Explore the history of
Kandrick Tea

Our History

From the early 1970s, Neelagiri Tea Company (Pvt) Ltd. began as a small family operation, hand-packing tea for local consumers. Over the decades, it has grown into a household name synonymous with quality and authenticity. Kandrick Tea continues this proud heritage, offering unique blends and single-origin teas from the lush plantations of Sri Lanka.

Our History
Kandrick Tea Estate

Our Mission

At Kandrick Tea Beverages Lanka, our mission is to deliver world-class tea experiences by sourcing, blending, and crafting the finest Ceylon tea. We are dedicated to meeting diverse client needs with customized solutions, upholding the highest standards of quality, ethics, and innovation. Through expert knowledge and a passion for tea, we aim to promote the unique character of Sri Lankan tea across global markets.

Our Vision

To be a globally trusted name in premium Ceylon tea, championing authenticity, sustainability, and innovation—while enriching lives with the true taste and heritage of Sri Lankan tea culture. As a company, we are committed to crafting bespoke tea solutions that meet our clients' unique requirements, using carefully selected Ceylon origin tea grades under Kandrick's expert guidance.

Kandrick Tea History

A JOURNEY OF EXCELLENCE

Foundational Roots

Don Siriyapala, the family patriarch, first ventured into Sri Lanka’s tea trade. His work laid the foundation for Neelagiri Tea Company, which became a trusted household name among Sri Lankan tea drinkers.

Early 1970s
Kandrick Tea Estate
Kandrick Tea Estate

Establishment of Neelagiri Tea

Neelagiri Tea Company (Pvt) Ltd. built a strong reputation in the domestic market, known for delivering high-quality teas and developing expertise that would later fuel international ambitions.

Pre-2017

Founding of Kandrick Tea

Kandrick Tea Beverages Lanka was established as a subsidiary of Neelagiri Tea, with a vision to build a distinctive brand for international markets, offering 100% Pure Ceylon Tea.

January 2017
Kandrick Tea
Kandrick Tea Estate

First International Client

Under the leadership of Thisara Kalana, Kandrick Tea secured its first client in China, launching products under its own brand. During this period, the company recognized the importance of certifications and began aligning its processes with international trade standards.

2017

Government Support & Training

Kandrick Tea joined the Sri Lanka Export Development Board’s “2000 Exporters” programme. Through the International Trade Centre’s (ITC) EU–Sri Lanka Trade Assistance project, Kalana received specialized coaching and exposure, gaining valuable knowledge and certifications for production and process excellence.

2017–2022
Kandrick Tea Estate
Kandrick Tea Estate

Coaching & First Export Success

With tailored guidance from an Export Management Coach, Kandrick Tea improved packaging, pricing, documentation, and export procedures. The company celebrated its first international shipment—10 kilograms of tea exported to Malaysia.

2017–2022

Challenges & New Market Opportunities

Amid the 2019 Easter attacks in Sri Lanka and the global COVID-19 pandemic, the tea industry faced major disruptions in supply and exports. Despite these challenges, Kandrick Tea discovered new opportunities, entering Singapore with its private-label brand “Eliya.” Exports also expanded to Hong Kong, China, and the Czech Republic, with volumes growing from 10 kg to over 300 kg.

2019–2023
Kandrick Tea Estate
Kandrick Tea Estate

Strategic Development & Certification

Kandrick Tea is investing in a state-of-the-art processing unit designed for international export standards and is actively working toward ISO 22000 certification. The company is also expanding into new ventures, including specialized white tea processing and exploring opportunities in tea tourism by showcasing its niche products and unique production methods. These initiatives reaffirm Kandrick Tea’s commitment to quality, innovation, and its vision of becoming a globally recognized household name for Pure Ceylon Tea.

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