JAT sets sights on new benchmark in manufacturing excellence with initiation of new binder plant in Horana

JAT Holdings PLC, Sri Lanka’s market leader in wood coatings and brushes, recently achieved a significant milestone, with the official groundbreaking ceremony for its state-of-the-art binder plant, in Horana. This exciting development marks the beginning of a new era of operational efficiency and superior quality for JAT, as it ventures into manufacturing binders, which are the most essential raw material for emulsion paint. With its commitment to backward vertical integration, heightened cost-efficiency, and unwavering dedication to quality, JAT’s binder plant will allow JAT Holdings to deliver unparalleled value to customers. It also represents a transformative leap forward, further cementing JAT’s position as the dominant player in the industry.

A special initiation ceremony was held to mark the occasion, at the site of the proposed new JAT binder plant in Horana, with key figures representing the Senior and Corporate Management teams of JAT Holdings PLC, in attendance. The event symbolized JAT’s relentless pursuit of excellence and innovation. It marked the commencement of construction of the new plant, which is expected to be completed by March 2024, laying a firm foundation for a new era of manufacturing capabilities for JAT.

Nishal Ferdinando, CEO of JAT Holdings, expressed his enthusiasm for the project saying, “The initiation of our binder plant demonstrates our commitment to innovation and continuous improvement. With this venture, we aim to revolutionize the paint industry in Sri Lanka and beyond, providing our customers with cost-efficient, high-value and superior products.”

The development of the binder plant creates great synergies with the newly incorporated state-of-the-art R&D center. Therefore, this move firmly positions JAT Holdings PLC as the industry leader, leveraging its expertise and cutting-edge technology to optimize its production process for the company’s flagship emulsion paint brand White by JAT.

Ajith Bandara, Director of Research & Development at JAT Holdings added, “We’re excited to embark on this new groundbreaking journey. Our binder plant will not only enable us to meet the growing demand for emulsion products but also pave the way for collaborations with regard to binder/polymer-specific development and engineering with key universities and other research institutions. We are excited about the possibilities and the positive impact this will have on the industry.”

To ensure the highest standards of quality, JAT Holdings has recruited overseas consultants and R&D specialists who will collaborate on the formulation of its range of binders. The company has also made significant investments in automated machinery, which will enhance its productivity and efficiency. The JAT binder plant will also adhere to stringent health and safety regulations, providing a safe and conducive working environment that fosters innovation and creativity. The Plant will also meet both local and international environmental and sustainability standards, demonstrating JAT Holdings PLC’s commitment to its environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals.

JAT Holdings PLC is the market leader in wood coatings and brushes in Sri Lanka, with a dominant presence in the paints, and luxury home and office furnishing sectors. With two state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities, located in Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, supported by an advanced Research and Development Centre in Sri Lanka, JAT Holdings continues to fuel innovation, solidifying its position as a key player and emerging conglomerate in the region. Recognized for its financial stability, even in times of adversity, JAT Holdings PLC has been awarded a National Long-Term Rating of ‘AA(lka)’ by Fitch Ratings, whilst also being prestigiously ranked as the No. 1 Most Awarded Entity in the Diversified Sector by LMD. JAT Holdings’ commitment to its employees and workplace excellence has also been recognized through its certification as a Great Place to Work, making it an employer of choice.