focus on safety, service excellence, and operational efficiency, Cinnamon Air delivers a premium travel experience while contributing meaningfully to Sri Lanka’s aviation and tourism ecosystem.

John Keells Logistics (JKLL)

John Keells Logistics (JKLL) is a fully owned subsidiary of John Keells Holdings PLC and a leading third‑party logistics solutions provider in Sri Lanka. The company delivers integrated supply chain solutions including warehousing, transportation, distribution, last‑mile delivery, and supply chain consultancy services. Supported by strategically located logistics facilities and technology‑driven operations, JKLL serves a wide range of industries such as FMCG, retail, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing, enabling efficient and reliable movement of goods across the country.

JKLL contributes to corporate social responsibility in alignment with the broader vision of the John Keells Group and John Keells Foundation, which focuses on empowering communities through sustainable and impactful initiatives. 

[JKLL’s core contribution is centred on employment generation and livelihood development, where the company creates a significant number of job opportunities across its logistics and supply chain operations. It actively supports skill development and youth empowerment through training initiatives, industry collaborations, and exposure to modern logistics practices, enabling individuals to build sustainable careers within the sector.

The company also participates in environmental and national‑level community initiatives through its Manudam Yathra programme. Under this initiative, JKLL undertook the Surakimu Sri Pada project, where employees actively participated in a large‑scale cleanup effort at Adam’s Peak following the pilgrimage season. This reflects JKLL’s strong commitment to environmental sustainability and its responsibility towards preserving culturally and environmentally significant sites. The effort also highlights JKLL’s dedication to community well‑being by ensuring that such revered locations are maintained for future generations.

In addition, the company has contributed to broader social support efforts such as the Stand with Sri Lanka initiative, supporting communities during challenging periods through relief and awareness programmes.

John Keells Logistics continues to align its efforts with the Group’s vision of Empowering the Nation for Tomorrow, contributing through employment creation, community engagement, and sustainable development initiatives that generate long‑term positive impact.

Mackinnons Travels

Mackinnons Travels is one of Sri Lanka’s leading travel management companies, offering a comprehensive range of services including leisure travel, corporate travel management, airline ticketing, hotel bookings, and other bespoke travel solutions. Established in 1971 and IATA‑certified since 1976, Mackinnons Travels combines decades of expertise with dedication to delivering seamless and personalised travel experiences tailored to diverse customer needs.

The company remains committed to promoting responsible travel practices, fostering industry partnerships, and supporting initiatives focused on knowledge sharing and continuous improvement, contributing to the sustainable development of Sri Lanka’s travel and tourism sector.

Lanka Marine Services

Lanka Marine Services is a leading provider of marine fuel and lubricant solutions in Sri Lanka, serving the maritime industry with high‑quality bunker fuel and marine lubricants. The company supports international shipping operations by supplying fuel across all major ports in Sri Lanka, ensuring efficient, reliable, and timely service to vessels.

Lanka Marine Services is committed to maintaining the highest standards of environmental stewardship, safety, and governance. It actively promotes responsible operations that minimize environmental impact while ensuring the well‑being of employees, customers, and stakeholders.

As part of its broader approach to sustainability and industry development, Lanka Marine Services also engages in initiatives that support the growth of future maritime professionals, including knowledge‑sharing platforms, industry exposure, and collaborative efforts that help build technical skills and professional competencies. Through continuous improvement and responsible practices, the company contributes to the sustainable growth of Sri Lanka’s maritime and port services sector.

Inchcape Mackinnon Mackenzie Shipping

Inchcape Mackinnon Mackenzie Shipping combines the global strength of Inchcape Shipping Services with the deep local expertise of the John Keells Group, delivering world‑class maritime services in Sri Lanka. With a presence across the island’s key ports, the company offers a comprehensive range of services including port agency, crew changes, ship supplies, and offshore support, ensuring seamless and efficient operations for vessels calling at Sri Lankan ports.

The company is committed to delivering reliable, high‑quality maritime solutions that support global shipping operations while upholding the highest standards of safety, operational excellence, and sustainability. Inchcape Mackinnon Mackenzie Shipping also plays an active role in strengthening Sri Lanka’s position as a strategic maritime hub, fostering industry partnerships and supporting initiatives focused on knowledge sharing, skills development, and responsible business practices.

DHL

The DHL Express history in Sri Lanka began in 1980, establishing the first international courier service in the country and introducing next‑day delivery capabilities to key markets like the U.S. and UK. A significant step occurred in 1992 through a joint venture with John Keells Holdings, which strengthened its local operational footprint and service capabilities across the island.

Since then, DHL has achieved numerous milestones in the Sri Lankan market. Throughout its 45‑year legacy in Sri Lanka, DHL has remained deeply committed to supporting local communities.

Initiatives include GoHelp for disaster relief logistics and preparedness training, GoTeach to improve educational opportunities and employability for disadvantaged youth, GoGreen for environmental protection such as tree planting and coastal cleanups, GoGreen Plus enabling customers to reduce carbon emissions via Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), GoTrade to support Sri Lankan businesses including MSMEs to scale globally, and Global Volunteer Day for annual employee engagement in local causes.

South Asia Gateway Terminals (SAGT)

South Asia Gateway Terminals (SAGT) is Sri Lanka’s first public‑private partnership container terminal located in the Port of Colombo (PoC). Having commenced operations in 1999, SAGT supports PoC’s aspirations of being global trade’s preeminent gateway hub to South Asia.

SAGT is a Board of Investment flagship entity with approximately 60% Sri Lankan shareholding, backed by John Keells Holdings, APM Terminals, SLPA, and Peony Investments (subsidiary of Evergreen Marine Corporation). Since inception, SAGT has raised industry benchmarks. In 2018, 2019, and 2024, Team SAGT achieved an annual throughput in excess of 2 million TEUs through productivity efficiencies against its original design capacity of 1.1 million TEUs.

SAGT has received multiple globally recognized awards, including being ranked number 1 in South Asia and number 4 in the world for terminal productivity by the Journal of Commerce (USA) in 2015. In May 2023, SAGT became a signatory of the Women’s Empowerment Principles (WEPs) of UN Women and the UN Global Compact Network, underscoring its commitment to gender equality.

In 2018, SAGT established a Sustainability Management Framework incorporating a sustainability policy. It remains the only container terminal within PoC to publish an independently audited sustainability report, with its sixth consecutive report Charting the Course released in 2025.

CSR at SAGT reflects its commitment to conducting business responsibly and sustainably, while creating long‑term value for society, the environment, and all stakeholders.

Retail

Keells

Keells is proudly Sri Lankan, owned and operated for the past 30+ years, delivering the freshest quality products along with great value, serving thousands of Sri Lankans every day. With over 140 supermarkets and 6,000 team members across the country, Keells was recognised as the strongest brand for the year 2025.

In line with its core purpose of improving the quality of life for the nation, Keells actively supports communities through initiatives such as the pre‑school meal programme, Govi Diri farmer empowerment initiatives, and food redistribution efforts. Sourcing fresh produce from 10 collection centres located across the country, Keells operates over 140 bakeries and more than 70 prepared food counters across the entire chain.

JKOA

Established on 28 August 1992, John Keells Office Automation (Pvt) Ltd (JKOA) is a leading provider of office automation solutions in Sri Lanka. Its product portfolio comprises a range of world‑renowned brands including Toshiba, Samsung, ASUS, ViewSonic, Tecno, and RioTouch.

By continually listening to customer needs and focusing on social, environmental, and economic responsibility, JKOA has achieved significance and success in a competitive local market. While corporate sector clients are serviced directly, consumer markets are covered by its growing base of resellers located island‑wide.

JKCG

John Keells CG Auto (Private) Limited, a subsidiary of John Keells Holdings PLC and CG Auto Pte. Ltd, entered the automotive industry in 2023 with a commitment to sustainable mobility. In November 2023, it partnered with BYD, becoming Sri Lanka’s authorised distributor for BYD and DENZA vehicles, parts, and services.

John Keells CG Auto is dedicated to building customer confidence and establishing new benchmarks for sustainable automotive solutions in Sri Lanka. Strengthening this promise, the company operates through an extensive network of nine strategically located showrooms and service centres across the island, ensuring convenient access to sales, after‑sales support, and expert care.

Consumer Food

Elephant House

The Elephant brand boasts of a rich heritage that not many others can compete with. Sustaining a brand for over 140 years is a remarkable achievement in today's ever-changing, dynamic business world. Whilst the title of the owner changed over the years, the elephant brand has remained the same reflecting, quality, trust and value-for-money.

Property

John Keells Properties

Our property development and real estate sector envisions building new worlds by developing and marketing creative living, working and entertainment spaces to meet customer needs. Our focus on customer insights and experiences aids us to incorporate the latest technologies and trends to our designs.

Our portfolio ranges from TRI-ZEN, offering smart living spaces in the heart of Colombo, Cinnamon Life- an integrated resort set to be Colombo’s life capital, 7th Sense on Gregory’s Road, OnThree20, The Monarch and The Emperor.

John Keells Properties also manage Crescat Boulevard, K-Zone malls in Moratuwa and Ja- Ela and Victoria Golf and Country Resort ranked among the 100 most beautiful golf courses in the world and several office locations.

Financial Services

Union Assurance

As one of Sri Lanka’s largest insurance companies, Union Assurance considers it a responsibility to make a positive contribution to the communities in which it operates.

To protect what matters most to every Sri Lankan, Union Assurance launched Suwamaga, an island‑wide initiative to educate about diabetes, promote healthy lifestyles, and support early detection, while bringing communities together for a stronger, healthier nation.

At the heart of the initiative is the Union Assurance Suwamaga Mobile Screening Unit, a fully equipped medical truck launched together with the Diabetes Association of Sri Lanka and the Ministry of Health. Staffed by certified healthcare professionals, the unit offers free diabetes screenings, including BMI, RBS/FBS tests, and HbA1c tests. It also provides health reports and practical lifestyle advice to help people reduce their risk factors.

These screenings are offered free of charge, making them accessible to people in both urban and rural communities.

IT, Plantation & Other

John Keells IT, Infomate

Our Information Technology sector has a vision of providing quality, world class end-to-end information and communications technology services ranging from business process outsourcing, software services and information integration to office automation. We have established a strong customer base in Sri Lanka, South Asia, the United Kingdom, Middle East, North America, Scandinavia and the Far East. The IT industry group is at the forefront of making Sri Lanka an ICT hub in South Asia.

Infomate

Infomate has established a strong and diverse customer base across Sri Lanka, South Asia, Australia, the United Kingdom, the Middle East, North America, Scandinavia, and the Far East, reflecting its ability to deliver consistent value across multiple geographies and industries.

As a leading force within the IT/BPO industry, Infomate is committed to positioning Sri Lanka as a premier destination for skilled talent in IT and back‑office services across South Asia and beyond. It is socially responsible, having pioneered rural BPM in Sri Lanka, and is an equal opportunity employer that champions over 50% female participation while providing opportunities for people with disabilities.

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