What began 25 years ago with a simple observation during a home construction project has evolved into one of Sri Lanka’s leading diversified business groups. Celebrating its 25th anniversary, SMS Holdings marks a remarkable entrepreneurial journey that has transformed a single paving stone manufacturing business into a diversified enterprise spanning construction, engineering, landscaping, plantations, hospitality, manufacturing and exports, while remaining steadfast in its commitment to quality, innovation and sustainable national development.
Over the past quarter century, the Group has consistently evolved by embracing innovation, investing in people and expanding into new industries while remaining true to its founding values of quality, integrity and customer trust
Founded by entrepreneur Shehan Senevirathne, SMS Holdings was built on a straightforward yet ambitious vision: to create locally manufactured products that could rival imported alternatives in both quality and durability. Inspired by the lack of quality paving solutions available while undertaking a project at his own home, Senevirathne recognised an opportunity to develop world-class paving products that met international standards while supporting Sri Lankan manufacturing.
Over the past two and a half decades, that vision has steadily expanded beyond its origins. Today, SMS Holdings has become a trusted partner for numerous public and private sector developments across Sri Lanka, delivering landmark infrastructure, engineering and landscaping projects while diversifying into new industries including plantations, hospitality, exports and premium value-added manufacturing.
The Group’s success has been built on consistently delivering quality, fostering long-term relationships and embracing innovation at every stage of its growth. This commitment has earned SMS Holdings more than 38 industry recognitions, alongside internationally recognised certifications including ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001, ISO 22000, HACCP, GMP and Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) certification for its premium cinnamon products.
Shehan Senevirathne, Founder, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of SMS Holdings said, “Twenty-five years ago, we started with a simple belief that Sri Lankan businesses could produce products equal to the very best in the world. Every milestone we have achieved since then has been possible because of the dedication of our employees, the trust of our customers, the support of our partners and the confidence placed in us by every stakeholder who has been part of this journey. This anniversary is not only a celebration of our past, but also a commitment to continue building businesses that create sustainable value for Sri Lanka while showcasing authentic Sri Lankan products in international markets.
People have remained at the heart of the organisation’s growth, with many employees having developed their careers alongside the company over the years. SMS Holdings continues to invest in its workforce, recognising that sustainable success is built through empowered people, strong partnerships and a shared commitment to excellence.
As part of its continued evolution, the Group has diversified into plantations, hospitality, premium value-added manufacturing and exports, while expanding its international footprint through operations in Australia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Through its premium cinnamon brand, Cinnalon, SMS Holdings is championing authentic True Ceylon Cinnamon and other Sri Lankan products in global markets, reinforcing Sri Lanka’s reputation for producing premium-quality exports and strengthening the Group’s growing international presence.
Looking ahead, SMS Holdings remains focused on driving innovation, expanding internationally and creating globally recognised Sri Lankan brands while continuing to contribute to employment generation, local manufacturing and economic development. As it celebrates 25 years of growth, SMS Holdings stands as a testament to what can be achieved through entrepreneurial vision, unwavering commitment to quality and the determination to create lasting value for both Sri Lanka and the world.
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Image Caption:
(Left to Right) – Mr. Ashan Senevirathne – Director, SMS Holdings (Pvt) Ltd , Mr. Chandima Weerakkody – Former Cabinet Minister of Petroleum & Petroleum Gas, Mr. Prasantha Kularatna – Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, Premium International (Pvt) Ltd, Mr. Shehan Senevirathne – Chairman /Managing Director, SMS Holdings (Pvt) Ltd – , Miss Nesha Senevirathne – Director, SMS Holdings (Pvt) Ltd.