Nutri Lanka Exports was born as a result of two childhood friends who met one day to discuss how they could improve their own own individual businesses, and how it then led to them both discussing and realizing the potential that existed to embark on a new venture together to tap the export market with value-added products.
Several possibilites were explored, and that’s when the idea of exporting fruits – like Pineapple that are freely available in rural areas – was hit upon. A few pineapples were purchased, bottled in different ways and provided to family and friends – and the response received for both the taste and appearance was extremely positive. This led to the start of production on a small scale, in the Colombo suburb of Kadawatha
After the first produce was distributed amongst family, friends and peers (both locally and overseas), the realization occured that sourcing quality fruits was the only way towards producing high quality products. This led to getting in touch with several pineapple producers to learn the art of choosing fruits of a high standard. A year later, the company was registered and the first batch of bottles were put out into the local market. This sold out within a few days, after which a second order was immediately received – this was the ‘lightbulb’ moment that made the founders realize the immense potential of this fledgling business.
The founders also decided that to expand production to a larger scale, it would be difficult for just two people to attend to all aspects. That’s when they met the third individual (an acquaintance of one of the founders), who at that time was equally keen on coming on board as a Director. Looking ahead, the company aims to keep expanding by introducing further products into the portfolio.
