John Keells Holdings PLC AR 2020 21 CSE
John Keells Holdings PLC AR 2020 21 CSE
John Keells Holdings PLC AR 2020 21 CSE
Our story over the last few years has been characterised by our commitment to invest in both the tangible
expansion of our businesses and the building of softer skills, which are of equal importance. Despite two
challenging and unprecedented years, these investments have continued steadfastly, maintaining the
depth and breadth of our long-term investment strategy which is now poised to come to fruition.
Investments in recent years have focused on a refurbished portfolio of Leisure properties and the
acquisition of a long-term lease on a new hotel in the Maldives. The Group has also doubled its store
footprint in the Supermarket business to over 120 outlets over the last three years while investing heavily
in building its brand value, and enhanced its capacity and capability in the Frozen Confectionery and
Insurance businesses. We consolidated our strategy in land banking to enable monetisation to generate
steady returns to the Group. The most significant investment in our portfolio, 'Cinnamon Life', is nearing
completion – a long and arduous journey over the last six plus years is now on the verge of transforming
the city of Colombo and being a catalyst for tourism in the country, with revenue and profit recognition
about to commence from the handover of the Residential and Office units.
Our 'Resilience in Investing' is not merely based on the investment of financial capital – we have been
pioneers and early adopters in many aspects of corporate transformation, whether it be adopting
governance, sustainability or people related practices ahead of time. In recent years, we have pioneered
a ground-breaking data analytics transformation journey, leveraging our unique data across our diverse
portfolio in our vision to create value, by converting advanced analytics insights into frontline business
interventions. We serve a diverse constitution of groups and individuals; from customers and communities
to shareholders, suppliers, partners and employees, where our actions impact many different lives in many
different ways. Our commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity continues to strengthen as
exemplified by the launch of our 'ONE JKH' brand, together with an increased emphasis on gender parity
and inclusion, where our goal is to increase the number of women in the workforce to 40 per cent.
The journey over the last couple of years has been challenging, to say the least, however, your company
has weathered this storm through its 'Resilience in Investing', setting itself a strong platform for growth.
Your company is now poised to fully benefit from its investments in the ensuing year and beyond.
9 19 38
Chairman's Investor Capital Management
66 Message Relations Review
Transportation
118
Financial Services
Human Capital
Details of CSR
projects available on Social and Relationship
www.johnkeellsfoundation.com/ Capital
Intellectual Capital
149 156 165 184
Strategy, Resource Share Corporate Governance Risks, Opportunities
Allocation and Information Commentary and Internal Controls
Portfolio Management
ABOUT US
John Keells Holdings PLC (JKH) is one of the largest listed companies on the Colombo Stock
Exchange, with business interests primarily in Transportation, Consumer Foods, Retail, Leisure,
Property and Financial Services. Started in the early 1870s as a produce and exchange broking
business by two Englishmen, Edwin and George John, the Group has been known to constantly
re-align, re-position and re-invent itself in pursuing growth sectors of the time.
JKH was incorporated as a public limited liability company in 1979 and obtained a listing on the
Colombo Stock Exchange in 1986. Having issued Global Depository Receipts (GDRs) which were
listed on the Luxembourg Stock Exchange, JKH became the first Sri Lankan company to be listed
overseas.
The Group's investment philosophy is based on a positive outlook, bold approach, commitment to
delivery and flexibility to change. JKH is also committed to maintaining integrity, ethical dealings,
sustainable development and greater social responsibility in a multi-stakeholder context. JKH is a
full member of the World Economic Forum and a Participant member of the UN Global Compact.
The Holding Company of the Group, John Keells Holdings PLC, is based at 117, Sir Chittampalam
A. Gardiner Mawatha, Colombo 2 and has offices and businesses located across Sri Lanka and
the Maldives.
INTRODUCTION TO THE REPORT
Governance, Risk Management In keeping this Report concise as possible and pertinent to the year under review, we have
and Operations ensured that the commentaries in certain sections are limited to a helicopter view of the events
and progress within the year, whilst the Group's standard policies, operating guidelines and
yy Laws and regulations of the
management approaches are available on the corporate website.
Companies Act No. 7 of 2007
yy Listing Rules of the Colombo Stock
SCOPE AND BOUNDARY
Exchange (CSE) and subsequent
revisions to date The John Keells Annual Report 2020/21 is a reflection of the Group's integrated approach of
management during the period from 1 April 2020 to 31 March 2021. Material events post this
yy Securities and Exchange Commission reporting period, up to the sign off date by the Board of Directors on 24 May 2021, have been
of Sri Lanka Act No. 36 of 1987, included in this Report, ensuring a more relevant and up-to-date Report.
including directives and circulars
yy Code of Best Practice on Corporate For the purpose of reporting its sustainability performance, all Group subsidiaries and equity
Governance (2013) jointly advocated accounted investees have been considered, barring companies in which the Group does not
by the Securities and Exchange exercise significant management control, non-operational companies, managing companies,
Commission of Sri Lanka (SEC) and the companies that rent out office spaces, investment companies and companies owning only land,
Institute of Chartered Accountants of which have been clearly identified in the reporting boundary specified in the Group Directory
Sri Lanka (CA Sri Lanka) 2020/21. The scope will also seek to report on companies over which it does not exercise
significant management control, where relevant.
yy Code of Best Practice on Corporate
Governance (2017) issued by CA
Sri Lanka, to the extent of business INTEGRATED REPORTING AND GUIDING PRINCIPLES
exigency and as required by the Group The Group has strived to deliver a comprehensive, balanced and relevant Report, while adhering
to the recommendations of the IIRC. The seven guiding principles in integrated reporting, as
Financial Reporting
depicted, have been given due consideration when preparing and presenting this Report.
yy Sri Lanka Accounting Standards
(SLFRS/LKAS) issued by CA Sri Lanka
Conciseness
Sustainability Reporting
yy This Report has been prepared in
accordance with the GRI Standards: Materiality Reliability and
Core option of reporting completeness
yy Aligned to United Nations Sustainable
Development Goals
GUIDING PRINCIPLES
yy Operations in conformity with the of the 2020/21
Principles of the United Nations Stakeholder JKH Annual Report Consistency
Global Compact relationships and comparability
yy Environmental, Social and
Governance (ESG) disclosures through
the <IR> framework and operations in
Connectivity of Strategic focus and
conformity with the Principles of the
information future orientation
United Nations Global Compact
As you navigate through the pages of this Report, you will find a relevant, transparent and
noteworthy value proposition entrenched within the John Keells Group that strives to achieve the
highest form of stakeholder satisfaction through sustainable value creation.
5
OUR BUSINESS MODEL
Group Policies
yy Dedicated CSR team yy Investment in community and livelihood development
Mandatory regulatory frameworks
yy Strategic and yy Regular dialogue with investors, analysts and other
sustainable community stakeholders
Voluntary frameworks and mechanisms
development yy Social impact assessments
yy Investor relations yy Identification of key stakeholders and material aspects
SOCIAL AND and stakeholder Industry Groups in relation to them
RELATIONSHIP management yy Transportation yy Awareness creation and engagement of suppliers
CAPITAL yy Staff volunteerism yy Consumer Foods yy Social needs assessment based on SDGs/UNGC/
yy Health and safety yy Retail national agenda
initiatives yy Leisure
yy Property
yy Brand equity and yy Financial Services yy Development of intangible infrastructure,
stewardship yy Other, incl. Information Technology and processes and procedures to improve efficiency
yy Research and Plantation Services yy New product development
development yy Innovation
INTELLECTUAL yy Technological expertise
CAPITAL
yy Digital infrastructure
7
INDUSTRY GROUPS AND SECTORS
TRANSPORTATION
Transportation
Ports and Shipping
CONSUMER FOODS
Beverages
Frozen Confectionery
Convenience Foods
RETAIL
Supermarkets
Office Automation
LEISURE
Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts
Destination Management
Hotel Management
PROPERTY
Property Development
Real Estate
FINANCIAL SERVICES
Insurance
Banking
Stockbroking
CENTRE FUNCTIONS
yy Corporate Communications yy Group Finance and Group yy Group Treasury yy Social Entrepreneurship
yy Corporate Finance and Insurance yy John Keells Foundation yy Sustainability, Enterprise
Strategy yy Group Human Resources yy John Keells Research Risk Management and Group
yy Data and Advanced Analytics yy Group IT yy Legal and Secretarial Initiatives
yy Group Business Process yy Group Tax yy New Business Development
Review
CHAIRMAN'S MESSAGE
Whilst the year under review was extremely Whilst the COVID-19 pandemic was relatively contained in Sri Lanka throughout the
challenging on account of the COVID-19 financial year, resulting in a strong resumption of business activity, the recent outbreak
pandemic, the Group witnessed a faster than in late April 2021 has led to a sharp increase in the number of COVID-19 cases within the
anticipated recovery momentum with the country, prompting island-wide travel restrictions by the Government as at the date of this
performance of most businesses reaching pre Message. While it is premature to ascertain the full impact of this outbreak and the resultant
COVID-19 levels where business activity and performance of the Group since the number of daily cases is significantly higher than that of
consumer trends were near normal by the end the first and second waves, the curtailing of movement is expected to cause a slowdown in
of the financial year. This positive momentum business activity in the immediate-term while the pace of recovery will depend on how the
is reflected in the performance of the Group situation develops over the next few weeks. Although the short-term will continue to pose
excluding Leisure, where recurring EBITDA challenges, a similar recovery to the traction observed in the second and fourth quarters of
demonstrated a growth of 8 per cent over the 2020/21 can be expected once the stringent isolation and healthcare measures are eased.
previous year despite the headwinds during The Government has committed to scale up the roll out of vaccinations and this should
the year, including an island-wide lockdown positively impact recovery once a critical mass of the population, particularly in high-risk
from April to mid-May 2020 and intermittent areas, are covered, as evident in other countries. The Group continues to reinforce and
isolation measures during other periods. The evaluate its safety protocols applicable to its employees and customers and has taken all
Leisure business was significantly impacted possible measures to protect its supply chains in the current environment.
given the closure of the airports in the Maldives
and Sri Lanka until July 2020 and January 2021,
respectively, although the resurgence of domestic RESILIENT IN INVESTING
tourism, food and beverage and banqueting As stated over the previous few years, the Group has been on an investment heavy cycle,
revenue in Sri Lanka helped support the cash where significant capital has been deployed in our Group businesses which paves the way
flows of the business while the Maldives witnessed for transformative growth into the future. However, despite the unprecedented events over
a strong recovery from December 2020 onwards. the last two years, which significantly impacted the performance of our portfolio, these
investments have continued steadfastly, demonstrating the Group's 'resilience in investing'.
The performance of the Group during the year
was resilient despite the numerous challenges While the investments had short-term impacts on performance over the last couple of years
encountered and it was the positive attitude of all on account of related expenses, disruptions and gestation periods, the longer-term benefits
our people that enabled the Group to navigate are now translating to significant performance impacts in the relevant businesses, some of
through this unprecedented and volatile period. which are not fully visible in the reported results due to the offsetting impacts on account of
I wish to, once again, recognise their contribution, disruptions across two consecutive years.
particularly those who served in our front lines
and played a pivotal role in serving the people of Capital expenditure in recent years include investments aimed at ensuring a completed
our country in this very challenging time. Their and refurbished portfolio of Leisure properties, increasing the outlet footprint of the
commitment to proactively transition to new ways Supermarket business which has in the last three years doubled to over 120 outlets,
of working and embrace and support the Group enhancing the capacity and capability in the Frozen Confectionery and Insurance businesses,
in implementing a series of cost containment and and consolidating our strategy in land banking enabling monetisation of lands to generate
productivity measures aided the Group to remain consistent returns, among others. The most significant of our investments, 'Cinnamon Life', is
resilient and maintain its position of financial stability. nearing completion with the revenue and profit recognition from the sale of the Residential
and Office units commencing from the first quarter of 2021/22 onwards.
The Group has been on an Investments going forward will include the West Container Terminal in the Port of Colombo in
investment heavy cycle, partnership with the Adani Group in India. This investment will ensure continued long-term
exposure to the ports business in the country which augers well for the future of the Group
where significant capital has as well as provide a better balance for our portfolio. I believe that, despite the challenges of
been deployed in our Group the current environment, the Group has laid a strong platform for growth and is now poised
businesses which paves the way to fully benefit from the investments in building capacity, capability and process efficiency as
for transformative growth into these come to fruition in the ensuing year, and beyond.
the future.
9
CHAIRMAN'S MESSAGE
GROUP PERFORMANCE 2020/21 KEY OPERATIONAL AND FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS DURING THE YEAR
For the financial year 2020/21, Group Summarised below are the key operational and financial highlights during the year under review.
revenue decreased by 8 per cent to
Rs.127.68 billion while recurring Group yy The Group witnessed a faster than anticipated recovery momentum with the performance
earnings before interest expense, tax, of most businesses reaching pre COVID-19 levels with business activity and consumer trends
depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) being near normal by the end of the financial year.
decreased by 22 per cent to Rs.15.57 billion. yy Excluding Leisure, Group recurring EBITDA increased by 8 per cent to Rs.19.16 billion [2019/20:
Excluding the Leisure industry group, Group Rs.17.76 billion].
revenue increased by 1 per cent to Rs.122.32
yy Given the positive momentum of the performance of the businesses, notwithstanding the
billion while, encouragingly, Group recurring
impacts of the current outbreak, a final dividend for 2020/21 of Rs.0.50 per share, was declared
EBITDA increased by 8 per cent to Rs.19.16
to be paid on or before 25 June 2021. Total dividend declared for 2020/21 amounts to Rs.2.00
billion, displaying the positive recovery per share at a total payout of Rs.1.98 billion. The declaration of this dividend reflects the cash
momentum of the businesses, where most generation capability of the Group's diverse portfolio of businesses, despite the continued
have reached levels of near normalcy since impacts on the Leisure business on the overall performance of the Group.
December 2020 onwards. The decline
in revenue is primarily due to a sharp yy A consortium consisting of Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Limited (APSEZ) and JKH,
in the capacity as the local partner, received a letter of intent (LOI) to develop and operate the
reduction in oil prices throughout most of
West Container Terminal at the Port of Colombo as a public private partnership (PPP) project.
the year, impacting the Group's Bunkering
business, Lanka Marine Services. yy The Supermarket business witnessed a sharp quarter-on-quarter recovery momentum in
sales, with the fourth quarter same store sales recovering to pre COVID-19 levels.
The recurring Group profit before tax (PBT)
yy The Consumer Foods business recorded a strong recovery during the year, particularly the
decreased by 56 per cent to Rs.5.41 billion
performance of the Frozen Confectionery business. The Frozen Confectionery business
while the recurring profit attributable to equity recorded its highest monthly sales volume in the history of its operations in March 2021.
holders of the parent decreased by 49 per cent
to Rs.4.74 billion for the financial year ended yy Whilst the opening of the airports is expected to help revive the tourism industry in Sri Lanka
31 March 2021. Excluding the Leisure industry and the Maldives, the performance of the Leisure business will largely depend on the pace
group, recurring PBT increased by 1 per cent of revival of regional and global travel, when travellers regain confidence, particularly with
to Rs.13.95 billion while the recurring profit the vaccination drives in many countries. The performance of the Maldivian Resorts and the
momentum of forward bookings have been very encouraging.
attributable to equity holders of the parent
increased by 3 per cent to Rs.10.96 billion. yy With the completion of the residential and office towers at 'Cinnamon Life', the hand-over
process of the units will commence, on a staggered basis, from the first quarter of 2021/22
In June 2020, JKH entered into a ten-year onwards, resulting in the recognition of revenue and profits from 'Cinnamon Life'. Project
financing agreement with the International completion is scheduled for the first quarter of 2022/23.
Finance Corporation (IFC) for USD 175
yy The Insurance business recorded double digit growth in gross written premiums during
million to support funding of the Company's the year driven by an encouraging increase in regular new business premiums. The Banking
investment pipeline, marking IFC's largest business recorded an increase in profitability driven by focused recovery efforts, cost
investment to date in Sri Lanka. The management initiatives and higher investment income.
proceeds from the facility will primarily be
utilised to fund the Group's expansion of its yy OCTAVE, the Group's Data and Advanced Analytics Centre of Excellence, worked on a series of
use cases in the Retail and Financial Services industry groups, yielded promising results, with
Supermarket business, recent investments
initial pilot projects indicating signs of significant value that can be unlocked from translating
in hotels in the Maldives and Sri Lanka and
advanced analytics insights into front line business interventions.
for general corporate investments.
yy The Group instituted a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion programme towards increasing the
Although the entirety of the loan was diversity of our workforce and launched the 'ONE JKH' brand with several initiatives aimed
drawn down during the year under review at increasing critical diversity metrics across the Group. The Group established a goal of
resulting in an increase in debt at the Holding increasing the participation of women in the workforce up to 40 per cent by the end of
Company, this did not impact net debt 2025/26, as a step towards achieving gender parity in the workforce.
since the cash balance was also retained yy The Group reported a 7 per cent reduction in its carbon footprint per million rupees of
at a Holding Company level. The Holding revenue and a 3 per cent reduction in water withdrawn per million rupees of revenue.
Company maintained a strong net cash
position of Rs.21.43 billion, which primarily Recurring EBITDA* (Rs.'000) 2020/21 2019/20
consists of a foreign currency position. Group
Transportation 3,610,416 4,375,024
net debt excluding lease liabilities as at 31
Consumer Foods 3,317,535 3,365,940
March 2021 was at Rs.48.71 billion. Retail 5,522,678 5,107,784
Leisure (3,588,464) 2,305,839
Property (17,348) 640,676
GROUP RECURRING EBITDA EXCL. LEISURE
Financial Services 3,644,923 2,988,190
Rs.19.16bn *EBITDA includes interest income and the share of results of equity accounted investees which is based on the share
of profit after tax but excludes the impact of exchange losses and gains on its foreign currency denominated debt
8%
2019/20: Rs.17.76 bn and cash, to demonstrate the underlying cash operational performance of the businesses.
The Annual Report contains discussions on the macroeconomic factors and its impact on our
businesses as well as a detailed discussion and analysis of each of the industry groups. As such, RECURRING EBITDA
Rs.3.61bn
I will focus on a high-level summation of the performance of each industry group during the
financial year 2020/21.
17%
Transportation industry group
TRANSPORTATION
The Transportation industry group recurring EBITDA of Rs.3.61 billion in 2020/21 is a decrease of
17 per cent over the recurring EBITDA of the previous financial year [2019/20: Rs.4.38 billion]. The
decline in profitability is attributable to the Group's Ports business, South Asia Gateway Terminals The Group expects to
(SAGT), and to a lesser extent the Group's Bunkering business, Lanka Marine Services (LMS). commence construction of
the WCT in early CY2022,
In line with the trend of overall volumes in the Port of Colombo (POC), throughput at SAGT was
subject to fulfilling criteria as
impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, recording a 12 per cent decrease in the year under review
although this impact was primarily during the first quarter of 2020/21 when the pandemic
stipulated in the LOI, with part
escalated in Sri Lanka and the region. However, the rate of recovery in volumes was encouraging, of the terminal slated to be
reaching pre COVID-19 levels as transshipment volumes from India and the region gained operational in approximately
momentum as shipping lines demonstrated a preference to call at 'hub' ports and move away 24 months, and the remainder
from direct services, demonstrating the urgent need and opportunity for deep water capacity
enhancement in the POC. Profitability was further impacted by a change in the throughput mix on
within a maximum period of a
account of the continuing import restrictions in place in the country. SAGT also became liable for further 24 months.
income tax from September 2019 onwards.
Addressing the long overdue need for capacity enhancement in the POC, the Government decided CONSUMER FOODS
to proceed with the development of the East Container Terminal (ECT) and the West Container The Consumer Foods industry group
Terminal (WCT), during the year under review. The development of the ECT will be implemented recurring EBITDA of Rs.3.32 billion in 2020/21
by the Sri Lanka Ports Authority while a consortium consisting of Adani Ports and Special Economic is a marginal decrease of 1 per cent over the
Zone Limited (APSEZ) and JKH, in the capacity as the local partner, executed a letter of intent (LOI) recurring EBITDA of the previous financial
to develop and operate the WCT as a public private partnership (PPP) project. The WCT project will year [2019/20: Rs.3.37 billion]. Excluding the
be constructed on a build, operate and transfer (BOT) basis for a lease period of 35 years. significant impacts to the businesses in the
first quarter of the year, the recurring EBITDA
The WCT, a part of Colombo's South Port development, encompasses a deep-water terminal for the nine months ending March 2021
with an alongside depth of 20 metres and annual capacity of approximately 3 million TEUs. The increased by 10 per cent to Rs.2.83 billion
Group expects to commence construction of the WCT in early CY2022, subject to fulfilling criteria [2019/20: Rs.2.57 billion].
as stipulated in the LOI, with part of the terminal slated to be operational in approximately 24
months, and the remainder within a maximum period of a further 24 months. The Group will have Despite the challenging operating
a material equity stake in the project and the expected investment is approximately USD 70-80 environment and the unprecedented
million, staggered over the project construction period, subject to finalisation of project costs and distribution disruptions, the Frozen
other structuring arrangements, including the proportion of leverage. Confectionery (FC), Beverage and
Convenience Foods businesses demonstrated
The year-on-year comparison of the performance of the Bunkering businesses is distorted as an encouraging performance with volumes
2019/20 included above-average profitability, particularly in the third quarter, on account of the displaying a faster than expected recovery
transition, well ahead of competition, to low sulphur fuel oil under the International Maritime trend with the easing of isolation measures,
Organisation regulations. Although overall bunker market volumes continued to gradually improve particularly in the FC business, when activity
during the year to pre COVID-19 levels, the business continues to be impacted by a reduction in in the country returned to more normal levels.
demand for bunker fuel on the back of the pandemic, which resulted in a contraction in overall The investment in distribution penetration
market volumes and exerted pressure on margins. Despite the environment, the Bunkering and the expansion of the portfolio of the FC
business was able to significantly improve market share. business over the last few years enabled a
strong recovery momentum and performance,
Given the ongoing COVID-19 crisis in India, there are short-term disruptions to demand as several as the business recorded its highest monthly
ports globally, including Singapore, have barred the entry of vessels which have called at South sales volume in March 2021 in its history
Asian ports, including Sri Lanka. While it is premature to assess the impact of these developments, of operations. Whilst the Beverage and FC
market expectations are that it will be short-term and that trade volumes will remain resilient. businesses recorded volume declines of 16 per
cent and 1 per cent, respectively, in the year
Most employees in the Ports business are already fully vaccinated, given the prioritisation of the under review, the Beverage business volumes
Ports industry by the Government as an essential service, and therefore it is less likely that there will decreased marginally by 1 per cent and FC
be a serious outbreak of cases disrupting operations at the POC. volumes increased by 30 per cent for the
fourth quarter, although it should be noted
During the year under review, the Logistics business recorded an improvement in profitability that March 2020 volumes were disrupted with
driven by an increase in throughput in its warehouse facilities. the onset of the pandemic in the country.
11
CHAIRMAN'S MESSAGE
Rs.3.32bn
consolidation of baskets, the statistics on footfall and basket values are distorted in the short-term.
1% Fifteen new outlets were opened during the year, increasing the total outlet footprint to 123
Consumer Foods industry group as at 31 March 2021. While the business will continue to expand its outlet network considering
the underlying growth prospects for the industry, it has also ramped up its capability, offering
and customer experience on its e-commerce platform. In July, the business revamped its online
platform, enabling a more diverse offering and real-time stock availability, amongst other features,
The Frozen Confectionery (FC), to enable a faster and better shopping experience. The business will continue to focus on an omni-
Beverage and Convenience channel strategy to cater to different customer segments and needs.
Foods businesses demonstrated
an encouraging performance The current outbreak of COVID-19 cases in the country may create disruptions and hamper
momentum in the short-term, particularly given the travel restriction measures imposed to curtail
with volumes displaying a the movement of people. However, the impact on performance is expected to be less pronounced
faster than expected recovery than witnessed when the previous isolation measures were in place given that the business is
trend with the easing of better equipped to navigate these challenges in contrast to the previous outbreaks in CY2020. The
isolation measures, particularly business prioritises the health and safety of its employees, customers and stakeholders, and has
in the FC business, when taken all health and safety measures possible. In keeping with our values, the business has been
transparent and timely with its communication to customers and the public in the event operation
activity in the country returned of outlets are disrupted due to positive COVID-19 cases.
to more normal levels.
The ongoing construction of the distribution centre in Kerawalapitiya, which is scheduled for
completion in the third quarter of FY2022, will augment the business, given its ability to cater to its
outlet expansion well beyond the medium to long-term and translate into significant process and
operational efficiencies, particularly given the centralisation of almost the entirety of the dry and
fresh range.
RECURRING EBITDA
Rs.5.52bn
I am pleased to state that the 'Keells' modern trade brand which was developed with the aim of
epitomising the 'fresh' promise, service excellence and quality was adjudged as the most valuable
8% supermarket brand for the second consecutive year in 2020 by Brand Finance. Further, the brand
Retail industry group
was listed amongst the top 10 most visible brands on the internet in Sri Lanka by the Asia Pacific
Institute of Digital Marketing and was shortlisted for the World Retail Awards under the best brand
transformation category.
With the gradual easing of
As a part of the Group's advanced analytics transformation journey, the business commenced the
measures and opening of
roll out of select use cases towards the latter end of the year under review, aimed at addressing
outlets, the business witnessed areas such as promotion effectiveness, range optimisation, and marketing outreach. Whilst some
a sharp quarter-on-quarter of the piloting and roll out of identified use cases were postponed until such time business and
recovery momentum in sales, consumer behaviour returned to a level of normalcy given COVID-19 considerations, preliminary
with the fourth quarter same results of these projects are promising and bode well for the business in the medium-term.
store sales recovering to pre The Office Automation business recorded a strong performance with double-digit growth in EBITDA
COVID-19 levels. on account of a 25 per cent volume growth in the mobile segment, maximising on market opportunity.
LEISURE PROPERTY
The Leisure industry group recurring EBITDA of negative Rs.3.59 billion in 2020/21 is a significant The Property industry group recurring EBITDA
decrease against the recurring EBITDA of the previous financial year [2019/20: Rs.2.31 billion] of a negative Rs.17 million in 2020/21 is a
due to the continued impact of COVID-19 on tourism. The performance of the Resorts started decrease against the recurring EBITDA of
to demonstrate an encouraging uptick with the revival of domestic tourism and the opening of the previous financial year [2019/20: Rs.641
the airports in Sri Lanka and the Maldives. However, the current outbreak of COVID-19 cases in Sri million]. The decrease in profitability is
Lanka may impede the local recovery should the current situation prevail, particularly given the mainly attributable to the fair value loss on
travel advisories from source markets and the imposition of island-wide travel restrictions by the investment property (IP) during the year under
Government. review compared to a fair value gain in the
previous year. EBITDA excluding fair value
During the first quarter of the year under review, Sri Lanka and the Maldives witnessed the imposition gains/losses on IP amounted to Rs.274 million,
of stringent measures to control the transmission of COVID-19, and, as a result, closed its airports for an increase of 48 per cent over the previous
arrivals and restricted domestic travel. Due to the restrictions in movement, the Group suspended year [2019/20: Rs.186 million].
operations of its hotel properties in Sri Lanka and the Maldives during the months of April and May,
thereby saving on overheads and other expenses. Excluding fair value gains/losses, the EBITDA
was positively impacted mainly due to the
The Sri Lankan Resort Hotels and the Colombo Hotels opened to the public from June 2020 commencement of revenue recognition from
onwards, under stringent safety guidelines issued by the Government post the easing of the the 'Tri-Zen' residential development project.
lockdown. With the resumption of domestic travel, all properties in the Sri Lankan Resorts segment However, profitability was impacted by the mall
recorded an encouraging increase in occupancy. Despite the challenging operating environment, operations given the lower rentals and rent
the Colombo Hotels segment also exhibited a better than anticipated performance, primarily relief offered to tenants due to the pandemic. In
driven by the food and beverage and banqueting segments. order to repurpose and reposition the 'Crescat'
mall in line with market dynamics, the property
The airports in Sri Lanka were re-opened to tourists in January 2021, under stringent guidelines was closed for refurbishment on 31 December
and safety protocols of the health authorities. 'Cinnamon Bentota Beach' and 'Cinnamon Bey 2020. The revamped property is expected to be
Beruwala' were opened to tourists and operated under these guidelines and protocols until the re-launched and operational in the second half
recent outbreak. of CY2021.
Given the slowdown in domestic tourism due to the current outbreak of COVID-19 cases, three I am pleased to state that we have reached
Sri Lankan hotel properties are being used as intermediate care centres (ICC) for the treatment completion of the residential and office towers
of asymptomatic patients. In addition to meeting the critical national need to provide facilities of 'Cinnamon Life'. The residential apartment
to treat COVID-19 persons, this will help mitigate the impact of a drop in domestic tourism. The and office towers are expected to be handed
operations of the other properties have been restricted during this current outbreak to manage over, on a staggered basis, from the first
and mitigate costs. We will continue to review the trends of both international and domestic quarter of 2021/22 onwards and will result in
travel and expand our current operations accordingly. We remain confident that operations the commencement of recognition of revenue
will revert to normal over the next few months given the aggressive ramp up of the COVID-19 and profits from 'Cinnamon Life', a significant
vaccination programme in the country. Our properties are well prepared and geared to take the milestone considering the long gestation
fullest advantage of the pent-up demand for leisure travel from the various markets, similar to the period of the project.
recovery trends in arrivals witnessed in the Maldives.
Given the continued challenges in labour
Post the opening of the Malé airport in July 2020, arrivals were initially slow to gather momentum. mobilisation, the loss in productivity and time
The subsequent relaxation of global travel restrictions, particularly in key source markets, lost due to the period of lockdown and the
contributed to a rebound in performance of the Maldivian Resorts segment, resulting in an enhanced health and safety measures, the
encouraging recovery in occupancy from December 2020 onwards. The segment also witnessed available resources have been mainly focused
an increase in the average duration of stay in comparison to CY2019. It is encouraging to witness on the completion of the residences and the
the momentum of forward bookings in the Maldives, demonstrating a significant 'pent up' office towers. Accordingly, completion of
demand for leisure travel. Based on current indications and trends, we expect a full revival of the hotel and the retail mall was impacted
tourism to the Maldives by the end of this year. and is now scheduled for the first quarter of
2022/23. In line with the revised timelines
for completion, finishing work including
It is encouraging to witness the momentum of forward structural work, cladding, installation of the
bookings in the Maldives, demonstrating a significant 'pent façade, glazing, and interior designing of hotel
up' demand for leisure travel. Based on current indications and rooms is currently underway. The Group has
trends, we expect a full revival of tourism to the Maldives by commenced discussions with key tenants for
the retail mall, with various alternatives being
the end of this year. considered for the retail space to ensure unique
attractions and offerings. The Group is also in
the final stages of negotiations with prospective
tenants for the office space at 'Cinnamon Life'.
13
CHAIRMAN'S MESSAGE
Construction of 'Tri-Zen' has continued to While impairment increased OTHER, INCLUDING INFORMATION
progress steadily during the year with the TECHNOLOGY AND PLANTATION
during the year, a concerted
structure of the building envisaged to be SERVICES
completed in the first half of CY2022 whilst the
effort on collections and
recoveries together with a The Information Technology sector recurring
overall project is scheduled for completion in
EBITDA of Rs.363 million in 2020/21 is an
CY2023. focus on return-based credit increase of 6 per cent over the recurring
growth has ensured that the EBITDA of the previous financial year [2019/20:
The sales momentum for the residential
apartments at 'Cinnamon Life' has been
performance of the Bank has Rs.343 million]. The improved performance
relatively slow, in line with the trends seen in seen positive momentum. is on account of onboarding new clients and
expanding the scope of services.
the premium segment in the city. However,
with the commissioning of the towers and
FINANCIAL SERVICES The Plantation Services sector recurring
the rest of the complex nearing completion,
The Financial Services industry group recurring EBITDA of Rs.356 million in 2020/21 is a
we have seen an upsurge in interest. Sales
EBITDA of Rs.3.64 billion in 2020/21 is an significant increase over the recurring EBITDA
at 'Tri-Zen' has been encouraging, reaching
increase of 22 per cent over the recurring of the previous financial year [2019/20: Rs.20
pre COVID-19 levels, with sales in March
EBITDA of the previous financial year [2019/20: million]. This improvement in profitability was
2021 recording the highest number of units
Rs.2.99 billion]. aided by an increase in both tea prices and
since inception of the project. The funding of
volumes. The performance of the previous year
'Cinnamon Life' continues to be in place, given
Union Assurance PLC recorded double digit included a material impairment of debtors
the unutilised component of the committed
growth in gross written premiums (GWP) at John Keells PLC considering the stresses
syndicated loan facility and availability of
during the year, continuing the recovery faced, at the time, by tea producers due to
foreign currency funds which is earmarked for
momentum witnessed from the second low tea prices and curtailing of manufacturing
the project and held at the Holding Company.
quarter onwards. The increase in GWP growth operations.
During the year under review, the Group was driven by regular new business premiums.
However, the profit of the business was Other, comprising of the Holding Company
increased its existing stake of 60 per cent in
impacted by a higher tax expense in 2020/21 and other investments, the Information
Vauxhall Land Developments (Private) Limited
as a result of an expiry of claimable periods Technology and Plantation Services sectors,
(VLDL), an entity which owns a prime plot of
and an impairment on notional tax credits of together, recorded a recurring EBITDA of
land on Vauxhall Street, Colombo, by acquiring
the business. Rs.3.08 billion in 2020/21, which is a significant
a further 26.7 per cent equity stake from Finlays
increase over the recurring EBITDA of the
Colombo Limited (FCL) for a consideration
Whilst revenue at NTB was impacted by the previous financial year [2019/20: Rs.1.29
of Rs.5.98 billion. The Group has committed
slowdown in demand for credit, the sharp billion]. The increase in profitability is mainly
to acquiring the balance 13.3 per cent equity
reduction in interest rates and the impact attributable to the increase in interest
stake from FCL for Rs.2.99 billion on or before
of the moratorium loan portfolio, the Bank income on account of higher cash and cash
24 September 2021, post which VLDL would
recorded an increase in profits driven by equivalents at the Holding Company due to
become a fully owned subsidiary of the Group.
focused recovery efforts, cost management the drawdown of the IFC loan as stated before,
The contiguous 9.38-acre property is one of
strategies and higher investment income. although the impact to PBT was negligible
the largest privately held land extents in central
The Bank also benefited from the removal due to a corresponding increase in interest
Colombo and is within a proposed zoning area
of the debt repayment levy, which was in expense stemming from the borrowing.
identified under the Beira Lake Development
place in the previous year. While impairment The PBT of the Holding Company was also
Plan of the Urban Development Authority
increased during the year, a concerted effort positively impacted by a foreign currency
(UDA). This property is a part of the Group's
on collections and recoveries together with exchange gain on its net USD denominated
land banking strategy, where strategic land
a focus on return-based credit growth has cash holdings, on account of a depreciation
parcels were identified in order to capitalise
ensured that the performance of the Bank has of the USD/LKR exchange rate against the
on opportunities arising in the real estate
seen positive momentum. previous year.
and property development industry. With the
acquisition of VLDL, the Group is of the view that
the existing land bank is adequate to sustain a John Keells Stock Brokers recorded an
steady pipeline of projects in the long-term. encouraging performance on the back of a
strong recovery in activity in the Colombo Stock
Exchange towards the latter part of the year.
The residential apartment and
office towers are expected to
be handed over, on a staggered RECURRING EBITDA RECURRING EBITDA
With business activity rebounding towards the The Corporate Governance Commentary and the Capital Management Review sections of this
fourth quarter of the year under review, OCTAVE Report explain in further detail the best practices, policies and procedures that are in place to
continued to develop, pilot and roll out a series ensure that John Keells is 'More Than Just a Work Place'.
of use cases within these industry groups.
Although it is premature to fully assess the ONE JKH and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Initiative
impact of these interventions, I am pleased to
During the year under review, the Group joined the UN Global Compact's 'Target Gender Equality'
state that the preliminary results are extremely
programme which focuses on increasing women's representation and leadership in business, not
encouraging where the anticipated benefits are
only in the workplace but also in our value-chain and community. The Group also instituted a
incorporated into future budget plans as well.
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DE&I) programme towards increasing the diversity of our workforce
and making our workplaces more inclusive and launched the 'ONE JKH' brand in September
Continuing this momentum, OCTAVE also
2020 to consolidate its efforts to increase the diversity metrics across the organisation. Some key
commenced work on use cases in the
initiatives in DE&I include employer supported childcare, increasing women in non-traditional
Beverages business of the Consumer Foods
roles, women centric training and launching of the Group Policy. The Group established a goal of
industry group and is expected to extend its
increasing women in the workforce up to 40 per cent by the end of 2025/26, as a step towards
efforts to the Frozen Confectionery business in
achieving gender parity in the workforce.
the ensuing year. Data governance practices
which were institutionalised across the
Supermarket and Insurance businesses were GOVERNANCE
extended to the Consumer Foods industry I am pleased to state that there were no departures from any of the provisions of the Code
group during the year, with defined roles being of Business Conduct and Ethics of the Code of Best Practice of Corporate Governance, jointly
staffed by trained resources and milestones set advocated by the Securities and Exchange Commission of Sri Lanka and the Institute of Chartered
for governing data domains of the businesses. Accountants of Sri Lanka. I also wish to affirm our commitment to upholding Group policies, where
emphasis is placed on ethical and legal dealings, zero tolerance for corruption, bribery and any
Progress made during the year displayed form of harassment or discrimination in our workplace and any work-related situations.
that meaningful value can be unlocked by
leveraging the large volume and rich variety of During the year under review, several initiatives were undertaken to further strengthen the Group's
data across the Group in delivering advanced governance framework and controls. Given the continuation of 'work from home' arrangements
analytics solutions to traditional business at most businesses, the Group augmented data classification and management while migrating
challenges. Further the growth in capability applications to the cloud and adopting digital platforms. The Group also introduced an improved
of the team at OCTAVE has helped set the and augmented Agile Working Policy to facilitate the current working arrangements with greater
foundations of a sound advanced analytics clarity, ensuring a higher degree of employee involvement and flexibility in work arrangements,
practice in the Group. which will help increase retention and motivation of existing employees while expanding the
talent pool and enabling greater participation of women in the workforce. In December, the
Group appointed a new Ombudsperson who is an attorney-at-law by profession, maintaining the
Progress made during the year
independence of the Group's whistle-blower channels.
displayed that meaningful
value can be unlocked by Further details on governance compliance and initiatives and can be found in the Corporate
leveraging the large volume Governance Commentary of this Report.
and rich variety of data across
the Group in delivering
advanced analytics solutions to
traditional business challenges.
15
CHAIRMAN'S MESSAGE
Integrated Reporting The Group maintained a steady performance with respect to key sustainability indicators, despite
This Report has been prepared in the unprecedented circumstances. As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, emissions and resource
conformance with the Integrated Reporting usage were affected due to lower levels of activity in the businesses. Against this backdrop, in
Framework of the International Integrated absolute terms, the Group reported a 15 per cent reduction in its carbon footprint to 82,009
Reporting Council. The Board of Directors and MT and a 7 per cent reduction in its carbon footprint per million rupees of revenue. In absolute
the Group Executive Committee is responsible terms, the Group's water withdrawal reduced by 12 per cent to 1,677,672 cubic meters and water
for ensuring the accuracy and integrity of withdrawn per million rupees of revenue decreased by 3 per cent. Waste generation reduced by
this Annual Report. We confirm, to the best 13 per cent to 6,763 MT. 83 incidences of occupational injuries were recorded during the year.
of our knowledge, the credibility, reliability In addition, this year, with the implementation of the Group's Agile Working Policy, the online
and integrity of the information presented, Learning Management System was utilised to facilitate and encourage remote learning, to ensure
and, in this regard, external assurance has also that training and development needs of its employees continued to be met, with an average of 23
been sought from independent auditors, as hours of training provided per person.
applicable.
I am pleased to note that the Group's commitment to a steady improvement in its sustainability
performance has led towards embarking on a new goal setting process, building on the initial set
SUSTAINABILITY of Group Sustainability Goals concluded in the previous year. This year, goals were established at
This Report discloses the Group's sustainability company or sector level to drive focus and accountability amongst key businesses with material
performance in accordance with the GRI sustainability impacts. This has meant further consolidation of reduction targets in terms of energy
Standards: Core option of reporting and and water, as well as incorporating new and emerging areas of priority such as renewable energy
details its integrated approach to sustainable and plastic reduction.
operating practices, its management
framework and its overall sustainability Plasticcycle
performance over the reporting year.
The Group's social entrepreneurship initiative, 'Plasticcycle', has established a network of over
250 dedicated collection bins to date and collected over 71,000 kgs of post consumption plastic
Despite the challenges of operating within
for recycling. While on-ground activities continue to take place where possible, adhering to
the COVID-19 related restrictions and impacts,
health and safety guidelines, 'Plasticcycle' had shifted its focus to raising community awareness
the Group's well entrenched sustainability
and participation, digitally. As a catalyst in significantly reducing plastic pollution in Sri Lanka,
management framework continued to ensure
'Plasticcycle' entered into a pivotal partnership with Hemas Manufacturing (Private) Limited to
that sustainability considerations remained
further expand its collection network within the Colombo district. A dedicated plastic waste
an integral part of all business operations.
collection and sorting centre is being developed through the joint commitment of 'Plasticcycle',
This framework guides the Group to integrate
Ceylon Cold Stores and 'Zerotrash'.
financial performance alongside efficient
Natural Capital management, through
practices such as conservation of natural CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
resources, emissions management and Notwithstanding the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic throughout the year, the John
responsible waste disposal, while investing in Keells Group remains committed to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), which is an integral
its Human Capital resources, through training part of the Group's business ethos within its triple bottom line approach while staff volunteerism
and development of its diverse employee base is a key component enabling our staff to enrich their personal experiences through community
and maintaining a safe working environment. engagement and service. Our CSR activities continue to be on six focus areas, namely, Education,
This enables the Group to reach beyond its Health, Environment, Livelihood Development, Arts & Culture and Disaster Relief. All projects
own boundary to build upon its considerable undertaken are inspired and sustained by our CSR vision of 'Empowering the Nation for Tomorrow'.
social and relationship capital, through The CSR initiatives of the Group are centrally planned and implemented by John Keells Foundation
ensuring the highest standards of product (JKF) - a company limited by guarantee which is also registered as a 'Voluntary Social Service
stewardship, conducting operations with Organisation' - with the strategic direction of the Group Executive Committee and implementation
the highest levels of ethical standards and and synergistic support of the Group businesses.
supporting its supply chain partners to better
their own sustainability performances. John Keells Holdings is a participant of the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC). The Group's
development activities are aligned to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and national
priorities, ensuring a collective and targeted focus towards addressing key universal needs for the
The Group reported a 7 per holistic development of people, focusing on the three dimensions of sustainable development -
cent reduction in its carbon economic growth, social inclusion and environmental protection.
footprint per million Whilst JKF together with the Group businesses continued to provide COVID-19 aid to frontline
rupees of revenue and a services and affected communities, its CSR plans were reviewed and restructured for practical
3 per cent reduction in implementation within applicable protocols and restrictions and to meet the new requirements
water withdrawn per arising from the pandemic.
million rupees of revenue.
Details are available under the Capital Management Review and Industry Group Review sections of
this Report, while some of the highlights of JKF's work during the year are as follows.
Our CSR activities continue to yy Ranala - a two-month training conducted in collaboration with CCS and the Divisional
Secretariat of Kaduwela for women engaged in producing paper products towards upskilling
be on six focus areas, namely,
them and facilitating market access followed by a grant of seed capital. JKF, with CCS, also
Education, Health, Environment, renovated a clay mixing machine which is expected to support families of the pottery
Livelihood Development, Arts community.
& Culture and Disaster Relief. yy Colombo 2 - with the objective of providing women and men sustainable livelihood
All projects undertaken are opportunities in pursuing food-based enterprises, JKF commenced a programme with
inspired and sustained by our the support of Public Health Inspectors of the Colombo Municipal Council and chefs from
CSR vision of 'Empowering the the 'Cinnamon' Hotels to increase food safety, health and hygiene standards. JKF is also in
discussion with the International Finance Corporation and the Urban Development Authority
Nation for Tomorrow'.
to collaborate on a tourist centric sustainable street market operation in the next financial year.
Disaster Relief Career Skills for University Undergraduates and School Leavers
JKF's key initiatives to support ongoing efforts yy JKF piloted its first Soft Skills webinar aimed at enhancing employability of undergraduates. 388
to combat COVID-19 in collaboration with students participated in the 3 workshops that took place over the course of three weeks.
Group businesses:
Project WAVE (Working Against Violence through Education)
yy Donation of Personal Protection Equipment
The following key initiatives were conducted towards addressing gender-based violence (GBV)
(PPE) to five Government hospitals.
and child abuse:
yy Provision of handwashing units to six
schools to support recommencement yy Launch of an e-learning platform in English, Sinhala and Tamil languages for Group staff on
post-lockdown. preventing and addressing gender-based violence, sexual harassment and child abuse under
Project WAVE.
yy Donation of PPE and hand sanitisers to the
Colombo District Secretariat office. yy Staff awareness sessions for a total of 251 Group staff.
yy Distribution of essential food items among yy A public awareness campaign against sexual harassment coinciding with the International Day
disadvantaged communities. for the Elimination of Violence Against Women conducted for the fifth successive year under
the theme 'Break the Silence to End the Violence' comprising a panel discussion featuring
Village Adoption subject experts aired on a premier television channel during prime time and a two-week public
yy The 7-year integrated development awareness campaign through social media and digital screens with a reach of over 991,000
programme in the villages of Iranaipalai persons.
and Puthumathalan in Mullaitivu under the
yy A poster cum social media campaign was launched on child protection to commemorate
Village Adoption Project was concluded
National Children's Day in October 2020 covering 11 schools in the John Keells Praja Shakthi
in August 2020 with the completion and
locations as well as 114 'Keells' outlets and 10 'Cinnamon' hotels. It was also published in English,
public vesting of the anicut constructed to
Sinhala and Tamil via the JKF Facebook page with a reach of over 41,000 Facebook users.
support farm irrigation.
Substance Abuse Prevention Awareness
yy Activities comprising fisher and farmer
livelihood support, skills development, yy JKF launched its Substance Abuse Prevention Awareness project, piloting both capacity
livelihood and school infrastructure, building workshops for teacher counsellors in the Colombo district in collaboration with the
gender and youth empowerment were National Dangerous Drugs Control Board (NDDCB) as well as awareness for pre-school teachers,
implemented with an investment of over parents and Government officials in Hikkaduwa in collaboration with Humedica Lanka and
Rs.45 Million, benefitting 2,035 persons 'Hikka Tranz by Cinnamon', benefitting 216 persons.
during project tenure.
The John Keells Vision Project
John Keells 'Praja Shakthi' yy 11 cataract patients underwent surgeries whilst the School Screening Programme in the
JKF organised several livelihood initiatives Colombo District, a collaboration with the Ministry of Health, was conducted in 15 schools,
(including women's entrepreneurship testing 81 school children and donating 239 spectacles. This long-term collaboration with the
development): Ministry of Health came to a close during this reporting period.
17
CHAIRMAN'S MESSAGE
Kala Pola
yy Due to COVID-19 related restrictions, the 28th edition of Kala Pola was hosted as a month-long
virtual event for the first time, showcasing over 4,000 works by 202 artists and attracting 56,400
visitors with encouraging sales. The event also presented four interactive features targeting
collectors, children, artists and the general public.
yy The online event was followed by a pilot pop-up sale, held within COVID-19 protocols, featuring
25 senior Kala Pola artists.
Our Volunteers
yy Staff volunteers from the Group provided field, online and administrative support in various
CSR projects customised in the reporting year to meet challenges pursuant to the pandemic,
recording a total of over 900 hours by 226 volunteers across the John Keells Group. This number
excludes staff volunteer activities in CSR at the business or sector level.
DIVIDENDS
The Company paid three interim dividends of Rs.0.50 per share, each, in August and December
2020, and March 2021, respectively. Your Board declared a final dividend for 2020/21 of Rs.0.50
per share to be paid on or before 25 June 2021, resulting in a total dividend declared of Rs.2.00
per share for 2020/21. The declaration of this dividend reflects the positive momentum of the
performance of the businesses in the fourth quarter of 2020/21, notwithstanding the impacts
of the current outbreak and the cash generation capability of the Group's diverse portfolio of
businesses, despite the continued impacts on the Leisure business on the overall performance of
the Group.
The Group will follow its dividend policy which corresponds with growth in profits, whilst ensuring
that the Company maintains adequate funds to ensure business continuity, particularly given the
prevailing challenging circumstances, and fund its pipeline of strategic investments such as the
WCT project.
CONCLUSION
The recent outbreak of COVID-19 cases in Sri Lanka has resulted in short-term uncertainty,
although the business impact, at this juncture, for most Group businesses, excluding Leisure, is
not as significant as witnessed with the previous outbreaks. Whilst it is premature to ascertain
the scale of the restrictions that may follow due to this outbreak, the Group remains positive of
the underlying fundamentals of the industry groups in which it operates and expects a similar
recovery to the traction observed in the second and fourth quarters of 2020/21 once isolation
measures are eased.
In conclusion, on behalf of the Board of Directors and all employees of the John Keells Group,
I thank all our stakeholders for the support extended to the Group during the year. I also wish
to thank all staff of the John Keells Group for their unstinted commitment, understanding and
cooperation throughout an extremely challenging year.
Finally, I thank my colleagues on the Board and the Group Executive Committee for their valuable
guidance and support during the year.
Krishan Balendra
Chairman
24 May 2021
INVESTOR RELATIONS
GROUP HIGHLIGHTS
The ensuing section details the key highlights of the
year under review, followed by an overview of the
key verticals, its industry potential, outlook and the
initiatives that are undertaken to drive growth.
The JKH Investor Presentations are available on the Corporate Website to provide easier access and in-depth
detail of the operational performance of the Group.
www.keells.com/investor-presentation
Performance Highlights
Group Full Year Q4
RECOVERY MOMENTUM
(Rs.million) 2020/21 2019/20 2018/19 2020/21 2019/20 EXCLUDING LEISURE
Revenue - consolidated 127,676 138,956 135,456 38,816 36,868 With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic,
Profit before interest and tax (EBIT) 7,931 13,521 18,153 5,224 5,025 Group performance in the year under
Profit before interest, tax, depreciation review was impacted, particularly in
and amortisation (EBITDA) 15,609 20,188 23,903 7,206 6,971 the first quarter. However, the Group
Profit before tax (PBT) 5,445 12,403 17,379 5,720 5,339 witnessed a faster than anticipated
Profit after tax (PAT) 3,951 9,741 15,001 4,857 4,048 recovery momentum with the
Profit attributable to shareholders 4,772 9,414 14,254 4,757 3,733 performance of most businesses, except
for the Leisure industry group, reaching
Key operational and financial highlights of our performance during the year under review.
pre COVID-19 levels with business activity
yy The Group witnessed a faster than anticipated recovery momentum with the performance and consumer trends being near normal
of most businesses reaching pre COVID-19 levels with business activity and consumer trends by the end of the financial year.
being near normal by the end of the financial year.
GROUP REVENUE, EXCL. EQUITY
yy Excluding Leisure, Group recurring EBITDA increased by 8 per cent to Rs.19.16 billion [2019/20: ACCOUNTED INVESTEES
Rs.17.76 billion].
yy A consortium consisting of Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Limited (APSEZ) and JKH, Rs.122.32bn
1%
in the capacity as the local partner, received a letter of intent (LOI) to develop and operate the 2019/20: Rs.121.36bn
West Container Terminal at the Port of Colombo as a public private partnership (PPP) project.
yy The Supermarket business witnessed a sharp quarter-on-quarter recovery momentum in sales, RECURRING EBITDA
with the fourth quarter same store sales recovering to pre COVID-19 levels.
Rs.19.16bn
yy The Consumer Foods business recorded a strong recovery during the year, particularly the 8%
2019/20: Rs.17.76bn
performance of the Frozen Confectionery business. The Frozen Confectionery business
recorded its highest monthly sales volume in March 2021 in the history of its operations. RECURRING PBT
Rs.13.95bn
yy Whilst the opening of the airports is expected to augur well for reviving the tourism industry in
Sri Lanka and the Maldives, the performance of the Leisure business will largely depend on the
1%
pace of revival of regional and global travel, when travellers regain confidence, particularly with 2019/20: Rs.13.85bn
the vaccination drives in many countries. The performance of the Maldivian Resorts and the
momentum of forward bookings have been very encouraging. RECURRING PAT
yy With the completion of one residential apartment and the commercial tower at 'Cinnamon Life', Rs.11.53bn
the hand-over process of the units will commence, on a staggered basis, from the first quarter 3%
2019/20: Rs.11.19bn
of 2021/22 onwards, resulting in the recognition of revenue and profits from 'Cinnamon Life'.
Project completion is scheduled for the first quarter of 2022/23. RECURRING PAT ATTRIBUTABLE TO
yy The Insurance business recorded double digit growth in gross written premiums during EQUITY HOLDERS
the year driven by an encouraging increase in regular new business premiums. The Banking
business recorded an increase in profitability driven by focused recovery efforts, cost
Rs.10.96bn
3%
management initiatives and higher investment income. 2019/20: Rs.10.63bn
19
INVESTOR RELATIONS
GROUP HIGHLIGHTS
yy During the year under review, the Company paid three interim dividends of Rs.0.50 per
Distributions to Shareholders and share, each, in August and December 2020, and March 2021.
Payout Ratio
(Rs.bn) (%) yy A final dividend for 2020/21 of Rs.0.50 per share is declared to be paid in June 2021,
reflecting the positive momentum of the performance of the businesses in the fourth
10 60
54 quarter of 2020/21, notwithstanding the impacts of the current outbreak on the cash
40 49
8 45 50 generation capability of the Group's diverse portfolio of businesses and the continued
41 impact of the Leisure businesses on the overall performance of the Group.
40
6
30 yy The total dividend declared per share for the financial year 2020/21 amounted to Rs.2.00
4 per share [2019/20: Rs.2.50 per share].
20
2 yy The Group will follow its dividend policy which corresponds with growth in profits, whilst
10
7.3 8.3 8.2 4.6 2.0 ensuring that the Company maintains adequate funds to ensure business continuity,
0 0 particularly given the prevailing challenging circumstances, and fund its pipeline of
FY17 FY18 FY19 FY20 FY21
strategic investments.
Dividend paid Dividend payout
yy The Group businesses were significantly impacted in Q1 due to the lockdown implemented to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 from March 2020
onwards.
yy Post the easing of restrictions from mid-May 2020 onwards, Group businesses, with the exception of Leisure, displayed a faster than anticipated
recovery momentum in Q2.
yy The outbreak of the second wave of COVID-19 in early October 2020 and the resultant restrictions imposed caused a slowdown in business activity
and dampened consumer sentiment, although less pronounced than originally witnessed in the first lockdown. The subsequent gradual easing of
restrictions enabled the businesses across the Group to recover to near normal levels by the end of Q3.
yy The recovery momentum continued during Q4, with Group businesses, with the exception of Leisure, demonstrating a strong performance,
particularly on the back of improved consumer sentiment.
yy For comparative purposes, it should be noted that operations in March 2020 were disrupted for a period of 2 weeks with the onset of the pandemic
in the country.
Transportation 395 929 930 1,356 (63) (16) (28) 47 3,610 4,375 (17)
Consumer Foods 487 953 605 1,276 (42) 30 (16) 15 3,321 3,408 (3)
Retail 502 1,373 1,696 1,952 (52) 34 8 32 5,523 5,108 8
Leisure (1,461) (1,187) (1,008) 84 (335) (1,163) (258) (96) (3,572) 2,327 (253)
Property (29) (12) 14 10 (162) (128) (57) (98) (17) 641 (103)
Financial Services 537 652 1,300 1,156 23 16 12 39 3,645 2,988 22
Other, incl. Information Technology and
Plantation Services 371 608 748 1,373 (24) 39 242 606 3,100 1,340 131
Group 802 3,316 4,285 7,206 (78) (18) (24) 3 15,609 20,188 (23)
Group, excl. Leisure 2,263 4,503 5,293 7,123 (42) 15 6 41 19,182 17,860 7
Economic Value
Distributed OPERATING EMPLOYEE WAGES AND PAYMENTS TO PROVIDERS
COSTS BENEFITS OF FUNDS
Rs.134,939mn
2019/20: Rs.137,931mn Rs.109,977mn Rs.15,342mn Rs.6,419mn
2019/20: Rs.110,817mn 2019/20: Rs.15,805mn 2019/20: Rs.8,003mn
*Includes interest income from life insurance policyholder funds at Union Assurance PLC.
GOVERNANCE
Shareholding Structure
(%)
RESILIENCE IN INVESTING
37 yy The Group has been on an investment heavy cycle, where significant capital has been
deployed in our Group businesses which paves the way for transformative growth into
99%
the future.
free-float
yy However, despite the unprecedented events over the last two years, which significantly
63
impacted the performance of the portfolio, these investments have continued steadfastly,
demonstrating the Group's 'resilience in investing'. These investments include;
yy The iconic 'Cinnamon Life' project – this investment is poised to realise the benefits
Domestic Foreign
from the commencement of operations from the ensuing year onwards.
yy Doubling of the number of Supermarket outlets to over 120 outlets in the last three
Board Composition
(%) years, post the roll out of the new brand identity and related initiatives.
yy Significant capacity and capability expansion in the Frozen Confectionery business
29 with the investment in the impulse ice cream factory.
yy Investments in enhancing its efficiencies and capability in businesses such as the
Insurance business.
yy Refurbishing and upgrading its three Maldivian hotels, including the acquisition of
a long-term lease on a new hotel, 'Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives' and re-opening of
71 'Cinnamon Bentota Beach' in Sri Lanka.
yy While these investments had short-term impacts on performance over the last couple of
Executive Directors Independent
years on account of related expenses and disruptions, the longer-term benefits of some of
Non-Executive Directors these investments are now translating to significant performance upside in these businesses,
which are not fully visible in the reported results due to the offsetting impact on account of
Introduced an improved and disruptions given the unprecedented events over the last two years.
augmented Agile Working Policy yy Investments going forward will include the West Container Terminal in the Port of Colombo
to facilitate the current working in partnership with the Adani Group in India, continuing investments towards the outlet
arrangements with greater clarity, expansion at the Supermarket business, enhancing capability in the Frozen Confectionery
ensuring a higher degree of employee business, among others.
involvement and flexibility.
21
INVESTOR RELATIONS
GROUP HIGHLIGHTS
NATURAL CAPITAL
COVID-19 INSIGHT Carbon Footprint (MT) per Rs.million CARBON FOOTPRINT
of Revenue
The Group evaluated the resilience of
the businesses under multiple scenarios,
(Rs.Mn)
82,009 MT 15%
including extreme operating conditions 0.8
0.72 2019/20 96,821 MT
0.69
and continued to proactively evaluate 0.7 0.64
operational and financial health 0.6
measures which included the following: 0.5 WATER WITHDRAWN
19
ENERGY SAVING
18,899 kg
addressing unconscious bias.
yy Establishment of the Group's first Diversity,
11 MT
Equity and Inclusion (DE&I) team. for recycling
HUMAN CAPITAL
25 23 15,000 13,889
Revised Maternity & Paternity
20 18 12,000 leave policies
15 9,000
6,203 TRAINING
10 6,000
5 3,000
315,547 hours
50%
8.0 8.3 4.6 8.0 8.3 4.6 2019/20: 629,844 hours
0 0
2019/20 2020/21 Employees Contractor’s Personnel
INJURIES
ONLINE TRAINING DURING COVID-19 PANDEMIC
Remote learning, e-modules, knowledge sharing series, learning competitions, leadership
83 incidents 30%
development and access to e-books. 2019/20: 118 incidents
2.3 2.3 70
Male Female
~900
Goal to increase female participation
to 40% by 2025/26 226
Number of Volunteers Number of Volunteer Hours
INTELLECTUAL CAPITAL
23
INVESTOR RELATIONS
GROUP HIGHLIGHTS
SUPPLIER ENGAGEMENT
85 Rs.51 Mn
CSR spend
� 72 suppliers engaged through
supplier fora
� Supplier Code of Conduct in place
756,153
Number of people impacted
LIVELIHOOD
EDUCATION HEALTH
DEVELOPMENT
PERSONS BENEFITED PERSONS BENEFITED PERSONS BENEFITED
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
Industry Potential
yy Envisaged capacity enhancements in the POC and shipping lines opting for 'hub and spoke' services
yy A consortium consisting of Adani will spearhead the thrust to establish Colombo as a leading transshipment hub in the region.
Ports and Special Economic Zone yy Expected increase in bunkering market driven by increased storage and infrastructure.
Limited (APSEZ) and JKH, in the yy Growing demand for logistics services through growth in inbound project cargo and other
capacity as the local partner, executed major industries.
a letter of intent (LOI) to develop
and operate the West Container Key Performance Indicators
Terminal at the POC as a public private 2020/21 2019/20 % 2018/19
partnership (PPP) project on a build, SAGT volumes (TEU '000) 1,810 2,066 (12) 2,074
operate and transfer (BOT) basis for a Transshipment: Domestic mix 87:13 81:19 81:19
lease period of 35 years. Port of Colombo volumes (TEU '000) 6,800 7,241 (6) 7,132
yy Lanka Marine Services (LMS) entered Bunkering volume growth (%) (20) (7) 6
into a contract with Sinopec Fuel Warehouse space under management (Sq.ft. '000) 517 318 62 315
Oil Lanka Limited. (SFOL) to supply
bunker fuel in the Port of Hambantota
INSIGHT INTO 2020/21 PERFORMANCE
(POH).
2020/21 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q2 to Q4* Full year
Our Business SAGT volumes (TEU '000) 377 527 439 467 1,433 1,810
yy 42 per cent stake in SAGT – container Port of Colombo volumes (TEU '000) 1,474 1,911 1,665 1,750 5,325 6,800
terminal (capacity of ~2 million TEUs). Bunkering volume growth (%) (30) (28) (18) (21) (17) (20)
yy Leading bunkering services provider. * Excludes the impact of lockdown restrictions in Q1 due to COVID-19.
yy One of the largest cargo and logistics
service providers in the country.
Strategy and Outlook
yy JV with Deutsche post for DHL air express
Immediate to Short-Term
and AP Moller for Maersk Lanka.
yy GSA for KLM Royal Dutch Airlines and Ports, Shipping and Bunkering
Gulf Air. yy Short-term disruptions to industry demand possible on the back of the COVID-19 crisis in India
yy Warehousing and supply chain management. as several ports globally have barred the entry of vessels which have called at South Asian ports,
yy Domestic scheduled and charter air taxi including Sri Lanka. While it is premature to assess the impact of these developments, market
operations. expectations are that it will be short-term and that trade volumes will remain resilient.
yy Given that most employees in the Ports business are fully vaccinated, it is unlikely that there
Gwadar will be a serious outbreak of cases disrupting operations.
Bahl Karachi Kolkata
Mumbai Chittagong
Yangon
Logistics and Transportation
Visakhapatnam
Aden Chennai yy Leverage on opportunities arising from increased demand for warehousing and deliveries via
Kochi e-commerce platforms.
Lamu yy Explore prospects for cross business opportunities.
Mombasa yy The continuing impact of reduced tourist arrivals, passenger traffic, travel restrictions and
Dar es Salaam dampened consumer sentiment is expected to impact the Airline businesses.
Medium to Long-Term
The Port of Colombo (POC) is strategically Ports, Shipping and Bunkering
positioned on the main East-West shipping routes.
yy Anticipated growth in regional and global economies coupled with a rebound in the
domestic economy is expected to facilitate a growth in overall volumes in the POC.
yy Focus on improving transshipment: Domestic TEU mix to optimise profitability.
SOUTH HARBOUR yy Continue to explore opportunities arising from the Ports of Colombo, Hambantota and
DEVELOPMENT
Trincomalee, particularly in relation to bunkering and storage.
CURRENT
WCT West East HARBOUR
Terminal Terminal ECT Logistics and Transportation
JCT
yy Explore opportunities arising from the anticipated growth in regional and domestic trading
SAGT
activity, and ongoing infrastructure developments in the country.
CICT
yy Optimise cost and operational efficiencies through emphasis on digitisation initiatives.
yy Recovery in tourism is expected to improve performance of the Airline segment.
South Terminal
CONSUMER FOODS
Revenue Mix
Beverages:FC
Volume Mix
Impulse:Bulk
100,000+ Medium to Long-Term
(%) Outlet reach
yy Activity levels are expected to rebound in tandem with
100
52 57 70 70 49 improving consumer confidence and economic activity driven
80
Ice Cream flavours by an accommodative monetary policy.
60 yy Continue to invest in supply chain and augment product
40 48
43 15 portfolio to drive growth in both urban and rural areas.
CSD flavours yy Focus on initiatives aimed at improving product margins across
20 30 30
the portfolio.
0
2019/20 2020/21 2019/20 2020/21 ~2,500 yy Focus on consolidating product portfolio.
Beverages Impulse Total freezers and yy Invest in digitisation, particularly leveraging on data analytics
FC Bulk coolers deployed to optimise cost savings, production practices and productivity,
during the year and identify growth opportunities.
RETAIL
yy Access to diverse categories and brands at attractive yy Operates 'Nexus mobile', one of the most successful loyalty programmes in the
prices. country with ~1.4 million active members.
yy Rising per capita income, rapid urbanisation and Office Automation Business
changing consumption patterns.
yy John Keells Office Automation (JKOA) is the authorised distributor for Samsung
smartphones and leading global office automation brands.
Office Automation Business
yy Increased smartphone penetration in the country. Key Performance Indicators
yy Increased digital adoption within the country driven by
Supermarkets (%) 2020/21 2019/20 2018/19
smart mobile devices.
Same store sales growth (8.6) 4.0 2.3
KEY HIGHLIGHTS Same store footfall growth (31.5) 1.8 4.5
Average basket value growth 33.4 2.2 (2.0)
yy The Supermarket business revamped its online EBITDA margin 7.6 8.0 5.4
platform, enabling a more diverse offering and real- PBT margin 0.8 1.7 0.1
time stock availability, amongst other features, to
enable a faster and better shopping experience. Office Automation (%) 2020/21 2019/20 2018/19
yy The Office Automation business recorded a 25 per EBITDA margin 8.9 7.5 5.1
cent growth in volumes in the mobile phone segment PBT margin 9.1 5.1 2.2
reaching a billion rupees in sales during the months of
November and December, for the first time in history.
INSIGHT INTO 2020/21 PERFORMANCE
2020/21 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q2 to Full
Modern Retail Penetration (%) Q4 year
(%)
80 Same store sales (33.1) (1.9) (1.0) 1.5 (0.4) (8.6)
60
Customer footfall (55.3) (17.2) (33.8) (19.1) (23.6) (31.5)
Average basket value 49.7 18.5 49.6 25.5 30.3 33.4
40
The statistics on footfall and basket values are distorted in the short-term due to changes in
20 shopping patterns.
0
Singapore Malaysia Hong Kong Taiwan Thailand Sri Lanka yy Same store sales in the first quarter in the year under review was significantly
impacted by the island-wide lockdown. Revenue was negatively impacted
Source: Central Bank of Sri Lanka, Nomura Research Institute during this period, as most of the outlets remained closed to the public while
online sales could not fully offset this impact.
Sri Lanka Urbanisation vs. Regional Peers yy The easing of restrictions thereafter in mid-May resulted in a recovery in sales
(%)
80 towards pre-lockdown levels in the second quarter.
27
INVESTOR RELATIONS
INDUSTRY GROUP HIGHLIGHTS
LEISURE
Industry Potential
yy Encouraging growth momentum of tourist arrivals to Sri Lanka
(5-year CAGR of 13 per cent – as at CY2018). Velana International
Airport Cinnamon Dhonveli
yy Proximity to India and increased flight connectivity. Trinco Blu by
Cinnamon Maldives
yy Infrastructure led growth driving MICE and corporate tourists. Cinnamon Lodge
Habarana Ellaidhoo Maldives Cinnamon Velifushi
yy Sought after tourist destination in the region, with increased Habarana Village by Cinnamon Maldives
popularity and recognition – centred around its natural diversity and by Cinnamon
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
Cinnamon Bey
Beruwala
yy The Maldivian and the Sri Lankan airports were closed until July
Cinnamon Bentota Cinnamon Wild Yala
2020 and January 2021, respectively. Beach
Hikka Tranz by
Cinnamon
yy Post the opening of the Malé airport, the Maldivian Resorts
segment witnessed an encouraging recovery in occupancy from
Key Performance Indicators
December 2020 onwards. The segment also witnessed an increase
in the average duration of stay in comparison to CY2019. 2020/21 2019/20 2018/19
Colombo Hotels
Our Business Occupancy* (%) 3 34 48
yy 'Cinnamon', a well-established hospitality brand in Sri Lanka and the ARR (USD) 104 100 128
Maldives. EBITDA margin (%) (84.0) 10.5 22.7
yy Diverse product offering based on 'Inspired living'. Sri Lanka Resorts
yy Combined room inventory of 2,556 rooms under management in Occupancy (%) 16 61 80
both Sri Lanka and the Maldives. ARR (USD) 64 78 90
yy Land bank of 125 acres of freehold and 111 acres of leasehold land in EBITDA margin (%) (140.6) 11.4 30.2
key tourism locations.
Maldivian Resorts
yy Leading inbound tour operator.
Occupancy (%) 27** 56 84
ARR (USD) 349 364 320
3 12 Sri Lanka 2,112
EBITDA margin (%) (8.4) 27.0 28.3
Colombo
Hotels
Resort
Hotels Maldives 454
* Excludes 'Cinnamon Red Colombo'.
in Sri Lanka and Rooms under
**Occupancy in Q4 was at 53 per cent.
the Maldives management
PROPERTY
yy Increasing demand for mid-tier housing units within the city. yy Projects developed under the 'Luxe Spaces', 'Metropolitan Spaces'
and 'Suburban Spaces' verticals which cater to the luxury, mid-tier
yy Port City Colombo project, positioning Sri Lanka as a regional
and suburban multi-family housing segments.
financial and trade hub.
yy Construction of the iconic integrated mixed-use development
yy Increased demand for commercial space.
'Cinnamon Life' comprising a 800-room super luxury hotel and
conference centre, a state-of-the-art office complex, luxury residential
342 apartments and a retail mall.
'Tri-Zen' units sold yy Ongoing development of 'Tri-Zen', a 'Metropolitan' development
based on smart living in the heart of the city.
Pre-sales of the 'Cinnamon Life' Residential Towers
yy Land bank:
64% yy Prime land bank of over 36 acres in central Colombo.
of the total area available for sale
yy Developable freehold land of ~25 acres in close proximity to
Colombo city.
yy Over 500-acres of scenic leased land with an 18-hole golf course
with a developable land extent of ~80 acres.
29
INVESTOR RELATIONS
INDUSTRY GROUP HIGHLIGHTS
yy The Group launched its first real estate products under the Victoria
Central
Expressway
Golf course development during Q3, which includes land parcels,
Katunayake
Expressway Kandy town houses and villa developments.
Port City Outer Circular
Colombo Highway yy As a part of the planned Group's land banking strategy, the Group
Ruwanpura
Expressway increased its equity stake at Vauxhall Land Developments (Private)
Southern Limited (VLDL), an entity which owns a 9.38-acre plot of prime
Expressway Hambantota
land on Vauxhall Street, Colombo. With this acquisition, the Group
Matara is of the view that the existing land bank is adequate to sustain a
steady pipeline of projects in the long-term.
Apartment Penetration in Sri Lanka in Comparison to Regional Peers
(%)
100 5
20
30 Strategy and Outlook
80 40 35
45
50 Immediate to Short-Term
60
90
yy Despite the escalation of COVID-19 cases in the country,
95
40 80 construction activity at both 'Tri-Zen' and 'Cinnamon Life' sites
65
60 70 55 are currently continuing, in adherence to stringent regulations.
50
20
yy The business will continue to work closely with contractors to
10
0 manage the impact on the overall projects, its resources and
Greater Singapore Thailand Thailand Malaysia Malaysia India India
Colombo (Central (Outskirts) (Central KL) (Greater KL) (Chennai) (Bangalore) deliverables.
Bangkok)
Apartments Landed houses yy The commissioning of the towers at 'Cinnamon Life' along
with the rest of the complex nearing completion has led to a
Source: Company analysis
significant increase in sales interest.
yy Capitalise on the opportunity of low mortgage rates to drive
Key Performance Indicators
home ownership.
Mall Occupancy (%) 2020/21 2019/20 2018/19
FINANCIAL SERVICES
Banking Industry yy A prolonged outbreak may result in lacklustre credit growth on the
back of reduced consumer spending.
yy Industry loans and advances growth of 11 per cent in calendar
yy Key focus will be to manage collections and recoveries, and selective
year 2020.
return-based loan growth.
yy Advances in technology around customer experience, yy The Bank will proactively look to manage its asset quality which may
disintermediation, delivery channels, and process automations. weaken on back of increased stresses in cash flows of the borrowers.
yy Continue to leverage on its digital platforms and channels, on the back
Our Business of increasing demand for digital infrastructure.
Life Insurance
yy Operating footprint of 75 branches, excluding virtual locations. Medium to Long-Term
yy Agency force of over 3,384. Life Insurance
yy Market share of 13 per cent.
yy Continue to develop innovative insurance products to expand
Banking bancassurance and alternate channels, thereby diversifying its channel mix.
yy Focus on innovation, digitisation and data analytics for higher
yy Branch network of 96 outlets, 111 ATMs and 62 CRMs.
operational efficiencies and better customer insights.
yy Strong online presence.
yy Execute strategies aimed at the continuous improvement of the
yy Sri Lanka's first digital bank, 'FriMi'. agency force.
yy Largest issuer of credit cards in Sri Lanka.
Banking
yy Selectively grow in select verticals whilst leveraging on its strong
customer relationships, and digital offering.
yy Augment its digital infrastructure and processes to ensure better
customer service, innovative solutions and efficiency in operations.
yy Efficient management of credit costs, management of impairment and
preserving credit quality.
31
INVESTOR RELATIONS
INDUSTRY GROUP HIGHLIGHTS
Industry Potential
Information Technology Plantation Services
yy Increased digital adoption within the country and growing yy Sustained growth in global tea consumption with growing
digital literacy. demand for value-added tea.
yy Investment in futuristic technology infrastructure. yy Anticipated growth in demand from Middle Eastern countries.
yy Businesses and operations increasingly adopting digital yy Increased focus on existing as well as new markets, whilst
practices. capitalising on the unique flavour, quality and brand presence
yy Competitive labour force and high-quality services to drive the of 'Ceylon Tea'.
business process outsourcing (BPO) industry.
Our Business
Information Technology Plantation Services
yy Software solutions and consultation services based on Internet yy Leading tea and rubber broker.
of Things (IOT), Robotic Process Automation (RPA) and other yy Operates 7 tea factories producing both CTC and orthodox tea.
digital stack solutions.
yy Manufacturer of low grown teas.
yy Brand presence in Middle East and North Africa (MENA) and Asia
Pacific (APAC) regions as a leading digital solutions provider.
yy Strategic partnerships with SAP, Microsoft and UiPath.
yy BPO service provider with the mandate of driving greater
efficiencies for their clientele. Core focus areas of finance and
accounting, payroll management and data digitisation.
DYNAMIC
33
This Report is prepared in accordance with the Integrated
Reporting Framework of the International Integrated
Reporting Council with an aim of providing our
stakeholders an insightful view of the Group's operations.
The Management Discussion and Analysis (MD&A)
section of this Report consists of the following sections.
External Environment
Entails a discussion of key macro fundamentals, which impacted favourably or unfavourably,
the Group's ability to create value.
Outlook
Provides a discussion on the economic outlook for Sri Lanka for the short, medium and
long-term, the impacts to the businesses and the overall business strategy of the Group.
Share Information
Entails a high-level discussion on the performance of financial markets, both globally and
regionally, followed by a detailed discussion of the JKH share performance. Key disclosures
pertaining to shareholders of JKH, as required by relevant regulators, is also included in
this section.
EXTERNAL ENVIRONMENT
The global economy is estimated to have (3) monetary and financial sector measures, The financial account noted a net outflow
contracted by 3.3 per cent in CY2020 including capital flow management, primarily in lieu of higher foreign outflows,
[CY2019: expansion of 2.3 per cent], given reduction in policy rates and the statutory maturities of International Sovereign Bonds
the unprecedented impacts arising from reserve ratio, together with measures (ISB) and lower FDI. This was offset, to an extent,
the COVID-19 pandemic. Impacts were aimed at easing pressure on the financial by the receipt of the foreign currency term
more pronounced in economies reliant on services sector. financing facility from the China Development
tourism, commodity exports and those with Bank in March 2020, and the SAARCFINANCE
constraints on the agility of monetary and Although general price levels, as swap arrangement by the Reserve Bank of India
fiscal policy response. Proactive interventions demonstrated through headline and core in July 2020. Gross official reserves stood at
by Governments and Central Banks through inflation, exhibited some volatility in CY2020, USD 5.7 billion as at CY2020 [CY2019: USD 7.6
accommodative monetary and fiscal policies inflation remained within mid-single digit billion]. The CBSL entered into a currency swap
to boost economies assisted in curtailing a levels, owing to subdued demand for non- worth the equivalent of USD 1.5 billion with the
deeper contraction for CY2020. essential goods and services on the back People's Bank of China in March 2021 and a loan
of restrictions in movements and COVID-19 agreement for USD 500 million with the China
CY2020 Economic Growth containment measures. Inflationary pressures Development Bank in April 2021.
(%) were more pronounced in the food category.
The exchange rate came under significant
0
The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic pressure during March–April 2020 and the latter
(1) presented significant challenges on the part of 2020. Interventions by the CBSL on the
(1.0)
external front. Restrictions in travel worldwide, domestic foreign exchange market through
(2) coupled with the closure of the country's the supply of foreign currency, execution of
(2.2)
borders for tourists adversely impacted short-term swaps with licensed commercial
(3)
tourism earnings throughout the year. This banks and measures implemented to restrict
(3.3)
was further exacerbated by notable outflows non-essential imports and limit foreign
(3.6)
(4)
from both the Government securities market exchange outflows helped ease the pressure
(5) and the equities market through the Colombo on the exchange rate. Whilst the exchange
(4.7)
Stock Exchange, limited foreign direct rate depreciated by 3 per cent against the
Global Economy
Advanced Economies
Emerging and
Developing Asia
Sri Lanka
investment (FDI) and lower merchandise USD in CY2020, prolonged shortage of foreign
exports on the back of subdued global currency in the market resulted in the exchange
demand. However, merchandising exports rate further depreciating by 7 per cent from
demonstrated a strong rebound, as developed December 2020 to March 2021.
countries also saw recovery in consumer
spend driven by accommodative policy Government debt as at the end of the CY2020
Source: International Monetary Fund World Economic measures in their own markets. Restrictions on stood at Rs.15,117 billion [CY2019: Rs.13,032
Outlook - April 2021, Central Bank of Sri Lanka
imports together with lower oil prices towards billion], which is a debt-to-GDP ratio of 101.0
the first half of the year helped reduce the per cent [CY2019: 86.8 per cent]. Of this, the
Sri Lanka recorded a 3.6 per cent contraction
trade deficit since exports remained resilient, total outstanding foreign debt in rupee terms
in GDP in CY2020, the lowest since its
while worker remittances noted a 5.8 per cent decreased by 5 per cent to Rs.6,052 billion as
independence in 1948, as a result of the
increase in CY2020. at December 2020, while the share of foreign
COVID-19 pandemic, compared to the growth
debt declined marginally to 40 per cent.
of 2.3 per cent recorded in CY2019. The
Government and the Central Bank of Sri Lanka
(CBSL) utilised three types of policy responses Proactive interventions Given a sharp rise in the sovereign debt-to-GDP
ratio, increasing challenges in lieu of external
to contain the overall impact of the COVID-19 by Governments and
debt repayment, significant capital outflows,
pandemic in CY2020; central banks through weakening local currency and liquidity
(1) border control and health and safety accommodative monetary constraints, Fitch Ratings and S&P Global ratings
related measures. and fiscal policies to downgraded Sri Lanka's sovereign rating to
(2) fiscal measures, including moratoria on boost economies assisted 'CCC' from 'B- 'whilst Moody's downgraded the
rating to 'Caa1' from 'B2' with a 'stable' outlook
repayment of loans, concessionary working in curtailing a deeper on the economy. It is pertinent to note that, the
capital facilities for eligible industries and contraction for CY2020. Government honoured all its debt servicing
financial support to low income earners
obligations in CY2020, including the USD 1
and individuals affected by the pandemic.
billion ISB which matured in October 2020.
35
EXTERNAL ENVIRONMENT
Development of economic and social infrastructure by the Government was significantly disrupted Refer the Transportation industry group review
by the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic although construction activities and infrastructure for further details - page 66
development gradually recovered with the removal of the island-wide lockdown in May 2020. The
Government commissioned a new feasibility study for the establishment of a new oil refinery in A more comprehensive discussion of the external
Sapugaskanda under a public-private partnership (PPP). Construction of the Central Expressway environment relevant to the businesses is found
continued during the year. Addressing the long overdue need for capacity enhancement in the POC, in the Industry Group Review section - page 66
the Government decided to proceed with the development of the East Container Terminal (ECT) and
the West Container Terminal (WCT), during the year under review. The development of the ECT will
be implemented by the Sri Lanka Ports Authority while a consortium consisting of Adani Ports and
Special Economic Zone Limited (APSEZ) and JKH, in the capacity as the local partner, executed a letter
of intent (LOI) to develop and operate the WCT as a public private partnership (PPP) project. The WCT
project will be constructed on a build, operate and transfer (BOT) basis for a lease period of 35 years.
The ensuing sections detail the movement of the primary macroeconomic variables during the year under review and the resultant impacts on the
performance of the Group's businesses.
Agriculture Services
recorded moderate growth at 2.1 per cent in
Industries GDP growth CY2020 [CY2019: 7.4 per cent]. Growth was
hampered due to restrictions in movement
Sri Lanka's economy contracted by 3.6 per cent in and subdued consumer spending in light
CY2020 [CY2019: 2.3 per cent growth].
of income uncertainty which resulted in
private consumption expenditure recording
lacklustre growth of 1 per cent whilst
Government consumption expenditure
recorded a 9.8 per cent growth in CY2020.
Inflation
Inflation
(%) Inflation continued to be contained to Inflationary pressures were particularly evident
10 mid-single digits in 2020/21, on the back of in the Consumer Foods industry group, where
subdued demand for non-essential goods price increases in some raw material exerted
8 and services. pressure on margins.
September
October
December
January
February
March
August
Nov-20
Jan-21
May-20
Jul-20
Mar-20
Mar-21
December
January
February
March
November
Exchange Rate
Exchange Rates
(LKR/USD) The LKR/USD exchange rate recorded a The depreciation of the Rupee had a positive
205 3 per cent depreciation in CY2020. The financial impact on the Holding Company,
exchange rate depreciated by a further 7 given its conscious strategy of maintaining a
200 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2020/21. sizeable USD cash holding.
CBSL interventions such as the supply of
195 In addition to implementing foreign exchange
foreign currency liquidity and execution of
short-term FOREX swaps, helped ease the exposure management strategies, the Group
190
pressure. endeavours to maintain, or where relevant,
185 create a 'natural hedge' to manage the volatility
of the foreign exchange markets. Unlike previous
180 years, the Leisure business in Sri Lanka had
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
December
January
February
March
November
37
CAPITAL MANAGEMENT REVIEW
The key inputs of our value creation model are: FINANCIAL AND
Financial and Manufactured MANUFACTURED
Capital CAPITAL
With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic,
Group performance in the year under review
was significantly impacted, particularly that
of the Leisure industry group which did not
demonstrate the same recovery momentum
Intellectual Capital Natural Capital as witnessed in all other key businesses
Key inputs
in the Group. Whilst the impact on overall
of our value
performance was more pronounced during
creation model
periods of lockdown, business momentum
has since recovered significantly across the
quarters, with Group businesses, barring
Leisure, recording an encouraging recovery
by the end of the calendar year 2020. In this
Social and Human Capital
light, whilst the ensuing discussion provides a
Relationship Capital
holistic view on the Group's performance and
key drivers during the year, where relevant,
The sections that follow, detail the means by which each form of Capital is utilised for the insight will be provided on the Group's
execution of the businesses' short, medium and long-term strategies towards generating performance excluding the distortionary
sustainable value to all stakeholders concerned. The sections also detail the performance of the impact of the Leisure businesses to better
Group, under each form of Capital. depict the underlying performance of the
Group.
In addition to the core operations of each of the business units, the Group makes a conscious,
strategic and collective effort to cater to wider societal needs, meaningfully enriching and Revenue
empowering the lives of the surrounding communities via John Keells Foundation (JKF), its
Group revenue recorded a 8 per cent decrease
corporate social responsibility (CSR) entity. The CSR initiatives of the Group represent how the
to Rs.127.68 billion during the year under review
Group's values, corporate culture and operations are intrinsically intertwined and connected to
[2019/20: Rs.138.96 billion]. Whilst challenges
social, economic, environmental and governance concerns. The Group's CSR initiatives are aligned
on the back of the COVID-19 pandemic
to national priorities, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and principles of the UN Global
exerted pressure on revenue growth across
Compact to ensure a collective, targeted focus towards addressing key universal needs for holistic
the Group, the decrease primarily stemmed
development, focusing on the three dimensions of sustainable development - economic growth,
from the Leisure industry group given global
social inclusion and environmental protection.
travel restrictions and the closure of borders
in both Sri Lanka and the Maldives for most
The Group's CSR vision 'Empowering the Nation for Tomorrow' embodies social empowerment
parts of the year. Group revenue, excluding the
and sustainable environmental practices which are fundamental to sustainable growth. The
Leisure industry group increased marginally
Group's CSR initiatives entail medium to long-term, strategic and sustainable projects within a
to Rs.122.32 billion against the previous year
framework of six focus areas, namely, Education, Health, Livelihood Development, Environment,
[2019/20: Rs.121.36 billion].
Arts & Culture and Disaster Relief. Given the integrated nature of this Report, the Group's CSR
initiatives are discussed under the relevant form of Capital.
Revenue emanating from domestic sources
Further business-specific CSR initiatives are found in the Industry Group Review section of this Report and the was Rs.110.07 billion [2019/20: Rs.98.90 billion].
John Keells Foundation website (www.johnkeellsfoundation.com).
Whilst the impact on overall The revenue breakdown across industry groups inclusive of share of associate revenue, is as follows:
performance was more Revenue incl. Equity Accounted Investees (Rs.million) 2020/21 2019/20 %
pronounced during periods Transportation 26,584 33,439 (21)
of lockdown, business Consumer Foods 16,510 17,004 (3)
momentum has since Retail 70,229 64,762 8
recovered significantly across Leisure 5,374 17,754 (70)
the quarters, with Group Property 1,910 1,395 37
Financial Services 20,890 19,675 6
businesses, barring Leisure, Other, incl. Information Technology and Plantation Services 3,949 3,803 4
recording an encouraging Group 145,446 157,833 (8)
recovery by the end of CY2020. Group, excl. Leisure 140,071 140,079 (0)
For a industry group-wise analysis of performance, refer the Industry Group Reviews - page 66
Group revenue, inclusive of equity accounted
investees, decreased by 8 per cent to Rs.145.44
billion [2019/20: Rs.157.83 billion]. Excluding Composition of Revenue incl. Equity Accounted Investees
(%)
the Leisure industry group, the corresponding
48.3
figure stood at Rs.140.07 billion [2019/20: 50
41.0
Rs.140.08 billion].
40
14.4
the Rs.18.88 billion recorded in 2019/20. Whilst 20
12.5
11.4
11.2
10.8
2.7
2.4
1.3
0.9
Insurance Limited positively contributed to 0
Transportation Consumer Foods Retail Leisure Property Financial Services Other, incl.
revenue, this was offset through a notable Information
reduction in revenue at Nations Trust Bank FY20 FY21
Technology
& Plantation Services
(NTB) and South Asia Gateway Terminals
(SAGT). Revenue at NTB was impacted by the
Earnings Before Interest Expense, Tax, Depreciation and Amortisation
slowdown in demand for credit, the sharp
reduction in interest rates and the impact of Group EBITDA decreased by 23 per cent to Rs.15.61 billion during the year under review [2019/20:
the moratorium loan portfolio whilst SAGT Rs.20.19 billion] mainly on account of the Leisure businesses. Excluding the Leisure industry group,
was impacted by lower volumes due to the Group EBITDA increased by 7 per cent to Rs.19.18 billion [2019/20: Rs.17.86 billion] demonstrating the
COVID-19 pandemic, mainly in the first quarter, strong recovery of the businesses and the generation of cash profits by the Group.
as well as a shift in the throughput mix given
import restrictions in the country. Note that EBITDA includes interest income and the share of results of equity accounted investees
which is based on the share of profit after tax but excludes the impact of exchange gains and
losses on its foreign currency denominated debt and cash, to demonstrate the underlying cash
GROUP REVENUE operational performance of businesses.
39
CAPITAL MANAGEMENT REVIEW
FINANCIAL AND MANUFACTURED CAPITAL
35.4
40
EBITDA for the Group and industry groups
25.3
23.1
23.4
21.3
21.7
30
19.9
is not significant. Whilst the EBITDA of the
16.9
14.8
11.5
20
Retail, Financial Services and Other, including
6.6
(22.9)
10 Information Technology and Plantation Services
3.2
(0.1)
0 industry groups recorded an improvement,
-10 EBITDA was impacted by the below:
-20 yy Leisure – due to the impact of the COVID-19
-30 pandemic on global tourism and border
Transportation Consumer Foods Retail Leisure Property Financial Services Other, incl.
Information closures in Sri Lanka and the Maldives.
Technology
FY20 FY21 & Plantation Services yy Transportation – contraction in volume in
the Group's Ports and Shipping business,
In terms of the composition of EBITDA, the Retail industry group was the primary contributor with SAGT, mainly in the first quarter, and a
a 35 per cent contribution, followed by Financial Services and Transportation with a contribution of change in the throughput mix mainly due
23 per cent each. to disruptions in global trade, particularly in
India and China, as a result of the COVID-19
Fair Value Gains/Losses on Investment Property pandemic. The business also became
Fair value gains/losses on investment property (IP) were recorded at a loss of Rs.253 million in liable for income tax from September 2019
2020/21 [2019/20: gain of Rs.573 million], comprising of a loss of Rs.291 million at Property while onwards.
Other, including Information Technology and Plantation Services, Leisure and Consumer Foods yy Consumer Foods – muted volume growth
industry groups recorded marginal gains of Rs.18 million, Rs.16 million and Rs.3.9 million respectively. in the Frozen Confectionery business and
The fair value loss recorded at Property is mainly attributable to 'Crescat', given the closure of the a contraction in volumes in the Beverage
property for refurbishment. Note that fair value gains and losses on IP are non-cash items. business due to supply chain disruptions
caused by the lockdowns and dampened
Recurring EBITDA consumer sentiment on the back of the
The recurring performance analysis entails the removal of one-off impacts in order to demonstrate COVID-19 pandemic, mainly in the first and
the performance of the core operations of the businesses. To this end, fair value gains and losses third quarters of the financial year.
on investment property (IP) have been excluded for all businesses, with the exception of Property.
yy Property – subdued performance of the
As the Group's land banking strategy is aimed at monetising such assets in the medium-term, IP
mall operations due to the COVID-19
gains are reflective of the core operations of the Property industry group. As such, only IP gains
pandemic and impacts on fair value gains/
pertaining to industry groups other than Property, have been adjusted at a Group level.
losses on IP.
Recurring EBITDA for the year under review decreased by 22 per cent to Rs.15.57 billion, compared
For a detailed industry group-wise analysis, refer
to Rs.20.07 billion recorded in the previous year. Excluding the Leisure industry group, recurring the Industry Group Reviews - page 66
EBITDA increased by 8 per cent to Rs.19.16 billion [2019/20: Rs.17.76 billion]. The recurring EBITDA
breakdown for each of the industry groups are given below.
Depreciation and Amortisation
Recurring EBITDA (Rs.million) 2020/21 2019/20 % The depreciation and amortisation expense
for the year stood at Rs.7.99 billion, an increase
Transportation 3,610 4,375 (17)
of 15 per cent against the depreciation for
Consumer Foods 3,318 3,366 (1)
2019/20 at Rs.6.95 billion. The depreciation
Retail 5,523 5,108 8 and amortisation expense also includes the
Leisure (3,588) 2,306 (256) amortisation of lease liabilities as per SLFRS
Property (17) 641 (103) 16 - Leases.
Financial Services 3,645 2,988 22
Other, incl. Information Technology and Plantation Services 3,082 1,286 140 The increase in the depreciation and
Group 15,572 20,069 (22) amortisation expense primarily stems from the:
Group, excl. Leisure 19,160 17,763 8 yy Supermarket business, driven by an
increase in assets on account of the roll out
of 15 new outlets during the year.
The EBITDA of the Retail, Financial Services and Other,
yy Maldivian Resorts segment, stemming
including Information Technology and Plantation Services
from an increase in lease amortisation from
industry groups recorded an improvement. the new property 'Cinnamon Velifushi
Maldives' and 'Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa
Maldives', given full year operation of the
resorts as opposed to the previous year.
Given the unprecedented nature of the pandemic and the resultant volatility of business performance during the year, the
following provides an insight to the performance of the industry groups across the quarters and demonstrates the recovery
trajectory witnessed in Group businesses.
yy The Group businesses were significantly impacted in Q1 due to the lockdown measures implemented to mitigate the spread of the COVID-19
virus from March 2020 onwards.
yy Post the easing of restrictions from mid-May 2020 onwards, Group businesses, with the exception of Leisure, displayed a faster than
anticipated recovery momentum in Q2.
yy Whilst the second wave of the COVID-19 outbreak in early October 2020 caused a slowdown in business activity and dampened consumer
sentiment, the subsequent gradual easing of restrictions enabled the businesses across the Group to recover to near normal levels by the
end of Q3.
yy The recovery momentum continued during Q4, with Group businesses, with the exception of Leisure, demonstrating a strong performance,
particularly on the back of improved consumer sentiment.
Transportation 2,882 3,798 5,206 5,533 (45) (31) (17) (20) 17,418 23,949 (27)
Consumer Foods 2,883 4,786 3,621 5,220 (35) 14 (10) 20 16,510 17,004 (3)
Retail 12,292 17,409 19,832 20,696 (20) 9 14 30 70,229 64,762 8
Leisure 153 1,166 1,367 2,670 (95) (69) (72) (56) 5,356 17,599 (70)
Property 68 111 160 274 (55) (23) (0) 101 612 590 4
Financial Services 2,296 3,787 4,121 3,397 (7) 34 20 33 13,601 11,249 21
Other, incl. Information Technology
and Plantation Services 935 1,063 926 1,026 3 3 (8) 19 3,949 3,803 4
Group 21,508 32,120 35,231 38,816 (32) (4) (5) 5 127,676 138,956 (8)
Group, excl. Leisure 21,355 30,954 33,865 36,146 (25) 4 5 17 122,319 121,357 1
Transportation 395 929 930 1,356 (63) (16) (28) 47 3,610 4,375 (17)
Consumer Foods 487 953 605 1,276 (42) 30 (16) 15 3,321 3,408 (3)
Retail 502 1,373 1,696 1,952 (52) 34 8 32 5,523 5,108 8
Leisure (1,461) (1,187) (1,008) 84 (335) (1,163) (258) (96) (3,572) 2,327 (253)
Property (29) (12) 14 10 (162) (128) (57) (98) (17) 641 (103)
Financial Services 537 652 1,300 1,156 23 16 12 39 3,645 2,988 22
Other, incl. Information Technology and
Plantation Services 371 608 748 1,373 (24) 39 242 606 3,100 1,340 131
Group 802 3,316 4,285 7,206 (78) (18) (24) 3 15,609 20,188 (23)
Group, excl. Leisure 2,263 4,503 5,293 7,123 (42) 15 6 41 19,182 17,860 7
For a detailed industry group-wise analysis refer the Industry Group Reviews - page 66
41
CAPITAL MANAGEMENT REVIEW
FINANCIAL AND MANUFACTURED CAPITAL
Further details on finance income can be found in the Notes to the Financial Statements section of 40
3,000
this Report - page 234 30
2,000
20
Finance Expense
1,000 10
The finance expense, which includes interest expenses of the Group, increased by 48 per cent to
2,635
3,105
4,395
521
436
Rs.4.67 billion, compared to Rs.3.17 billion recorded in 2019/20. The increase in total debt level 0 0
of the Group including lease liabilities, by Rs.72.00 billion to Rs.172.90 billion [2019/20: Rs.100.91 FY17 FY18 FY19 FY20 FY21
billion] primarily contributed to the increase in finance expenses. Finance expense Interest cover
The key reasons that contributed to the increase in finance expense are:
yy Supermarket business – due to funding obtained for the roll out of new outlets. Finance expense incurred
yy Holding Company – on account of obtaining a long-term loan facility of USD 175 million from IFC. under the syndicated
yy Leisure industry group – given the securing of multiple facilities in order to better navigate project development
through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. facility of 'Cinnamon Life'
is capitalised as work-in-
In terms of composition, the largest contributor to finance expense was the Retail industry group,
progress, in accordance
accounting for 36 per cent of total finance expense, followed by Other, including Information
Technology and Plantation Services and Leisure at 27 per cent and 26 per cent, respectively. with the Group accounting
policy, and in keeping with
Composition of Finance Expense accounting standards,
(%)
under other non-current
assets.
53.8
60
50
36.0
40
27.4
25.6
30
21.2
20
10.6
7.3
5.9
10
4.2
3.2
1.9
1.7
1.0
0.4
0
Transportation Consumer Foods Retail Leisure Property Financial Services Other, incl.
Information
Technology
FY20 FY21 & Plantation Services
Taxation
PAT
The Group tax expense decreased by 44 per cent to Rs.1.49 billion during the year under review
[2019/20: Rs.2.66 billion]. The Group tax expense primarily comprises of a current tax charge of
Rs.2.17 billion and a deferred tax reversal of Rs.793 million. Rs.3.95bn
59%
2019/20: Rs.9.74 bn
The effective tax rate (ETR) on Group profits increased to 27 per cent [2019/20: 21 per cent].
yy The decrease in the tax expense is primarily attributable to the subdued performance of Group PAT EXCL. LEISURE
Rs.11.55bn
businesses, particularly the Leisure industry group.
yy Although PBT of the Life Insurance business remained steady against the previous year, the
2%
business recorded a higher tax expense in 2020/21 which impacted profitability. This was 2019/20: Rs.11.29 bn
driven by:
yy An increase in the tax expense as a result of an expiry of claimable periods.
yy An impairment on notional tax credits of the business. Non-Controlling Interests (NCI)
PAT attributable to shareholders with NCI
Other, including Information Technology and Plantation Services, Financial Services and Retail were
stood at a loss of Rs.821 million in 2020/21
the highest contributors to the Group tax expense with Rs.935 million, Rs.863 million and Rs.249
primarily on account of lower profits in the
million respectively.
Leisure businesses, in which the Group owns
For further details on tax impacts, refer the Notes to the Financial Statements section of
effective stakes of ~80 per cent. A decline
this Report - page 237 in the profitability of the Group's 90 per
cent owned insurance business, UA, also
Profit After Tax contributed to the drop in PAT attributable
to NCI.
The Group profit after taxation (PAT) stood at Rs.3.95 billion for the year under review, a decrease of
59 per cent [2019/20: Rs.9.74 billion]. Excluding the Leisure industry group, Group PAT was Rs.11.55
However, the impact was partially offset by
billion [2019/20: Rs.11.29 billion], an increase of 2 per cent against the previous year.
profitability at Ceylon Cold Stores PLC, which
also includes the Supermarket business.
As indicated in the graph below, the highest contributors to Group PAT were the Transportation,
Financial Services, Other, including Information Technology and Plantation Services and Consumer
PAT Attributable to Equity Holders of
Foods industry groups, with contributions of Rs.3.25 billion [2019/20: Rs.3.96 billion], Rs.2.50 billion
[2019/20: Rs.2.22 billion], Rs.2.36 billion [2019/20: Rs.2.06 billion] and Rs.2.16 billion [2019/20: Rs.1.64 the Parent (Net Profit)
billion], respectively. PAT attributable to equity holders of the Parent
decreased by 49 per cent to Rs.4.77 billion
Excluding fair value gains/losses on investment property, as discussed previously, the recurring [2019/20: 9.41 billion]. The net profit margin of
Group PAT decreased by 59 per cent to Rs.3.91 billion [2019/20: Rs.9.62 billion]. the Group decreased to 3.3 per cent from 6.0
per cent in the previous year. The recurring net
Composition of Group Profit After Tax profit attributable to equity holders decreased
(%) by 49 per cent to Rs.4.74 billion [2019/20:
Rs.9.33 billion], whilst the recurring net profit
82.2
63.2
100
59.6
54.6
39.7
22.8
(192.3)
21.2
16.9
(15.9)
50
11.0
14,254
16,275
4,772
2
0 0
Rs.million 2020/21 2019/20 % FY17 FY18 FY19 FY20 FY21
PAT attributable to equity holders 4,772 9,414 (49) Net profit Net profit margin
Non-controlling interest (NCI) (821) 327 (351)
Group PAT 3,951 9,741 (59)
43
CAPITAL MANAGEMENT REVIEW
FINANCIAL AND MANUFACTURED CAPITAL
Financial Position
Assets Equity and Liabilities
PERFORMANCE OF THE (Rs.mn) (Rs.mn)
HOLDING COMPANY
71,705
172,433
Rs.million 2020/21 2019/20 57,326
125,241 222,102
100,080 91,220 135,894 57,557
Revenue 1,637 1,462 68,408 75,881
Dividend income 8,346 6,368 60,355 16,830 26,872 26,072
Finance income 4,617 3,822 203,362 243,295 273,141 226,157 216,852 204,287
Finance expenses (1,245) (237)
Profit before tax 11,367 9,254 363,797 436,944 536,794 536,794 436,944 363,797
Profit after tax 10,566 8,640 FY19 FY20 FY21 FY21 FY20 FY19
yy Dividend income received from the USD 175 million long-term financing arrangement with the International Finance
businesses of the Group recorded Corporation (IFC)
a 31 per cent increase, particularly In June 2020, the Holding Company entered into a long-term financing agreement with IFC
driven by the Ports and Shipping for USD 175 million to support funding of the Holding Company's investment pipeline. This
sector. Whilst dividends payable in facility is IFC's largest investment to-date in Sri Lanka.
March 2020 were deferred at the
time given the unprecedented The key features of the financing facility are as follows:
nature of the COVID-19 pandemic to yy Rate basis: 6-month LIBOR plus margin of 380 basis points.
ensure better liquidity positions for yy Step-down pricing mechanism: A step-down pricing mechanism to a margin of 355 basis
the businesses, this was subsequently points by March 2024.
up-streamed in 2020/21 upon
yy Tenor: Ten-year tenor till June 2030.
recovery of business performance.
yy Grace period: Four years with capital repayments commencing in December 2024.
yy Finance income, which comprises yy Proceeds will primarily be utilised to fund the Group's expansion of its Supermarket
of both interest income and business, recent investments in hotels in the Maldives and Sri Lanka and for general
exchange gains on the Group's USD corporate investments.
denominated net cash balance,
recorded an increase of 21 per cent, This facility is envisaged to afford the Group the flexibility and agility to fund its investments
primarily due to an increase in the in an optimal manner whilst providing additional support to the Group's liquidity position
interest income by 62 per cent to considering the extended tenor and grace period before capital repayments commence.
Rs.2.96 billion compared to Rs.1.83
billion recorded in the previous year. Whilst the entirety of the loan was drawn down during the year under review resulting in a
This was mainly on account of an steep increase in debt at the Holding Company, the loan did not impact net debt since the cash
increase in cash and cash equivalents balance was also retained at a Holding Company level. The Company also entered into a hedge
in lieu of the USD 175 million long- to fix the interest rate, covering USD 158 million of the loan, thereby eliminating a majority of the
term loan facility from IFC. facility's exposure to interest rate fluctuations. At present, there is no foreign exchange translation
risk on the loan since the cash is retained in foreign currency at the Holding Company.
yy Finance expense, which comprises of
both interest expense and exchange
losses on USD denominated net Group Assets
borrowings, increased by 425 per Group's total assets as at 31 March 2021 stood at Rs.536.79 billion, an increase of Rs.99.85 billion
cent owing to an increase in interest [2019/20: Rs.436.94 billion], mainly on account of an increase in cash and short-term investments
expense, due to the aforementioned at the Holding Company and an increase in non-current financial assets at UA.
loan facility from IFC and other short-
term facilities and overdrafts. Cash in hand and at bank, short-term investments and deposits with a maturity between 1 and
3 years held at the Holding Company increased to Rs.105.43 billion [2019/20: Rs.51.79 billion] on
account of proceeds from the USD 175 million long-term loan facility from IFC at the Holding
Company.
Given the unprecedented challenges and operating conditions arising from the COVID-19
pandemic, in March 2020, Group businesses evaluated the resilience of the businesses under Total assets of Rs.536.79 billion as at
multiple scenarios, including extreme operating conditions. The businesses continued to 31 March 2021
proactively evaluate their operational performance and financial health during the year
under review with many measures implemented from March 2020 onwards.
Funding Channels
yy Adopted weekly dashboards, which cover financial and non-financial KPIs and revised
targets, including monitoring of weekly cash and collections targets.
Shareholder funds
yy Established 'cash war rooms' and 'spend control towers' to critically review each spend 42%
item, prioritise payments, and impose clear reporting metrics. Although such initiatives
were institutionalised primarily in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Group Non-controlling interest
continued to implement select measures to ensure an agile, efficient and productive 3%
business model.
Long-term funding/creditors
yy A freeze on all non-essential capital expenditure.
41%
yy Enforced stringent expense control measures, including a reduction in executive staff
remuneration ranging from 5 to 60 per cent across the Group. Full remuneration was Short-term funding/creditors
reinstated from July 2020 onwards, in tandem with the recovery in performance. 13%
yy Where relevant, Group companies applied for relief measures extended by the
Government and Central Bank which eased the financial position further.
TOTAL ASSETS
Proactive planning and execution of the aforementioned measures enabled the business in
better navigating through these unprecedented challenges.
Rs.536.79bn
23%
Refer Outlook for a detailed discussion - page 134 2019/20: Rs.436.94 bn
45
CAPITAL MANAGEMENT REVIEW
FINANCIAL AND MANUFACTURED CAPITAL
Group Debt/Net Debt translates to ~71 per cent of total debt [2019/20: 65 per cent]. It is pertinent to note that the
Group debt (excluding lease liabilities) exchange rate exposure arising from the 'Cinnamon Life' project is mitigated to an extent as the
amounted to Rs.147.20 billion compared to functional currency of Waterfront Properties (Private) Limited, its project company, is USD. Similarly,
Rs.79.61 billion in 2019/20, while net debt at present, there is no foreign exchange translation risk on the IFC loan since the cash is retained in
increased to Rs.48.71 billion compared to the foreign currency at the Holding Company.
Rs.34.07 billion in 2019/20.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Although Group debt increased significantly Group cash and cash equivalents as at 31 March 2021 stood at Rs.105.43 billion against Rs.51.79
to Rs.147.18 billion, the net debt position of billion in 2019/20; the increase is on account of the reasons outlined previously under the 'Cash
the Group was Rs.77.16 billion due to the Flow' section. Group cash and cash equivalents comprise of Rs.19.43 billion as cash in hand and at
significant cash balances held at the Holding bank, Rs.69.26 billion under short-term investments, and Rs.16.73 billion in deposits with a maturity
Company level. This is largely due to the between 1 and 3 years held at the Holding Company. It is pertinent to note that of this, the life fund
impact on Group debt due to the drawdown at UA amounts to Rs.3.47 billion whilst the restricted regulatory fund at UA amounts to Rs.3.38 billion.
of the IFC loan although there is no impact on
net debt since the cash balance is retained at In terms of the composition of the liquid assets of the Group, Other, including Information
the Holding Company, as outlined previously. Technology and Plantation Services accounted for 67 per cent of cash and cash equivalents, of which
a majority of assets are in the Holding Company, followed by the Financial Services industry group.
The increases in Group debt were primarily
from Other, including Information Technology 2020/21 2019/20
and Plantation Services, Property and Leisure
industry groups with additions of Rs.44.86 Current ratio (times) 2.3 2.1
billion, Rs.17.54 billion and Rs.4.71 billion, Quick ratio (times) 1.6 1.2
respectively. The increase in Group debt, Working capital (Rs.million) 94,786 63,724
excluding leases, are mainly attributable to the Asset turnover (times) 0.3 0.4
following: Capital employed (Rs.million) 415,891 344,631
Total debt* (Rs.million) 147,197 79,615
yy Holding Company - Debt drawdown of
Net debt (cash)* (Rs.million) 48,709 34,075
Rupee and Dollar facilities, in line with the
Debt / equity ratio* (%) 60.6 32.7
planned funding strategy of the Group. This
Net debt (cash) to equity ratio* (%) 20.0 14.0
includes the full drawdown of the USD 175
Long-term debt to total debt* (%) 80.8 64.0
million long-term loan facility from IFC.
Debt / total assets* (%) 27.4 18.2
yy Funding of the ongoing construction of Liabilities to tangible net worth (times) 1.24 0.81
'Cinnamon Life', resulting in an incremental Debt / EBITDA* (times) 9.4 3.9
debt drawdown of Rs.17.61 billion during Net debt / EBITDA* (times) 3.1 1.7
the year.
*Excludes lease liabilities.
yy Incremental borrowings of Rs.3.11 billion
at the Supermarket business, to fund the Key indicators such as the net debt/equity ratio indicate the Group's ability to fund its investment
expansion of outlets and the proposed pipeline, as and when required. While the debt and net debt/EBITDA ratios have deteriorated, it
distribution centre. should be noted this is largely due to the impact on EBITDA due to the pandemic and this should
revert to normalised levels as the recovery momentum on earnings continue.
Both Group debt and net debt excludes lease
liabilities recorded from the adoption of SLFRS It should be noted that a portion of the cash reserves of the Group is earmarked for equity
16 – Leases. Lease liabilities as at 31 March commitments of the 'Cinnamon Life' project, including re-financing of the loan, and other
2021 stood at Rs.25.71 billion, a 21 per cent investments such as the West Container Terminal project. The Group is confident of its ability
increase against last year [2019/20: Rs.21.29 to fund projects, if feasible, and as required, thereby optimising equity returns in the long run.
billion]. Although the current liquidity position of the Group creates space to undertake current and
future investment commitments, the Group will continue to take proactive steps with a view
Where businesses have foreign currency of maintaining a strong balance sheet, particularly considering the volatile macroeconomic
denominated income, borrowings in foreign environment due to the ongoing pandemic.
currency are obtained to take advantage
of the comparatively lower cost of foreign
Statement of Changes in Equity
currency debt. This strategy has been
practiced in the Leisure industry group, in Total equity of the Group as at 31 March 2021 stood at Rs.242.99 billion, [2019/20: Rs.243.72 billion].
particular, where foreign currency receipts are The decrease was primarily in lieu of a decrease in NCI during the year on account of an increase
regularly monitored to proactively evaluate in the Group stake at Vauxhall Land Developments Private Limited, although partially offset by a
the borrowing capacity of the business. profit after tax of Rs.3.95 billion and other comprehensive income of Rs.6.34 billion.
Currently, ~Rs.104.40 billion of overall debt
For a discussion on the ROCE and ROE of the Group, refer Strategy, Resource Allocation and Portfolio
is denominated in foreign currency, which
Management - page 149
NATURAL CAPITAL
The Group strongly believes that a sound Natural Capital management strategy is a vital component of long-term sustainable value creation. As such,
the Group has in place a comprehensive environmental management system which focuses on energy conservation, carbon footprint reduction,
optimisation of water usage, efficient waste management and conservation of biodiversity, as discussed in detail in the ensuing sections.
Notwithstanding the impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic, the Group continued to place
emphasis on replacing its national grid and non-renewable energy with renewable energy usage,
thereby reducing the impact on the Group's carbon footprint. To this end, significant investment in
Carbon footprint reduction
solar energy was made by the Supermarket business, with 10 outlets installing solar panels during from renewable energy
the year, bringing the total number of solar powered outlets to 66. The Consumer Foods industry and initiatives
group also undertook investments in solar energy at its factories.
Tea Smallholder Factories PLC (TSF) fulfilled 69 per cent of its energy requirement through
2020/21: 6,269 MT
renewable energy sources, such as biomass purchased from surrounding communities, thereby 2019/20: 7,419 MT
contributing to only 2 per cent of the Group's carbon footprint. Such practices enable the Group to
reduce its environmental impact and operational costs, whilst also providing means of livelihood
for surrounding communities. Carbon Footprint by Energy Type
(%)
11 3
Renewable energy usage 14
300 0.8
250 0.6
200
0.4
150
0.2
100
50 0.0
FY17 FY18 FY19 FY20 FY21
0
Transportation Consumer Foods Retail Leisure Property Financial Services Other, incl.
Information
Technology ENERGY CONSERVATION EFFORTS
FY19 FY20 FY21 & Plantation Services
The Group seeks to fulfil part of its water requirement from green water sources through rainwater
harvesting and reuse of treated water, where feasible. Given the nature of operations, the Leisure,
Consumer Foods, Retail and Property industry groups account for the highest proportion of water
ADOPT A TREE PROJECT consumed, with over 90 per cent of the Group's water consumed.
As a part of the ongoing environmental
sustainability drive, 119 kumbuk saplings Water Withdrawn by Industry Group
were distributed free-of-charge among (m3 000)
The breakdown of Group water usage is further classified based on fresh water (less than 1,000
total dissolved solids) and other water usage (more than 1,000 total dissolved solids) as shown
below.
15.5 800
700
600
500
43.1
400
31.4
300
200
100
10.0 0
Water Management Surface Ground Sea Third party
Surface water Sea water
water water water water
The Group continues to monitor and Ground water Third party water -
municipality Fresh water Other water
measure usage from all sources such as
ground water, inland surface water bodies,
oceans, and pipe-borne water from the
National Water Supply and Drainage Board.
All water withdrawn by the Group is from
non-water stressed areas.
28%
of treated water is recycled
49
CAPITAL MANAGEMENT REVIEW
NATURAL CAPITAL
10 Further details of how such waste was disposed of, reused and recycled are available in the Industry Group
Review section of the Report along with the plastic reduction and landfill waste reduction goals set by select
businesses for 2025 - page 66
5
51
CAPITAL MANAGEMENT REVIEW
NATURAL CAPITAL
HUMAN CAPITAL
FAUNA AND FLORA
CONSERVATION The Group recognises the vital importance of its employees as a core business asset, and hence, the
Group's management philosophy seeks to maximise value by cultivating engagement, improved
JKF initiated a four-year collaboration
productivity, high calibre talent attraction, retention and employee satisfaction. The Group's
with Ruk Rakaganno (The Tree Society
management systems and processes aim at ensuring a safe working environment with an emphasis
of Sri Lanka) in its undertaking with the
on excellence, innovation and mutually beneficial outcomes to both employees and the Group.
Department of Forest Conservation to
support the restoration of 20 hectares
Priority SDGs under Human Capital
of identified forest land (Suduwalipotha
Forest) in the Ratnapura District that will
Related SDG focus areas the Group is Key highlights for the year:
mimic the adjoining Sinharaja forest, the
working towards:
largest lowland rainforest in Sri Lanka and
a biodiversity hotspot that is designated 4. QUALITY EDUCATION Shift towards learning through
a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. The Continuous investment in employees
online and digital learning platforms
following activities were conducted through learning, development, skill, and
which facilitated the 'work from
home' arrangements during the
during the reporting period: capacity building.
COVID-19 pandemic.
yy A Baseline Ecological Assessment of 5. GENDER EQUALITY
the site by an expert team to facilitate Prioritise gender equity and increase Goal to increase female
female participation and opportunities for participation to 40% by 2025/26.
the purchase of field equipment and
leadership.
plants and to commence clearing the
Health and safety of all internal and
land. 8. DECENT WORK AND external stakeholders associated
yy A joint field visit with representatives
ECONOMIC GROWTH with our operations took
Provision of a safe and healthy work precedence amidst the outbreak
from Ruk Rakaganno and 'Cinnamon
environment for all employees. of the COVID-19 pandemic and
Nature Trails' to assess the need for
stringent procedures were adopted
a Baseline Biodiversity Survey. At the 10. REDUCED INEQUALITIES at all companies.
visit, relevant personnel engaged The Group is an equal opportunity
with the local community on tools employer and does not tolerate The Gender Policy, Agile
and supply of plants, whilst a list of discrimination of any form. Working Policy, Talent
plants available at the nurseries was Management Policy and a
earmarked for the project. Group-wide Mentoring Policy
were formalised during the year.
*Of the Group's total employees, 604 are placed in the Maldives, with the remainder domiciled in Sri Lanka
The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic presented numerous challenges concerning business 'ONE JKH' emphasises our Group's
continuity as organisations were placed in an unprecedented and volatile situation approach towards valuing diversity in our
consequent to the imposition of lockdowns. To address this, the Group developed an workforce and that Life at JKH is inclusive.
agile working response which helped sustain productivity levels whilst minimising risks of Irrespective of our race, religion, gender
community spread. identity, sexual orientation, age, and
Key measures include: ability, at JKH, we are ONE.
yy A new work arrangement protocol centred around business continuity and safety of The colours used in the logo represent:
both employees and community was established to serve as guidance for all Group
Gender Parity | Differently Abled | LGBTIQ
companies. This included agile working guidelines, renewed processes for approval and
safety measures to be followed.
To visually consolidate the Group's
yy Continuous communication updates surrounding key developments and policy changes efforts towards diversity, equity and
to stakeholders by the senior leadership. inclusion, the brand 'ONE JKH' was
yy As part of the COVID-19 Business Continuity Plan, all job roles were scrutinised to launched in September 2020. The
determine the extent of agility presented by each role and steps were taken to facilitate logo is now incorporated into vacancy
necessary work arrangements to warrant business continuity. advertisements to reinforce the Group's
position on non-discrimination and
yy A multitude of virtual engagement initiatives, particularly focused on mental health were
equal opportunity.
launched throughout the year.
During the year under review, the Group concluded its committed initiatives under the
International Finance Corporation's (IFC) 'SheWorks' Sri Lanka partnership, which focused on This year, the Group joined
implementing gender smart solutions with the objective of increasing female participation in the 'Target Gender Equality',
workforce. Continuing from this momentum, the Group also joined 'Target Gender Equality', the the UN Global Compact's
UN Global Compact's accelerated programme towards increasing women's representation and accelerated programme
leadership in business not only in the workplace but also in our value-chain and community.
towards increasing women's
On International Women's Day, the Group announced its commitment to increase female representation and leadership
participation in the employee cadre to 40 per cent by FY2026, as a step towards achieving gender in business.
parity in the workforce. The Group also instituted a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DE&I) team
towards increasing the diversity of our workforce and making are workplaces more inclusive and
launched the 'ONE JKH' brand in September 2020 to consolidate its efforts towards diversity and
inclusion and to increase the diversity metrics across the organisation. Some key initiatives in DE&I
include employer supported childcare, increasing women in non-non-traditional roles, women
centric training and launching of the Group Policy.
Primary research indicates that the adoption of an agile workplace policy has resulted in an
improved work-life balance and will encourage stay-at-home mothers and persons with disability
to participate in the JKH workforce.
The Group also supported the efforts of the 'National Transgender Network' and 'The Grassrooted
Trust' in rolling out a research study to understand the readiness of employers to recruit
transgender individuals at any level or function and the perception of employees towards The Group is committed to increasing the number of
transgender colleagues. The Gender Policy was also formalised during the year under review. women in senior leadership roles.
53
CAPITAL MANAGEMENT REVIEW
HUMAN CAPITAL
55
CAPITAL MANAGEMENT REVIEW
HUMAN CAPITAL
COVID-19 INSIGHT
Employee Benefit Plans
In Sri Lanka, employees are eligible for the Employees' Provident Fund (EPF) and the Employees' Despite restrictions on field-based
Trust Fund (ETF) contributions, while employees who are Maldivian nationals employed in the opportunities due to the COVID-19
Maldives are eligible for the Maldives Retirement Pension Scheme (MRPS) contributions. The total pandemic, 226 staff volunteers engaged
contribution made to the employee trust funds for the reporting year was Rs.174 million (3 per cent in projects undertaken by JKF while
of salary contributed by employer), while the total contribution made to the employee provident over 388 volunteer instances and over
fund was Rs.756 million (12- 20 per cent of salary contributed by employer and 8-15 per cent of 900 hours were recorded during the
salary contributed by employee). In Sri Lanka, employees are also entitled to retirement gratuity. The year under review. Notwithstanding
employee benefit liability as at 31 March 2021 was Rs.2.3 billion. the challenges consequent to the
pandemic, volunteers across the Group
supported JKF to sustain and innovate
planned activities including the conduct
of a wide array of virtual and remote
programmes during the year.
Stringent policies,
practices, trainings and
safety certifications are in
place across businesses and
Group companies closely
monitor, report and follow
up on incidences of injury.
John Keells staff volunteers at various CSR initiatives.
57
CAPITAL MANAGEMENT REVIEW
Related SDGs the Group is working towards: Key highlights for the year:
3. GOOD HEALTH AND WELL-BEING Launch of Skill into Progress (SKIP) programme to upskill
identified suppliers of the Group.
Fostering healthy communities towards enhancing well-being and
productivity.
Launch of a new initiative on Substance Abuse Prevention
4. QUALITY EDUCATION Awareness directly impacting 219 teachers, parents and
Government officials.
Providing better access to educational opportunities towards
enhancing employability and entrepreneurship. Multi-pronged public awareness campaigns focused on
preventing and addressing Gender-based Violence and Child
5. GENDER EQUALITY Abuse, reaching over 1 million people.
Working towards gender empowerment through skill development
and infrastructure enhancement, eliminating all types of violence from Pilot Soft Skills Webinar Series benefiting 388 university
society through awareness and capacity building. students.
6. CLEAN WATER AND SANITATION English language and higher education scholarships benefiting
Supporting communities with essential infrastructure facilities to 197 disadvantaged school children and university students.
enhance access to clean water and sanitation.
Empowering women's livelihoods by upskilling and facilitating
8. DECENT WORK AND ECONOMIC GROWTH market linkages for 12 women engaged in batik craft and 16
Developing sustainable livelihoods through relevant skills, capacity women producing paper products.
and infrastructure enhancement towards building empowered and
sustainable communities.
Initiated a restoration project involving 20 hectares of identified
forest land to grow into a forest habitat that will mimic the
Entrenching sustainability into supply chains, building mutually adjoining Sinharaja forest, a world heritage site.
beneficial relationships and livelihood development.
Kala Pola (Art Fair) was organised as a virtual event spanning
11. SUSTAINABLE CITIES AND COMMUNITIES over a month which showcased 202 artists.
Nurturing the livelihoods of local communities, including artists and
preserving the cultural heritage creation. Proactive COVID-19 relief for affected communities and
frontline workers through the provision of various health and
16. PEACE, JUSTICE AND STRONG INSTITUTIONS safety equipment.
Eliminating violence, especially against women and children through
capacity building and awareness creation. 85 per cent of the Group's purchases were sourced from local
suppliers.
It is pertinent to note that the Group did The Group Initiatives division also reinforces collaborate on a street market concept
not experience either significant fines or any the Group's commitment towards a to empower the surrounding community
environmental levies during the year, aside sustainable value chain by providing while also enhancing the appeal of
from minor product related fines in the Retail functionalities to assess tenders and online Colombo as a destination city.
sector which have been duly addressed and bids for high value items sourced, based on yy With the aim of linking daily wage earners
rectified. social and environmental aspects in addition with employment opportunities, JKF
to price and quality. Conscious of the impacts coordinated job applications resulting in
Of the Group's economic value distributed, of the COVID-19 pandemic on its suppliers, the the hire of one worker at the 'Cinnamon
85 per cent was spent on goods, services Group adopted measures to assist suppliers Life' construction site.
and utilities locally. This is derived based connected to its value chain, as detailed under
on the number of operations, location of the respective Industry Group sections. yy In order to support the livelihoods of
revenue generation and location of significant those engaged in the pottery industry, JKF
operations. During the year, the Group was Social Responsibility together with CCS funded the renovation
able to support community suppliers, many of a clay mixing machine which is expected
The Group firmly believes that community
of whom are small businesses, by spending to support 26 families in Ranala.
engagement, social empowerment and
Rs.5.6 billion mainly on the purchase of fresh environmental sustainability are fundamental
produce through the Consumer Foods and Youth and Child Development
to sustainable growth and generate
Retail industry groups and Sri Lankan Resorts wide-ranging impacts to the basic human yy JKF and 'ChildFund Sri Lanka' agreed
and Colombo Hotels segments. rights and needs of people. to collaborate on developing a Child
Resource Centre (CRC) at the De Mel Park
Product Responsibility CSR FOCUS AREA - LIVELIHOOD Community Centre (previously constructed
The Group is committed to maintaining the DEVELOPMENT and donated by JKF). Following clearance
highest quality in its product and service of planned initiatives with the CMC, two
offering, by adhering to all legal requirements, community meetings were conducted
both local and international. Robust quality with youth in Colombo 02 to assess needs
management processes are in place to ensure and obtain community support.
the highest quality in processes, responsible yy A programme on e-marketing was
marketing and communications and health www.johnkeellsfoundation.com conducted by digital marketing volunteers
and safety of both employees and customers. from the Group benefitting 10 participants
The Group's affiliation with the certification in Ranala.
of ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and OHSAS 18001/ISO
John Keells 'Praja Shakthi'
45001 signifies its commitment in this regard. Gender Empowerment
The ensuing projects were undertaken by
JKF under this business centric community The following programmes were
Supply Chain Management conducted towards promoting women's
empowerment initiative centred around the
The Group extends its sustainability focus to entrepreneurship:
locations of Colombo 02, Hikkaduwa and Ranala:
its value chain, with a view to create, protect
yy A two-day workshop for 10 women
and foster long-term environmental, social and yy Following a needs assessment forum with
engaged in the batik craft in Hikkaduwa
economic value for all stakeholders. To this street vendors and women engaged in
in collaboration with the Academy of
end, its Supplier Code of Conduct mandates catering services in Colombo 02 and in
Design, 'Hikka Tranz by Cinnamon' and the
compliance with laws and regulations as well view of COVID-19 related restrictions in
Divisional Secretariat (DS) of Hikkaduwa.
as adherence to and support of international conducting onsite training programs, JKF
Following the training, a business plan
principles on ethical labour practices, initiated '#KeepItSafe' - an awareness creation
was developed for the production of
human rights, environmental impacts and on food safety and hygiene via a customised
an upmarket range of products and the
other sustainability issues. It is noteworthy video series developed with the support of
launch of a new brand 'Hikka Batiks'. A
to mention that the code was revisited to chefs of 'Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts'.
pilot sale of the first batch of products was
encourage female participation in all facets of
yy A ground assessment was conducted in successfully held in Colombo in April 2021.
the Group's supply chain.
collaboration with Public Health Inspectors
yy A two-month training on producing paper
of the Colombo Municipal Council (CMC) to
The Group constantly invests in educating products with the participation of 16
develop an activity plan towards addressing
and engaging with its suppliers to share best women from the 'Batewela Ranliya Women's
gaps and improving market conditions of
practices on sustainable conduct. During the Society of Ranala' in collaboration with CCS
street vendors. An assessment report along
year under review, the Group engaged with 72 and the Divisional Secretary of Kaduwela.
with recommendations was subsequently
suppliers and also carried out assessments on JKF also provided the participants with the
submitted to CMC and potential collaborative
74 suppliers currently contracted with Group seed capital to purchase raw materials to
action plans are in discussion.
businesses. service new orders which have improved
yy With the objective of providing women substantially since the training. JKF and CCS
and men sustainable livelihood will continue to support these women to
opportunities, JKF and the International increase their capacity and market access
Finance Corporation have agreed to towards becoming independent and self-
sustained entrepreneurs.
59
CAPITAL MANAGEMENT REVIEW
SOCIAL AND RELATIONSHIP CAPITAL
CSR FOCUS AREA - HEALTH yy A poster campaign was organised to commemorate National Children's Day under the
theme, 'Investing in our future means investing in our children'. Posters aimed at raising
public awareness on Child Protection and promoting value based character development
were displayed at 11 John Keells 'Praja Shakthi' schools, 114 'Keells' supermarket outlets and
10 'Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts'. The awareness poster was also promoted on social media
platforms reaching over 41,000 persons.
www.johnkeellsfoundation.com yy The project had a cumulative reach of over 1 million persons during the year.
61
CAPITAL MANAGEMENT REVIEW
SOCIAL AND RELATIONSHIP CAPITAL
yy Despite COVID-19-related restrictions, GT conducted its annual short list event and Gratiaen
Prize event virtually attracting over 16,000 viewers. The online event enabled GT to reach a
www.johnkeellsfoundation.com wider audience within and outside of Sri Lanka while recognising Sri Lankan authors resident in
the country.
yy A weekend event in association with JKF and 'Cinnamon Bentota Beach' was conducted
Kala Pola featuring a poetry reading, travel history, archaeology, geographies, a panel discussion with
'Kala Pola' - Sri Lanka's annual art fair cricket celebrity Kumar Sangakkara and Gratiaen writers, among others. The event attracted
showcasing and promoting visual art - was 90 guests.
conducted online as a month-long event for yy An event was organised in commemoration of Children's Day to encourage young readers.
the first time in its 28-year history owing to 98 children participated in these sessions which featured children's literature by renowned
COVID-19 related restrictions. Conceptualised children's writer Sybil Wettasinghe among others.
by the George Keyt Foundation and funded
and organised by the John Keells Group, the yy An online workshop was successfully held in collaboration with the University of Peradeniya
event was hosted on JKF's digital platform and Seagull School of Publishing, India which also served as a lead up to the H.A.I Goonetileke
(www.srilankanartgallery.com) showcasing Award due to be presented in 2021/22.
over 4,000 works of art from 202 artists. The
event attracted 56,420 visitors during the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MMCA)
month with over 200 pieces of art sold online. JKF continued its primary sponsorship of the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MMCA)
which aims to establish a public museum dedicated to the display, research, collection and
Nations Trust Bank came on board as the conservation of Sri Lankan modern and contemporary art. In view of the restrictions arising due
event's Banking Partner, with an exclusive to COVID-19 during the year, MMCA also focused on initiatives under Education and Livelihood
preview of the online event being offered to development in the realm of art. MMCA's key activities included:
its Private Banking customers.
yy A collaboration with the Department of Fine Arts of the University of Jaffna to develop a series
of online lectures for the final year special degree course.
As a means of enhancing visitor experience
and knowledge creation, the month-long yy Eight final year students from the Department of Art History, University of Jaffna completed a
event featured four interactive events 21-day internship as a continuing study programme, leading on from the Curatorial Practice
including a collector's guide on starting and Course Unit conducted by MMCA.
adding to a collection, a kids' clay and leaf
yy A capacity building programme for G.C.E. Ordinary Level Art teachers for curriculum
printing workshop, a panel discussion on
development under areas of competencies in art curricula, focusing on modern art, theory vs.
digital transformation in the art industry and a
practice and overcoming constraints.
panel discussion with senior 'Kala Pola' artists.
yy Introducing trilingual learning resources on MMCA's website.
As the second phase of the programme, a
yy 10 studio visits during the year, to identify capacity building and other support requirements of
one-day pilot pop-up sale was held at Arcade
local artists.
Independence Square in Colombo featuring
25 senior artists who have been a part of yy Elements of the 'One Hundred Thousand Small Tales' exhibition were transitioned to an online
the event for over 15 years. The pop-up sale platform and with the easing of the lockdown, the exhibition was re-opened to the public in
which was held subject to COVID-19 protocols August 2020.
attracted 978 visitors and generated over
yy Ongoing cataloguing of the George Keyt Collection and Gamini Ratnavira Collection at
Rs.1.5 Mn in estimated sales revenue.
'Cinnamon Lodge Habarana'
yy Entered into an MoU with Orel Corporation (Private) Limited in Sri Lanka, to co-develop an
antimicrobial polymer composite.
yy Explored opportunities, both locally and globally, to commercialise and co-develop JKR's
contemporary rubber graphite composite technology and its wireless energy harvesting
technology.
63
CAPITAL MANAGEMENT REVIEW
Key highlights for JKX during the year under As noted in the 2019/20 JKH Annual Report, work on a series of use cases in the Retail
review are as follows: and Financial Services industry groups yielded promising results, with initial pilot projects
indicating signs of significant value that can be unlocked from translating advanced analytics
yy JKX funded start-ups remained resilient insights into front line business interventions. However, challenges on the back of the
during the first and second waves of the COVID-19 pandemic compelled the Group to review the timing of the roll out of several
COVID-19 pandemic and demonstrated of these identified use cases until such time business operations returned to a level of
growth in business performance relative normalcy, and impact could be meaningfully assessed.
to pre-pandemic levels. Select companies
were also successful in attracting and With business activity rebounding towards the fourth quarter of the year under review,
securing investment from external OCTAVE continued to develop, pilot and roll out a series of use cases within these industry
investors. groups. Although it is premature to fully assess the full impact of these interventions,
yy JKX funded start-ups continued to preliminary results are extremely encouraging where these anticipated benefits are
perform well on local and global incorporated into future budget plans as well.
competitions, with select start-ups
gaining entry to international start-up Continuing this momentum, OCTAVE also commenced work on use cases in the Beverages
accelerator programmes. business of the Consumer Foods industry group and is expected to extend its efforts to the
Frozen Confectionery business in the ensuing year. Data governance practices which were
yy JKX continued to monitor and support institutionalised across the Supermarket and Insurance businesses, were extended to the
its current portfolio of start-ups Consumer Foods industry group during the year, with defined roles being staffed by trained
through funding support, access to the resources and milestones set for governing data domains of the said businesses.
Group networks, support services and
mentoring. The OCTAVE Advanced Analytics Academy which offers in-class room training, online
yy The annual open innovation challenge courses and curated on-the-job learning for each cohort of roles linked to the advanced
for the year under review, was postponed analytics transformation programme, has successfully trained over 80 team members in
to the ensuing year in lieu of challenges the Group in functioning in advanced analytics roles at OCTAVE and within businesses
arising from the COVID-19 pandemic. across the Supermarket and Insurance businesses and the Consumer Foods industry group.
Towards the latter part of the year under review, OCTAVE also commenced independent
development of use cases, with moderate supervision from the global consulting firm. Such
independent implementation and delivery of use cases is aimed towards developing internal
The Group's digital
capability towards sustaining an advanced analytics practice in the Group. The capability of
transformation drive entail the division was reinforced with sustained hiring of advanced analytics professionals during
investments in infrastructure, the year with the staffing of data scientists, data engineers and delivery leads resulting in an
instilling a culture of change increase in the overall headcount at OCTAVE, as envisaged.
acceptance and training of
staff, among others.
65
INDUSTRY GROUP REVIEW
Transportation
yy Marine bunkering and related services under Lanka Marine Services (LMS).
yy Third party logistics (3PL), warehousing, trucking through John Keells Logistics (JKLL).
yy DHL air express in Sri Lanka, a joint venture with Deutsche Post.
yy Representation of multiple on-line and off-line airlines as general sales agents
through Mack Air (MAL) in Sri Lanka.
yy Travel agency and travel related services through Mackinnons Travel (MTL).
yy Domestic scheduled and charter air taxi operations under the brand, 'Cinnamon Air'.
yy Freight forwarding and customs brokerage through Mack International Freight (MIF).
18% 42% 5% 3%
Revenue EBIT Capital Carbon
Employed Footprint
Key Indicators
Inputs (Rs.million) 2020/21 2019/20 % 2018/19
yy Domestic TEU volumes declined by 14 per cent during 2020/21 [2019/20: negative 2 SAGT volumes (TEUs)
per cent] driven by a slowdown in domestic imports, restrictions in imports on select 600,000
yy Transshipment volumes decreased by 4 per cent in 2020/21 [2019/20: 2 per cent]. 400,000
India continued to be the primary transshipment market for Sri Lanka, accounting for 300,000
~70 per cent of volumes.
200,000
yy Domestic:transshipment mix at the POC stood at 16:84 for 2020/21 [2019/20:18:82].
100,000
yy Overall capacity utilisation at the POC was ~85 per cent for 2020/21.
0
Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4
yy Capacity enhancements at the POC: Domestic:Transshipment volumes
FY21 10:90 FY21 11:89 FY21 14:86 FY21 16:84
yy The Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) will implement the development and management FY20 19:81 FY20 19:81 FY20 19:81 FY20 20:80
of the East Container Terminal (ECT). While ECT is still in development, a completed FY2020 FY2021
section opened in late 2020. The first phase of the project features a 450 metre berth
while an additional 600 metres will be added in the second phase at a later date. yy With the outbreak of COVID-19, overall
volumes recorded a decline in excess
yy A consortium consisting of Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Limited of 40 per cent in April 2020. Post the
(APSEZ) and JKH, in the capacity as the local partner, executed a letter of intent easing of the lockdown in mid-May
(LOI) to develop and operate the West Container Terminal (WCT) as a public private 2020 and the resumption in activity
partnership (PPP) project. in India, volumes demonstrated a
recovery trend, recording a decline of
yy The Jaya Container Terminal (JCT) oil bank initiated the construction of a 3,200 MT
~20 per cent by June 2020.
storage tank at its facility in Colombo.
yy The recovery momentum continued
Key Policy and Regulatory Highlights during the second quarter driven by
an increase in transshipment volumes
yy With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in Sri Lanka and the resultant pressures on
by 18 per cent which led to an
the economy, particularly on the currency, the Government imposed temporary import increase in total volumes by 7 per cent.
restrictions on select goods such as vehicles and non-essential items.
yy The resurgence of movement
yy Although restrictions were placed on ship managers and manning agents using restrictions in Sri Lanka in the third
Colombo as a hub for crew movement in June 2020 to contain the spread of COVID-19 in quarter coupled with the brief industrial
the country, these restrictions were subsequently lifted in December 2020. disruption which affected operations
for a few days, impacted volumes.
yy As per the Budget 2021, in order to promote the POC and the Port of Hambantota (POH)
yy Notwithstanding this short-term
as commodity trading hubs in international trading, and to encourage investments in
impact, volumes in the fourth quarter
bonded warehouses and warehouses related to offshore business, such investments were
demonstrated a recovery of 6 per cent
made exempt from all taxes.
against the third quarter of 2020/21.
67
INDUSTRY GROUP REVIEW
TRANSPORTATION
The ensuing productivity and efficiency The WCT, a part of the proposed Colombo Port South Harbour Development, encompasses a
improvement and capacity enhancement deep-water terminal with an alongside depth of 20 metres and annual capacity of ~3.0 million
initiatives were rolled out during the year TEUs. The PPP will be constructed on a build, operate and transfer (BOT) basis for a lease period of
under review. 35 years. This investment will ensure continued long-term exposure to the ports business in the
yy SAGT became the first terminal in Sri Lanka country which augers well for the future of the Group once it materialises.
to collaborate with 'TradeLens', a digital
Mackinnon Mackenzie and Company (Shipping) Limited (MMS) entered into a joint venture agreement
platform using blockchain technology
with Inchcape Shipping Services Group Holdings Limited (Inchcape) in January 2021. Inchcape is the
jointly developed by Maersk Line and
leading maritime services provider and is the largest independent shipping agency network in the
International Business Machines (IBM).
world. The newly formed entity, Inchcape Mackinnon Mackenzie Shipping (Private) Limited will provide
yy Pioneered the implementation of an
world-class shipping and maritime services at all ports and territorial waters in Sri Lanka.
electronic delivery advice (e-DA) enabling
uninterrupted, safe, and faster clearance During the year under review, MMS implemented the 'GAT-ship port call' software as the front-end
of import consignments. This process was system for its shipping agency business with the aim of improving productivity and aiding operations.
further enhanced with the launch of an
electronic payment gateway for faster Maersk discontinued its 'Damco' and 'Safmarine' brands and the corresponding operations were
realisation of payments. integrated under one brand as a part of the 'Stay Ahead 2.0' strategy. The business was also able to
yy To boost yard and gate productivity, the secure a ~20 per cent market share in Sri Lanka for 2020/21. The business also invested in various
business commissioned 46 new terberg digital platforms and products, such as 'customs house broker (CHB) app lite', 'Maersk flow', and
prime movers, 2 forklifts with a capacity of 'TradeLens', with the aim of seamlessly connecting its supply chain.
3 tons each, 3 single lift spreaders, 12 new
40-foot trailers and refurbished 8 rubber
tyred gantry (RTG) cranes to improve
operational efficiency. COVID-19: IMPACT AND MITIGATION – PORTS AND SHIPPING
yy Continued the trailer refurbishment project The global spread of COVID-19 impacted port operations as the contraction in trade led to a
by extending the lifespan of current slowdown in shipping activities, port traffic and maritime trade flows. The businesses within
equipment by 5 years. this segment adopted cost-based strategies and continued to digitise its operations.
yy Commenced repair activities on
Impact
developing the wharf area.
yy Whilst the initial impact on volumes in the POC was from the lockdown in China and
The year under review marked significant India, the subsequent slowdown in global and regional trade impacted the overall
developments for the POC in terms of performance of the POC given reduced vessel calls.
much required capacity enhancements. The yy The imposition of a nationwide lockdown in Sri Lanka further exacerbated this impact,
development of the East Container Terminal given restrictions in movement and challenges in labour which trickled down to delays in
(ECT) will be implemented by the Sri Lanka berthing, sailing, inter-terminal transfer (ITT) delays and a vessel backlog at the POC.
Ports Authority (SLPA). While ECT is still in
yy Although SAGT, in line with the overall market, recorded a decline in throughput driven
development, a completed section opened in
by the imposition of a two-month island-wide curfew, post the easing of the lockdown
late 2020. The first phase of the project features a
in mid-May 2020, activity displayed a faster than expected recovery during the second
450 metre berth while an additional 600 metres
quarter of the year under review. Thereafter, although the isolation of selected high-
will be added in the second phase at a later date.
risk areas due to an outbreak of a cluster in early October 2020 impacted the volume
Concurrently, further to the approval granted momentum, the business recorded a rebound in TEUs handled towards the latter end of
by the Cabinet of Ministers, the consortium the year under review in tandem with the relaxation of isolation measures.
consisting of Adani Ports and Special yy Restrictions imposed on handling foreign crew transfers impacted MMS.
Economic Zone Limited (APSEZ) and JKH in
yy Import restrictions imposed by the Government impacted both SAGT and Maersk.
the capacity as the local partner of APSEZ
executed a Letter of Intent (LOI) in March 2021 yy Delays and deferral in export orders due to lockdowns in key source markets such as
from the Ministry of Ports and Shipping and Europe and USA, adversely impacted export consolidation and air freight forwarding
SLPA, acting on behalf of the Government of revenue at Maersk.
Sri Lanka, to develop and operate the West
Container Terminal (WCT) in the POC as a Measures taken
public private partnership project. yy In addition to the business continuity plans in place, SAGT developed a COVID-19
contingency plan introducing new working hours and rosters.
The newly formed entity, yy Whilst SAGT operated in compliance with COVID-19 protocols of the Government and
Inchcape Mackinnon health authorities, additional measures were also rolled out to ensure the health and
Mackenzie Shipping (Private) safety of staff liaising directly with the ship's crew and port personnel.
Limited will provide world-class yy The businesses rolled out various cash preservation, cost optimisation and productivity
shipping and maritime services enhancement initiatives aimed at better managing its funding position.
at all ports.
68 JOHN KEELLS HOLDINGS PLC | ANNUAL REPORT 2020/21
Group Highlights Management Discussion & Analysis Governance Financial Statements Supplementary Information
The first tanker importing bunker fuel was docked at the POH in early April 2020, to discharge
AWARDS ~25,000 MT of very low sulphur fuel oil (VLSFO) into the Port's newly refurbished tanks. LMS was
the first to enter into a short-term fuel contract with Sinopec Fuels of Lanka (SFOL) for the sale
yy Maersk was ranked within the 'Top 40
and purchase of 20,000 MT of the aforementioned 25,000 MT of cargo imported by SFOL. During
Companies for the Year 2020' by 'Great
the year under review, the business liaised with regulatory authorities to put in place necessary
Place to Work'.
frameworks to allow SFOL to transfer cargo to local bunker players subject to certain conditions.
LMS also supplied 2,500 MT of low sulphur marine gas oil (LSMGO) to a Russian warship 'Boris
Further to the approval Butoma' at the POH, post detailed planning and execution, and under strict deadlines and
granted by the Cabinet of stringent health and safety measures.
Ministers, the consortium
Internalisation of technical and crew management services of both bunker barges of LMS (MT
consisting of Adani Ports
Mahaweli and MT Nilwala) commenced from August 2020 onwards, aiding the business to reduce
and Special Economic Zone vessel management costs. In addition to this, LMS acquired the management of 'MT Kappa Sea',
Limited (APSEZ) and JKH the largest bunker barge in the country with a capacity of 5,000 DWT, owned by SFOL.
in the capacity as the local
partner of APSEZ executed
a Letter of Intent (LOI) in
March 2021 from the Ministry
of Ports and Shipping and
SLPA, acting on behalf of the
Government of Sri Lanka, to
develop and operate the West
Container Terminal (WCT) in
the POC as a public private
partnership project.
Tanker refueled with VLSFO at the POH anchorage via the oil barge 'Kumana' of LMS.
Bunkering
The Bunkering business of the Group, Lanka COVID-19: IMPACT AND MITIGATION - LMS
Marine Services (LMS), remained resilient
during the year under review, despite the The setbacks faced due to the spread of COVID-19 was successfully curtailed by LMS by
numerous challenges faced in light of the proactively implementing various profitability and productivity enhancing mechanisms and
COVID-19 pandemic. The business was efficient cost management strategies.
impacted by a reduction in demand for bunker
fuel on the back of the COVID-19 pandemic Impact
given a reduction in vessel calls which resulted yy At the onset of the pandemic, demand for global oil weakened, resulting in a sharp decline
in a contraction in overall market volumes and in oil prices. Despite this initial impact, bunker demand and stability in base oil prices
exerted pressure on margins. However, the rebounded at a slow pace during the year in tandem with certain countries lifting travel
business proactively rolled out various cost restrictions. However, with the outbreak of subsequent waves of COVID-19 around the
saving and productivity enhancing measures globe, demand noted a deterioration. The subsequent roll out of vaccinations, contributed
to minimise this impact. Such initiatives also to a recovery in oil prices towards the latter end of the year.
aided LMS in addressing fluctuating oil prices yy Continuous discussions were held between the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting
and regional competition. Whilst the overall Countries (OPEC) and non-OPEC countries regarding production cuts, further contributing
decline in bunker volumes in the Sri Lankan to oil price volatility.
market was ~40 per cent, the decline in
yy Competition from Indian ports impacted Colombo bunker volumes leading to a decline in
bunker volumes at LMS was 20 per cent.
vessel calls.
During the year under review, LMS gained a
Measures taken
notable increase in domestic market share
yy LMS maintained a consistent supply of cargo in Colombo amidst the pandemic.
and continued to maintain its overall market
leadership position within the west coast of Sri yy Entered into fixed forward contracts to hedge the business against potential fluctuations
Lanka. Better inventory management, whereby whilst continuing to strengthen customer relationships.
the business was able to consistently import yy Cost efficient marketing and commercial strategies were adopted in order to improve
low sulphur fuel oil (LSFO) and marine gas oil margins.
(MGO) via the chartered tanker at favourable
price points and quantities, helped LMS in yy Various cash management initiatives were rolled out in line with the Group directive.
gaining market traction.
69
INDUSTRY GROUP REVIEW
TRANSPORTATION
yy Remote working conditions and technological advancements led to a decline in yy Early bird offers and discounts
document related courier services. were offered by 'Cinnamon Air' to
stimulate domestic demand.
yy During the first lockdown, the apparel sector which is a key customer segment of the
business was severely impacted. This was subsequently reversed as the apparel sector yy An action plan targeting COVID-19
rebounded with fast turnaround times. safety protocols was rolled out
amongst the crew and frontline
yy Customer payment delays exerted pressure on the liquidity position.
workers at 'Cinnamon Air'.
Measures taken
yy Businesses explored other avenues
yy In order to manage the capacity constraints, the business procured containerised space for cash generation, such as
to store customer consignments. facilitating ad-hoc international
yy The business worked closely with related Government entities to fast-track the clearance cargo operations, Gulf Air online and
of shipments. offline ad-hoc cargo operations, and
seafarer charters at MAL and focus
yy Implemented tailor-made business continuity plans to cater to local conditions.
on new market segments at MTL.
yy Conducted several customer and market surveys to comprehend the impact of COVID-19
and the resulting changes in shipping patterns.
71
INDUSTRY GROUP REVIEW
TRANSPORTATION
*Including share of revenue of equity accounted investees. yy It should be noted that the Bunkering business recorded strong
margin growth in 2019/20, particularly in the third quarter, on
Transportation account of the first-mover advantage of introducing low sulphur fuel
oil (LSFO) to the market.
yy The Group's Bunkering business recorded a 28 per cent decrease in
revenue during the year under review. The reduction in demand for yy Profitability at JKLL was further augmented by cost management
bunker fuel on the back of the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in an 20 and productivity enhancing initiatives which resulted in a 42 per cent
per cent contraction in volumes at LMS. This was exacerbated by a increase in EBITDA.
sharp reduction in oil prices.
yy The Airline businesses recorded a notable contraction in profitability,
yy The Bunkering business accounts for over 93 per cent of the revenue in line with its revenue decline.
composition within the industry group, excluding equity accounted
investees. yy Subdued performance at DHL Keells exerted pressure on the sector's
performance.
yy The Airlines businesses recorded a significant decline in revenue due
to the COVID-19 pandemic and its resultant impacts on global and yy In addition to the factors affecting EBITDA as outlined above, PBT was
domestic travel. also favourably impacted by reduced interest expenses, particularly at
yy The Logistics business recorded a 27 per cent increase in revenue the Bunkering business given the prevailing low interest rate regime
during the year under review, driven by revenue generated from new and lower short-term borrowings.
clients and increased velocity across facilities. The classification of the
business as an essential service provider during periods of lockdown Ports and Shipping
also aided the business in continuing operations with no closures. yy In addition to the EBITDA impact stemming from the revenue
decline, EBITDA of the Port business was further impacted as a result
Ports and Shipping of the business becoming liable for income tax from September
yy The revenue decline in the Ports and Shipping sector is mainly 2019 onwards and due to a brief industrial disruption, which affected
attributable to SAGT, which recorded a volume decline of 12 per cent. operations for a few days in the third quarter of the year under
review.
yy With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, throughput at SAGT was
significantly impacted by the lockdowns in Sri Lanka and India which
Balance Sheet Indicators
affected transshipment volumes. With the easing of restrictions,
the business witnessed a gradual recovery in throughput. Revenue Rs.million 2020/21 2019/20 %
at SAGT was also impacted by a change in the throughput mix on Debt*
account of the continuing import restrictions in place in the country.
Transportation 3,663 4,402 (17)
Ports and Shipping - - -
Rs.million 2020/21 2019/20 %
Total 3,663 4,402 (17)
EBITDA*
*Excludes lease liabilities.
Transportation 1,202 1,503 (20)
Ports and Shipping 2,408 2,872 (16) yy The decrease in debt in the industry group is mainly attributable to
Total 3,610 4,375 (17) a decrease in short-term borrowings at LMS given a contraction in
PBT* working capital.
Transportation 935 1,215 (23) yy Lease liabilities as at 31 March 2021 stood at Rs.164 million [2019/20:
Ports and Shipping 2,408 2,872 (16) Rs.2.3 million]. Total debt including leases stood at Rs.3.83 billion as at
31 March 2021 [2019/20: Rs.4.40 billion].
Total 3,343 4,087 (18)
yy JKLL recorded a 69 per cent increase in debt and lease liabilities,
*Share of results of equity accounted investees are shown net of all taxes. primarily due to the adoption of SLFRS 16 – the accounting standard
on leases.
Natural Capital
The industry group operates within internal efficiency targets and Waste Disposed (Kg)
international benchmarks applicable to the industry. Conducting
operations in an environmentally responsible manner, particularly 2019/20 200,393
through waste and emissions management, are key areas of emphasis
for the businesses. 2020/21 231,229 15%
2020/21 2019/20
Energy and Emissions Management
LMS CO₂ (kg per MT of bunkers sold) 7.0 6.9
Relevance: Financial, regulatory and brand reputation implications JKLL CO₂ (kg per sq.ft. of warehouse managed) 2.2 2.4
Mack Air CO₂ (kg per sq.ft. of office space) 7.9 11.5
Targets and initiatives during the year:
MTL CO₂ (kg per sq.ft. of office space) 0.6 3.7
yy Continuous monitoring of fuel consumption and emissions Cinnamon Air CO₂ (kg per flight hour) 2,984.3 3,827.0
against established international benchmarks.
yy Ongoing analysis of sales routes for route optimisation via the Waste generated per operational intensity factor
Transport Management System at JKLL. 2020/21 2019/20
yy Ongoing replacement of traditional light bulbs with LED bulbs LMS waste generated (kg per MT of bunkers sold) 0.5 0.4
and traditional air conditioner units with energy efficient JKLL waste generated (kg per sq.ft. of 0.4 0.3
inverter-type units at JKLL. warehouse managed)
Waste Management
Talent Management
Relevance: Financial, regulatory and brand reputation implications
Relevance: The need to retain and continuously upgrade skills of
Targets and initiatives during the year:
existing staff, while developing a resource base of
yy Waste generated through bunkering operations was professionals for the country's transportation industry
continuously monitored and disposed through a Marine
Environmental Pollution Authority (MEPA) certified third party. Targets and initiatives during the year:
yy No significant spillages were reported during the year. yy Continuous training and skills development.
73
INDUSTRY GROUP REVIEW
TRANSPORTATION
COVID-19 response
Community Engagement
yy JKLL:
Training per Employee (Hours)
yy prioritised small-scale supplier payments in order to
support supplier cash flows.
2019/20 22
yy extended customer discounts based on the concessions
2020/21 8 64% negotiated with suppliers.
Frozen Confectionery
Bulk | Impulse
yy Wide selection of Frozen Confectionery products, including the premium ice cream
range 'Imorich' and other impulse products such as stick, cone, and cup varieties.
Convenience Foods
yy Processed meat products under the 'Keells-Krest' and 'Elephant House' brands.
yy A range of crumbed and formed meat products under the 'Keells-Krest' brand.
yy Dry range:
yy Instant rice branded 'Ezy rice'; an affordable, easy-to-prepare and ready-to-eat
single serve product.
yy 'Keells-Krest Soya Meat', a plant-based product.
Note: The above products comprise a portfolio of leading consumer brands – all household names -
supported by an established island-wide distribution channel and dedicated sales team.
Key Indicators
Inputs (Rs.million) 2020/21 2019/20 % 2018/19
Total assets 15,914 15,489 3 14,670
Total equity 8,755 8,073 8 7,498
Total debt1 2,546 3,261 (22) 2,982
Capital employed2 11,398 11,426 (0) 10,479
Employees3 1,402 1,480 (5) 1,454
yy Whilst discretionary spending witnessed a rebound post the easing of the lockdown
in mid-May 2020, the isolation of selected high-risk areas due to an outbreak of a INSIGHTS
cluster in early October 2020 impacted sentiment.
CSD Volumes
Index: FY2019 Q1 = 100
yy A notable rebound in discretionary spending was witnessed towards the latter end of
150
the year under review in tandem with the relaxation of isolation measures.
120
yy The LMD-Nielsen Business Confidence Index (BCI) was recorded at 126 points in March
2021, the highest over the last 12 months, placing it 20 points above the average for this 90
period whilst also reaching an all-time average.
60
yy Revisions to Excise (Special Provisions) Duty on sweetened beverages. FY2019 FY2020 FY2021
yy Mineral water, aerated water, and energy drinks – the exempt quantum of sugar
yy Although CSD volumes in the first
contained in such beverages was revised to 6 grams per 200 ml while the duty rate
quarter of the year under review was
was revised to the higher of Rs.12 per litre or 30 cents per gram of added sugar in
significantly affected by the island-
excess of the exempt quantity.
wide curfew, the easing of restrictions
yy Beverages based on fruit and vegetable juice – the exempt quantum of sugar was thereafter in mid-May resulted in a
revised to 9 grams per 100 ml while the duty rate was revised to the higher of Rs.12 faster than expected recovery where
per litre or 30 cents per gram of added sugar, in excess of the exempt quantity in volumes were on par with pre-
August 2020. In October 2020, this was subsequently revised where the exempt lockdown levels by the second quarter.
quantity of sugar was amended to 8 grams per 100 ml while the duty rate was yy This momentum was affected by the
amended to 30 cents per gram. cluster outbreak in early October and
the resultant restrictions imposed,
yy Carbonated beverages – the exempt quantity of sugar was revised to 6 grams per 100
although less pronounced than
ml while the duty rate was revised to the higher of Rs.12 per litre or 30 cents per gram
originally witnessed during the first
of added sugar in excess of the exempt quantity of 6 grams per 100 ml.
lockdown.
yy Introduction of Cess and Duty on tetra packs, at 10 per cent and 15 per cent, respectively. yy Notwithstanding this, the business
witnessed a recovery in volumes in
yy Revision of the ports and airport levy (PAL) to 2.5 per cent on imported milk products, the fourth quarter of 2020/21. It is
including milk powder. encouraging to note that the business
recorded its highest monthly sales
volume in 42 months, in March 2021.
yy Introduction of larger pack sizes aimed at increasing take-home consumption. Volume growth in the first quarter, particularly
yy In line with the Group, various measures aimed at preserving the business's cash flow the Impulse segment, was significantly
position, managing costs, and realigning expenses were rolled out. impacted due to the lockdown across the
country to contain the spread of COVID-19.
Whilst the easing of the lockdown in mid-May
The business noted a change in shopping behaviour of consumers driven by social distancing and resulted in a strong month-on-month recovery
remote working practices where RGB recorded a decline in volumes, which was partially offset by a of volumes, the resurgence of a COVID-19
growth in PET bottles. The PET: RGB mix stood at 86:14 during the year under review in comparison cluster in October 2020 hampered this
to 77:23 in 2019/20. momentum, similar to the Beverage business.
However, the easing of isolation measures
The business continued its diversification strategy of creating a sustainable balance between thereafter aided the business in managing
its CSD and non-CSD segments. Despite the challenging environment, to ensure a sustainable the overall impact on volumes, reaching pre
business in line with evolving consumer behaviour, emphasis was placed on expanding its COVID-19 levels by March 2021.
portfolio offering. In this regard, the business launched the following products:
yy 'Cream Soda Apple Pop', the first extension of the 'Cream Soda' brand. The Frozen Confectionery
yy 2 Litre 'Cream Soda', 'Necto', 'Orange Crush' and 'EGB' mega value packs, a 'value for money' business recorded its highest
proposition. monthly sales volume in
yy 1 Litre 'Twistee Apple' under the fruit juice category of the non-CSD segment. March 2021 in its history of
operations.
The business rolled out its advanced analytics transformation programme where two use cases,
of several well-defined advanced analytics use cases earmarked for the Beverage business, are Performance of the Bulk
currently at a development stage. These use cases focus on improving efficiencies across the
supply chain.
segment outpaced the
Impulse segment driven by
an increase in take-home
consumption as a result of
restrictions in movement.
77
INDUSTRY GROUP REVIEW
CONSUMER FOODS
INSIGHTS
90 Impact
60 yy Operations of factories were halted due to the lockdown imposed in March 2020 until the
end of April 2020. Manufacturing activities commenced thereafter gradually with priority
30 being the health and safety of staff.
0 yy With the resurgence of cases within one of the factories during the second outbreak, the
Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4
business proactively closed one if its facilities for a very brief period in order to contain the
FY2019 FY2020 FY2021 spread of the virus.
yy Performance of the Bulk segment yy Rural penetration plans were implemented to increase outlet base and business footprint.
outpaced the Impulse segment yy Routine mobile operations and door-to-door delivery facilities were made available
driven by an increase in take-home during the lockdown period.
consumption as a result of restrictions
yy Launched products such as the 1 litre and 4 litre family tubs and wonder bar multipack, to
in movement.
cater to the rapid rise in in-home consumption.
yy Volumes in the fourth quarter of the
yy Launched a variety of new products under the Impulse category to maintain momentum
previous financial year were impacted
and customer interest.
by the island-wide lockdown for
~2 weeks in March 2020. yy Rolled out prudent cost management and efficiency improvement initiatives.
2019/20: 53:47 Cups: Choco Nut Vanilla and Strawberry and Vanilla
Tubs and multipacks: Wonder Bar multi pack, Salted Caramel 1 Litre tub, and 4 Litre
Mango ice cream
The operations of the state-of-the-art ice KFP launched its first ever direct-to-consumer route to market (RTM) channel titled 'Meat House' to
cream facility in Seethawaka, was digitally strengthen distribution streams. Further, a new DMS which includes 5S and KAIZEN initiatives were
augmented during the year under review, implemented to increase the operating efficiency of the business.
with the 'Beelive - Connected Factory'
project. This project, introduced with the aim During the year under review, KFP focused on expanding its processed meat distribution and
of interconnecting all isolated plants and exploring new market segments. To this end, the business launched the ensuing products:
machinery to improve the operating efficiency,
yy Two variants of the 'Ezy rice' range, 'Dhaiya rice' and 'Chicken rice' in September 2020.
focuses on using real-time machine data to
monitor the ice cream manufacturing process yy Two sausage ranges - 'Frankie Kids Sausages' and 'Chunky Chicken'.
in order to achieve optimum performance. yy Soya meat range, a plant-based meat substitute, branded under 'Keells-Krest'.
This is accomplished by setting parameters
and KPIs to assess production visibility, energy Preliminary market indications suggest that the products have been well received by the market.
efficiency, machine down time and product
quality, amongst others. Further, the existing
distributor management system (DMS) was
replaced with a new DMS titled 'Surge' with COVID-19: IMPACT AND MITIGATION - CONVENIENCE FOODS
enhanced facilities during the year. The Convenience Foods business proactively rolled out measures aimed at ensuring
seamless product availability whilst also adopting cost saving mechanisms throughout its
AWARDS operations.
Convenience Foods yy Partial shutdown of the HORECA channel due to the lacklustre performance of the
tourism industry which impacted sales.
Keells Food Products (KFP) recorded a 6 per cent
decline in volumes in 2020/21 on account of the yy Supply restrictions in sourcing raw materials.
challenging operating environment. The decline
was primarily attributable to the lacklustre Measures taken
performance of the HORECA channel which was yy The online sales platform titled 'Meat House' was launched in May 2020 to enable the
significantly impacted by minimal activity in the delivery of a wide range of products to consumer doorsteps.
tourism industry on the back of the COVID-19
pandemic. Encouraging growth in retail sausages yy Execution of reward schemes and other focused measures to drive business within the
and meatballs, which stood at 44 per cent and general trade outlets.
20 per cent, respectively, aided the business in yy Whilst KFP operated in accordance with Government health directives, the business
managing the overall volume decline. also rolled out various measures aimed at better managing operations. The business
continued its production and operations without major interruptions during both
The business continued to maintain its
lockdowns.
market leadership position during the year
under review. Modern trade accounted for yy Cost management and spend control measures were proactively rolled out to ensure
37 per cent of volumes, whilst the general minimal impact to the business.
trade and HORECA channels accounted for
40 per cent and 18 per cent, respectively. The
aggressive retail focused drive in the processed
meat category resulted in retail contribution
AWARDS
improving to 27 per cent during the year under
review [2019/20: 17 per cent]. yy KFP in collaboration with the
Industrial Technology Institute of
Given challenging market conditions and
Sri Lanka received the Gold Award
subdued consumer demand on the back of
in the Commercial category for
the COVID-19 pandemic, the performance of
'Ezy rice' by the Sri Lanka Inventors
'Ezy rice' was impacted during the year under
Commission.
review. The introduction of new products
under the dry range segment aided the overall
New product 'Dhaiya rice' launched during the year.
impact of this segment on volumes in the
Convenience Foods business.
79
INDUSTRY GROUP REVIEW
CONSUMER FOODS
yy Lease liabilities as at 31 March 2021 stood at Rs.97 million [2019/20: Material topics and focus areas are as follows:
Rs.92 million]. Total debt including leases stood at Rs.2.64 billion as at
31 March 2021 [2019/20: Rs.3.35 billion].
All operations of the businesses, including supply chain management, yy CCS continued to generate 196,341 kWh of renewable energy
are carried out in accordance with the Group's Environmental policies, in the form of solar power during the year.
whilst adhering to all relevant environmental laws and regulations.
Certification and Awareness
Carbon Footprint (MT) yy CCS obtained the ISO 14001:2015 certification for its
environmental management system.
Frozen Confectionery and Beverages 13,513 MT
yy Training sessions were conducted for employees on the
Convenience Foods 4,106 MT importance of managing adverse environmental impacts.
81
INDUSTRY GROUP REVIEW
CONSUMER FOODS
2020/21 2019/20
Water and Effluents CCS CO2 kg per litre produced 0.1 0.1
KFP CO2 kg per kg of processed meat produced 0.9 0.9
Relevance: Regulatory and brand reputation implications
CICL CO2 kg per litre produced 0.5 0.6
Targets and initiatives during the year:
Water withdrawal per operational intensity factor
Water treatment
2020/21 2019/20
yy Reuse of water for gardening and general cleaning purposes at CCS water withdrawn - litres per litre produced 4.3 4.7
CCS and KFP. KFP water withdrawn - litres per kg of
yy Regular water quality tests to ensure that all effluents meet processed meat produced 20.0 16.9
the requisite water quality standards stipulated in the CICL water withdrawn - litres per litre produced 6.4 8.4
Environmental Protection License (EPL).
Waste generated per operational intensity factor
yy Wastewater at factories was treated through effluent treatment
plants, prior to discharge. 2020/21 2019/20
yy Conducted sludge dewatering at CCS. CCS waste generated - kg per litre produced 0.01 0.01
yy Alignment and monitoring of selected parameters against KFP waste generated - kg per kg of
international benchmarks. processed meat produced 0.13 0.14
CICL waste generated - kg per litre produced 0.01 0.03
yy CCS and KFP obtained ISO 45001:2018 certification for Product Total annual supply Number of
occupational health and safety at the factories. (Kg) farmers
yy Organisational processes were streamlined through continuous
Meat 2,505,541 2,530
monitoring and process improvements to ensure a safe
working environment. Spices 117,373 2,500
yy Regular health and safety trainings were conducted for
employees, which covered aspects such as firefighting, rescue, Cashew nuts 81,875 1,600
first aid, safe chemical handling and food safety.
Vanilla 370 2,600
yy SLSI 1672 certification was obtained for the COVID-19 safety Kithul jaggery 36,000 280
management system.
yy Workplace safety procedures such as screening employees Vegetables 216,030 30
prior to entering the premises, equipping employees with
Treacle 138,225 155
adequate sanitary facilities and transport arrangements were
rolled out. Fresh milk 3,184,984 800
yy Awareness sessions were conducted on health guidelines and
safety precautions. To further enable sustainable value creation, local farmers benefit from
yy 'Work from home' employees were provided with the required guaranteed volumes and price schemes offered by the businesses whilst
facilities to ensure seamless business continuity. being encouraged to adhere to environmentally friendly and efficient
yy Sufficient resources such as isolation rooms were set up to agricultural practices.
cater for infected persons at factories.
Number of Total annual Total annual
yy Conducted awareness sessions addressing the pandemic and farmers supply payment
on positive mindfulness. (Kg'000) (Rs.million)
yy Implemented a transition management programme during the
KFP 5,060 2,839 973
COVID-19 pandemic.
CCS 6,235 3,469 633
yy Conducted random PCR testing for employees on a weekly basis.
The industry group annually assesses significant suppliers to gauge and
rectify any negative sustainability impacts as applicable.
Injuries (Number)
SIGNIFICANT SUPPLIERS
2019/20 19 yy Plastic packaging suppliers
yy Glass bottle suppliers
2020/21 34 79%
yy Dairy suppliers
yy Poultry suppliers
Training (Hours) yy Sugar suppliers
2019/20 27,724
CCS and KFP continued to source ingredients
2020/21 18,267 34% from local farmers, with the aim of improving
sustainable agricultural practices and
It is pertinent to note that majority of the injuries were minor in nature enhancing livelihoods of diverse communities.
and no fatalities were recorded in 2020/21.
83
INDUSTRY GROUP REVIEW
CONSUMER FOODS
Relevance: Engagements with the community to reduce inequality, Relevance: Ensuring a continuous supply of raw material which
enhance livelihoods and build mutually beneficial relationships reduces risk, enhances brand reputation, and benefits local businesses
Targets and initiatives during the year: Targets and initiatives during the year:
John Keells Foundation (JKF) in collaboration with CCS continued CCS and KFP continued to source ingredients from 11,295 local
its business-centric community empowerment initiative, John farmers, with the aim of improving sustainable agricultural
Keells 'Praja Shakthi' in Ranala. Activities organised included: practices and enhancing livelihoods of diverse communities.
yy CCS and JKF donated 500 dry ration packs to low-income KFP
families via the District Secretary of Colombo. yy Continued its sustainable sourcing of poultry, spices, and
yy CCS and KFP donated 475 PPE to Medical Officers of Health vegetables from 5,060 farmers.
(MOH), hospitals and police stations. yy Sourced all ingredients locally, excluding instances of raw
yy In order to facilitate post-lock down resumption of daily material shortage.
activities, CCS supported JKF in installing handwashing stations yy Collaborated with suppliers to manage the impact arising from
in 3 Grama Niladhari (GN) offices, 2 schools in Ranala and the import restrictions, including knowledge sharing on potential
Nawagamuwa police station. risks and risk mitigation.
yy CCS together with John Keells Office Automation donated a
photocopy machine to the MOH office in Kaduwela.
JKF and CCS staff examining the paper cutting machine in Ranala.
Intellectual Capital
The Consumer Foods industry group constantly strives for excellence in
product quality whilst maintaining safety in its production process and
managing its supply chain. The businesses have obtained international
quality standards with assurance renewed annually through third party
verification.
Product quality
85
INDUSTRY GROUP REVIEW
Supermarkets
RETAIL
yy JayKay Marketing Services (Private) Limited (JMSL) operates the 'Keells' chain of
modern retail outlets and the Nexus loyalty programme.
yy 123 outlets across the island as at 31 March 2021.
yy ~1.4 million Nexus loyalty card members.
yy Over ~400 'Keells' private-label products.
yy 7 collection centres across the country working with ~2,000 active farmers.
yy Employment for ~5,700 individuals.
yy Marketplace for ~1,000 large and small-scale suppliers.
Office Automation
yy John Keells Office Automation (JKOA) is the authorised distributor for a variety of
world-class office automation brands.
yy Sole distributor for Toshiba B&W and colour digital multi-function printers
(MFPs) and Print-Now-Pay-Later (PNPL) digital copier rental solutions.
yy National distributor for Samsung smartphones.
yy Authorised distributor for ASUS commercial series notebooks.
yy Other products include laser printers, large format displays (LFD), digital
duplicators, POS systems, receipt and label printers, tabs, accessories, mobiles,
and projectors from a variety of world class brands.
Key Indicators
Inputs (Rs.million) 2020/21 2019/20 % 2018/19
EXTERNAL ENVIRONMENT AND OPERATIONAL REVIEW yy Same store sales in the first quarter in
the year under review was significantly
MACROECONOMIC UPDATE impacted by the island-wide lockdown.
yy Sri Lanka recorded a 3.6 per cent contraction in gross domestic product (GDP) during Revenue was negatively impacted during
CY2020, primarily on account of the COVID-19 outbreak and the resultant impacts. This this period, as most of the outlets remained
was a notable slowdown against the 2.3 per cent growth recorded in CY2019. Whilst GDP closed to the public while online sales
growth was negative in the first half of CY2020, economic activity rebounded, recording a could not fully offset this impact.
1.3 per cent growth, in both the third and fourth quarters of CY2020.
yy The easing of restrictions thereafter in mid-
yy Headline inflation, as measured by the year-on-year change in the National Consumer May resulted in a recovery of sales towards
Price Index (NCPI), was recorded at 4.6 per cent in December 2020 driven by notable pre-lockdown levels in the second quarter.
increases in the food category while the annual average headline inflation was recorded
at 6.2 per cent. yy The cluster outbreak in early October 2020
triggered panic buying which led to an
yy Core inflation stood at 4.7 per cent in December 2020, while annual average core inflation increase in same store sales and average
was recorded at 4.1 per cent. basket value (ABV), despite the decline in
yy Consumer discretionary spending deteriorated significantly during CY2020, due to footfall. The business also witnessed an
worsening economic conditions, unprecedented volatility and dampened consumer and increase in the penetration of online sales
investor sentiment on the back of COVID-19. Whilst discretionary spending witnessed a due to the isolation measures which were
rebound post the easing of the lockdown in mid-May 2020, the isolation of selected high- in place.
risk areas due to an outbreak of a cluster in early October 2020 re-impacted sentiment. A
yy The business recorded a recovery in same
notable rebound in discretionary spending was witnessed towards the latter end of the
store sales, thereafter, driven by growth in
year under review in tandem with the relaxation of isolation measures.
ABV on the back of improved consumer
yy Consumer confidence followed a similar trajectory to discretionary spending during sentiment, recovery in discretionary
the year under review. However, the LMD-Nielsen Business Confidence Index (BCI) was spending, and changes in shopping
recorded at 126 points in March 2021 which was the highest since the onset of the behaviour in light of COVID-19.
pandemic in Sri Lanka.
yy Whilst same store sales recorded a decline
due to a contraction in same store footfall,
this was offset to an extent, by an increase
Supermarkets in ABV and an increased contribution from
The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in unprecedented challenges for the Supermarket business new store sales which aided the business
such as a complete closure of outlets to the public, an overnight surge in online orders, supply in managing the overall impact on top-line
chain disruptions, and challenges in mobilisation of labour to outlets, amongst others, which performance.
are discussed in detail in the ensuing section. Whilst the disruptions in the first quarter of the
year under review impacted the business significantly, the easing of movement restrictions from
mid-May 2020 onwards resulted in a sharp rebound in sales, albeit the short-term impact from the
second COVID-19 outbreak in early October 2020. The current business momentum continues to
Outlet Footprint
123 outlets
be encouraging with a rebound in same store sales growth.
The key performance indicators pertaining to the Supermarket business are as follows:
87
INDUSTRY GROUP REVIEW
RETAIL
Outlet Expansion
Whilst investments in outlet expansion
COVID-19: IMPACT AND MITIGATION – SUPERMARKET BUSINESS were temporarily put on hold given the
uncertainty surrounding the pandemic, this
Although the challenging circumstances that prevailed following the outbreak of COVID-19,
was subsequently revisited given the positive
adversely impacted the business, JMSL remained resilient in its business model, rolling out
momentum of the business post the easing of
various cost management strategies and augmenting its supply chain to cater to customer
restrictions in movement. 'Keells' expanded its
requirements.
outlet network with the addition of 15 outlets
Impact to its footprint during the year. The closure of
1 outlet resulted in a net addition of 14 outlets
yy With the imposition of a nationwide lockdown from mid-March 2020, all retail outlets in
with the total outlet count as at 31 March 2021
the island were closed, to which the Supermarket business was no exception.
at 123 outlets [2019/20: 109 outlets].
yy Given the subsequent classification of supermarkets as an essential service by the
Government during the lockdown period, operations recommenced although limited to Distribution Centre
home delivery during periods of curfew.
Construction of the Kerawalapitiya distribution
yy The limited operations of the Supermarket business, dependant on online sales, could not centre (DC) commenced during the year.
fully offset the negative impact on business performance during this period, as outlets The ~250,000 sq.ft. state-of-the-art facility,
remained closed to the public. located on a 9-acre plot, will complement the
yy The Supermarket business encountered challenges in catering to the unprecedented expansion of the outlet network and further
surge in demand for online order fulfilment. The challenges in handling the extraordinary enhance and improve operational processes.
website traffic were further exacerbated due to staffing constraints. The proposed centre is expected to centralise
yy With the easing of restrictions on movement thereon, the outlets were gradually opened 90 per cent of the current modern trade
to customers, in conformity with the strict health and safety guidelines issued by the offering facilitating operations in the dry, fresh,
Government and health authorities. and chilled categories, with the exception
of the frozen food category. The DC will also
yy Uncertainty surrounding the pandemic particularly on account of lockdowns, trade
feature a separate temperature controlled
and supply chain disruptions, and panic buying exerted pressure on supply chain
chamber. The consolidation of distribution of
management and stock replenishment.
outlets would enable better visibility over the
yy Restrictions on imports on selected products imposed by the Government had a marginal supply chain and reduce stock holding costs.
impact on the direct import range of the Supermarket business. The total investment amounts to ~Rs.4.6 billion
Measures taken and is scheduled for completion in the third
quarter of 2021/22 with the commencement of
yy Amidst the numerous challenges on the e-commerce and resources front, the online
operations thereafter.
shopping platform of 'Keells' was ramped up within a couple of weeks to handle over
15,000 orders per day as against 100 orders prior to the pandemic.
Product and Process Initiatives
yy Launched the 'Keells' mobile app availing another shopping channel for customers.
yy Revamp of 'Keells' website:
yy During the first lockdown and thereafter, customer orders were also facilitated via an
outbound call operation (for selected customers), WhatsApp and essential packs via the yy In July 2020, the business revamped its
website in addition to routine online orders. online platform enabling a more diverse
offering and real-time stock availability,
yy The business continued to enforce additional sanitation, health and safety measures whilst
amongst others, to enable a faster and
proactively taking action to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 through routine random PCR
better shopping experience. Real time
tests for staff at outlets.
inventory updates, enabling various
yy Additionally, all 'Keells' outlets adhered to required health and safety protocols and 87 refund methods and delivery tracking
outlets obtained the Sri Lanka Standards Institute (SLSI) certification for COVID-19 safety are some of the features available in
management systems. the newly improved website for an
yy Implementation of strict cost control measures to manage overheads. enhanced customer experience.
yy Strengthened the business's digital presence through initiatives such as continued yy This ramp up enabled the business
ramping up of the website based on consumer feedback and increased engagement on to handle over 15,000 orders per day
social media in order to create a more personalised interaction with customers. as against 100 orders prior to the
yy Although the investments in the outlet expansion and the distribution centre was put pandemic, through multiple delivery
on hold with the onset of the pandemic, this was subsequently revisited on a case by channels such as pre-packed items and
case basis, with feasibilities stress-tested under extreme sensitised scenarios prior to more personalised services to its loyalty
proceeding with the expansion. customers.
yy In order to build confidence amongst customers and reiterate the COVID-19 safety protocols yy Re-introduced 'Click and Collect' where
undertaken by the business, the brand campaign 'We're always there for you' was launched customers have the option to place
in September 2020 covering 4 key areas: deals and own label, safety, online, and fresh. orders online and collect this order from
a selected outlet.
yy Advanced analytics transformation yy Expansion of the product offering through initiatives such as the introduction of chilled pizzas,
programme: a new dessert range in quick service restaurants, and fresh flowers in over 10 stores.
yy Further to the successful piloting of yy The business continued to focus on an omni-channel strategy to cater to different customer
several well-defined advanced analytics segments and needs.
use cases focused on the Supermarket
yy Implementation of the 'Keells Advance Network Exchange' (KANE) enabling effective
business in 2019/20, the business
collaboration between suppliers to further strengthen its supply chain.
commenced the roll out of select use
cases towards the latter end of the year yy Promotional campaigns such as the 'Keells Smart Family' campaign in collaboration with
under review. It is noted that much of Unilever Sri Lanka and the 'Everyday low price' campaign was launched during selected periods
the piloting and roll out of identified of the year in order to expand brand reach and visibility.
use cases were postponed until such
time business and consumer behaviour
returned to a level of normalcy given
COVID-19 considerations.
yy Although it is premature to fully assess
the full impact of these interventions,
preliminary results are promising and
indicate higher than expected cash flow
benefits and enhanced revenue to the
business.
yy These interventions were aimed at
addressing areas such as promotion
effectiveness, fresh efficacy, and
Self checkout point introduced at 'Keells' outlets.
marketing outreach.
The copier and printer business segment experienced lacklustre growth given the adoption of
remote working conditions across most businesses and in lieu of the challenges on the external
front. The business also witnessed an increase in demand for laptops, given market transitions
to 'work from home' practices. JKOA continued to maintain its market leadership position in the
copier vertical during the year under review.
The business also carried out cost management strategies to manage its overhead costs. Such cost
management initiatives were also augmented by improved margins in the mobile phone segment
and better working capital management.
89
INDUSTRY GROUP REVIEW
RETAIL
yy The EBITDA margin of the Supermarket business stood at 7.6 per cent Office Automation
[2019/20: 8.0 per cent]. The marginal reduction stems from a lower yy The increase in assets is driven by an increase in inventory and trade
absorption of fixed costs at existing outlets due to the decrease in and other receivables in line with higher operational performance.
same store revenue as well as a decline in merchandising income.
yy Whilst the cash position of the business strengthened during the
yy Interest expenses increased marginally by 4 per cent mainly due to year, the business was also able to reduce bank overdrafts and
an increase in the notional interest charge stemming from SLFRS short-term borrowings, given improved operational performance of
16 – the accounting standard on leases. The interest cost incurred on the business and better working capital management.
funding of new outlets declined in comparison to 2019/20 due to the
prevailing low interest regime.
yy The business surpassed the one billion mark in profitability for the
first time in its history with PBT at Rs.1.40 billion, a 147 per cent
increase against the previous year. Energy and Emissions
Balance Sheet Indicators Relevance: Financial, regulatory, and brand reputation implications
Rs.million 2020/21 2019/20 %
Targets and initiatives during the year:
Assets
Renewable energy and carbon footprint reduction
Supermarkets 35,441 29,022 22
Office Automation 8,971 3,329 169 yy Installation of solar power systems in 10 'Keells' outlets,
Total 44,412 32,351 37 resulting in a total of 66 outlets using renewable energy as at
Debt* 31 March 2021. This resulted in ~9.2 million kWh of renewable
Supermarkets 13,047 9,941 31 energy generated, constituting 16 per cent of the total energy
Office Automation 1 987 (100) requirement.
Total 13,048 10,928 19 yy Implementation of an energy efficient building design for
'Keells' outlets using skylights, LED lights, and efficient cooling
*Excludes lease liabilities.
systems.
Supermarkets
yy The increase in the asset base primarily stems from the continued
expansion of the outlet base and a notable increase in intangible assets. LOOKING FORWARD: 2025 GOALS
91
INDUSTRY GROUP REVIEW
RETAIL
Relevance: Regulatory and brand reputation implications and In line with the promise of reducing single-use plastics by 50
stakeholder expectations for plastic management per cent by 2024/25, the Supermarket business undertook the
following initiatives:
Targets and initiatives during the year:
yy In addition to the 'Keells' green bag, a range of new eco-
Water treatment and waste management friendly reusable bags were introduced to minimise the use of
polythene bags and encourage reuse.
yy Reuse of wastewater for gardening and general cleaning yy BYOB (Bring Your Own Bag) and BYOC (Bring Your Own
purposes at selected 'Keells' outlets. Container) initiatives continued during the year. A Rs.4 discount
yy Regular water quality tests conducted for all applicable outlets was offered per bag/container.
to ensure that all effluents meet the requisite water quality yy Compostable bags were provided at fish, meat, fruit, and
standards. vegetable counters.
LOOKING FORWARD: 2025 GOALS yy 'Plasticcycle', the Group's social entrepreneurship project,
encouraged customers to recycle plastic items by placing
The Supermarket business has set sustainability goals to be recycling bins for disposal at outlets.
achieved by 2024/25. This goal is aimed at reducing plastic usage.
yy Compostable bags were used for top crust bread packaging.
Carbon Footprint (MT) Carbon footprint scope 1 and 2 per operational intensity factor
2020/21 2019/20
2019/20 32,480
JMSL CO2 kg per sq.ft. of outlet area 30.6 31.7
2020/21 33,168 2% JKOA CO2 kg per sq.ft. of office space 10.7 13.6
2020/21 2019/20
JMSL waste generated - kg per sq.ft. of
Waste Disposed (Kg ‘000)
outlet areas 3.2 2.6
2019/20 2,645 * Water usage and waste generated for JKOA are not disclosed as they are not
considered to be material.
2020/21 3,399 29%
The 'Keells' Plastic Promise has committed
the Supermarket business to reducing
single-use plastics by 50 per cent by 2024/25.
Human Capital
Given the nature of operations, both the Supermarket and Office
Automation businesses find labour retention a key challenge. As such,
the Retail industry group places significant emphasis on retaining its
workforce through regular training aimed at sharpening employee skills, Training and Talent Retention
increasing productivity, and career development. It is noted that the
industry group implemented robust safety measures to ensure the health Relevance: The need to retain talent and continuously upgrade
and safety of frontline staff who worked tirelessly during the pandemic. skills of existing staff to enable delivery of superior customer
service excellence
yy Occupational safety training programmes were conducted at yy Training in collaboration with National Apprentice and
staff inductions in Supermarkets. Industrial Training Authority (NAITA) allowing 'Keells'
yy Safety gear was provided to staff in Supermarkets. Supermarket team members to obtain certifications for certain
yy In-store and digital awareness materials were made available to levels of the National Vocational Qualification (NVQ).
staff in Supermarkets.
yy A digitisation training workshop was conducted for NAITA
yy JMSL developed an e-module on preventing and addressing
members, to assist them in developing their respective
sexual harassment in the workplace under JKF's 'Project WAVE',
Learning Management System (LMS) and convert content in
which benefited 3,171 employees.
order to make e-learning more effective.
COVID-19 response
Injuries (Number)
yy SLSI 1672 certification was obtained for the COVID-19 safety
management system at selected 'Keells' outlets.
yy Transport arrangements were provided to staff, as applicable.
2019/20 27
93
INDUSTRY GROUP REVIEW
RETAIL
Intellectual Capital
The Retail industry group constantly strives for excellence in product and
Community Engagement service quality whilst maintaining safety in its processes.
Relevance: Build ongoing and sustainable relationships in order to Material topics and focus areas are as follows:
promote social responsibility and integration within the community
95
INDUSTRY GROUP REVIEW
Hotel Management
yy Cinnamon Hotel Management Limited (CHML), the hotel management arm of the
Leisure industry group.
Destination Management
Key Indicators
Inputs (Rs.million) 2020/21 2019/20 % 2018/19
Total assets 98,324 98,335 (0) 78,681
Total equity 52,907 59,409 (11) 62,201
Total debt1 20,743 16,034 29 6,093
Capital employed2 89,765 88,865 1 68,294
Employees3 3,819 4,542 (16) 4,434
Mar 20 Apr 20 May 20 Jun 20 Jul 20 Aug 20 Sep 20 Oct 20 Nov 20 Dec 20 Jan 21 Feb 21 Mar 21
Refer pages 99 and 101 for the detailed impact of COVID-19 on Group properties in Sri Lanka and
the Maldives.
February
March
April
May
June
July
September
October
December
August
97
INDUSTRY GROUP REVIEW
LEISURE
With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in Sri Lanka, the country witnessed the Measures adopted by 'Cinnamon'
imposition of stringent measures to control the transmission of COVID-19 and, as a result, yy Established business continuity plans and
closed its airports for tourist arrivals and restricted domestic travel from mid-March 2020 introduced new working methods for staff,
onwards. Due to the absence of tourist arrivals and the restrictions in movement in lieu prioritising health and safety guidelines. Emphasis
of the lockdowns imposed by the Government, the Group suspended its operations in was also placed on staff training and development.
the Sri Lankan and Maldivian Resorts segments and significantly curtailed operations yy Implementation of proactive cost management
in the Colombo Hotels segment, thereby saving on operating costs. In addition, the initiatives and effective management of working
businesses rolled out proactive cost containment and productivity improvement capital requirements. Where applicable, companies
measures aimed at managing its funding position. secured relief measures extended by the
Government and the Central Bank to help ease the
It is noted that the full complement of the Group's hotels was available for operations financial position further.
just prior to the onset of the pandemic.
yy Ensuring the health and safety of Group employees
With the gradual relaxation of restrictions and the easing of the lockdown from mid-May and guests continued to be the Group's immediate
2020 onwards, all hotels in Sri Lanka, with the exception of 'Hikka Tranz by Cinnamon', priority. Introduced 'Cinnamon Care' – the standard
were opened to the public from June 2020 onwards, in accordance with the stringent for cleanliness and safety in hotels and resorts
health and safety guidelines issued by the Government. to ensure the safety of travellers and contain the
spread of COVID-19.
The aforementioned relaxation of restrictions contributed to an increase in domestic activity, yy 'Cinnamon Bentota Beach' and 'Cinnamon Bey
with a gradual resumption in domestic travel contributing positively to the performance of Beruwala' were operated as 'Safe & Secure Level 1
the industry group. The recovery in domestic tourism was hampered following the second Hotels' under these guidelines and protocols, until
wave of the COVID-19 outbreak in early October 2020, which impacted all properties the recent outbreak.
in Sri Lanka. The latter end of the period under review was characterised by positive yy Given the slowdown in domestic tourism due
developments such as the roll out of COVID-19 vaccines, re-opening of both international to the current outbreak of COVID-19 cases, three
airports in Sri Lanka for tourism coupled with better sentiment. Sri Lankan hotel properties are being used as
intermediate care centres (ICC) for the treatment of
Impact
asymptomatic patients.
yy Similar to global tourism, the Leisure industry group was significantly impacted, with
yy In order to capitalise on opportunities in domestic
limited or no operations at all properties during most parts of the year. tourism, various products such as weekday/
yy Post the easing of restrictions in mid-May, all properties in the Sri Lankan Resorts weekend deals and flexible cancellation policies
segment recorded an encouraging increase in occupancy, driven by a resumption in etc. were implemented.
domestic travel, albeit the impact of the second outbreak in October 2020. yy Conceptualised and assisted national tourism
yy The uptick in domestic activity, during this time, translated to an increase in food organisations with the introduction of the 'See
and beverage and banqueting revenue in the Colombo Hotels segment, although Now-Travel Later' campaign: a crowdsourcing social
restrictions in guest count at gatherings hampered potential revenue. media campaign for Sri Lanka. Due to the cluster
outbreak in late April 2021, the campaign was
yy Closure of airports and increase in virtual business platforms adversely impacted MICE
extended as 'See Now-Experience Later'.
tourism, which had an adverse impact on the Colombo Hotels segment in particular.
yy Conducted the 'Sri Lanka is open' promotional
yy Usage of other ancillary services in the hotels, such as spas, gymnasiums and pool video to maintain effective communication
facilities were restricted which had a negative impact on revenue. among travellers.
Measures taken yy Developed an informative web page extension for
travellers, with real-time COVID-19 updates.
Measures in liaison with regulatory and tourism authorities
yy In gratitude to healthcare workers, offered 1,000
yy Secured relevant compliance certifications from both local and international
complimentary full board holiday packages at the
organisations certifying adherence to applicable COVID-19 standards. 'Cinnamon
Sri Lankan Resorts segment.
Hotels & Resorts' were stamped safe by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC).
Recognised by the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), the stamp yy In order to cater to the surge in in-home
demand for food and beverage offerings within
allows tourists to travel whilst ensuring their safety.
the Colombo Hotels segment, the segment
yy Obtained the 'Safe & Secure' compliance certification from SLTDA to resume introduced the online food delivery platform
operations post COVID-19. 'Flavours', partnered with third party delivery
yy Conceptualised and executed a detailed crisis management plan in liaison with platforms, 'Uber' and 'PickMe' whilst also offering
national tourism organisations, such as the WTTC promoting Sri Lanka as a safe innovative and curated meal options to ensure a
superior culinary experience.
destination.
yy With the concept of 'Work From Anywhere'
Refer the Outlook section for details on the ongoing impact of the current outbreak in becoming a reality, meeting and conference
Sri Lanka - Page 134
facilities were converted to office spaces.
99
INDUSTRY GROUP REVIEW
LEISURE
February
March
April
May
June
July
September
October
December
August
Effective from January 2021, the loyalty programme enables registered tourists to earn 30
points by travelling to the Maldives. Points are based on criteria which entails frequency of
20
travel and duration of stay, amongst others. 12
10 7 8 7
yy The Maldives was listed in Lonely Planet's List of 'Top Six Destinations to Travel in 2021'. 4
0
COVID-19 Measures
Jul-20
Aug-20
Sep-20
Oct-20
Nov-20
Dec-20
Jan-21
Feb-21
Mar-21
yy With effect from 20 April 2021, tourists fully vaccinated by a COVID-19 vaccination
recognised by the WHO, Emergency Use Listing (EUL), the Maldives Food and Drug
Authority, or any other approved authority of the respective countries, two weeks prior During the year under review, the first-ever
to travelling, are exempt from the previous requirement of presenting a negative PCR on immersive live stream dive experience was
arrival and serving 10-day quarantine on arrival. hosted by 'Cinnamon' as a national initiative
for the Maldives to showcase its natural
yy Unvaccinated tourists are required to present a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of
diversity, and diving attractions and to engage
departure.
with prospective tourists.
AWARDS
Destination Management
The operating environment of the Destination
COVID-19: LEISURE -IMPACT AND MITIGATION AT MALDIVIAN RESORTS Management business was adversely
impacted by the decline in tourist arrivals on
The Maldives declared a state of public health emergency from 12 March 2020, resulting in
account of the COVID-19 pandemic. In order
restrictions on tourism, non-essential travel, and curtailment of business activity. As a result,
to strengthen regional presence and increase
the Maldives closed its borders for travel and re-opened the airports for tourist arrivals only
market visibility in the Indian market, Walkers
on 15 July 2020. Whilst resorts and hotels located at uninhabited islands were opened to
Tours established ties with Indian inbound
tourists from 15 July 2020, properties located in inhabited islands recommenced operations
travel partners during the year under review.
on 1 August 2020. The geographic advantage of ~1,200 separate islands, which naturally
Country representatives were also appointed
ensures social distancing among tourists, as each island operates as its own resort, coupled
for key markets, entailing UK, Germany, France,
with safety measures adopted by the Maldivian Government, spurred interest.
Middle East, and India, in furtherance of this
Impact strategy. The business also invested in its
digital strategy by expanding the online B2B
yy Hotel operations were suspended for a period of over 4 months, adversely impacting
booking segment and routinely circulated
the hotels.
newsletters on COVID-19 updates in Sri Lanka.
Measures taken During the year under review, both Whittall
Boustead Travel and Walkers Tours operated as
yy Similar to the hotels and resorts in Sri Lanka, the ensuing measures were undertaken:
a centralised unit which resulted in significant
yy Stringent cost saving measures. savings on overhead costs.
yy Aggressive marketing and promotional campaigns including the 'book now, stay later'
campaign and various other campaigns in collaboration with travel partners. AWARDS
yy Introduced 'Cinnamon Care' standards.
yy World Travel Awards 2020/21 - Leading
yy Roll out of business continuity plans.
Destination Management Company in
yy Staff training and development.
Sri Lanka
yy All four Maldivian Resorts received the 'Safe Travels Stamp' from WTTC in recognition of
the stringent safety protocols established.
Cinnamon Events
'Cinnamon' events were significantly curtailed
Hotel Management in the year under review given COVID-19
During the year under review, the Group constructed a unified organisational structure that considerations. In response, the Group
will ensure an even more focused leadership and synergised approach across all hotels under supported social distancing and health
'Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts'. This new approach encompasses one 'Cinnamon' organisation as and safety regulations imposed by the
opposed to separate sectors as City and Resorts - Sri Lankan and Maldivian. Hotels are viewed Government by hosting most of its events
holistically, and not within separate verticals, with better allocation of resources and services, virtually. The 'Future of Tourism', a bi-annual
thereby providing compelling customer experiences across the brand. In furtherance of this conference organised as a thought leadership
unified organisation structure, the senior leadership team of 'Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts' was initiative for the Sri Lankan travel and tourism
strategically realigned. industry, was launched as a virtual conference.
'In Situ – An Intimate Bawa Experience' organised in collaboration with the Lunuganga Trust and
'Cinnamon Bentota Beach'.
101
INDUSTRY GROUP REVIEW
LEISURE
yy As outlined in detail in the Operational Review, the outbreak of yy The primary drivers for the decrease in profitability were the
the COVID-19 pandemic and the resultant closure of airports and aforementioned factors impacting revenue.
restrictions on global travel, had an adverse impact across all the
yy Various cost saving mechanisms were implemented focusing on
Leisure businesses, leading to a significant decline in revenue.
the liquidity position of all segments within the industry group. This
yy The gradual resumption in domestic travel with the easing of enabled the businesses in managing its cash position and minimising
movement restrictions locally by the second quarter, aided the a further impact on profitability.
recovery of the Sri Lankan Resorts segment.
yy 'Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo' and 'Cinnamon Grand Colombo'
yy Revenue in the Colombo Hotels segment stemmed from food and made impairment provisions for debtors which impacted the
beverage and banquet operations whilst MICE revenue was adversely performance of the Colombo Hotels segment.
impacted by a decline in MICE tourism.
yy The recovery of the Maldivian Resorts segment in the latter end of
yy Although tourism to the Maldives was slow to gather pace post the the year under review, was encouraging with the segment recording
opening of its borders in mid-July 2020, the subsequent relaxation a positive EBITDA, as all four properties in the Maldives recorded
of global travel restrictions, particularly in key source markets, positive EBITDA from December 2020 onwards. Accordingly, EBITDA
contributed to a rebound in performance of the Maldivian Resorts of the Maldivian Resorts segment stood at Rs.26 million and Rs.573
segment, resulting in an encouraging recovery in occupancy. During million during the third and fourth quarters of 2020/21, respectively.
the fourth quarter of the year under review, revenue surpassed the
yy The recurring EBITDA of the industry group, excluding fair value
one billion mark recording Rs.1.70 billion of revenue in tandem with
gains/losses on investment property (IP) amounted to a loss of
growing occupancy.
Rs.3.59 billion, a notable decrease against the previous year [2019/20:
yy The decline in revenue of the Destination Management segment is Rs.2.31 billion].
due to the decrease in tourist arrivals in line with the overall market.
yy The Maldivian Resorts segment recorded an increase in the
yy The Hotel Management segment recorded a decline in revenue as lease amortisation charge for the year, given the full operation
a result of lower management fees and marketing fees given the of 'Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives' and 'Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa
subdued performance across hotels, as outlined above. Maldives' as opposed to the previous year where the resorts were
only operational in the latter end of 2019/20. In line with accounting
Rs.million 2020/21 2019/20 % standards the lease amortisation charge for 'Cinnamon Hakuraa
Huraa Maldives' was capitalised during the refurbishment of the
EBITDA* property in 2019/20.
Colombo Hotels (1,370) 553 (348)
yy The Sri Lankan Resorts segment entails a depreciation charge
Sri Lankan Resorts (1,347) 474 (384)
for 12 months of operations of 'Cinnamon Bentota Beach' for
Maldivian Resorts (227) 1,454 (116)
2020/21, in contrast to 2019/20 which only entailed depreciation for
Destination Management (279) (123) (127) approximately a quarter.
Hotel Management (349) (31) (1,032)
yy Interest expenses recorded an increase during the year under review,
Total (3,572) 2,327 (253)
due to increased borrowings across the industry group. However, the
* Share of results of equity accounted investees are shown net of all taxes. cash flow impact of interest expenses were minimal as most loans
were offered a moratorium on its debt service.
yy Lease liabilities as at 31 March 2021 stood at Rs.16.12 billion The industry group strives to function
[2019/20: Rs.13.42 billion]. The increase in leases primarily stems
with minimal impact to the environment
from an extension to the lease at 'Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives'
and due to the translation impact given its USD denomination. Total
and strives to ensure sustainable value
debt including leases stood at Rs.36.86 billion as at 31 March 2021 creation to all stakeholders.
[2019/20: Rs.29.46 billion]. The increase in debt in the Maldivian
Resorts segment was attributable to overdraft facilities obtained
to manage working capital requirements and the impact of the
depreciation of the LKR against the USD.
103
INDUSTRY GROUP REVIEW
LEISURE
Relevance: Financial implications, stakeholder expectations of sustainable Relevance: Regulatory and brand reputation implications
tourism practices, regulatory requirements, brand image and reputation
Targets and initiatives during the year:
Targets and initiatives during the year:
Reuse and recycle
Energy efficiency
yy 'Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo' produced compost using food
yy Continued installation of energy efficient LED lighting resulting waste. The compost was used to grow organic produce for use
in ~3,814 kWh of savings. in guest meals.
yy Replaced traditional air conditioner units with inverter type yy Generation of biogas using food waste at 'Cinnamon Wild Yala',
units which resulted in ~23,214 kWh of savings. 'Cinnamon Citadel Kandy' and 'Habarana Village by Cinnamon'.
yy 'Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo' reduced its energy usage by yy Implemented waste management strategies in order to
~305,184 kWh through usage optimisation of air handling units achieve 'zero waste to landfill' status in the long-term.
(AHUs), exhaust fans and chiller operations.
yy Emissions were monitored to ensure compliance with the yy 'Cinnamon Grand Colombo' in collaboration with National
tolerance levels stipulated under the Environmental Protection Cleaner Production Centre conducted an awareness session on
managing, segregating and recycling waste.
License (EPL).
yy Maintained ISO 14001 Environmental Management System yy 'Cinnamon Grand Colombo' raised awareness on reducing
certification. plastic by an e-poster campaign.
Maldives by Cinnamon', 'Cinnamon Bentota yy 'Cinnamon Red Colombo' conducted an online seminar for
Beach' and 'Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives', staff on food waste reduction and prevention.
generating 859,156 kWh of renewable energy.
105
INDUSTRY GROUP REVIEW
LEISURE
2020/21 2019/20
Carbon Footprint (MT)
Sri Lankan Resorts CO2 kg per guest night 66.89 25.29
Maldivian Resorts CO2 kg per guest night 97.21 43.38 Colombo Hotels: 10,653 MT
Colombo Hotels CO2 kg per guest night 428.40 61.54
Sri Lankan Resorts: 7,394 MT
Destination Management CO2 kg per client
serviced 39.91 7.49 Maldivian Resorts: 6,100 MT
Water withdrawal per operational intensity factor Destination Management: 76 MT
2020/21 2019/20
Hotel Management: 137 MT
Sri Lankan Resorts water withdrawn -
litres per guest night 2,264 942
Maldivian Resorts water withdrawn -
litres per guest night 2,679 968
Colombo Hotels water withdrawn - Human Capital
litres per guest night 8,069 1,304
As a service driven industry, quality and delivery are vitally important to
Waste generated per operational intensity factor the Leisure industry group. Businesses continually invest in the workforce
to build a professionally trained, competent and experienced staff cadre
2020/21 2019/20 to deliver exceptional customer experience and maintain the standards
Sri Lankan Resorts waste generated - of the 'Cinnamon' brand.
kg per guest night 3.13 2.03
The Leisure industry group places significant value on providing a safe
Maldivian Resorts waste generated -
working environment for its employees through education and training
kg per guest night 8.52 5.74
on safety practices in the workplace. With the outbreak of the COVID-19
Colombo Hotels waste generated -
pandemic, health and safety measures taken by the industry group were
kg per guest night 18.09 4.56
further strengthened to safeguard its frontline staff.
Note- Both absolute and per guest night performance in the Leisure Material topics and focus areas are as follows:
industry group was significantly impacted by COVID-19. Hence, on an
absolute basis, the industry group recorded a decrease in performance
indicators, with the exception of the Maldivian Resorts segment which
reported an increase, due to the inclusion of 'Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives' Training and Talent Retention
and 'Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives' into the sustainability reporting
scope post refurbishment. Despite the absolute reduction overall, the Relevance: Retaining talent and upgrading skills of existing staff
increase in per operational intensity factors is due to a disproportionate towards delivering superior customer service and quality
reduction in activity.
Targets and initiatives during the year:
Injuries (Number)
2019/20 47
Health and Safety
2020/21 10 79%
Relevance: Ensuring safe working conditions are provided for all
employees to minimise occupational health and safety incidents
Training (Hours)
Targets and initiatives during the year:
yy Ensuring safe working conditions and practices for all 2020/21 124,376 64%
employees to minimise occupational health and safety
incidents.
Training per Employee (Hours)
yy Conducted regular first aid, fire awareness and emergency
evacuation trainings. 2019/20 77
yy ISO 45001:2018/ OHSAS 18001 - occupational health and safety
standards certification were maintained by hotels. 2020/21 33 57%
107
INDUSTRY GROUP REVIEW
LEISURE
Relevance: Engagements with the community to reduce inequality, Relevance: Assessing and educating significant suppliers to ensure
enhance skills and build mutually beneficial relationships mitigation of negative impacts with respect to environment,
labour, and human rights aspects
Targets and initiatives during the year:
WTL and WBTL in collaboration with John Keells Foundation (JKF) Targets and initiatives during the year:
conducted the following programmes: yy Engagement with significant supply chain partners to
yy Conducted a 15-hour virtual English camp for 37 children of encourage environmentally friendly and socially responsible
chauffeur guides to improve communication skills during activities.
school closure on account of the pandemic. yy Stimulated local economies by sourcing local produce and
yy 6 youth were awarded scholarships to pursue advanced other outsourced services.
level and university education under JKF's Higher Education
yy Supplier awareness sessions were carried out for 44 suppliers,
Scholarship Programme.
on required standards in relation to quality, environmental
'Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts' collaborated with JKF on the protection and health and safety.
following initiatives:
yy Supplier audits covered key suppliers of 'Cinnamon Hotels &
yy 'Cinnamon Bentota Beach' in association with JKF and the Resorts' and the central purchasing office.
Gratiaen Trust conducted a literary weekend event featuring
7 Gratiaen prize winners. ~90 hotel guests and university yy Launched 'Skill into Progress' (SKIP) programme – JKF's
students attended this event. initiative to support and upskill suppliers of the Group
especially during business downtime following the COVID-19
yy 'Trinco Blu by Cinnamon' organised the certificate distribution pandemic, which benefited 16 chauffeur guides attached to
ceremony of the 'Cinnamon Youth Empowerment Programme' WTL and WBTL through a 36-hour training on industry-related
for 140 students. English communication skills.
yy 18 scholarships were awarded to school children in Trincomalee
under JKF's English Language Scholarship Programme.
yy 181 school children from Trincomalee, Beruwala, Yala, Kandy, and
Hikkaduwa who completed the English Language Scholarship
Programme participated in virtual English day events while a
student from Kandy was selected as one of the winners under
the Central and Sabaragamuwa Province category.
yy 3 students were awarded scholarships under JKF's Higher
Education Scholarship Programme to pursue advanced level
and university education.
yy Under JKF's business-centric community empowerment
initiative John Keells 'Praja Shakthi', 'Hikka Tranz by Cinnamon'
provided ground support to JKF in the following initiatives:
yy Renovation of the playground at 'Ekamuthu' pre-school in
Hikkaduwa which benefited 30 students.
yy In collaboration with the Academy of Design, conducted a
training workshop for 10 women engaged in the batik industry
to enhance their skills and market access. The women were
supported in developing a premium product range post-
training under the new brand name 'Hikka Batiks' towards
testing market demand through a pilot sale held in Colombo.
yy Conducted a pilot awareness programme on substance
abuse prevention in collaboration with Humedica Lanka
and Hikkaduwa Divisional Secretariat for 109 Government
officials, pre-school teachers, and parents.
yy All hotels and resorts made donations to various non-
profit organisations including the Rheumatology and
Rehabilitation Hospital.
Property Development
PROPERTY
yy Development and sale of residential and commercial properties under three
segments 'Luxe Spaces', 'Metropolitan Spaces' and 'Suburban Spaces'.
yy Operation of the 18-hole champion golf course and management of the land
bank in Rajawella, Kandy.
Real Estate
yy Ownership and operation of the 'Crescat Boulevard' mall and 'K-Zone' malls in
Moratuwa and Ja-Ela.
1% (1%) 40% 1%
Revenue EBIT Capital Carbon
Employed Footprint
Key Indicators
Inputs (Rs.million) 2020/21 2019/20 % 2018/19
109
INDUSTRY GROUP REVIEW
MACROECONOMIC UPDATE
yy The construction sector accounted for 6.2 per cent of Sri Lanka's GDP in
CY2020 [CY2019: 6.9 per cent]. The construction sector is expected to
increase its contribution to GDP going forward, given notable investments
by both the public and private sector.
yy The Land Price Index for the Colombo District, compiled by the Central
Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL), reached 145.2 in the second half of CY2020, an
increase of 4.6 per cent [CY2019 2H: 138.8]. The Residential, Commercial
and Industrial sub-indices contributed to this increase.
yy The Cabinet of Ministers granted approval for the construction of four Hunupitiya
Ragama
elevated railway tracks within the Colombo City limits as a public-private Port Access Highway Kelaniya
yy Advocates the formation of an economic commission to oversee all yy Exemption of import tax on the importation
activities within the SEZ, including granting registrations, licences and of machinery with modern technology in the
authorisations. construction industry.
yy Positions SEZ as an international business and services hub, which yy The Securities and Exchange Commission of Sri Lanka
includes services such as international trade, shipping logistic (SEC) introduced a framework for Sri Lanka Real Estate
operations, offshore banking and financial services, IT and business Investment Trust (SLREIT). Benefits from this framework
process outsourcing (BPO) and corporate operations. include various tax exemptions.
Measures taken
The prevailing low interest
yy Both sites were able to commence construction work following the easing of restrictions,
rate regime in the country,
albeit with limited manpower, as permitted under relevant regulatory and healthcare
where consumers have guidelines. Procedures focusing on productivity, efficiency and health and safety
access to long-term funding protocols were implemented to address the dynamic challenges faced at the site. The
at attractive rates, also business continued to work closely with the contractors to manage the ongoing impact
aided business recovery and of COVID-19 on these projects.
stimulated a shift in funds yy In order to leverage on the prevailing low interest rate regime of the country, 'Tri-Zen'
from other asset classes to real partnered with leading banks in Sri Lanka to offer personalised and competitive mortgage
solutions.
estate assets, particularly in
yy Adopted a focused sales approach in order to improve consumer sentiment during the
the metropolitan segment.
pandemic. To this end, the business ensured constant communication and support with
the market and existing customers in relation to the progress of ongoing projects.
yy Despite the impact on mall operations, in order to extend relief to its supply chain, retail
tenants were granted concessions and relief on rental and lease terms.
111
INDUSTRY GROUP REVIEW
PROPERTY
Tri-Zen yy As part of a strategic alliance with Union Assurance, 'Tri-Zen' customers will be offered a life
'Tri-Zen', an 891-unit condominium located insurance cover for Rs.7.0 million, where the insurance premium will be borne by JKP until the
at the heart of the city captalises on the completion of the project.
increasing demand for affordable, smart and
efficient living solutions. Positioned within the Sales Update
'Metropolitan Spaces' segment of the industry yy The quarterly rebound in the 'Tri-Zen' sales momentum, despite the impact of the second
group, the project is developed as a joint COVID-19 outbreak in the third quarter, is encouraging and signifies the potential demand for
venture with Indra Traders (Private) Limited housing in the 'Metropolitan Spaces' segment.
and leverages on innovative designs, lucrative Cumulative sales (units)
yy Q1 Sales – 2 units [2019/20 Q1: 36 units]
342 units
price points, space efficiency and the need for
modern solutions for urban living. The strategic yy Q2 Sales – 26 units [2019/20 Q2: 6 units]
location of the project provides buyers with yy Q3 Sales – 5 units [2019/20 Q3: 21 units]
easy access to entertainment, essential services, 2019/20: 262 units
yy Q4 Sales – 47 units [2019/20 Q4: 19 units]
and other commercial activities.
yy A notable proportion of 'Tri-Zen' buyers continue to be first-time customers of the industry
Despite the closure of the construction site group as well as first-time home buyers, which is a realisation of the industry group's strategy of
of 'Tri-Zen' for ~2 months, construction at the reaching new market segments.
'Tri-Zen' site continued to progress steadily
thereafter with significant headway made Rajawella Holdings Limited (RHL)
on the towers and the completion of the The Group launched its first real estate products under RHL during the year under review, which
parking structure. Construction of the 20th includes scenic land parcels, town houses and villa developments. Products are branded under
floor is currently ongoing. The business was two segments i.e. 'Peacock Valley' and 'Sunrise Ridge', all based within and in proximity to the
able to proactively manage the impact on the 'Victoria Golf and Country Resort' in Digana. Initial interest towards these products has been
timeline and deliverables by working closely encouraging, with sale of real estate parcels gaining traction.
with the contractor to manage such impacts
and by adopting efficient operating practices Peacock Valley Sunrise Ridge
and cost optimisation strategies. Accordingly,
yy Set of premium land plots yy Luxury townhouses located alongside the golf course.
the structure of the building is envisaged to
located at the heart of the golf
be completed in the first half of CY2022 whilst yy ~2,000 sq.ft. in size.
course.
the overall project is scheduled for completion
yy Consisting of two-bedrooms, kitchenette, living room,
in CY2023. yy Average plot size of ~76 perches.
and a private deck.
yy Gained immense traction with
Although sales at 'Tri-Zen' was impacted yy Property consists of 16 townhouses, built on ~10
majority of land parcels being
during the first lockdown, the sales perch plot.
sold within 3 months from the
momentum and interest towards the project
launch date. yy Guarantees buyers a hassle-free experience and will be
continued to strengthen each month, with
managed by 'Victoria Golf and Country Resort'.
sales in March 2021 recording the highest
number of units since the inception of the yy Owners entitled to receive a complimentary five-year
project. golf membership, a 90-day stay, and a percentage of
room revenue.
Targeted sales strategies and the Rupee
yy Construction is scheduled to commence by July 2021.
pricing model, which mitigates the exchange
rate risks on the buyer, assisted the project
in rebounding faster than the market. During the year under review, the refurbishment of the golf course was completed. The golf course
Capitalising on prevailing low interest rates, was relaunched in tandem with the Mark Bostock Memorial tournament under the management
John Keells Properties (JKP) in collaboration of Troon International: the largest golf course operator in the world, with over 2.5 million members
with local banks and insurance companies worldwide. The 18-hole golf course is designed in accordance with United States Golf Association
offered the following financing solutions to (USGA) standards.
potential buyers, which also aided the sales
rebound: Mall Operations
Mall operations were significantly impacted by the decline in footfall on the back of the COVID-19
yy Launched 'Freedom Mortgages' in
pandemic and the resultant restrictions in movement and social distancing norms. Given the
collaboration with Commercial Bank of
current market landscape, in order to repurpose and reposition the 'Crescat' mall in line with
Ceylon, which offers a home financing
market dynamics, the property was closed for refurbishment on 31 December 2020. The revamped
solution that waives the interest on home
property is expected to be re-launched and operational in the second half of CY2021.
loans for 'Tri-Zen' customers for a period
of 2 years, whilst allowing minimal cash
outlays during the construction period.
This scheme was later extended to several
other banks.
113
INDUSTRY GROUP REVIEW
PROPERTY
The contiguous 9.38 acre property is one of the largest privately held yy Revenue from 'Cinnamon Life' will only be recognised post-handover
land extents in central Colombo and is within a proposed zoning of the residential and office units. Handover will commence from the
area identified under the Beira Lake Development Plan of the Urban first quarter of 2021/22 onwards.
Development Authority (UDA). The strategic location in the heart
of Colombo city has ~ 450 metres of street frontage, a majority of Real Estate
which faces the planned waterfront recreation zone in the Beira Lake yy The decline in revenue in the Real Estate sector is primarily
Intervention Area Development Plan which allows for a large-scale attributable to the lower rental income from mall operations. Rent
development with views over the Beira Lake. The site is classified as a relief was offered to tenants across properties which impacted rental
residential and mixed-use hub. income. The malls were also closed during select periods of the year
under review given restrictions in movement.
This property is a part of the Group's land banking strategy, where
strategic land parcels were identified in order to capitalise on yy The closure of 'Crescat' for refurbishment on 31 December 2020 also
opportunities arising in the real estate and property development had an impact on the topline of the Real Estate sector.
industry. With the acquisition of VLDL, the Group is of the view that the
existing land bank is adequate to sustain a steady pipeline of projects in Rs.million 2020/21 2019/20 %
the long-term.
EBITDA*
Property Development 160 384 (58)
A development project has been earmarked for this property, subject to
market conditions, once 'Tri-Zen' reaches a certain level of completion, Real Estate (177) 257 (169)
to ensure a steady cycle of revenue recognition through the planned Total (17) 641 (103)
monetisation of the Group's land bank. In furtherance of this strategy, PBT*
the master planning and development strategy continued during the Property Development 76 257 (70)
year under review. Real Estate (212) 205 (204)
Total (136) 462 (130)
*Share of results of equity accounted investees are shown net of all taxes.
CAPITAL MANAGEMENT REVIEW yy Discussions on EBITDA are inclusive of fair value gains/losses on
The section that ensues discusses the performance of the industry group investment property (IP). The Group is of the view that fair value
during the year under review, under the key forms of Capital applicable gains/losses on IP are integral to the industry group's core operations,
for the industry group. given the land banking strategy of the Property industry group and
the view of monetising such land through development and sales.
115
INDUSTRY GROUP REVIEW
PROPERTY
Human Capital
In addition to the continuous training and development provided to
workers, special training was provided on health and safety in light of
the COVID-19 pandemic. Additional health and safety measures were 272
implemented at all locations, which included equipping staff with Number of Employees
sufficient PPE, sanitisation facilities and the opportunity to 'work from
home', where applicable.
Training (Hours)
Community development
Supplier development
117
INDUSTRY GROUP REVIEW
Insurance
FINANCIAL SERVICES
yy Comprehensive life insurance solutions through Union Assurance PLC (UA).
yy General insurance solutions through Fairfirst Insurance Limited (FIL).
Banking
Stockbroking
14% 42% 5% 1%
Revenue EBIT Capital Carbon
Employed Footprint
Key Indicators
Inputs (Rs.million) 2020/21 2019/20 % 2018/19
yy IRCSL also introduced robust regulatory requirements such as the requirement to report
Risk Based Capital (RBC) disclosures on a monthly basis.
119
INDUSTRY GROUP REVIEW
FINANCIAL SERVICES
The Life Insurance business recorded a surplus of Rs.825 million [CY2019: Rs.1.00 billion] as per the
actuarial valuation carried out during the year. The distribution of a one-off surplus of Rs.3.38 billion AWARDS
- attributable to non-participating and non-unit fund of unit linked business, which was transferred
yy No. 1 position in Sri Lanka setting
from the life policyholder fund to the life shareholder fund in 2017/18 based on the directive dated
a new record of 172 'Million Dollar
20 March 2018 issued by IRCSL to the entire insurance industry - continues to remain restricted
Round Table' (MDRT) qualifiers. MDRT
subject to meeting governance requirements stipulated by the IRCSL and can only be released
association is a member-based,
upon receiving approval from the IRCSL.
international network of leading
insurance and investment financial
During CY2020, UA continued its 'digital first' business model in line with its mission of positioning
services professionals.
itself as the foremost digital life insurance company in Sri Lanka. To this end, the following
initiatives were carried out: yy 'Domestic Life Insurer of the Year', 'New
Insurance Product of the Year', and
yy Launch of 'Clicklife', a turnkey end-to-end digital insurance solution and the 'Clicklife self-
'Digital Insurance Initiative of the Year'
services app', that provides customised solutions at a click of a button. Clients gain access to
at the Insurance Asia Awards 2020.
their policies and related details including balances, dues, claim status and loan submission.
The user-friendly interface, real-time updates and omission of tedious paperwork has made yy Insurance sector winner in the
'Clicklife' a modern-day customer service solution. inaugural ranking of 'LMD's Most
Awarded'.
yy The 'lapse prevention project' which uses advanced data analytics to predict insurance policies
that are likely to lapse in a period of 3-6 months and recommend customer-specific interventions. yy 'Best Brand', 'Sustainable Marketing
Excellence', and the 'Best Employer
Brand' at the Chief Marketing Officer
(CMO) Global, CMO Asia and the
COVID-19: IMPACT AND MITIGATION AT UA World Human Resource Development
(HRD) Congress, respectively.
In adapting to the challenges that prevailed during the pandemic, UA adopted a forward-
looking digitalised approach combined with prudent cost management strategies. yy Winner of 'Great Place to Work' title for
the 8th consecutive year.
Impact
yy The imposition of the lockdown in March 2020 restricted operations of the island-wide
branch network and on-site operations at the head office. Banking
yy Sales across all channels were disrupted with agents and insurance relationship officers NTB's agile and digitally savvy nature augured
(IROs) being unable to access customers through traditional forms of engagement. well during the challenging year under review,
with the Bank demonstrating strong resilience.
yy The lower interest rate trajectory impacted investment returns of life insurers leading to a
The Bank continued to manage its risk-return
reduction in margins.
dynamics and curtail lending to certain
Measures Taken segments in view of a deterioration in economic
yy Realigned the asset allocation strategy and rebalanced the investment portfolio to conditions which witnessed an industry-wide
optimise returns to address the low interest rate regime. erosion in credit quality and a moderation in risk
appetite, resulting in a 7 per cent contraction
yy Launched digital products and implemented digital engagement channels such as its first in loans and advances in CY2020. Lacklustre
mass scale e-platform 'Clicklife', and expansion of the functionality of the digital customer
credit demand from the private sector also
portal to enable remote premium collection.
contributed to this contraction. The deposits
yy Commenced 24/7 call centre operations. base recorded a 6 per cent increase, due to a
moderation in consumer spending.
yy Automation of processes relating to new business and claims review and feedback within
48 hours to ensure an uninterrupted service.
Additionally, the low interest rate trajectory,
yy 50 per cent of the planned annualised new business premiums (ANBP) and 77 per cent of interest rate caps, debt moratoria and
the planned GWP were achieved during March - June 2020, through digital means. concessionary loans coupled with dampened
yy A cost control committee was set up to manage expenditure supported by several cross credit demand also impacted net interest
functional initiatives focused on expense realignment and cash flow management, income (NII), which recorded a 15 per cent
yielding a total cost benefit of ~Rs.80 million. decline to Rs.13.67 billion in CY2020. In tandem,
net interest margin (NIM) contracted to 4.1 per
yy Introduced a free COVID-19 life cover for policyholders. cent as at CY2020 [CY2019: 4.9 per cent].
yy First insurance provider in the market to negotiate with reinsurers and extend its hospital
cash benefit product for quarantine treatments.
The deposits base recorded
yy Introduced a group surgical product, enabling greater market penetration and earnings
a 6 per cent increase, due to
growth in the B2B life insurance segment.
a moderation in consumer
spending.
'FriMi'
yy 'Best New Digital Bank in Sri Lanka
2020' by Global Banking and Finance
Awards.
yy Ranked among 'Sri Lanka's Top 10
E-commerce Brands 2020' by LMD.
yy Gold award in the 'Digital Brand
Bravery' category at SLIM DIGIS 2.0.
'Clicklife', a turnkey end-to-end digital 'Nations Diriya Loan Scheme', an internally generated fund with
insurance solution. the aim of providing working capital facilities for exporters and
local manufacturers.
121
INDUSTRY GROUP REVIEW
FINANCIAL SERVICES
* Share of results of equity accounted investees are shown net of all related taxes. yy Focused cost management strategies enabled the business in reducing
operating expenses by 9 per cent, resulting in an improvement of the
Insurance cost-to-income ratio to 43.4 per cent during the year under review
yy Although the performance of the business was impacted in the months [2019/20: 46.0 per cent].
of April and May 2020, the business witnessed a strong recovery in its
GWP with the easing of restrictions in May. This recovery momentum Stockbroking
continued across the quarters. yy The Stockbroking business recorded a 197 per cent increase in
yy GWP increased by 18 per cent during the year under review [2019/20: revenue during the year under review, driven by a strong recovery
5 per cent]. The growth in GWP was driven by a 24 per cent increase in in activity in the CSE towards the latter end of the year [2019/20:
regular new business premiums and an increase in renewal premiums. negative 33 per cent].
yy Benefits and claims increased by 15 per cent to Rs.3.90 billion yy Various initiatives aimed at managing its operational cost which
[2019/20: Rs.3.39billion] on account of higher maturity payouts in resulted in productivity and cost efficiencies, coupled with a better
accordance with contractual obligations. Net claims amounted to 29 absorption of fixed costs given the notable increase in revenue,
per cent of net written premiums [2019/20: 30 per cent]. contributed to the triple digit growth in profitability.
yy Underwriting and net acquisition costs increased by 19 per cent to Rs.million 2020/21 2019/20 %
Rs.2.27 billion in line with GWP growth.
PAT*
yy Investment income in 2020/21 stood at Rs.5.16 billion, a 10 per cent Insurance 777 959 (19)
growth in comparison to 2019/20, supported by a realignment of the Banking 1,594 1,291 23
asset allocation, despite a decline in market interest rates.
Stockbroking 126 (28) 555
yy Despite the non-recurring expenses incurred in lieu of the strategic Total 2,497 2,222 12
brand restructure and rebranding, the business managed to curtail
* Share of results of equity accounted investees are shown net of all related taxes.
the growth in operational expenses to 3 per cent during the year
under review, supported by stringent cost optimising strategies yy Although PBT of the Life Insurance business remained steady against
rolled out across the business. the previous year, the business recorded a higher tax expense in
yy Life insurance contract liabilities including unit-linked funds increased 2020/21 which impacted profitability. This was driven by:
by 18 per cent to Rs.45.20 billion, due to an increase in contract yy An increase in the tax expense as a result of an expiry of claimable
liabilities by Rs.6.97 billion. periods.
yy Change in contract liabilities in lieu of the life fund increased by 25 yy An impairment on notional tax credits of the business.
per cent to Rs.7.03 billion.
yy Changes to the tax regime effective 1 January 2020, with the removal
yy UA recorded an annual life insurance surplus of Rs.825 million of DRL and NBT on financial services, resulted in a decrease in the tax
2020/21, a decline against the life insurance surplus of Rs.1.00 billion expense, as the business was subject to DRL and NBT for 9 months
recorded in the previous year. of 2019/20 in contrast to the current year under review, where the
yy Fairfirst Insurance Limited, an equity accounted investee under UA, business was not subject to both DRL and NBT. The revision of the
with interests in the general insurance industry, recorded a 24 per income tax rate applicable to the banking sector from 28 per cent to
cent increase in PAT. 24 per cent effective 1 January 2020, also had a positive impact.
The impact on the Financial Services industry group's operations Given that Human Capital is considered one of the key resources in the
on the environment is comparatively lower than other operations, industry group, several initiatives were carried out throughout the year
given its service-oriented nature of business. Regardless, the industry to ensure employees were provided with a safe working environment.
group makes continuous efforts to reduce its environmental footprint, The industry group also continued building high performance teams
wherever possible. through curated training and development programmes.
2019/20 9,641
2019/20 1,388
123
INDUSTRY GROUP REVIEW
FINANCIAL SERVICES
yy For the first time in history, UA emerged as the largest producer Community engagement activities during the year were aimed
of 'Million Dollar Round Table' (MDRT) professionals in Sri at supporting better living conditions within the community and
Lanka, with 172 MDRT qualifiers, including 10 Court of the preventing diseases.
Table (COT) and 5 Top of the Table (TOT) achievers. MDRT is
SIGNIFICANT SUPPLIERS
a global premier association of life insurance and financial
services professionals, whilst COT and TOT are standard targets yy Reinsurance partners
for MDRT members. yy Janitorial services providers
yy Introduction of the HIPO (High Potential Individuals) yy Security services providers
programme which aims to develop employees at mid- yy Bancassurance partners
level positions on cross functional areas and assist in talent
identification. Material topics and focus areas are as follows;
yy Introduction of the SMT (Senior Management Team)
programme covering high level decision-making and
idea generation platforms to aid career development and
succession planning. Customer Satisfaction
yy A virtual forum titled 'Balance for Better' was held for all female
employees on International Women's Day. Relevance: Negative impact on key customer accounts, investor,
and client confidence
Community Engagement
125
INDUSTRY GROUP REVIEW
Information Technology
OTHER, INCLUDING
INFORMATION IT Services yy Smart solutions and
transformation services.
yy John Keells IT (JKIT) - a boutique IT
TECHNOLOGY AND consultancy and professional services
IT-Enabled Services
PLANTATION SERVICES organisation with a vision to simplify
yy Infomate - a business process
and digitally transform organisations
to be relevant in the data-driven outsourcing (BPO) service provider
experience economy. with the mandate of driving greater
yy Key focus areas: efficiencies for their clientele.
yy Core solutions and transformation yy Key focus areas:
services. yy Finance and accounting.
yy Cloud solutions and yy Payroll management.
transformation services. yy Data digitisation.
yy Software solutions and
transformation services.
Plantation Services
yy John Keells PLC (JK PLC) – a leading tea and rubber broker.
yy Tea Smallholder Factories PLC (TSF):
yy Operates 7 factories.
yy Leading manufacturer of low grown Orthodox and CTC teas in the country.
yy John Keells Warehousing (JKW) – operates a state-of-the-art warehouse for
pre-auction produce.
Other
3% 37% 19% 3%
Revenue EBIT Capital Carbon
Employed Footprint
Key Indicators
Inputs (Rs.million) 2020/21 2019/20 % 2018/19
Total assets 81,241 43,096 89 56,329
Total equity 30,367 38,495 (21) 40,996
Total debt1 47,562 2,705 1,658 13,222
Capital employed2 77,930 41,200 89 54,218
Employees3 1,196 1,335 (10) 1,303
MACROECONOMIC UPDATE
yy Sri Lanka recorded a marginal decline in tea production to 278,489 MT during CY2020
[CY2019: 300,134 MT] with both high grown and low grown production declining by 1 per
cent and 11 per cent, respectively. The decline in production was primarily due to adverse
weather conditions and supply chain challenges.
yy Sri Lanka tea exports for CY2020 stood at 265.6 million kg in comparison to 292.7 million
kg recorded in CY2019. Turkey retained the number one position as the largest importer of
Sri Lankan tea in CY2020 followed by Iraq, Russia, Iran, and China. Further, China and Chile
recorded a 19 per cent and 30 per cent increase in imports, respectively.
yy Given global supply-demand dynamics, average tea prices at the Colombo Tea Auction
increased by Rs.87.18 per kg to an average price of Rs.633.85 in CY2020 in comparison to the
average price of Rs.546.67 in CY2019.
The COVID-19 pandemic exerted pressures yy Smart Retail - A multifaceted mobile The Colombo tea auction
on the business's expansion strategy across application offering simple yet interactive
proactively transitioned to
international markets. As a result, Go-to-Market shopping experiences to customers,
(GTM) partnerships and operations in Sri Lanka, whilst providing critical insights to retailers an online platform with the
Asia Pacific (APAC) and Middle East and North to enhance customer experience. The onset of COVID-19.
Africa (MENA) regions were consolidated. The Supermarket business of the Group
business also deferred projects envisaged for leverages on this mobile application to
Plantation Services
the year, given pandemic induced constraints. provide its customers the ability to virtually
Despite these challenges, the business was browse a complete product catalogue The tea industry remained resilient during
successful in strengthening its relationship and available deals, whilst enabling a more the year under review, despite the challenges
with international partners, with JKIT being personalised shopping experience. encountered with the outbreak of COVID-19.
recognised as the SAP partner centre of Given the restrictions in movement and the
yy Smart Airports - A bespoke mobile need to adhere to stringent guidelines of
expertise (PCOE) in the MENA region and a
application offering a contactless boarding health authorities, the Colombo Tea Traders
global Microsoft power business intelligence
process at airports, ensuring minimal Association (CTTA) and Colombo Brokers
(BI) partner.
interaction with airport staff. Association (CBA) proactively implemented an
During the year under review, the solutions yy Smart Automotive - A platform which online digital tea auction system in April 2020
stacks were rebranded as 'JKIT-Core', 'JKIT- assists in the adoption of robotic process to ensure business continuity even during
Cloud', 'JKIT-Platforms', and 'JKIT-Ecosystems' automation (RPA) within organisations. lockdowns. This timely initiative proved to be
with four strategic business units focusing fruitful to the industry and to Tea Smallholder
to deliver an end-to-end value proposition. Despite the challenges encountered on Factories PLC (TSF), as Sri Lanka emerged as
Further, JKIT expanded its portfolio of services the back of the COVID-19 pandemic, the the first tea exporter to resume tea auctions,
by providing training on its power platform Group's BPO operations in Sri Lanka, Infomate, with the cessation of operations being limited
to both internal and external customers. JKIT, recorded an encouraging performance during to two weeks.
as a Microsoft global learning partner, also the year under review. In addition to its key
conducted training sessions in the Middle East client accounts, which the business continued Despite the adverse weather conditions that
and South East Asian regions. to sustain during the year, the business was prevailed during the year under review, TSF
also successful in acquiring new business, recorded a 6 per cent increase in volumes.
In order to enable seamless operations across particularly from the Middle East, thereby Volumes at TSF stood at 3,631 MT in 2020/21
multiple time zones, the business streamlined expanding its geographic footprint. Expansion [2019/20: 3,438 MT]. During the year under
its core processes of pre-sales, sales, delivery of its portfolio of services, through the review, TSF automated certain processes by
and support on a cloud-based platform. establishment of additional help desk services, adopting a simplified green leaf weighing and
With the aim of further strengthening the human resources (HR) outsourcing services data entry system which led to an increase in
brand, JKIT conducted digital and print media and lead generation services aided the productivity.
campaigns including a series of webinars co- business in continuing its growth momentum.
branded with the business's principal partners John Keells PLC recorded an encouraging
and clients. performance increasing its market share to
AWARDS 13 per cent during the year under review
During the year under review, JKIT focused on [2019/20: 12 per cent]. A notable increase
delivering innovative solutions to clients by yy John Keells IT in volumes of the high grown and medium
providing consultative solutions and services Microsoft grown elevations contributed to this
across the four value stacks of 'Core', 'Cloud', yy SAP Azure Partner of the Year improvement. To this end, trade volumes in
'Platforms' and 'Ecosystems'. To this end, the 2019/20 the tea industry increased by 0.3 per cent in
business launched a multitude of IT based yy Migrate Partner of the Year contrast to a 3.4 per cent increase at JK PLC.
solutions such as: 2019/20
yy Innovate Partner of the Year -
yy Smart Office - A single platform
Sri Lanka and the Maldives 2019/20
encompassing multiple processes with
built-in features to provide a customisable, UiPath
secure, and comprehensive solutions for all yy Partner of the Year 2020
types of workflows. yy UiPath Excellence in Automation
Awards Sri Lanka 2020
yy Smart Homes - JKIT in collaboration with
Sri Lanka Telecom PLC, introduced a yy Infomate
turnkey smart home consumer solution yy First place – Sri Lanka Association
exclusively for residents of 'Tri-Zen'. The of Software and Services
proposed smart-living package will feature Companies (SLASSCOM) RPA in
a single integrated portal for homeowners the Business Process Management
to monitor and automate the apartment (BPM) category
through a smart phone application.
Tea auctions were conducted via an online platform
implemented by CTTA and CBA.
yy Invested in digital infrastructure to enable a seamless operation from the business's end yy Tenor: Ten-year tenor till June 2030
when participating in the online tea auction. yy Grace period: Four years with capital
repayments commencing in December 2024
yy Stringent cost control measures were adopted across all businesses.
129
INDUSTRY GROUP REVIEW
OTHER, INCLUDING INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY AND PLANTATION SERVICES
Material topics and focus areas are as follows: Carbon Footprint (MT)
2019/20 3,012
Relevance: Regulatory and brand reputation implications The IT sector regularly invests in professional training and development
of its existing employees, whilst working in collaboration with
Targets and initiatives during the year: universities and educational institutions to attract talent and create a
pipeline of top quality employees in the long-term.
Waste management and effluent discharge
The IT sector also focuses on providing regular training and creating a
yy Ensuring disposal of all wastewater from factories and biomass safe work environment with travel arrangements made to ensure safe
combustion are in accordance with Environmental Protection commute for employees, where applicable. TSF factories continue to
License (EPL) requirements.
monitor working conditions and adhere to relevant health and safety
yy Practicing responsible e-waste disposal through certified certifications.
disposal partners in accordance with the Group's e-waste policy.
yy Reduction in paper usage and recycling of paper through a During the year under review, the businesses operated within the
certified recycler. COVID-19 guidelines, whilst also providing certain staff categories the
option to 'work from home' along with necessary facilities. Further,
yy Wood ash generated through the use of biomass is used as
workplace safety such as sanitation practices were implemented whilst
landfill.
creating awareness and adhering to health and safety conditions within
regulatory guidelines.
131
INDUSTRY GROUP REVIEW
OTHER, INCLUDING INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY AND PLANTATION SERVICES
Training (Hours)
2019/20 11,403
Health and Safety
2020/21 5,795 49%
Relevance: Labour-intensive operations require focus to be placed
on occupational health and safety. HR related risks directly affect
brand reputation and employee well-being and have a direct
Number of Employees impact on the long-term sustainability of the business
yy Outsourced support staff yy Distribution of PPE among 30 Public Health Inspectors and
doctors.
yy Janitors and security
yy Awareness programme on controlling the spread of
yy Transportation providers
COVID-19 and the distribution of 150 masks.
SIGNIFICANT SUPPLIERS - PLANTATION SERVICES SECTOR yy Other awareness programmes, campaigns and workshops
yy Tea smallholder farmers conducted by TSF:
yy Tea plantations yy Dengue prevention awareness programme benefiting 87
persons.
yy Free health check-ups benefiting 19 cataract patients.
yy Awareness on disaster preparedness for 100 community
members and suppliers.
yy Blood donation camp with the participation of 68
community members and suppliers.
yy Supported 11 cataract operations in collaboration with
Lion's Eye Hospital, Panadura under JKF's Vision Project.
yy 43 high-performing school children in Neluwa were
awarded scholarships under JKF's English Language
Scholarship Programme to the next tier of the programme.
133
OUTLOOK
MACROECONOMIC OUTLOOK
Global Context
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) predicts a strong recovery in the global economy with Looking beyond these short-term challenges,
economic activity projected to increase by 6.0 per cent in CY2021 and 4.4 per cent in CY2022. the underlying prospects for the economy are
Growth is projected on the back of the rapid development of multiple COVID-19 vaccines that can positive with growth expected to be driven
reduce the severity of infections, unprecedented fiscal support and an accommodative monetary by prospects for higher exports, expansion
policy response from Governments and Central Banks coupled with the quick adaptation to the 'new of the services sectors and the potential for
normal' worldwide. Downside risks to the outlook include potential resurgences of the pandemic as higher foreign inflows, particularly channelled
seen in countries within the region where vaccination roll outs were relatively slow, adverse financial towards the Port City Colombo and the
markets, substantial supply chain disruptions and geopolitical risks, amongst others. Industrial Zone projects. The revival of the
tourism sector in line with the 'new normal'
will also be a key driver of economic growth
IMF Growth Projections (Baseline Scenario)
(%) considering the 'pent-up' demand that is
evident even at this stage for leisure travel.
Global Advanced Emerging Markets and Emerging and
Economy Economies Developing Economies Developing Asia
Whilst there will be short-term challenges
8.6
10
given the current situation as outlined above,
6.7
8
6.0
6.0
5.0
6
4.4
3.6
(4.7)
(2.2)
(1.0)
2
0 Industry Group Strategy and Outlook section.
CY20 CY21 CY22 CY20 CY21 CY22 CY20 CY21 CY22 CY20 CY21 CY22
(2)
(4) COVID-19 Developments in Sri Lanka
(6)
The COVID-19 pandemic was relatively well
Source: International Monetary Fund World Economic Outlook - April 2021 contained in Sri Lanka in CY2020, where
the outbreak of clusters was proactively
identified and managed by the Government
SRI LANKAN CONTEXT
and health authorities, which resulted in a
The Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) expects the Sri Lankan economy to rebound in CY2021 aided strong recovery in consumer sentiment and
by the growth-oriented policy agenda of the Government and the accommodative monetary and a resumption of business activity towards
fiscal policy stance. The rebound in the global economy is also expected to have spill-over effects the end of the financial year. However,
on the economy given strong external demand which should facilitate strong export earnings, comparatively, the number of cases has
increase foreign inflows in light of better worker remittances, strengthen prospects for foreign risen sharply from late April 2021 onwards
direct investments depending on Government policies and portfolio investments as seen in other as the country is witnessing an outbreak of
markets, should there be greater stability and visibility on the domestic macroeconomic front. a third wave of cases. The authorities have
opted to control the outbreak through a
The economy is also expected to reap the benefits of the fiscal stimuli provided in CY2020 through series of initiatives including more stringent
increased investment capacity and improving household spending. The prevailing low interest rate health and safety guidelines and where
regime and the resultant low cost of capital is also expected to spearhead private sector growth. deemed necessary, isolation of areas deemed
as 'high-risk' to ensure such clusters are
The rating downgrade of the sovereign credit rating has heightened concerns on the country's contained. In furtherance of this, island-wide
ability to meet its external debt repayment obligations amidst an increasing debt-to-GDP ratio. travel restrictions have also been imposed
The CBSL has, however, reiterated its commitment to fulfilling the obligations of the country, during select periods. While it is too early to
which was evident with the repayment of the USD 1 billion sovereign bond in October 2020. The ascertain the full scale of this outbreak, the
credit downgrade has nevertheless exacerbated pressure on external financing and the currency. current trend of daily positive cases indicate a
Continued spending on healthcare and financial support for the local economy in light of the higher possibility of community transmission
recent COVID-19 outbreak will result in a wider fiscal deficit in the immediate-term. In tandem, the than seen in CY2020, particularly given the
Sri Lankan Rupee is likely to continue facing pressure, although ongoing import control measures detection of more infectious variants of the
will help partially mitigate this impact. coronavirus.
2020 Q2
2020 Q3
2020 Q4
2021 Q1
2021 Q2
2021 Q3
2021 Q4
2022 Q1
2022 Q2
2022 Q3
2022 Q4
2023 Q1
2023 Q2
2023 Q3
2023 Q4
increased whilst more hotels have also been
turned into intermediate care centres to treat Central Upside Downside
Sri Lanka commenced the COVID-19 yy Central Forecast – Vaccine roll out expected to permit gradual re-opening across countries in CY2021,
vaccination programme in late January 2021, with international travel commencing from Q2 CY2021.
obtaining consignments of the Oxford- yy Upside Forecast – Global vaccination programme is accelerated, both in terms of coverage and speed,
AstraZeneca vaccine from India under enabling all countries to open international borders to travellers from early-CY2022.
the COVAX programme. However, given
yy Downside Forecast – Failure to deliver a comprehensive and timely vaccine programme to low- and
the ongoing COVID-19 crisis in India and lower-middle-income countries (LMICs), which prevents a widespread opening of the global economy
resultant supply disruptions, the vaccination before CY2022. LMICs will maintain current level of restrictions on international travel, and restrictions
programme on the Oxford-AstraZeneca front on mobility will remain in place in countries with limited access to vaccines until the end of CY2021,
has been curtailed. Whilst ~1 million people rather than easing over the course of CY2021.
were inoculated with the first dose of this
vaccine, the administering of the second
McKinsey & Company envisages that an effective vaccine roll out is key to contain the impacts of
dose is currently underway only for front
the pandemic and restore consumer demand to pre-pandemic levels, fuelled by rising consumer
line workers due to supply limitations. Sri
confidence, pent-up demand, and accumulated savings. China's robust consumer spending
Lanka also commenced administering the
recovery after gaining control of the COVID-19 virus outbreak is another reason for optimism for
Sinopharm vaccine and the Sputnik V vaccine
most countries.
from mid-May 2021. The country also has
plans to purchase doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech Recovey in China post COVID-19: Contribution to China’s year-on-year real GDP growth
vaccine by July 2021. The Government (%)
has committed to scale up the roll out of
8
vaccinations and this should positively
6 1.4
impact recovery once a critical mass of the 0.6
4 1.3 2.5
5.1
Looking beyond these Final Consumption Gross Capital Formulation Net Exports
underlying prospects for the yy China's consumer market noted an encouraging recovery from the downturn triggered by the
economy are positive with COVID-19 pandemic.
growth expected to be driven yy China recorded a 6.5 per cent growth in the fourth quarter of CY2020. Of this, ~40 per cent
by prospects for higher exports, stemmed from final consumption.
expansion of the services yy Although this remains below the 60 per cent three-year average prior to the COVID-19
sectors and the potential for pandemic, during which quarterly GDP averaged 6.6 per cent, it marks an exceptional rebound
higher foreign inflows. considering the depth of consumer market crash in the first half of CY2020.
135
OUTLOOK
GROUP OUTLOOK Whilst the ongoing outbreak of COVID-19 cases in the country is expected to create disruptions,
The recent outbreak of COVID-19 cases in Sri given the prior ramp up of business capabilities to address such similar disruptions and the 'new
Lanka has resulted in short-term uncertainty in normal', as detailed in the ensuing section, the Group envisages the impact on business to be
the market, although the business impact, at this less pronounced. Better insights on consumer behaviour and business momentum are expected
juncture, for most Group businesses excluding to aid the business in navigating through the ongoing outbreak, in contrast to 2020/21, where
Leisure is not as significant as witnessed with businesses were faced with such unprecedented challenges for the first time.
the previous outbreaks and isolation measures.
Whilst it is premature to ascertain the scale of the It is pertinent to note that the degree of impact and uncertainty on businesses will be divergent.
restrictions that may follow due to this outbreak, The impact on businesses such as Supermarkets, where consumer baskets comprise of household
the Group remains positive of the underlying necessities, personal and other household care items, is more insulated in comparison to an
fundamentals of the industry groups in which industry group such as Leisure. As such, for greater clarity, the envisaged impact of the ongoing
it operates and expects a similar recovery to pandemic on each of the industry groups is discussed in detail in the ensuing section.
the traction observed in the second and fourth
quarters of 2020/21; a sustained recovery can As noted earlier, whilst it is premature to ascertain the overall impact of the situation in the country
be expected once the stringent isolation and as at the date of this Report, in any event, the business impact due to the varying levels of isolation
healthcare measures are eased. measures are known, and the recovery trajectory also demonstrated, as discussed in this Report.
As such, the discussion on the Outlook will place a greater emphasis on the medium to long-term
strategy of the Group and each of its businesses.
LOOKING BACK AT RECOVERY
TRENDS IN 2020/21
Realisation of Benefits from the Group's Recent Investments
Although business performance was As discussed in previous Annual Reports, the Group has been in a capital expenditure cycle as it
significantly impacted and extremely has deployed a significant quantum of cash across its businesses to fund the investment pipeline
challenging on account of the stringent to ensure a transformative growth in the years ahead. The Group has continued to invest despite
lockdown measures from March till mid- unprecedented events such as the Easter Sunday terror attacks in Sri Lanka in April 2019 and the
May in 2020, the easing of restrictions in COVID-19 pandemic in CY2020, demonstrating the Group's 'resilience in investing'.
movement thereafter aided a resumption
of activity. Similarly, although the Whilst the iconic 'Cinnamon Life' project is the most significant of such investments, the Group
outbreak of a cluster in early October has made other meaningful investments in its other businesses as well – the number of outlets
2020, which prompted isolation measures in the Supermarket business has doubled to over 120 outlets in the last three years, post the roll
in select areas during the month, caused out of the new brand identity and related initiatives in end-CY2017 coupled with development of
a slowdown in business activity and platforms to transform operational efficiencies. Significant capacity and capability expansion was
dampened consumer sentiment, the also evident in the Frozen Confectionery business with the investment in the impulse ice cream
impact of the isolation measures on factory. The Group has also invested in enhancing its efficiencies and capability in businesses such
business was notably less severe than as the Insurance business. Similarly, the Group invested in refurbishing and upgrading its three
originally witnessed during the lockdown
Maldivian hotels, including the acquisition of a long-term lease on a new hotel, 'Cinnamon Velifushi
which was imposed in the first quarter
Maldives' and also opened 'Cinnamon Bentota Beach' in Sri Lanka. With these developments, the
of 2020/21 as consumers adapted to the
full complement of the Group's hotels was available for operations just prior to the onset of the
health and safety guidelines issued by
pandemic – now the Group is poised to realise this benefit no sooner global tourism recovers.
the authorities as the year progressed.
While such investments had short-term impacts on performance over the last couple of years
This was particularly evident in the
on account of related expenses and disruptions, the longer-term benefits of some of these
performance in the fourth quarter where
investments are now translating to significant performance impact in the relevant businesses,
business activity and movement of
which are not fully visible in the reported results due to the offsetting impacts on account of
consumers was largely normal, despite
disruptions across two consecutive years given the unprecedented events as described before.
the higher number of cases reported
during this period.
As expected, particularly the investment in 'Cinnamon Life', which had a prolonged gestation
period, has exerted pressure on return on capital employed. However, with 'Cinnamon Life'
nearing completion, the Group is now poised to realise the benefits from the commencement of
operations from the ensuing year onwards. This includes the revenue and profit recognition from
The Group has continued to the handover of the residential units in the 'Cinnamon Life' project which will commence from the
invest despite unprecedented first quarter of 2021/22 onwards.
events such as the Easter
Sunday terror attacks in Investments going forward will include the West Container Terminal (WCT) in the Port of Colombo
(POC) in partnership with the Adani Group in India. This investment will ensure continued long-
Sri Lanka in April 2019 and
term exposure to the ports business in the country which augers well for the future of the Group.
the COVID-19 pandemic in The Group's expected investment in the project is ~USD 70-80 million, subject to finalisation of
CY2020, demonstrating the project costs and other structuring arrangements, including the proportion of leverage.
Group's 'resilience in investing'.
Further details on the Group's liquidity and funding position can be found in the Capital Management Review
section of this Report - page 38
The Supermarket business will commence operations of its state-of-the-art distribution centre, Emphasis on the Group's Advanced
which will result in significant efficiencies and scale for the future, while continuing with its outlet Analytics and Transformation Journey
expansion which will be the primary source of capital expenditure. Depending on volume growth,
OCTAVE - the Data and Advanced Analytics
capacity enhancements at the Beverage business will be considered in the medium-term while
Centre of Excellence of the Group has made
additions to enhance manufacturing capability in the ice cream factory will also be evaluated in
remarkable progress and is expected to
line with the evolution of the portfolio of products and business growth. The Group will continue
continue to lay the platform for the Group's
to focus on the monetisation of its extensive land bank and as such, does not foresee deployment
advanced analytics transformation journey.
of significant capital in the property business.
Further to the initial pilots of select use cases in
Refer industry-specific outlook for further details - page 138 Retail and Financial Services, which indicated
strong signs of significant value that can be
Pandemic Response - Processes and Frameworks Already Institutionalised unlocked from translating advanced analytics
insights into front line business interventions,
The outbreaks in CY2020 in Sri Lanka and the subsequent recovery post easing of restrictions, have
and the roll out of the aforementioned use
imparted learnings and garnered experience for the Group in better navigating the ongoing and
cases which has yielded promising results and
potential constraints. The lockdowns and various measures imposed last year offered insights to
indicate anticipated benefits to the businesses
business resilience through investments in technology, processes and also highlighted the need
will be met, the Group will continue to
to manage our people in an agile work environment. Careful planning and oversight to enable
extend its efforts to other Group businesses,
Group businesses to adapt as the situation evolves, whilst managing liquidity and financing is
commencing from the Consumer Foods
of pivotal importance and the Group will continue to capitalise on such opportunities to ensure
industry group.
continued resilience through the recent outbreak. Additionally, better clarity on consumer and
market behaviour during periods of restrictions and thereafter will better equip Group businesses
The Group will also continue to institutionalise
in responding to these evolving preferences.
Data Governance practices across Group
businesses in line with or surpassing the
As per McKinsey & Company, the shift to digital persists across countries and categories as
proposed legislative framework in the
consumers in most parts of the world keep low out-of-home engagement. Food and household
country. OCTAVE will continue to ramp up
categories have seen an average of over 30 per cent growth in its online customer base across
the development of use cases independently
countries. Whilst the Group has not witnessed trends to this degree in its businesses, it is
which is aimed at developing internal
cognisant of the fact that use of digital platforms during periods of more severe outbreaks is more
capability towards sustaining an advanced
pronounced and can be a catalyst for more lasting conversion to such alternate channels.
analytics practice in the Group.
137
OUTLOOK
INDUSTRY GROUP STRATEGY AND The adverse impact on the Airline businesses is expected to continue on the back of reduced
OUTLOOK tourist arrivals and passenger traffic, travel restrictions and dampened consumer sentiment.
The industry group will continue to strengthen the health and safety measures and protocols in
place to ensure the safety of all employees and to reduce the risk of contraction. Most employees
Transportation in the Ports business are already fully vaccinated, given the prioritisation of the ports industry as an
Immediate to Short-Term essential service by the Government. Given these circumstances, it is unlikely that there will be a
serious outbreak of cases disrupting operations at the POC.
The World Trade Organisation (WTO) envisages
the volume of world merchandising trade to
Medium to Long-Term (Beyond COVID-19)
increase by 8.0 per cent in CY2021, against
the 5.3 per cent contraction witnessed in The revival of global trade in the medium to long-term on the back of economic recovery,
CY2020. The industry is witnessing short- improvements in consumption, and investments in infrastructure will augur well for Sri Lanka,
term disruptions to demand, on the back of particularly given its strategic location on key shipping routes.
the COVID-19 crisis in India, as several ports
globally, including Singapore, have barred the Ports and Shipping
entry of vessels which have called at South The recovery of domestic import volumes in line with the envisaged recovery of the domestic
Asian ports, including in Sri Lanka. While it is economy coupled with growth in regional and global trade in the medium-term augurs well for
premature to assess the continued impact the sector. The continued opportunity to further establish Colombo as a regional transshipment
of the recent developments in India, market hub has been further strengthened, post the emergence of the pandemic, as shipping lines have
expectations are that it is temporary and that demonstrated a preference to have less direct services and adopt a more 'hub and spoke' model.
trade volumes will remain resilient. This is further reinforced by the type of order book of many of the leading shipping lines which are
focused on larger container ships which are more likely to call at transshipment hubs.
The reduction in regional trade activity and
vessel movement in the immediate-term, Investments towards increasing the capacity in the POC through the development of the East
may result in some volatility in the Bunkering Container Terminal (ECT) and WCT, will bode well for the country, ensuring the competitiveness
business. The business will continue to of the POC in the region – especially in light of increasing capacity enhancements in Indian
proactively manage its costs, productivity ports. Although ECT is partially operational at present, the full development of the ECT will be
and inventory in order to ensure minimal implemented by the Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) in February 2021, with the first phase of
disruption from the current situation, whilst the project featuring a 450 metre berth while an additional 600 metres will be added in the
also engaging with its customers. second phase. WCT, as outlined above, a part of the proposed Colombo Port South Harbour
Development Project, will encompass a deep-water terminal with an alongside depth of 20 metres
The Logistics business, John Keells Logistics and annual capacity of ~3 million TEUs. The long-term aspirations of the SLPA, which include the
(JKLL), is expected to remain resilient in the development of a new Colombo North Port, is encouraging and expected to spearhead the thrust
face of increased warehousing demand for to establish Colombo as a leading transshipment hub in the region in terms of scale, providing
supplies and the delivery of online purchases scope for sustainable growth for the sector. The investment in WCT will ensure continued long-
during periods of uncertainty, as witnessed term exposure to the ports business in the country, once it materialises. The Group expects to
during the previous lockdown. Similar to commence construction of the WCT in early CY2022, subject to fulfilling criteria as stipulated in
the reconfiguration of a distribution centre the LOI, with part of the terminal slated to be operational in ~24 months, and the remainder within
to an online fulfilment centre within a short a further period of no later than 24 months. The Group's expected investment in the project is
span of 3 days to cater to the growing needs in the region of USD 70-80 million, subject to finalisation of project costs and other structuring
for essential goods, JKLL will continue to arrangements, including the proportion of leverage. This investment will be staggered over the
evaluate prospects to leverage on cross construction period.
business opportunities, thereby ensuring a
seamless supply chain for all its stakeholders. Colombo South Harbour Development Project
Similar to previous outbreaks, key challenges
faced by the business would be managing its
distribution and delivery within the policies
and restrictions stipulated by the Government
and ensuring the health and safety of all its
SOUTH HARBOUR
stakeholders. The business will leverage on its DEVELOPMENT
learnings and experiences from the outbreaks
CURRENT
in 2020/21 to manage the overall impact on WCT West East HARBOUR
Terminal Terminal
business and ensure a seamless operating ECT
JCT
model.
SAGT
CICT
South Terminal
Although the increase in capacity in the Although the industry may experience a shift
POC in the medium-term will result in an in volumes from the POC to the POH due to
impact on volumes for the existing terminal commencement of operations, the Group is
Consumer Foods
operators in the short-term, as seen with the of the view that an increase in additional tank
entry of Colombo International Container capacity will aid an improvement in the overall Immediate to Short-Term
Terminals (CICT), the capacity led growth bunker market, positively impacting both the As seen in the analysis on the quarterly
will ensure demand ramps up significantly, POC and POH. The business will also continue performance, the Beverages, Frozen
given the factors mentioned previously. to explore opportunities at the POH. Confectionery and Convenience Foods
South Asia Gateway Terminals (SAGT) will businesses have demonstrated a resilient
continue to explore opportunities in line with Logistics performance as consumers adapted to the
the overall enhancements to the POC whilst The potential for palletised third-party logistics health and safety guidelines issued by the
working to improve terminal productivity and (3PL) remains promising in the medium to authorities as the year progressed. This was
efficiency through strategic initiatives and long-term with growth expected primarily particularly evident in the performance in the
investments. Special emphasis will be placed from inbound project cargo operations, fast fourth quarter where business activity and
on consolidating its operations, providing high -moving consumer goods (FMCG) and export movement of consumers was largely normal,
value-added and integrated services whilst industries. The anticipated growth in regional despite the relatively higher number of cases
increasing SAGT's share of higher yielding and domestic trading activity, stemming during the period. This recovery momentum
domestic volumes with a view of achieving from global economic recovery and ongoing witnessed from December 2020 onwards,
a more balanced mix of transshipment to infrastructure developments in the country, translated to volumes across the Beverages,
domestic volumes, in order to optimise indicate significant potential for increasing Frozen Confectionery and Convenience
profitability. integration into global supply chains and the Foods businesses exceeding expectations,
positioning of Sri Lanka as a global trading hub. including in April 2021. The recent outbreak
Bunkering and escalation in COVID-19 cases across
Prospects for bunkering services is promising JKLL will endeavour to optimise cost and drive the country and the resultant isolation of
in the medium-term, driven by the envisaged operational efficiencies, particularly through 'high-risk' areas may temporarily hamper this
increase in regional trade activity and demand emphasis on digitisation initiatives. 3PL recovery momentum, particularly if the current
generated from ongoing investments in the customers are increasingly seeking end-to- situation escalates further. However, looking
POC, Southern and Eastern Ports. The Port end solutions and in this regard, every effort beyond these immediate impacts, similar to
of Hambantota (POH) is also expected to aid will be made to ensure a complete service the traction observed in the second and fourth
overall growth in volumes given increased offering. quarters of 2020/21, a sustained recovery in
capacity and infrastructure in the country. volumes can be expected once the stringent
Growth in regional business activity, particularly Airlines isolation and healthcare measures are eased.
in the SAARC (South Asian Association for Increased trading activity and investment
Regional Cooperation) region is also expected In the current backdrop in particular,
towards uplifting the tourism industry,
to positively impact the business. managing the safety and health of staff and
as discussed in the Leisure section of this
key stakeholders remains pivotal and a key
write-up, coupled with convenience of faster
The primary challenge to the bunkering challenge to the businesses. The businesses
connectivity between cities and Sri Lanka's
market in Sri Lanka was the limited availability will continue to strengthen the health and
growing popularity as a destination for short
of bonded tank space which hampered safety measures and protocols in place
stays, are expected to contribute towards
the destination's regional competitiveness to ensure the safety of all employees and
improved performance of the Airline segment
and the ability to meet increasing demand. to reduce the risk of contraction at the
in the medium to-long-term.
With the commencement of bunkering workplace. As outlined above, cash flow and
operations at the POH with a total capacity cost management initiatives will remain a
priority throughout the ensuing year.
of ~60,000 MT and the envisaged expansion Investments towards
in the capacity in Colombo via the proposed
construction of a 3,200 MT storage tank by
increasing the capacity The industry group will leverage on its
Jaya Container Terminal (JCT), the industry in the Port of Colombo learnings and experiences from the outbreaks
will witness an increase in the total storage through the development in 2020/21 to manage the overall impact on
available for bunker fuel, enabling industry of the East Container business and to ensure a seamless operating
players to import larger parcels of bunker model. The business will further augment its
Terminal and West Container processes to thrive in the 'new normal' and
fuel and to supply bunker fuel at more
competitive prices in line with regional ports.
Terminal, will bode well for continue to place emphasis on exploring
Improved competitiveness is expected to the country, ensuring the business opportunities in emerging online
drive bunker volumes in the industry. In order competitiveness of the port and delivery channels through both owned
and third-party e-commerce platforms,
to capitalise on this opportunity, the business in the region.
will continue to focus on further consolidating given continually evolving consumer trends.
its own storage and delivery capacity, and Emphasis will also be placed on maintaining
procurement processes in line with market rigorous engagement with its suppliers and
conditions. distributors to ensure a seamless supply chain,
139
OUTLOOK
better handle of the working capital cycle Beverages Given changing market dynamics, the
and reduced credit risk exposure while further Given increased consumer emphasis on Beverage business in the medium-term will:
streamlining the distributor network to ensure healthier lifestyles coupled with evolving yy Focus on consolidating its current
greater stability and consistency for the future. regulations and restrictions surrounding CSD portfolio and discontinuing non-
calorific sugar content in beverages, the performing SKUs.
Given the resurgence of restrictions in business will continue to focus on developing
movements in selected areas, the bulk/ its portfolio as the share of the carbonated soft yy Prioritise the extension of the current non-
multipack sizes are expected to continue drinks (CSD) as a proportion of total beverages CSD range, based on market opportunity.
its higher share of the volume mix in the may proportionately diminish in the long- yy Manage the composition of the portfolio
short-term, although this does not materially term. However, the prospects for the beverage to ensure optimum margins.
alter the profitability margins. On the industry continue to be promising as these
Beverages front, the business also expects health-conscious consumers seek alternate yy Consolidate and stabilise distributor
the temporary shift from glass bottles to beverage options. networks whilst improving sales force
PET bottles to continue, given health and efficiency through digital means.
safety considerations. Although the subdued Similar trends are witnessed globally, where yy Explore new operating models, different
performance of the HORECA (hotels, CSD manufactures worldwide continue to marketing channels and alternate methods
restaurants, catering) channel is expected to engage in reformulation exercises with the aim of working, given changing consumer
continue in the short-term, this is expected of reducing the sugar content of its products, behaviour and digitisation trends.
to gradually recover in tandem with domestic whilst extending the portfolios to include non-
spending and tourism recovery. Despite the CSD beverages which are healthier and more yy Implementation of lean initiatives at
setbacks in lieu of the COVID-19 pandemic nutritious. factories.
hampering the launch, the Convenience
Foods business will place emphasis on further Low consumption patterns and Frozen Confectionery
establishing 'Ezy rice' in the market, in line with penetration reflects potential for growth Barring the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic,
the diversification strategy of the business. in the CSD market rapid urbanisation and increasing disposable
(CSD per capita consumption in litres) income coupled with modern lifestyle
Medium to Long-Term (Beyond COVID-19) trends have fuelled growth in global frozen
60
Notwithstanding the immediate to short- 52 confectionery markets in the recent years.
term impacts on demand on account of the 50 Looking beyond the pandemic, this positive
pandemic, domestic demand conditions 40
39 growth trajectory is expected to continue.
have remained buoyant and even rebounded 31
30
when activity levels are normalised. This is Ice cream consumption in Sri Lanka at ~3 litres
19
further expected to rebound in the medium- 20 is well below global averages, demonstrating
term in tandem with improving consumer 10 the significant potential for growth in this
10
confidence and economic activity driven by market. Despite the short-term impact
0
an accommodative monetary policy. Philippines Thailand Singapore Malaysia Sri Lanka on single-serve ice creams on the back of
an increase in the in-home consumption
Source: Company analysis
The penetration of consumer food products in segment, the prospects continue to be
Sri Lanka continues to be comparatively low promising. In line with global and regional
in comparison to global and regional peers, Per capita packaged beverage consumption peers, the business expects a gradual shift
demonstrating the significant potential in in Sri Lanka is well below regional and global in the bulk to impulse mix towards impulse
these industries. Given the higher penetration averages highlighting the growth potential products, thereby being the primary driver of
within urban areas, the Group expects for the beverages market in the country. As a the envisaged increase in per capita ice cream
growth from the outskirts of the country to leading player in the beverages market, Ceylon consumption in Sri Lanka. The business will
be a significant contributor to medium to Cold Stores PLC (CCS) will leverage on its continue to invest in expanding its distribution
long-term growth, despite the lower base. strong brand equity and distribution network reach in an optimal manner.
The industry group will capitalise on this to capitalise on this opportunity through a
opportunity by investing in its supply chain continuing pipeline of products, as introduced
over the recent years, catering to the ever-
and augmenting its portfolio of offerings in
evolving lifestyles of consumers. Given
Rapid urbanisation and
line with evolving trends.
evolving regulations surrounding single-use increasing disposable
The business will continue to invest in plastics and interest towards environmentally income coupled with
its digitisation strategy, particularly in friendly packaging, continual emphasis is modern lifestyle trends
also placed on exploring alternate forms of
furtherance of the Group's advanced analytics have fuelled growth in
packaging, where feasible.
transformation journey through data driven global frozen confectionery
decision-making to glean insights, which is
expected to optimise production practices,
markets in the recent years.
deliver productivity and cost savings, and
identify growth opportunities.
The bulk:impulse mix of regional markets is highly tilted towards the impulse market, demonstrating
the significant potential for the impulse category in the overall ice cream market of Sri Lanka.
(%)
8
Retail
30 Immediate to Short-Term
The ongoing outbreak of COVID-19 cases
44
Sri Lanka Thailand Malaysia 56 in the country may create disruptions and
hamper momentum in the short-term given
the isolation of areas deemed as 'high-risk',
70 particularly outlets located in such areas, and
92 restriction measures imposed to curtail the
Bulk Impluse movement of people. As at the date of this
Report, although over 90 per cent of outlets
In line with this shift, the business projects a similar trend for its portfolio in the long-term. The are open to customers, since others are located
state-of-the-art facility in Seethawaka will play a pivotal role in catering to this growth trajectory, in areas which have been isolated by the
both in the bulk and impulse segments, in the long run. This facility continues to perform as Government, operations have been restricted
envisaged, aiding innovative new product development, increased operational efficiencies and to 25 per cent of the capacity as per the safety
better margins. guidelines issued by the health authorities.
Open outlets have not witnessed a material
The strategic priorities of the Frozen Confectionery business for the short to medium-term are: impact to the operations by these restrictions,
although it may be premature to fully
yy Focus on consolidating its current frozen confectionery portfolio.
understand the impacts. Despite the aforesaid,
yy Emphasis on digitisation and process improvements. the impact on performance is expected to be
yy Explore new operating models, alternative distribution channels and alternate methods of less pronounced than witnessed when previous
working. isolation measures were in place given that the
yy Investments in its supply chain. business is better equipped to navigate these
challenges in contrast to the previous outbreaks
yy Implementation of lean initiatives at factories.
in CY2020. To this end, the business has
invested and ramped up its capabilities of the
Convenience Foods
online shopping platform, 'Keells' and related
The Convenience Foods business will continue to innovate and expand on its portfolio. delivery and in-store pick up services, which are
able to handle over 15,000 online orders per
The strategic priorities for the business for the medium-term are: day as against 100 online orders prior to the
yy Development of product extensions, paving way for the business to increase its market share outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic.
particularly through emphasis on convenient meal options.
Consumer demand is expected to continue
yy Focus on consolidating the dry distribution network and sales force to ensure readiness to cater its recovery momentum once the current
to the envisaged growth in volumes. outbreak is overcome, as witnessed post
yy Emphasis on growing the modern and general trade channels, particularly the organised small the first and third quarters of the year under
and medium entities under general trade thereby increasing footprint. review, despite the increases in cases at
present. This is further complemented by the
yy Focus on further augmenting its portfolio offering. nature of operations, where the performance
of the Supermarket business is expected to
be somewhat insulated given that consumer
The prospects for the modern trade industry in Sri Lanka baskets primarily consist of essential goods,
continue to be promising, given the low penetration of personal and other daily household items.
modern trade outlets in the country, growth expectations for
The health and safety of employees, in
consumer demand and the steady conversion from general
particular frontline workers, suppliers and
trade to modern trade driven by demand for better quality, customers remain a key priority and the
convenience and value for money for consumers. business will continue to roll out health
and safety procedures within its outlets, in
order to reduce the spread of the COVID-19
virus. The business will continue to maintain
transparent communication with its
customers, whist also engaging with suppliers
and other stakeholders to ensure a continually
functioning supply chain. Emphasis will also
be placed on cost optimisation and working
capital management.
141
OUTLOOK
Vietnam
Sri Lanka
Philippines
Indonesia
Thailand
Malaysia
Singapore
China
Hong Kong
Australia
New Zealand
Taiwan
Korea
Medium to Long-Term (Beyond COVID-19)
Supermarkets
Source: Retail and shopper trends in the Asia Pacific, AC Nielsen
The prospects for the modern trade industry
in Sri Lanka continue to be promising, given Continued focus will be placed on differentiating the shopping experience for its customers
the low penetration of modern trade outlets through its 'fresh' promise, service excellence and quality within 5 activity pillars; product, price,
in the country, growth expectations for place, people and the customer. The business will also focus on continually expanding its footprint
consumer demand and the steady conversion to capitalise on the envisaged growth of the modern trade industry given its low density and
from general trade to modern trade driven penetration levels. 'Brick and mortar' stores are expected to be the key driver of growth going
by demand for better quality, convenience forward for the foreseeable future, although online sales will increase its contribution over the
and value for money for consumers. The years. Consumer behaviour suggests an inclination to shop at physical stores despite the effects
Supermarket business is uniquely positioned of the pandemic as evident in the patterns witnessed post easing of isolation measures in the
to capitalise on this opportunity by leveraging third quarter; although online sales witnessed a temporary uptick during periods of lockdown and
on it its high brand equity. uncertainty on the back of COVID-19 restrictions, with orders exceeding 10,000 a day, a reversal
in trends was evident with the easing of restrictions with direct 'brick and motor' sales noting a
Prospects for the modern trade industry in corresponding increase.
Sri Lanka is promising, given the low penetration
of modern trade outlets in the country. In this light, the business will continue the expansion of its network, both in urban and suburban
areas, timing such expansion plans based on the macroeconomic landscape and the maturity of
Modern Retail Penetration these markets. In addition to its standard store format, the business is also rolling out a modular
(%)
store format in pursuing its expansion plans for select areas, to better manage capital expenditure
80 and operational costs, until such time these earmarked markets mature by which time the store
70
70 can be expanded to a standard format in a modular manner. The key challenges faced during
60 expansion include securing lease of land plots in prime locations which are in conformity with
49 48
50 43 brand specifications and staff retention. The business will continue to focus on retaining its labour
40
40 force by augmenting its recruitment processes, empowering these individuals and focusing on the
30 employer brand.
20 16
10 The ongoing construction of the distribution centre (DC) in Kerawalapitiya will augment the
0 business's outlet expansion, particularly given its ability to cater to its outlet expansion well
Singapore
Malaysia
Hong Kong
Taiwan
Thailand
Sri Lanka
beyond the medium to long-term. The operation of the new DC is expected to result in significant
process and operational efficiencies, particularly given the centralisation of almost the entirety of
the dry and fresh range of the current modern trade offering and also provide better visibility of
Source: Company analysis the supply chain.
The Office Automation Given the significant roll out of stores in the past few years, profitability and margins of the
Supermarket business were impacted by the funding costs associated with such investment and
business remains confident also the relative contribution from new stores. EBITDA margins of new stores are comparatively
of the underlying demand for lower than mature stores, given that new outlets typically take 12-16 months to ramp up. Whilst
high quality office automation the impact of new stores was more pronounced at the outset, since the store count has doubled
solutions and smart mobile over a period of three years, the business will see normalisation of the impact of new store
expansion since the base of existing outlets are now proportionately much higher relative to the
phones which is expected
expansion envisaged. Continued emphasis will also be placed on higher private label penetration
to be driven by increasing in order to enhance customer choice and drive profitability margins.
commercial activity within the
country and an improvement
in business sentiment.
143
OUTLOOK
Given the interlinkages between global Ensuring the health and safety of all stakeholders, particularly the employees and guests, continue
economic and tourism recovery, particularly to be the Group's immediate priority. The businesses will, therefore, ensure that all required social
the performance of key source markets, the distancing protocols and health checks are in place as advocated by international and local
Group expects the current impact on the regulatory bodies.
Leisure industry group to continue in the
short-term. In 2020/21, the businesses adopted stringent expense control and cost optimisation measures to
manage the financial and liquidity burden on the businesses which was augmented by securing
With the resurgence of the third wave of loan facilities, particularly through the various relief measures extended by the Government and
outbreak in Sri Lanka, the Government has the Central Bank at the time. Although such initiatives, which aided the businesses in navigating
once again imposed stringent health and through the challenges presented by the outbreaks last year, will continue to be in place, a
safety measures to control the transmission prolonged impact on the Leisure businesses will further impact the financial position of the
of COVID-19, including isolation of select businesses, although these scenarios have been planned for. John Keells Holdings PLC, the parent
areas deemed as 'high-risk', travel restrictions company, is confident of its ability to extend support to the Leisure businesses, in managing the
during select periods and certain restrictions businesses' funding requirements should there be a need. While the short-term will continue to
on travel within the country. As of the date pose certain challenges, the anticipated recovery in the country and key tourism source markets
of this Report, all passenger arrivals to Sri once the vaccination roll out ramps up, is expected to result in a rapid growth.
Lanka are suspended till 31 May 2021.
Although the construction of 'Cinnamon Red Kandy', jointly developed by John Keells Hotels PLC
Restrictions have also been imposed on
(KHL) and Indra Traders (Private) Limited, was temporarily put on hold with the onset of COVID-19
seating capacities at food and beverage (F&B)
last year, construction recommenced during the year. The hotel is envisaged to be launched in the
outlets whilst conferencing and banqueting
second half of 2022/23.
facilities are not permitted to function for a
limited period of time. Against this backdrop, The Government of Maldives has a target of reaching 1.5 million tourists for CY2021, whereas the
the Leisure businesses have witnessed a World Bank estimates 1 million tourist arrivals to the Maldives in CY2021. In its efforts to make the
notable slowdown in domestic activity, from Maldives the first fully vaccinated tourism country in the world, and thereby attract higher arrivals,
that witnessed in the second and fourth 53 per cent of the eligible Maldivian population and over 90 per cent of the eligible members of
quarter, which has adversely impacted the the tourism industry have received the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.
business. Initiatives rolled out during the
previous outbreaks, such as the introduction As noted in the Leisure industry group review, arrivals to the Maldives and the Group's Maldivian
of a F&B delivery platform, better equips properties have been encouraging with occupancy at ~50 per cent from December 2020 till
the businesses in catering to demand for March 2021, despite the travel restrictions in the UK, a key source market to the Maldives, for
in-home consumption which was evident outbound travel. However, since then, an exponential increase in COVID-19 cases in India since
during periods of restrictions in the past. In March 2021, may result in a short-term moderation of arrivals to the Maldives, as India is one of the
the immediate-term, given the slowdown in key source markets to the country, although the Group does not expect a significant impact from
domestic tourism due to the current outbreak the situation in India, given the composition of arrivals to its Maldivian hotel properties. Over the
of cases, three Group hotel properties in last few weeks, the number of COVID-19 cases in the Maldives has seen a rising trend. While it is
Sri Lanka are being used as intermediate premature to assess the impacts of this escalation as of now, a continuation of this could cause, in
care centres (ICC) for the treatment of the short-term, some disruption to the recovery momentum witnessed thus far. Notwithstanding
asymptomatic COVID-19 cases. In addition to this, the Group envisages a full revival of tourism to the Maldives by the end of this year. Post
meeting the critical national need to provide reconstruction and refurbishments across its three Maldivian properties from 2017/18 to 2019/20
facilities for individuals infected with the and the addition of 'Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives', the full complement of all four resorts in the
COVID-19 virus, this will also help mitigate the Maldives is available to capitalise on this growth momentum in tourist arrivals to the Maldives.
impact of a drop in domestic tourism since
the ICCs are in demand given the current Medium to Long-Term (Beyond COVID-19)
circumstances. The operations of the Group's Whilst the Group expects significant short-term challenges given the current situation, the Group
other Leisure properties in Sri Lanka have remains confident that the prospects for tourism in the medium to long-term remain extremely
been restricted during this current outbreak positive, given the diversity of the offering and the potential for regional tourism, together with
in order to manage and mitigate costs. The availability of its full complement of hotels to cater to this anticipated upsurge in demand. The
Group will continue to review the trends of potential for tourism still remains largely untapped given the country attracted only 2.3 million
both international and domestic travel, and tourists prior to the Easter Sunday attacks in CY2019, whereas regional tourism has grown many-fold
proactively roll out strategies to optimise during the last decade. The launch of a global tourism campaign which was delayed for many years
benefits to all stakeholders. The Group remains was just about to take place prior to the outbreak of the pandemic in CY2020. Focus on improving
confident that operations of the hotels will connectivity into the country at competitive rates along with a concerted marketing campaign in a
gradually ramp up to pre COVID-19 levels in post-COVID-19 environment is expected to be a significant catalyst to attract tourism into Sri Lanka.
tandem with the ongoing vaccine roll outs.
The Leisure businesses continue to prepare
themselves for the resumption in tourism
Post reconstruction and refurbishments across its three
activity, no sooner domestic activity or Maldivian properties from 2017/18 to 2019/20 and the addition
international travel resumes, particularly given of 'Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives', the full complement of all four
the envisaged pent-up demand for leisure resorts in the Maldives is available to capitalise on this growth
travel from various markets.
momentum in tourist arrivals to the Maldives.
145
OUTLOOK
unique attractions and offerings. The Group With individuals increasingly moving towards urban areas as a result of improved connectivity and
is also in the final stages of negotiations with commercial activity, there is a robust and emerging market for affordable, multi-family housing
prospective tenants for the office space at solutions in close proximity to such commercial hubs.
'Cinnamon Life'.
The market for vertical and middle-income housing, in particular, is expected to experience significant
John Keells Holdings PLC, through JK Land, growth given increasing land prices in Colombo and the high costs associated with the construction
committed to acquire the remaining 13.3 of single-family houses. The proportion of landed housing to apartments within Colombo is notably
per cent equity stake of Vauxhall Land higher than its regional peers, indicating the need and potential for smart housing solutions at
Developments (Private) Limited for a affordable price points, which however need to be within the limited land bank available in Colombo.
consideration of Rs.2.99 billion on or before
24 September 2021. With this acquisition, ~60-70 per cent of housing in regional mega cities, both luxury and mid-tier, are predominantly
the Group is of the view that the existing apartments to ensure maximum value creation within a limited land bank. However, apartment
land bank is adequate to sustain a steady living in Colombo is ~10 per cent, despite the scarcity of land, representing an opportunity within
pipeline of projects in the long-term. As the market.
such, the Group will continue to focus on (%)
the monetisation of its extensive land bank
100 5
and, as such, does not foresee deployment of 20
30
significant capital in the Property business. 80 40 45
35
50
Supported by a strong capital base, healthy liquidity buffers and robust risk management models, the
Bank is confident that it has the required resources to withstand the potential impacts arising from
the current outbreak. To this end, the Bank will continue to proactively assess the developments in
Financial Services
the environment in order to implement required actions while providing necessary support to the
Immediate to Short-Term measures undertaken by the Government to revive the economy.
The ongoing third wave of the COVID-19
outbreak is expected to exert pressure on The Director of Bank Supervision of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) has informed John Keells
the performance of the industry group in the Holdings PLC that the Monetary Board of CBSL has permitted the John Keells Group to retain its
immediate-term, given the isolation of select current shareholding of 29.52 per cent in the voting shares of Nations Trust Bank (NTB) until 31
areas deemed as 'high-risk' and restrictions on December 2021 and to reduce it to 20 per cent on or before that date and to 15 per cent on or
inter-provincial travel. However, the Group is before 31 December 2022.
of the view that the industry group is better
Medium to Long-Term (Beyond COVID-19)
placed this year to manage the impact of the
ongoing pandemic, given the various initiatives Insurance
rolled out in 2020/21 aimed at ensuring business A relatively low level of insurance penetration in comparison to regional markets, rising income
continuity and an agile work environment, levels and an ageing population is expected to aid growth in the life insurance industry in Sri
particularly through investments in digital Lanka. The absence of a pension scheme for all citizens and the increasing prevalence of non-
infrastructure and processes. communicable diseases is also expected to increase demand for long-term health and annuity
solutions. Union Assurance (UA) is uniquely positioned to capitalise on the aforementioned
The Insurance business is likely to witness opportunity, given its strong brand equity, diversified portfolio of products and digital know-how.
disruptions to canvassing for new business
and particularly collections in the short-term, The business will focus on diversifying its channels and optimising bancassurance partnerships.
should this environment prevail. Whilst it To this end, although the agency channel is envisaged to be the key driver of revenue growth, the
is too premature to ascertain the overall business will also focus on expanding the bancassurance and alternate channels, particularly through
impact of the current outbreak or for how the development of innovative insurance products that meet the evolving needs of customers.
long this situation will prevail, a prolonged
The business will continue to revolutionise the insurance landscape in Sri Lanka through ongoing
impact may adversely affect consumer
innovative investments and a clear digital road map that focuses on enhancing customer
sentiment and income, inducing policy lapses.
convenience, achieving operational excellence and improving distribution capabilities. Capitalising
However, the business may witness increased
on the vast data reserve, emphasis will be placed on data analytics for better insight on evaluating
requirements for digital capabilities amidst
the market, developing innovative products and devising growth strategies to fundamentally
the COVID-19 pandemic, as evident during
enhance decision-making capability.
the previous lockdown, which the business
is well positioned to capitalise on. This is The Insurance business will leverage on its new identity to attract a new generation of customers
expected to aid the business in managing and augment its market presence. Continued focus will be placed on improving the employee
the overall impact on new business premium value proposition, to drive further value for all employees. The business will also execute various
and renewal premium growth. The business strategies aimed at the continuous improvement of the agency force through skill development
will also focus on an optimal asset allocation and the retention of the trained talent pool.
to maximise return while managing risks,
given the prevailing low interest rate regime. Banking
The business will continue to leverage the Navigating beyond the impacts of COVID-19, the prospects for the Banking sector continue to be
bancassurance channel given the high level of promising with NTB uniquely positioned to capitalise on this opportunity. Recent investments and
banking penetration in the country. focus towards strengthening its digital infrastructure, strong customer relationships and flexible
solutions have placed NTB in a unique position to capture the opportunities presented by the
Ensuring the health and safety of employees industry's ongoing digital transformation and strengthen its market positioning.
and all stakeholders, including the agency
force, remain a key priority of the business. The Bank will further augment its digital infrastructure and processes to ensure better customer
Emphasis will also be placed on expense service, innovative solutions and efficiency in operations. The continued expansion and
control and cost optimisation. positioning of 'FriMi' as a lifestyle application and digital bank through the integration of various
lifestyle solutions, new features and enhanced user interface, will remain an area of focus for the
On the Banking front, managing liquidity, loan Bank in its digitisation drive.
growth and margins will be a key priority for
the business. As outlined earlier, a prolonged Investment in upskilling the human capital of the business to thrive in an increasingly digitised
outbreak may result in lacklustre credit industry, driving cost and process efficiencies by leveraging on past investments in automation,
growth on the back of reduced consumer lean process re-engineering and activity-based costing measurement frameworks remain a priority
spending which will adversely impact loan in the medium-term.
growth, although growth may stem from
Stockbroking
liquidity needs of corporate clients. Prolonged
stresses may also result in an increase in non- The Group expects a revival in foreign investor participation in a post pandemic world, which will
performing loans and impairments. contribute to improved activity in the Colombo Stock Exchange. John Keells Stock Brokers (JKSB)
will continue to cultivate foreign tie-ups in order to strengthen its presence amongst foreign
institutional investors. The business will simultaneously work towards expanding its local client
base aimed at local corporates, fund managers and high net-worth individuals.
147
OUTLOOK
Other, including Information The low penetration of BPO services in Sri Lanka and the increasing demand for outsourced
Technology and Plantation services, particularly non-core functions, is expected to augur well for the BPO industry in Sri Lanka.
Services Infomate is uniquely positioned to capitalise on this opportunity, given its strong track record and
business capability in catering to offshore clients from varying geographies and industries. Against
Information Technology this backdrop, the business is envisaged to continue its growth momentum, increasing its market
Immediate to Short-Term share through the acquisition of new clients, while focusing on further diversifying its operations
The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic and improving the efficiency of its services through automation and digitisation of processes.
and the resultant restrictions on movement
and social distancing protocols, has Plantation Services
compelled businesses worldwide to adopt Immediate to Short-Term
and implement digital solutions, to an The timely conversion of the traditional tea auctions onto an electronic platform in April 2020
extent never envisaged possible. Such and the continuation of the tea auctions through this platform to-date, will ensure minimal
adoption has also tested the digital posture interruption and enable the tea industry to function seamlessly as it navigates through the current
and efficacy of business continuity and outbreak.
crisis management plans. The business
will leverage on its strategic partnerships Tea Smallholder Factories PLC (TSF) continues to operate its factories, in adherence to stringent
and capabilities to offer smart software health and safety protocols and social distancing measures while placing continuous focus on
solutions, especially in the areas of cloud the health and safety of the employees. The business will also leverage on the learnings and
computing, software as a service (SaaS) and experiences from the previous outbreaks to proactively roll out measures as the situation evolves
automation, whilst concurrently exploiting to ensure minimal disruption to the supply chain. Although it is too premature to ascertain the
potential opportunities for managed services, full impact of the current outbreak, restrictions on inter-provincial travel and increasing cases
outsourcing and offshoring in light of the within the country may create disruptions in the transportation of processed leaf. Despite such
current situation. headwinds, the business expects the industry to remain resilient with steady tea prices and an
improvement in production. However, a potential reduction in oil prices and devaluation of
Medium to Long-Term (Beyond COVID-19) currencies in major tea drinking nations may exert pressure on demand, adversely affecting the
The business expects continued adoption of industry as a whole.
information technology solutions even beyond
the containment of the COVID-19 pandemic The increase in the daily wage of plantation workers to Rs.1,000 from March 2021 will adversely
on the back of the higher adoption of digital affect the industry although many representations are being made by the industry to have a
solutions. To this end, the Group expects to see greater productivity-linked wage increase.
greater traction in the adoption of cloud-based
solutions and services across industries, with Medium to Long-Term (Beyond COVID-19)
emphasis on cloud, SaaS, automation, advanced Global demand for tea is expected to gain traction on the back of an increase in tea drinking
analytics, application modernisation, cyber trends globally and a global recovery fuelled by strengthening currencies in major tea drinking
resilience and platform/ecosystem thinking, nations and steady oil prices. Growing demand for low grown tea from traditional markets in
among others. Data is envisaged to become the Middle East and Russia and new demand from emerging tea drinking countries such as
the core ingredient driving the 'new normal' in Germany and the United States is expected to augur well for Sri Lanka. Adverse and increasingly
terms of driving personalisation across the value unpredictable weather conditions on account of climate change and significant competition
chain and digital transformation will become from other tea-producing nations such as Kenya, India and China remain as key challenges for the
a key imperative for most businesses to stay business. The business will also continue to adopt increased regulations and controls on chemical
relevant and drive innovation. usage in the tea plantation industry to meet maximum residue levels (MRLs).
John Keells IT (JKIT) will leverage on its The strategic priorities for TSF for the medium-term are:
strategic partnerships with SAP, Microsoft
and UiPath, to expand regionally to capture yy Placing emphasis on the quality of its products whilst also diversifying its manufacturing mix to
high-end accounts and increase business meet market trends and mitigate risks.
reach in Sri Lanka, the Middle East and North yy Cost optimisation and improving factory utilisation.
Africa (MENA) and the Asia Pacific (APAC).
The business will also focus on delivering yy Maintaining its reputation as a high-quality producer to the market, while exploring
innovative consultative solutions and services opportunities to cater to high value market segments.
across the four value stacks of 'Core', 'Cloud', yy Continual evaluation of opportunities arising from the emerging Chinese market for Ceylon
'Platforms' and 'Ecosystems', across multiple orthodox black tea.
industries. JKIT will also place emphasis on
building and expanding its capabilities and The Warehousing business will continue to work closely with its stakeholders to maintain and
also look to expand its portfolio of offerings improve relationships while increasing warehouse utilisation. The business will also evaluate
beyond core enterprise resource planning expansion opportunities, based on requirements and market trends.
(ERP), enterprise applications, managed
development centres, thereby expanding its
value proposition and competitive advantage.
In managing the Group's portfolio, the Group The Group is of the view that the fundamentals and potential of the industries the Group
places emphasis on identifying and pursuing operates in remain largely unchanged, as the demand drivers underpinning the business
growth prospects that would help achieve the would still be relevant in the medium to long-term, although there may be changes to
Group's vision of 'Building businesses that are operating models in some areas.
leaders in the region' and its medium to long-
term objectives. In this light, businesses adopt a
INSIGHTS
systematic approach to resource allocation and
strategy formulation that is aligned with the core
The Group has been in a capital expenditure cycle in the recent years as it has deployed
values, overall direction and strategies of the
a significant quantum of cash across its businesses to fund the investment pipeline
Group.
to ensure a transformative growth in the years ahead. While these investments had
short-term impacts on performance over the last couple of years on account of related
As evident from the past, the Group strives to
expenses and disruptions, the longer-term benefits of some of these investments are
constantly align its portfolio of businesses with
now translating to significant performance impacts in these businesses, which are
the growth sectors of the economy, both current
not fully visible in the reported results due to the offsetting impacts on account of
and futuristic, and continuously endeavours
disruptions across two consecutive years given the unprecedented macroeconomic
to ensure that capital resources are efficiently
circumstances.
employed in a manner that will expand the reach
of the portfolio, ensure relevance, and give the
Capital expenditure in recent years include investments aimed at ensuring a completed
ability to compete at the relevant levels, both
and refurbished portfolio of Leisure properties, increasing the store footprint of the
locally and internationally. The Group believes the
Supermarket business which has in the last three years doubled to over 120 outlets
current portfolio continues to serve that purpose
and enhancing the capacity and capability in the Frozen Confectionery and Insurance
and that its investments over the last few years
businesses, amongst others. The most significant of such investments, 'Cinnamon Life',
and planned investments in these core areas
is nearing completion with the revenue and profit recognition from the sale of the
reinforce this strategy.
Residential and Office units commencing from the first quarter of 2021/22.
149
STRATEGY, RESOURCE ALLOCATION AND
PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT
Following are some of the key strategic structure to ensure an even more synergised productivity and efficiency through the
initiatives pursued across Group businesses approach across the Group's hotels with employment of digital technologies and
in furtherance of achieving its short, medium a view to providing a further enhanced disruptive business models. During the
and long-term objectives. customer value proposition. year under review, the Group's Data and
Advanced Analytics Centre of Excellence
yy Creation of sustainable value is at the yy Group strategy also revolves around
made significant headway with several use
forefront when making operational recruiting, developing and retaining a
cases being rolled out in the Supermarket
decisions. An aspect of Group-wide talented pool of employees. Over the years,
and Insurance businesses. Although it is
strategy focuses on driving growth and the Group has attracted the best and the
premature to fully assess the full impact
value that is consistent, competitive, brightest talent towards building a strong
of these interventions, preliminary results
profitable and responsible. In this regard, team that reflects the diversity of the
are extremely encouraging where these
businesses place emphasis on maximising customers we serve. The Group engages
anticipated benefits have been incorporated
value by augmenting revenue channels, and encourages employees to perform
into future budget plans as well.
increasing market share and exploring to the best of their abilities through a
opportunities by fostering a culture of performance-oriented culture founded on yy Group strategy places significant emphasis
disruptive innovation and digitisation. ethical and transparent behaviour, which, in on minimising environmental impacts
turn, promotes sustainable and profitable through impact analysis and stakeholder
yy Focus is placed on maintaining flexible cost
growth. In executing all plans and strategies engagement. Strategies are governed by a
structures to ensure optimisation of costs
of the business units, talent management comprehensive environmental management
and thereby driving efficiencies and profit
is scrutinised closely and given significant system and Group-wide sustainability goals
maximisation. The Group's emphasis on
prominence. The Group reinforced its Agile which were renewed during the year under
cost optimisation, prudence and agility, has
Working Policy which was augmented to review. All operational decisions consider the
continued to assist businesses in enduring
cater to the post-pandemic 'work from impact on the Group's sustainability goals
through challenging periods. The Group's
home' arrangements, some of which and ensure that all possible actions are being
response to the COVID-19 pandemic is an
are likely to continue based on business taken towards reducing waste and adverse
apt example of this, with various expense
exigencies. The Agile Working Policy will environmental impacts.
control measures being undertaken at
help unlock a talent pool and also provide
different stages of the pandemic, with the yy Focus is also placed on developing life
flexibility to our pool of employees.
objective of preserving cash and managing skills of communities and empowering
its liquidity position. yy Another aspect of Group strategy focuses them in overcoming social, economic and
on re-engineering, process improvement, environmental challenges. The CSR initiatives
yy Given that continued brand development
enterprise risk management and quality of the Group are centrally planned and
is essential in fostering customer loyalty,
management in ensuring that business implemented by the John Keells Foundation.
enhancing business image and establishing
processes and governance checks across
a more customer-centric identity, Group
the Group are efficient, agile, robust and Group businesses continue to adopt a
strategy also focusses on increasing
in line with international best practice. 'Steering Wheel' tool that measures progress
brand equity through a comprehensive
The Group's digitisation drive aimed at on a series of internal business Promises
understanding of its target market, value
identifying emerging and current disruptive that cater to the needs of the Customer,
proposition, internal alignment to the brand
business trends and developing the Community, People, Operations and Finance,
promise and vision. In furtherance of this,
digital quotient (DQ) of individuals and which feeds into a multi-dimensional
'Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts' was strategically
businesses is also believed to increase the approach to strategy formulation.
realigned to create a unified organisational
Given the Holding Company's diversified interests, resource allocation and portfolio management are imperative in creating value to all
stakeholders through evaluation of the Group's fundamentals which are centred on the forms of Capital. Whilst the Group is presented with
opportunities in diverse industries, it continues to follow its four-step, structured methodology indicated in the ensuing section, in evaluating its
portfolio and thereby guiding investment and divestment decisions.
The Project Risk Assessment Committee, a sub-committee of the Board, provides the Board with increased visibility of large-scale new
investments and assists the Board to assess risks associated with significant investments, particularly at the initial stages of discussions, by
providing feedback and suggestions in relation to mitigating risks and structuring arrangements. Intervention is mandatory as per the committee
scope, if the investment cost exceeds a board mandated threshold.
REGULAR ASSESSMENT OF RISK AND REWARD During the year under review, to afford the
In measuring business performance and continuity of operations, all verticals and businesses Group the flexibility and agility to fund its
within each industry group are regularly assessed on key dimensions such as customer orientation, investments in an optimal manner whilst
supplier concentration, bargaining power of both customers and suppliers, JV partner affiliations providing additional support to the Group's
and dependence, cyclicality, regulatory structure, performance against the industry and Sri Lankan liquidity position, the Holding Company secured
economy, procedural, regulatory or technological factors that obstruct or restrict operations and a USD 175 million long-term financing facility
the current and potential competitive landscape, among others. from the International Finance Corporation (IFC)
as outlined in the Capital Management Review
The capital structure for new ventures are stress-tested under various scenarios, which often leads section of this Report. Whilst the entirety of the
to taking proactive measures, particularly in managing potential foreign exchange risks during loan was drawn down during the year under
both the development and operating phases. Further, ongoing projects are regularly tested and review resulting in an increase in debt at the
evaluated in partnership with independent and recognised parties to ensure clear, impartial Holding Company, the loan did not impact net
judgment on matters relating to capital structure, economic implications and key risks. debt since the cash balance was also retained
at a Holding Company level. From a portfolio
management perspective, increased debt
JKH'S HURDLE RATE levels resulting in a higher capital employed
The present hurdle rate of JKH is at 15 per cent which is a function of the weighted average cost is expected to have an impact on ROCE in the
of capital (WACC). The WACC is derived from the Group's cost of equity, cost of debt, target capital immediate-term, with improvement envisaged
structure, tax rates and the value creation premium required over and above the WACC. Whilst post the deployment/use of such funds.
the cost of debt has followed a downward trend, in general, during the period under review, the
hurdle rate has not been revised on the basis that it is a long-term target, and any revision would
be warranted only if the above factors are expected to sustain over the long-term. Over the last few years, the
Group has witnessed a shift in
Even though this hurdle rate is utilised as the initial benchmark rate in evaluating feasibility and the composition of its earnings
opportunity in all projects of the Group, project specific modifiers are also used in order to get a with a greater contribution
holistic view of the project under consideration. As such, a country specific risk modifier would from higher ROCE earning
be applied for investments with a high proportion of foreign currency investment costs and
industry groups such as
operational cash flows. To this end, the modifier would use a project specific cost of debt and
foreign currency denominated equity return benchmark commensurate with the investment,
Consumer Foods, Retail, and
which in turn would be comparatively analysed against projects with similar risk profiles. Financial Services. Looking
beyond the short-term impacts
CONCEPTUALISING PORTFOLIO PERFORMANCE stemming from the COVID-19
The Group aims to strike a balance between optimising immediate portfolio returns against
outbreak, the conscious and
returns in the future. As such, emphasis is placed on both return generating capabilities of the planned strategies of driving
business against its capital employed and the earnings potential of the business or project. This growth in these industry groups
is particularly relevant with projects such as 'Cinnamon Life' which has a long gestation period is expected to contribute
which impacts the short-term portfolio returns during the development phase of the project. The towards an improvement in
Group is conscious of the quantum of capital deployed to businesses, and to this end, places a the ROCE for the Group, whilst
strong emphasis on evaluating projects in a manner which optimises capital efficiency, especially concurrently driving absolute
in capital intensive businesses such as Leisure. In order to manage the effective quantum of capital
earnings growth.
deployed, the Group will continue to explore investment structuring options such as asset-light
investment models for future hotel projects and monetise the land bank of the Group in such a
manner that generates a return from the strategic parcels of land held.
INSIGHTS
Being a portfolio of businesses, the Group has benefited from contributions from different
The significant cash reserves of the
businesses at varying points of time based on their growth cycle and correlation with overall
Company are primarily from the debt
economic growth in the country. Over the last few years, the Group has witnessed a shift in the
drawdown of the USD 175 million
composition of its earnings with a greater contribution from higher ROCE earning industry groups
long-term financing facility from IFC
such as Consumer Foods, Retail, and Financial Services. Looking beyond the short-term impacts
and from the funds earmarked for
stemming from the COVID-19 outbreak, the conscious and planned strategies of driving growth
equity commitments of 'Cinnamon Life'.
in these industry groups is expected to contribute towards an improvement in the ROCE for the
Although the cash balance of the Group
Group, whilst concurrently driving absolute earnings growth.
is currently generating returns below the
Group's hurdle rate, exerting pressure on
Whilst the business outlook on the financial year 2021/22 cannot be fully ascertained at this
Group ROCE, given the unprecedented
point of time given the uncertain and evolving situation, better insights on consumer behaviour
nature of the COVID-19 pandemic, the
and business momentum are expected to aid the business in navigating through the ongoing
presence of adequate cash reserves will
outbreak, in contrast to 2020/21, where businesses faced such unprecedented challenges for the
enable the Group to manage its liquidity
first time.
requirements better.
151
STRATEGY, RESOURCE ALLOCATION AND
PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT
PERFORMANCE OF THE PORTFOLIO units handover along with many other investments such as the supermarket outlet expansion and
The Group continually endeavours to deliver the new impulse ice cream plant coming into fruition, to name a few of the key investments in
value to our stakeholders, particularly the Group. Whilst acknowledging that the performance as depicted in the table is well below the
shareholders. To this end, the Group has target rates, the unprecedented events affecting performance in the last few years has naturally
in place long-term financial goals which resulted in the foremost impact on performance. However, as stated before, the Group believes,
are continually monitored to ensure that the 'resilience in investing' which continued unabated will come to bear in terms of the medium-
the Group is moving progressively towards term performance.
its vision and objectives, although recent
performance has been affected by the effects As seen in the portfolio graph below, a significant portion of capital is deployed in Leisure and
of the intensive capital expenditure cycle 'Cinnamon Life'. Whilst these have resulted in a significant 'drag' on the ROCE of the Group, the
of the Group, the Easter Sunday attacks in commencement of operations of 'Cinnamon Life' will contribute towards a positive ROCE along
2019/20 and the COVID-19 pandemic. with the recovery of Leisure, particularly since the Group is poised to benefit from having its full
complement of hotels available once the 'pent up' demand of global tourism materialises.
Capital employed has significantly increased
as a result of the 'Cinnamon Life' project and LONG-TERM ASPIRATIONS
its gestation period, whilst the long-term
Indicator (%) Goal Achievement
financing facility obtained during the year
from IFC has also contributed to a notable 2020/21 2019/201 2018/19
increase in the capital base, both of which EBIT growth2 >20 (41.3) (25.5) (33.9)
have negative impacts on ROCE. These
EPS growth (fully diluted) >20 (49.3) (35.9) (26.5)
strategic choices, however, have established
a strong platform for future growth and Cash EPS growth (fully diluted) >20 4.5 (24.7) (15.6)
while the Board is cognisant of the effects on Long-term return on capital employed (ROCE) 15 2.1 4.2 6.8
short-term performance, priority was given Long-term return on equity (ROE) 18 2.2 4.5 7.5
to the accretive value creation in the long-
Net debt (cash) to equity3 50 20.0 14.0 1.9
term. The Group is now poised to reap the
benefits from the 'Cinnamon Life' project from 1
Growth rates for 2019/20 have been adjusted for the impact of SLFRS 16 - Leases. The capital employed and equity for
2021/22 onwards, given the revenue and profit 2018/19 has been adjusted in arriving at the average capital employed and equity base, as applicable, for 2019/20.
recognition in lieu of the residential and office 2
EBIT Growth excludes the impact of exchange gains/losses.
3
Excludes lease liabilities.
ROCE (%)
30% Consumer Foods - 21.5
Information Technology - 20.9
Financial Services - 17.3
10%
Property (excluding Cinnamon Life) - 0.0 Sri Lankan Resorts - (11.2)
Cinnamon Life - (0.1) Colombo Hotels - (6.4) Maldivian Resorts - (6.7)
0%
10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 110 120 130 140 150 160 170 180 190 200 210 220 230 240 250 260 270 280 290 300
(10%)
Whilst the ensuing section details the high-level impacts to ROCE, for a detailed discussion on the impacts to
EBIT and capital employed, as applicable, refer the Industry Group Review section - page 66
Transportation Property
ROCE = EBIT x Asset x Capital ROCE = EBIT x Asset x Capital
(%) margin turnover structure (%) margin turnover structure
(%) leverage (%) leverage
2020/21 15.1 12.6 1.09 1.10 2020/21 0.0 (0.6) 0.05 1.07
2019/20 18.7 12.5 1.35 1.11 2019/20 1.5 41.1 0.04 1.03
2020/21 13.5 4.7 1.83 1.58 2020/21 17.3 16.1 0.31 3.50
2019/20 16.0 4.9 2.16 1.50 2019/20 14.9 14.0 0.35 3.09
The decrease in asset turnover, which was the main contributor to the Improvement in ROCE was driven by higher EBIT margins in the Banking
decline in the ROCE, was a result of the increase in the asset base due business and the Stockbroking business, as a result of various cost
to the continued expansion of the outlet base and the investments optimisation strategies and efficiency enhancing initiatives.
towards the proposed distribution centre of the Supermarket business
and an increase in inventory and trade and other receivables in the Other, including Information Technology and
Office Automation business in line with higher operational performance. Plantation Services
Lower absorption of fixed costs on the back of a decline in revenue due
ROCE = EBIT x Asset x Capital
to the closure of outlets during the lockdown exacerbated the impact.
(%) margin turnover structure
(%) leverage
Leisure
2020/21 4.9 73.6 0.06 1.04
ROCE = EBIT x Asset x Capital
2019/20 2.5 31.0 0.08 1.04
(%) margin turnover structure
(%) leverage
ROCE of the Information Technology sector decreased to 20.9 per cent
2020/21 (8.2) (136.5) 0.05 1.10 [2019/20: 22.8 per cent] due to a decline in asset turnover as a result
2019/20 (1.1) (5.1) 0.19 1.12 of a decrease in revenue due to the impact of COVID-19. ROCE of the
Plantation Services sector increased to 9.8 per cent [2019/20: negative
The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic and the resultant closure of 0.2 per cent] due to an increase in profitability aided by higher tea prices
airports and restrictions on global travel, had an adverse impact across and volumes. The ROCE of the Holding Company was impacted by an
all Leisure businesses. increase in debt mainly on account of the drawdown of the USD 175
million long-term loan from IFC. However, this was partially offset by
Refer the Industry Group Review section for further information - page 66 higher interest income as the full drawdown of the facility was retained
as cash at the Holding Company.
153
STRATEGY, RESOURCE ALLOCATION AND
PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT
Capital employed
(Rs.bn)
450
400
350
300
250
200
150
100
50
0
FY17 FY18 FY19 FY20 FY21
Invested Rs.9.41 billion in Invested Rs.6.75 billion in Invested Rs.10.35 billion in Invested Rs.8.42 billion in
Waterfront Properties (Private) Waterfront Properties (Private) Waterfront Properties (Private) Waterfront Properties (Private)
Limited. Limited. Limited. Limited.
JKH was allotted 18,109,079 Invested Rs.164 million in Glennie Invested Rs.95.4 million in Invested Rs.5.98 billion in JK
ordinary non-voting convertible Properties (Private) Limited, to Nations Trust Bank PLC to Land (Private) Limited, increasing
shares in Nations Trust Bank PLC purchase 12.12 perches of land in purchase 1.15 million non-voting the shareholding in Vauxhall
as part of the Rights Issue. The Glennie Street, Colombo 2. shares. Land Developments (Private)
JKH investment amounted to Limited to 86.7 per cent from
Rs.1.45 billion, with the effective 60.0 per cent. Committed to
economic interest of JKH in NTB infuse a further Rs.2.99 billion on
rising to 32.16 per cent. or before 24 September 2021
to fully acquire Vauxhall Land
Developments (Private) Limited.
Invested a total of Rs.6.18 billion Invested Rs.1.09 billion in JK Land KHL invested Rs.466 million Invested Rs.215 million in
in JK Land (Private) Limited. Of (Private) Limited for the purchase in Ceylon Holiday Resorts purchase preference shares in
this, Rs.4.37 billion was utilised of 98.88 perches of land in Tickell Limited for the refurbishment of Saffron Aviation (Private) Limited.
to purchase 334 perches of land Road, Colombo 8. 'Cinnamon Bentota Beach'.
INVESTMENTS
Increase in JKH's shareholding Invested Rs.1.06 billion in KHL invested Rs.145 million KHL further invested Rs.105
from 50 per cent to 100 per LogiPark International (Private) in Indra Hotels and Resorts million in Indra Hotels and
cent through the acquisition of Limited for the construction of a Kandy (Private) Limited, for the Resorts Kandy (Private) Limited,
11 million shares of Transware multi-use international logistics preliminary construction work of for the construction work of
Logistics (Private) Limited (TWL) centre. 'Cinnamon Red Kandy'. 'Cinnamon Red Kandy'.
for a consideration of Rs.305
million.
Ceylon Cold Stores PLC (CCS) John Keells Hotels PLC (KHL)
invested Rs.989 million in the invested Rs.817 million in Ceylon
Colombo Ice Company (Private) Holiday Resorts Limited and
Limited, to construct a new ice increased its shareholding from
cream production facility in 99.1 per cent to 99.3 per cent.
Seethawaka.
PLC (UA), towards meeting the 90.0 per cent for a consideration
minimum float requirement of of Rs.290 million to fulfil the
the CSE. minimum public holding
requirement on the 'Diri Savi'
Board.
155
SHARE INFORMATION
JKH SHARE The beta of the JKH share as at 31 March 2021 stood at 1.04. The beta
The JKH share increased by 29 per cent to Rs.148.50 as at 31 March is calculated on the daily JKH share movements against movements of
2021 from Rs.115.40 on 31 March 2020. The movement of the JKH Share the ASPI for the five-year period commencing 1 April 2016 to 31 March
against the ASPI is exhibited below. 2021. The compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of the JKH share over
the 5-year period stood at 2.6 per cent, compared to that of the market
which stood at 3.2 per cent for the same period.
JKH Share Performance vs ASPI (Indexed)
Index No. of shares (mn)
140 Accordingly, the total dividend declared per share for the financial year
2020/21 amounted to Rs.2.00 per share [2019/20: Rs.2.50 per share]. The
120
total dividend paid during the financial year was Rs.1.98 billion [2019/20:
100 Rs.4.61 billion]. The Group payout ratio was at 41 per cent during the year
80
[2019/20: 49 per cent].
May-20 Jun-20 Jul-20 Aug-20 Sep-20 Oct-20 Nov-20 Dec-20 Jan-21 Feb-21 Mar-21
High Low JKH 30-day moving average The Group will follow its dividend policy which
corresponds with growth in profits, whilst ensuring
that the Company maintains adequate funds to
ensure business continuity, particularly given the
prevailing challenging circumstances, and fund its
pipeline of strategic investments.
157
SHARE INFORMATION
245
20 50 250
221
40.3
210
39.0
206
2
196
10 40
191
31.7
188
186
7.3 8.3 8.2 4.6 2.0 30
30.0 200
152
0 0
19.7
136
FY17 FY18 FY19 FY20 FY21 20 6.9 150
10 6.5
Dividend paid Dividend payout 10.0 100
0
(10)
50
The Group will follow its dividend policy (20)
which corresponds with growth in profits, (30) (23.8) 0
whilst ensuring that the Company maintains FY17 FY18 FY19 FY20 FY21 FY17 FY18 FY19 FY20 FY21
adequate funds to ensure business continuity,
Annual TSR Cumulative TSR Market capitalisation Enterprise value
particularly given the prevailing challenging
circumstances, and fund its pipeline of Note: Includes the proportionate impact arising from
strategic investments. the ownership of Warrants and Share Repurchase in
2018/19.
Composition of Shareholders
31 Mar 2021 31 Mar 2020
Number of Number of % Number of Number of %
Shareholders Shares Shareholders Shares
Non-resident:
Institutions 89 485,528,066 36 100 580,679,792 44
Individuals 243 6,952,365 1 230 8,751,833 1
Total Non-resident 332 492,480,431 37 330 589,431,625 45
Resident:
Institutions 692 408,263,803 31 602 322,603,994 24
Individuals* 13,182 418,919,717 32 10,809 406,515,149 31
Total Resident 13,874 827,183,520 63 11,411 729,119,143 55
Total 14,206 1,319,663,951 100 11,741 1,318,550,768 100
Distribution of Shareholders
31 Mar 2021 31 Mar 2020
Number of % Number of % Number of % Number of %
Shareholders Shares Held Shareholders Shares Held
Options Available to Executive Directors under the Employee Share Option Scheme
Year of Expiry K Balendra G Cooray
Granted Immediately To be Vested Granted Immediately To be Vested
Shares Vesting Shares Vesting
(Adjusted)* (Adjusted)*
159
SHARE INFORMATION
Note: There were no share dealings by the Executive Directors to be reported for John
Keells Holdings PLC, for the period between 1 April 2020 to 31 March 2021. Therefore,
there has been no requirement to maintain an interest register for this period.
PLAN 9 15.08.2016 9,948,581 14.08.2021 142.83 9,948,581 1,254,709 1,214,787 194,161 7,284,924 7,284,924 142.83
3 1
Award 1 GEC 2,625,000 2,850,000 600,000 2,250,000 2,250,000
Other
Executives 7,323,581 7,098,581 654,709 1,214,787 194,161 5,034,924 5,034,924
PLAN 9 03.07.2017 10,402,204 02.07.2022 173.25 10,402,204 1,204,397 194,578 9,003,229 7,522,807 1,480,422 173.25
4 1
Award 2 GEC 2,865,000 3,090,000 3,090,000 2,852,500 237,500
Other
Executives 7,537,204 7,312,204 1,204,397 194,578 5,913,229 4,670,307 1,242,922
Management Discussion & Analysis
PLAN 9 22.06.2018 10,381,395 21.06.2023 154.10 10,381,395 27,798 1,074,941 192,016 9,086,640 5,715,915 3,370,725 154.10
5 1
Award 3 GEC 2,615,000 2,970,000 2,970,000 2,352,500 617,500
Other
Executives 7,766,395 7,411,395 27,798 1,074,941 192,016 6,116,640 3,363,415 2,753,225
Governance
PLAN 10 01.07.2019 6,568,000 30.06.2024 136.97 6,568,000 32,500 268,000 122,250 6,145,250 2,194,250 3,951,000 136.97
Award 16 GEC1 2,460,000 2,460,000 2,460,000 1,140,000 1,320,000
Other
Executives 4,108,000 4,108,000 32,500 268,000 122,250 3,685,250 1,054,250 2,631,000
PLAN 10 19.10.2020 6,557,100 30.06.2025 132.86 6,557,100 30,000 6,527,100 431,700 6,095,400 132.86
7 1
Award 2 GEC 2,230,000 2,230,000 2,230,000 350,000 1,880,000
Financial Statements
Other
Executives 4,327,100 4,327,100 30,000 4,297,100 81,700 4,215,400
Total 50,638,562 52,676,487 1,576,470 4,915,020 828,031 38,047,143 23,149,596 14,897,547
161
SHARE INFORMATION
Three months ended 30 June 2020 29-Jul-2020 Three months ended 30 June 2021 On or before 28 July 2021
Six months ended 30 September 2020 5-Nov-2020 Six months ended 30 September 2021 On or before 2 November 2021
Nine months ended 31 December 2020 27-Jan-2021 Nine months ended 31 December 2021 On or before 26 January 2022
Annual Report 2020/21 24-May-2021 Annual Report 2021/22 On or before 25 May 2022
42 Annual General Meeting
nd
25-Jun-2021 43 Annual General Meeting
rd
On or before 24 June 2022
First interim dividend paid on 28-Aug-2020
Second interim dividend paid on 7-Dec-2020
Third interim dividend paid on 2-Mar-2021
Final dividend proposed to be paid on 25-Jun-2021
AGILE
GOVERNANCE
165 Corporate Governance Commentary 181 Sustainability Integration, Stakeholder Engagement and Materiality
184 Risks, Opportunities and Internal Controls
163
In furtherance of Group's sustainability and digitisation
efforts, coupled with the need to strike a balance
between the principles of conciseness and completeness
in Integrated Reporting, the Group has used a variety
of reporting formats to meet diverse stakeholder
requirements. Whilst the section that ensues discusses the
key highlights for the year under review and applicable
disclosures, the Corporate Website entails a detailed and
comprehensive discussion of the below sections.
165
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE COMMENTARY
yy Established 'cash war rooms' and 'spend control towers' to critically review each yy The integrated fraud deterrent and investigation
spend item, prioritise payments, and impose clear reporting metrics. Although such framework, which was initiated with the
initiatives were institutionalised primarily in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the aim of driving and delivering continuous
Group will continue to implement select measures to ensure an agile, efficient and improvements of its assurance related initiatives,
productive business model. ran its first full cycle of operations during the
yy A freeze on all non-essential capital expenditure. year under review. As envisaged, the framework
yy Enforced stringent expense control measures, including a reduction in executive staff integrated the management of all aspects of
remuneration ranging from 5 to 60 per cent across the Group. Full remuneration was fraud and stakeholder assurance, reinforced
reinstated from July 2020 onwards, in tandem with the recovery in performance. uniformity across common processes in matters
yy Group companies applied for relief measures, where relevant, extended by the relating to fraud and employed a data-driven
Government and Central Bank which eased the financial position further. approach to the continuous assessment
of control efficacy while enabling better
yy While the Group had a strong cash position and availability of banking facilities at the monitoring and refining audit trails.
onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, continued focus was placed on ensuring balance sheet
strength to support the investment pipeline of the Group. In June 2020, JKH entered into a yy 'Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts' was strategically
ten-year financing agreement with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) for USD 175 realigned to create a unified organisational
million to support funding of the Holding Company's investment pipeline, marking IFC's structure to ensure an even more focused
largest investment to date in Sri Lanka. leadership and synergised approach across
yy Despite the increase in debt on account of the drawdown of this facility, it is noted the Group's hotels. The revised structure
that there was no impact on net debt as at 31 March 2021 since the cash balance was encompasses a holistic approach to the
also retained at the Holding Company level. portfolio of hotels as opposed to the previous
yy During the year under review, the Group entered into an interest rate hedge for USD separate verticals of City and Resorts – in Sri
100 million of the USD 175 million long-term financial facility as a prudent measure Lanka and the Maldives.
to mitigate the Group's exposure to interest rate fluctuations. In April 2021, the Group
entered into a further hedge for USD 57 million of the remaining exposure of USD 75 Leisure industry group review - page 96
million of the IFC loan.
yy Independence of the Group's whistle-blower
yy The Group introduced an improved and augmented Agile Working Policy with the intention
channels was maintained by the appointment
of encouraging and unlocking new talent pools and adopting new ways of working,
of a new Ombudsperson effective 1 December
particularly in adapting to the evolving and dynamic environment. Whilst this policy facilitates
2020. This individual is an attorney-at-law by
current working arrangements with greater clarity, the primary purpose of this policy is to
profession.
ensure a greater degree of employee involvement and flexibility in work arrangements, which
will help increase retention and motivation of existing employees while expanding the talent yy Given the faster than anticipated recovery
pool and enabling greater participation of women in the workforce. momentum in business activity and the
generation of cash profits by the Group, during
yy With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Group transitioned to 'work from home'
the year under review, the Board declared
arrangements, where possible. The Group's robust technology and digital platforms
a first, second and third interim dividend of
in place at the time enabled a seamless transfer with minimal impact on business
Rs.0.50 per share each in July 2020, November
operations. In order to further strengthen the IT frameworks in place the Group
2020 and January 2021, respectively. A final
continued with its migration to cloud-based identity management, consolidated the
dividend for 2020/21 of Rs.0.50 per share was
Security Operations Centre protocols, augmented data classification and management
declared to be paid in June 2021, reflecting the
while migrating applications to the cloud and adopting digital platforms.
positive momentum of the performance of the
yy To amplify the Group's emphasis on creating an inclusive, diverse and equitable businesses in the fourth quarter of 2020/21,
work environment, the Group's first Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DE&I) programme notwithstanding the impacts of the current
was established with the aim of increasing female participation in the workforce by outbreak on the cash generation capability of
implementing identified initiatives such as gender goals, employer supported childcare the Group's diverse portfolio of businesses and
solutions, change agent networks and training and development. Some key initiatives in the continued impacts of the Leisure businesses
this regard included extension of maternity and paternity leave, introduction of adoption on the overall performance of the Group. The
leave and institution of a Gender Policy. The Group also established a goal of increasing staggered payments were reflective of the
women participation up to 40 per cent by the end of 2025/26 [2020/21: 30 per cent], as a cognisance of the Board of the potential for
first step towards achieving gender parity in the employee cadre. an uncertain business environment due to
the pandemic, although improved business
yy The Group embarked on a journey of strengthening its internal audit and process
performance paved the way to continue with
review framework by further augmenting, through automation, its holistic approach to
the declaration of dividends as witnessed.
conducting internal audits and process reviews. This framework is expected to encourage
auditors to report on value added recommendations, based on independent assessments
and their knowledge of leading industry best practice and access to global knowledge
bases. It will also help ascertain the degree of alignment between process controls and IT
functional facilitation of these processes, expand its database of known types of fraud and
maintain a central repository of data sets to undertake retrospective forensic data analysis
and to steer audit scoping going forward.
yy All 5 Board Sub-Committees are chaired by Independent Directors appointed by the Board.
yy The Chairman-CEO is present at all Human Resources and Compensation Committee meetings unless the Chairman-CEO's performance assessment or remuneration
is under discussion. The Deputy Chairman/Group Finance Director is invited as necessary.
yy Audit Committee meetings are attended by the Chairman-CEO and the Deputy Chairman/Group Finance Director. The Head of Group Business Process Review,
External Auditors and the Group Financial Controller are regular attendees.
yy The GOC acts as the binding agent to the various businesses within the Group towards identifying and extracting Group synergies.
yy Due to space constraints only the key components are depicted in the diagrams.
167
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE COMMENTARY
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Board Composition
As at 24 May 2021, the Board comprised of 7 Directors, with 5 of them being Non-Executive Independent Directors.
Krishan Balendra is the Chairman of John Keells Gihan Cooray is the Deputy Chairman/Group Amal Cabraal is presently the Chairman of
Holdings PLC. He is a Director of the Ceylon Finance Director and has overall responsibility Ceylon Beverage Holdings PLC, Lion Brewery
Chamber of Commerce and the Hon. Consul for the Group's Finance and Accounting, (Ceylon) PLC, CIC Feeds Group and Silvermill
General of the Republic of Poland in Sri Lanka. Taxation, Corporate Finance and Strategy, Investment Holdings (Private) Limited. He is
He is a former Chairman of Nations Trust Bank Treasury, Information Technology function a former Chairman and CEO of Unilever Sri
and the Colombo Stock Exchange. Krishan and John Keells Research. He is the Chairman Lanka and has over 4 decades of business
started his career at UBS Warburg, Hong Kong, of Nations Trust Bank PLC. Gihan holds an experience in general management, marketing
in investment banking, focusing primarily on MBA from the Jesse H. Jones Graduate School and sales in Sri Lanka and overseas. He is also
of Management at Rice University, Houston, the Vice-Chairman of Sunshine Holdings PLC, a
equity capital markets. He joined JKH in 2002.
Texas. He is a Fellow member of the Chartered Non-Executive Director of Hatton National Bank
Krishan holds a law degree (LLB) from the
Institute of Management Accountants, UK, and a business advisor to a number of leading
University of London and an MBA from INSEAD.
a certified management accountant of the companies. He is a committee member of the
Institute of Certified Management Accountants, Ceylon Chamber of Commerce and serves on
Australia and has a Diploma in Marketing from the Management Committee of the Mercantile
the Chartered Institute of Marketing, UK. He Services Provident Society. A Marketer by
serves as a committee member of The Ceylon profession and a Fellow of the Chartered
Chamber of Commerce. Institute of Marketing - UK, he holds an MBA
from the University of Colombo and is an
executive education alumnus of INSEAD-France.
Nihal Fonseka is a career banker and served as Group Chief Executive Officer of Brandix Premila Perera was appointed to the Board
the Chief Executive Officer Director of DFCC Apparel Limited, Ashroff Omar, has been of the Company with effect from 1 July
Bank from 2000 until his retirement in 2013. He instrumental in redefining the Sri Lankan 2014 as an Independent Non-Executive
is currently a Chairman of Phoenix Industries Apparel industry for over four decades. Ashroff Director. Premila Perera, formerly a Partner,
Limited, Non-Executive Director and Chairman of spearheads a company that comprises of KPMG in Sri Lanka, also served as the Global
the Investment Committee of Phoenix Ventures manufacturing and product development Firms Regional Tax Director for ASPAC in
Limited and Non-Executive Director and Chairman facilities, offering end-to-end solutions from 2000/01, as a member of the Global Task
of the Group Audit Committee of Brandix Lanka Tokyo to the US, including UK, Cambodia, Haiti, force commissioned in 1998, to advise
Limited. He was a member of the Monetary Board Sri Lanka, India and Bangladesh for some of the International Board of KPMG on future
of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka from 2016 to the world's most renowned brands, with a directions in determining long-term strategic
2020 and from 2011 until recently the President commitment to offering 'Inspired Solutions' to plans, and faculty of the KPMG International
of the Sri Lanka National Advisory Council of the its clientele. He is also credited with pioneering Tax Business School. She also served a period
Chartered Institute of Securities and Investments, environmentally friendly apparel manufacture of secondment with the US Firm's National
UK . Prior to joining the DFCC Bank, he was the in the world and establishing the world's first Tax Office in Washington DC, and was a
Deputy Chief Executive of HSBC Sri Lanka. He is a LEED platinum manufacturing facility for eco- participant at the KPMG-INSEAD International
past Chairman of the Colombo Stock Exchange friendly manufacture. His extensive experience Banking School programme. She is a Fellow of
and the Association of Development Financing and ability to think beyond the norm has the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Sri
Institutions in Asia and the Pacific (ADFIAP). He has secured him positions in the Boards of some Lanka. She served as an Independent Director
also served as a Director of the Employees' Trust of Sri Lanka's most respected corporates. He and Chairperson of the Audit and Related
Fund Board and as a member of the Presidential is also the Founder Chair of the Joint Apparel Party Transaction Committees of Ceylon
Commission on Taxation (2009), National Association Forum (JAAF), the apex body of Tobacco Company PLC until October 2017 and
Procurement Commission and Strategic Enterprise the Sri Lanka Apparel industry. as a Non-Executive Director of Holcim (Lanka)
Management Agency (SEMA). He holds a B.Sc Limited until August 2016.
from the University of Ceylon, Colombo, is a Fellow
of the Institute of Financial Studies, (FIB) UK and
is a Honorary Fellow of the Chartered Institute of
Securities and Investments, FCSI (Hon), UK.
169
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE COMMENTARY
Board Meetings
During the financial year under review, there were 9 Board meetings. All pre-scheduled Board meetings are generally preceded by a Pre-Board
meeting, which is usually held on the day prior to the formal Board Meeting. In addition to these Pre-Board meetings, the Board of Directors
communicate, as appropriate, when issues of strategic importance requiring extensive discussions arise. Considering the unprecedented impacts of
the pandemic on Group businesses, the Board met more frequently than usual to discuss matters in a timely manner given the volatile and dynamic
situation, enabling greater deliberation and prompt decision-making required in these circumstances.
The attendance at the Board meetings held during the financial year 2020/21 is given below:
Name 6/Apr/20* 14/May/20 21/May/20 29/July/20 7/Sep/20 30/Sep/20 5/Nov/20 27/Jan/21 26/Feb/21 Eligibility Attended
K Balendra 9 9
G Cooray 9 9
N Fonseka 9 9
A Cabraal 9 9
P Perera 9 9
H Wijayasuriya 9 9
A Omar 9 9
*Supplemental Extraordinary Board meeting to the Extraordinary Board meeting held on 31 March 2020, to discuss the impacts and action plan for the Group on the back of the
COVID-19 pandemic.
Board Sub-Committees
The Board has delegated some of its functions to Board Sub-Committees, while retaining final decision rights. Members of these Sub-Committees
focus on their designated areas of responsibility and impart knowledge and oversight in areas where they have greater expertise.
The Board Sub-Committees comprise predominantly of Independent Non-Executive Directors. The membership of the five Board Sub-Committees is
as follows;
Board Sub-Committee membership Audit Human Nominations Related Party Project Risk
as at 31 March 2021 Committee Resources and Committee Transactions Assessment
Compensation Review Committee
Committee Committee
Executive
K Balendra – Chairman-CEO
G Cooray – Deputy Chairman/Group Finance Director
Senior Independent Non-Executive
N Fonseka
Independent Non-Executive
A Cabraal
A Omar
P Perera
H Wijayasuriya
Committee Member
Committee Chair
Audit Committee
The Head of the Group BPR division
No of meetings - 06
served as the Secretary to the Audit
Committee.
COMPOSITION The Audit Committee met six times during
the financial year. The Chairman-CEO,
yy All members to be Non-Executive, Independent Directors, with at least one member
the Deputy Chairman/Group Finance
having significant, recent and relevant financial management and accounting experience
Director, Group Financial Controller and
and a professional accounting qualification.
the External Auditors attended most
yy The Chairman-CEO and the Group Finance Director are permanent invitees for all parts of these meetings by invitation. The
Committee meetings. The Group Financial Controller is also present at discussions Internal Auditors carrying out outsourced
relating to Group reporting. assignments and relevant executives
of the Company and the Group also
yy The Head of the Group Business Process Review division is the Secretary of the
attended these meetings on a needs
Committee.
basis. The Committee engaged with
management to review key risks faced by
the Group as a whole and the main sectors
with a view to obtaining assurances that
SCOPE
appropriate and effective risk mitigation
yy Review the quarterly and annual financial statements, including quality, transparency, strategies were in place.
integrity, accuracy and compliance with accounting standards, laws and regulations.
The activities and views of the Committee
yy Assess the adequacy and effectiveness of the internal control environment in the Group were communicated to the Board of
and ensure appropriate action is taken on the recommendation of the internal auditors. Directors quarterly through verbal
briefings, and by tabling the minutes of
yy Evaluate the competence and effectiveness of the risk management systems of the
the Committee's meetings.
Group and ensure robustness and effectiveness in monitoring and controlling risks.
yy Review the adequacy and effectiveness of internal audit arrangements. Financial Reporting
The Audit Committee has reviewed
yy Recommend the appointment, re-appointment and removal of the External Auditors
and discussed the Group's quarterly
including their remuneration and terms of engagement by assessing qualifications,
and annual financial statements with
expertise, resources and independence.
management and the External Auditors
prior to publication. The scope of the
Report of the Audit Committee review included ascertaining compliance
of the statements and disclosures with
the Sri Lanka Accounting Standards,
Role of the Committee
the appropriateness and changes
The role of the Audit Committee is to assist the Board in fulfilling its oversight responsibilities
in accounting policies and material
in relation to the integrity of the financial statements of the Company and the Group,
judgemental matters. The Committee
the internal control and risk management systems of the Group, compliance with legal
also discussed with the External
and regulatory requirements, the External Auditors' performance, qualifications and
Auditors and Management, any matters
independence, and, the adequacy and performance of the Internal Audit function
communicated to the Committee by the
undertaken by the Group Business Process Review division (Group BPR). The scope of
External Auditors in their reports to the
functions and responsibilities are adequately set out in the terms of reference of the
Committee on the audit for the year.
Committee which has been approved by the Board and is reviewed annually.
The External Auditors were also engaged
The Committee's responsibilities pertain to the Group as a whole and in discharging its
to conduct a limited review of the Group's
responsibilities, the Committee places reliance on the work of other Audit Committees in the
interim financial statements for the six
Group without prejudicing the independence of those Committees. However, to the extent,
months ended 30 September 2020. The
and in a manner, it considers appropriate, the Committee provides feedback to those entities
results of this review were discussed with
for their consideration and necessary action.
the External Auditors and management.
The effectiveness of the Committee is evaluated annually by each member of the Committee
The Committee obtained independent
and the results are communicated to the Board.
input from the External Auditors
on the effects of any new Sri Lanka
Composition of the Committee and Meetings
Accounting Standards that came into
The members of the Audit Committee are the undersigned and the following Independent effect for the year under review and
Non-Executive Directors: satisfied themselves that any necessary
A Cabraal preparatory work was carried out, to
P Perera enable the Company to comply with
these new standards.
171
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE COMMENTARY
Internal Audit, Risks and Controls issues and to ascertain whether they had
The Committee reviewed the adequacy of the Internal Audit coverage for the Group and the any areas of concern relating to their
Internal Audit Plans for the Group with the Head of the Group BPR division and Management. work. No matters other than those already
The Internal Audit function of most Group companies is outsourced to leading professional discussed with management were raised by
firms under the overarching direction and control of the Group BPR division. the External Auditors.
The Group BPR division regularly reported to the Committee on the adequacy and effectiveness The External Auditors' final management
of internal controls in the Group and compliance with laws and regulations and established reports on the audit of the Company
policies and procedures of the Group. Reports from the outsourced Internal Auditors on the and Group financial statements for the
operations of the Company and some of the unquoted subsidiaries of the Company were year 2020/2021 were discussed with
also reviewed by the Committee. Follow-up action taken on the recommendations of the management and the auditors.
outsourced Internal Auditors and any other significant follow-up matters were documented and
presented to the Committee on a quarterly basis by the Head of Group BPR. The Committee is satisfied that the
independence of the External Auditors has
In the context of enhanced health and safety measures, remote working arrangements and a not been impaired by any event or service
higher level of digital transactions that became necessary during the year under review due to that gives rise to a conflict of interest. Due
the COVID-19 pandemic, the Committee paid special attention to the risk mitigation measures consideration has been given to the nature
introduced by management and obtained management assurances in this regard. of the services provided by the Auditors
and the level of audit and non-audit
The Group BPR division, drawing from the growing benefits of assurance related inputs fees received by the Auditors from the
provided by the digital forensic capability that is operational across the entire Group, has John Keells Group. The Committee also
extended the scope of the project to include measures to optimise internal process efficiencies reviewed the arrangements made by the
and behavioural responses with a view to enhancing operational controls and supporting Auditors to maintain their independence
governance reporting. and confirmation has been received from
the Auditors of their compliance with
The Group BPR division has institutionalised a multi-pronged approach to Internal Audits and the independence guidance given in the
process reviews, to foster synergy, collaboration efficiencies between components that deliver Code of Ethics of the Institute of Chartered
governance and assurance and related services, whilst focusing on continuous improvement Accountants of Sri Lanka.
through rigorous alignment of process, technology, and people, in optimising the interplay
between related components, invoked to handle transactional events for better outcomes. The performance of the External Auditors
has been evaluated with the aid of a formal
The Sustainability and Enterprise Risk Management division reported to the Committee on the assessment process with input provided by
process of identification, evaluation and management of all significant risks faced by the Group. the senior management of the Company
The report covered the overall risk profile of the Group for the year under review in comparison and the Committee has recommended
with that for the previous year, and the most significant risks from a Group perspective together to the Board that Ernst & Young be re-
with mitigatory action. The Group functions in an environment where not all risks can be appointed as the Lead/Consolidation
completely eliminated and in this context the Committee reviews remedial measures taken to Auditor of the Group for the financial year
manage risks that do materialise. ending 31 March 2022, subject to approval
by the shareholders at the Annual General
Formal confirmations and assurances were obtained from the senior management of Group Meeting.
companies on a quarterly basis regarding the efficacy and status of the internal control systems
and risk management systems and compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
N Fonseka
The Committee reviewed the whistleblowing arrangements for the Group and had direct
Chairman of the Audit Committee
access to the Ombudsperson for the Group. The effectiveness and resource requirements of the
Group BPR division were reviewed and discussed with management and changes were effected
24 May 2021
where considered necessary.
External Audit
The External Auditors' Letter of Engagement, including the scope of the audit, was reviewed
and discussed by the Committee with the External Auditors and management prior to the
commencement of the audit.
The External Auditors kept the Committee advised on an ongoing basis regarding matters of
significance that were pending resolution. Before the conclusion of the Audit, the Committee
met with the External Auditors and management to discuss all audit issues and to agree on
their treatment. This included the discussion of formal reports from the External Auditors to
the Committee. The Committee also met the External Auditors, without management being
present, prior to the finalisation of the financial statements to obtain their input on specific
yy The Deputy Chairman/Group Finance Director is the Secretary of the Committee. Director Remuneration
Executive Director Remuneration
The Human Resources and Compensation
Committee is responsible for determining the
SCOPE compensation of the Chairman-CEO and the
Deputy Chairman/Group Finance Director,
yy Review and recommend overall remuneration philosophy, strategy, policies and practices
both Executive Directors of the Group.
and performance-based pay plans for the Group.
The Human Resources and Compensation
yy Determine and agree with the Board a framework for the remuneration of the Committee operates in conformity with
Chairman and Executive Directors based on performance targets, benchmark principles, applicable rules and regulations.
performance related pay schemes, industry trends and past remuneration.
yy Succession planning of Key Management Personnel. A significant proportion of Executive Director
remuneration is variable. The variability is
yy Determining compensation of Non-Executive Directors is not under the scope of this
linked to the peer adjusted consolidated
Committee.
Group bottom line and expected returns
on shareholder funds. Further, the Human
Report of the Human Resources and Compensation Committee Resources and Compensation Committee
consults the Chairman-CEO about any proposals
relating to the Executive Director remuneration,
The Committee determined the remuneration of the Executive Directors including the
other than that of the Chairman-CEO.
Chairman-CEO in terms of the methodology set out by the Board, upon an evaluation of
their performance by the Non-Executive Directors. The evaluation of the members of the During the year, ESOPs, valued using a
Group Executive Committee (GEC) were considered by the Committee and remuneration binomial pricing model, were granted to
was determined based on performance, market comparators for similar positions and in the Executive Directors as well as to all other
accordance with the Company's Compensation and Benefits policy. eligible employees
A report from the Chairman of the Human Resources and Compensation Committee Excluding ESOPs granted, the total aggregate
continues to be a standing agenda item at the quarterly Board meetings. The Chairman of remuneration paid to Executive Directors
the Committee reports on the developments which have taken place since the last Board for the year under review was Rs.104 million
meeting, if any, and updates the Board on various matters, as relevant and requested. [2019/20: Rs.119 million] of which Rs.45 million
[2019/20: Rs.39 million] was the variable
In light of the COVID-19 impact on the businesses and its people, the Group developed and
portion linked to the performance benchmark
implemented a Working Arrangement Protocol which set out the working practices to be
as described above and Rs.59 million [2019/20:
followed by Group employees in terms of maintaining their health and safety. The Group
Rs.80 million] was the fixed remuneration.
also implemented a new Agile Working Policy, with the identification of agile roles across all
sectors. To mitigate the financial impact of the pandemic on the Group, the employees and Non-Executive Director Remuneration
the members of the GEC were subject to salary reductions for a limited period of time.
The compensation of Non-Executive Directors
The Committee wishes to report that the Company has complied with the Companies Act was determined in reference to fees paid to
in relation to remuneration of Directors. The annual performance appraisal scheme, the other Non-Executive Directors of comparable
calculation of short-term incentives, and the award of ESOPs were executed in accordance companies, and adjusted, where necessary,
with the approvals given by the Board, based on discussions conducted between the in keeping with the complexity of the Group.
Committee and the Management. Non-Executive Directors were paid additional
fees for either chairing or being a member
of a Sub-Committee and did not receive
any performance/incentive payments/share
A Cabraal option plans.
Chairman of the Human Resources and Compensation Committee
Total aggregate of Non-Executive Director
20 May 2021 remuneration for the year was Rs.11 million
[2019/20: Rs.18 million].
173
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE COMMENTARY
The following Directors served as members of the Committee during the financial year: Other significant transactions of non-listed
P Perera (Chairperson) subsidiaries were also presented to the
A Cabraal Committee for information.
N Fonseka
In addition to the Directors, all Presidents,
The Chairman, Deputy Chairman/Group Finance Director, and Group Financial Controller Executive Vice Presidents, Chief Executive
attended meetings by invitation. The Head of Group Business Process Review served as the Officers, Chief Financial Officers and Financial
Secretary to the Committee. Controllers of respective companies/sectors
have been designated as KMPs in order to
The objective of the Committee is to exercise oversight on behalf of the Board of John Keells increase transparency and enhance good
Holdings PLC and its listed Subsidiaries, to ensure compliance with the Code on Related Party governance. Annual disclosures from all KMPs
Transactions, as issued by the Securities and Exchange Commission of Sri Lanka ('The Code') and setting out any RPTs they were associated
with the Listing Rules of the Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE). The Committee has also adopted with, if any, were obtained and reviewed by
best practice as recommended by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Sri Lanka. the Committee.
The Committee in discharging its functions primarily relied on processes that were validated The Committee held four meetings during the
from time to time and periodic reporting by the relevant entities and Key Management financial year. Information on the attendance
Personnel (KMP) with a view to ensuring that: at these meetings by the members of the
yy there is compliance with 'the Code' and Listing Rules of the CSE Committee is given alongside. The activities
yy shareholder interests are protected; and and views of the Committee have been
yy fairness and transparency are maintained. communicated to the Board of Directors,
quarterly, through verbal briefings, and by tabling
The Committee reviewed and pre-approved all proposed non-recurrent Related Party the minutes of the Committee's meetings.
Transactions (RPTs) of the parent, John Keells Holdings PLC, and all its listed subsidiaries,
namely: John Keells PLC, Tea Smallholder Factories PLC, Asian Hotels and Properties PLC,
Trans Asia Hotels PLC, John Keells Hotels PLC, Ceylon Cold Stores PLC, Keells Food Products
PLC, and Union Assurance PLC. Recurrent RPTs were reviewed annually by the Committee.
P Perera
Furthermore, guidelines were introduced to facilitate requisite disclosures and assurances by
Chairperson of the Related Party Transactions
senior management of the aforementioned listed companies, in relation to Recurrent RPTs so
Review Committee
as to validate compliance with sec 9.5(a) of the listing rules and thus exclusion from review and
pre-approval by the Committee.
20 May 2021
175
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE COMMENTARY
Board Diversity
in terms of quantum of investment and/
JKH acknowledges the need for diversity in Boards and is conscious of the need to attract
or potential impact to the Group. The
appropriately skilled Directors who reflect the values and requirements of its businesses and vision.
Committee accordingly provides early-
Whilst the Group is of the view that diversity ranging across demographic attributes, backgrounds,
stage recommendations to the Board
experiences and social networks improve a Board's understanding of its vast pool of stakeholders,
with respect to the extent of risk and
providing diverse connections with the external environment and aiding the Group in addressing
adequacy of mitigation strategies.
stakeholders' claims in a more responsive manner, JKH is also conscious of the need to maintain a
strong culture of meritocracy, ensuring that Board diversity does not come at the expense of Board
During the year under review, given the
effectiveness. In this regard, every effort will be made to attract suitably qualified personnel from
unprecedented impact of the COVID-19
diverse demographics and backgrounds.
pandemic on Group businesses, the
Board met more frequently than usual.
In furtherance of this initiatives, and to amplify the Group's emphasis on creating an inclusive,
The increased frequency of board
diverse and equitable work environment, headway was made on the gender diversity front, with
meetings provided the opportunity for
four women being appointed to the different Boards across Group companies during the year
discussions related to investments and
under review.
risk assessments to be conducted within
Board Meeting agendas. As such, the
Board Independence
Committee did not have a requirement
to convene separately, during the year There is increased emphasis on board independence by stakeholders, stock exchanges and
under review. regulatory bodies worldwide. In order for a Board to be effective, JKH is of the view that companies
must take steps, both in their structures and in their nominating procedures, to ensure fostering of
independent decision-making and mitigating potential conflicts of interest which may arise.
The criteria for defining independence of boards vary significantly across countries. JKH is of the
H Wijayasuriya
view that the intended vision of achieving improved governance and higher independence
Chairman of the Project Risk Assessment
can be achieved through various checks and balances, whilst not compromising on the
Committee
underlying operating model of a corporate. These checks and balances may entail, among others,
establishment of various assurance mechanisms and the use of systematic and comprehensive
20 May 2021
board evaluation processes and independent director led engagement. To this end, JKH will
continue to place emphasis on further augmenting the Board's independence whilst striking a
balance with the Group's operating model, which addresses the complexities and intricacies of a
diversified conglomerate setting.
OUTLOOK AND EMERGING
CHALLENGES Further to the public consultation in 2019, the Securities and Exchange Commission of Sri Lanka (SEC)
The need for maintaining a well-grounded published a new public consultation in April 2021 seeking views to strengthen corporate governance
corporate governance framework has rules of listed entities. This entailed, amongst others, a proposal to segregate the roles of the
become vital in operating in an environment Chairperson and CEO being performed by the same person. The SEC has indicated that any measures
of dynamic corporate change and global towards the segregation of roles will only be taken post detailed discussion and broad consensus
volatility. A strong governance mechanism amongst the relevant stakeholders. The Group is of the view that the segregation of the roles of
is pivotal in enhancing accountability to Chairman and CEO should be a voluntary compliance requirement, especially if concerns associated
diverse stakeholders, ensuring corporate fair- with the combined role are counter-balanced by increased independence and transparency vis-à-vis
mindedness and creating sustainable value. appointment of a senior independent director, having a majority of independent directors, inclusion
In this light, the Group will continue to stay of an independent director led committee for director nominations and a well-defined process for
abreast of governance best practice and assess the appointment of directors. Studies have not clearly proven that segregation of the roles lead to
its level of preparedness and its capability in better performance or governance, particularly if the counterbalances stated before are in place.
meeting these evolving external challenges. Another key aspect which needs to be considered is the local context and an understanding of
the operating models and corporate structures when implementing such changes. JKH, being a
In the wake of corporate disintegrations, diversified conglomerate, has complexities which require a multi-faceted understanding of each of its
the pursuit of continuous improvement in businesses which ideally requires an executive role.
governance, emphasis on environmental and
social considerations and a call for increased
accountability and transparency continue To amplify the Group's emphasis on creating an inclusive,
to influence and shape the role of board diverse and equitable work environment, headway was
governance aspects. The primary areas of
focus and challenges, amongst many others,
made on the gender diversity front, with four women being
being recurrently addressed by JKH are appointed to the different Boards across Group companies
detailed in the ensuing section. during the year under review.
Increasing Emphasis on Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Aspects Greater Employee Involvement in
ESG analysis and investing continue to gain traction amongst Governments, investment Governance
professionals and high net worth investors, given the aim of reducing negligent and irresponsible Whilst all necessary compliance and
corporate behaviour that may have an adverse impact on the environment, harm human rights assurance frameworks are believed to be in
and foster corruption and bribery, among others, and disintegrate the corporate in the long-term. place, JKH recognises the pivotal role played
The unprecedented nature of the COVID-19 pandemic and its impacts globally, have accelerated by employees in reinforcing an effective
and intensified such discussions on the interlinkages between sustainability considerations and governance system across the Group. JKH
financial performance. will continue to encourage greater employee
participation through:
JKH is of the view that emphasis on ESG fosters a 360-degree analysis of performance and enables
yy a further strengthened continuous
a sustainable business model, which can derive value to all stakeholders. Various measures have
performance management process,
been, and are, in place, to ensure a holistic view of performance including managing scarce
which envisages continuous feedback
natural resources, enhancing the well-being of all stakeholders and ensuring effective governance
and enhanced engagement via the newly
mechanisms. Such metrics are revisited regularly during decision-making. Initiatives such as the
implemented employee information
launch of Sustainability Goals 2025, roll out of the Gender Policy and strengthening of internal
systems.
controls are implemented with a view of ensuring a strong ESG framework. The Group will stay
abreast of developments in this regard and continue to integrate ESG elements with business yy engagement and empowerment via
strategy, operations and in reporting. greater delegation of authority.
Given the emergence of regulations such as European Union General Data Protection Regulation
(GDPR) and the proposed Sri Lankan data protection legislation, data security, integrity and
information management will be pivotal. In addition to this, the Group's initiatives on advanced
data analytics also necessitate an established governance framework to manage the flow of
data. To this end, the Group will continue to strengthen its data governance structure to ensure
ownership and accountability of clearly articulated data governance policies and processes and
Group-wide data quality standards.
177
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE COMMENTARY
Statement of Compliance under Section 7.6 of the Listing Rules of the Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) on Annual Report
Disclosure
MANDATORY PROVISIONS - FULLY COMPLIANT
Rule Compliance Reference (within the
Status Report)
(i) Names of persons who were Directors of the Entity Yes Corporate Governance
Commentary
(ii) Principal activities of the entity and its subsidiaries during the year, and any changes therein Yes Management Discussion
and Analysis
(iii) The names and the number of shares held by the 20 largest holders of voting and non-voting Yes
shares and the percentage of such shares held
(iv) The float adjusted market capitalisation, public holding percentage (%), number of public Yes
shareholders and under which option the Listed Entity complies with the Minimum Public Share Information
Holding requirement
(v) A statement of each Director's holding and Chief Executive Officer's holding in shares of the Yes
Entity at the beginning and end of each financial year
(vi) Information pertaining to material foreseeable risk factors of the Entity Yes Risk, Opportunities and
Internal Controls
(vii) Details of material issues pertaining to employees and industrial relations of the Entity Yes Sustainability Integration,
Stakeholder Engagement
and Materiality
(viii) Extents, locations, valuations and the number of buildings of the Entity's land holdings and Yes
Group Real Estate Portfolio
investment properties
(ix) Number of shares representing the Entity's stated capital Yes
(x) A distribution schedule of the number of holders in each class of equity securities, and the Yes
Share Information
percentage of their total holdings
(xi) Financial ratios and market price information Yes
(xii) Significant changes in the Company's or its subsidiaries' fixed assets, and the market value of Yes Notes to the Financial
land, if the value differs substantially from the book value as at the end of the year Statements
(xiii) Details of funds raised through a public issue, rights issue and a private placement during the Yes
year Share Information
(xiv) Information in respect of Employee Share Ownership or Stock Option Schemes Yes
(xv) Disclosures pertaining to Corporate Governance practices in terms of Rules 7.10.3, 7.10.5 c. Yes Corporate Governance
and 7.10.6 c. of Section 7 of the Listing Rules Commentary/Note 44 of
(xvi) Related Party transactions exceeding 10 per cent of the equity or 5 per cent of the total assets Yes the Notes to the Financial
of the Entity as per audited financial statements, whichever is lower Statements
Statement of Compliance under Section 7.10 of the Listing Rules of the CSE on Corporate Governance
MANDATORY PROVISIONS - FULLY COMPLIANT
CSE Rule Compliance JKH Action / Reference (within the Report)
Status
7.10 Compliance
a./b./c. Compliance with Corporate Governance Rules Yes The Group is in compliance with the Corporate Governance
Rules and any deviations are explained where applicable.
7.10.1 Non-Executive Directors (NED)
a./b./c. At least 2 members or 1/3 of the Board, whichever is Yes 5 out of 7 Board members are NEDs. The Group is conscious of
higher should be NEDs the need to maintain an appropriate mix of skills and experience
on the Board and to refresh progressively its composition over
time.
179
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE COMMENTARY
b.3 Overseeing the process to ensure the internal and Yes The AC assesses the role and the effectiveness of the Group
risk management controls, are adequate, to meet the Business Process Review division which is largely responsible for
requirements of the SLFRS/LKAS internal control and risk management.
b.4 Assessment of the independence and performance Yes The AC assesses the external auditor's performance,
of the Entity's External Auditors qualifications and independence.
b.5 Make recommendations to the Board pertaining to Yes The Committee is responsible for recommending the
External Auditors appointment, re-appointment, removal of External Auditors
and also providing recommendations on the remuneration and
terms of Engagement.
c.1 Names of the Audit Committee members shall be Yes Refer Board Committees section.
disclosed
c.2 Audit Committee shall make a determination of the Yes Refer Report of the Audit Committee.
independence of the external auditors
c.3 Report on the manner in which Audit Committee Yes Refer Report of the Audit Committee.
carried out its functions.
Statement of Compliance under Section 9.3.2 of the Listing Rules of the CSE on Corporate Governance
MANDATORY PROVISIONS - FULLY COMPLIANT
Rule Compliance Reference (within the Report)
Status
(a) Details pertaining to Non-Recurrent Related Party Transactions Yes Notes to the Financial Statements
(b) Details pertaining to Recurrent Related Party Transactions Yes Notes to the Financial Statements
(c) Report of the Related Party Transactions Review Committee Yes Refer Report of the Related Party Transactions
Review Committee.
(d) Declaration by the Board of Directors as an affirmative statement of Yes Annual Report of the Board of Directors
compliance with the rules pertaining to RPT, or a negative statement
otherwise
168 (1) (a) The nature of the business together with any change thereof Yes Group Directory
168 (1) (b) Signed financial statements of the Group and the Company Yes Financial Statements
168 (1) (c) Auditors' Report on financial statements Yes Independent Auditors' Report
168 (1) (d) Accounting policies and any changes therein Yes Notes to the Financial Statements
168 (1) (e) Particulars of the entries made in the Interests Register Yes Annual Report of the Board of Directors
168 (1) (f ) Remuneration and other benefits paid to Directors of the Company Yes Notes to the Financial Statements
168 (1) (g) Corporate donations made by the Company Yes Notes to the Financial Statements
168 (1) (h) Information on the Directorate of the Company and its subsidiaries Yes Group Directory
during and at the end of the accounting period
168 (1) (i) Amounts paid/payable to the External Auditor as audit fees and fees Yes Notes to the Financial Statements
for other services rendered
168 (1) (j) Auditors' relationship or any interest with the Company and its Yes Report of the Audit Committee / Financial
Subsidiaries Statements
168 (1) (k) Acknowledgement of the contents of this Report and signatures on Yes Financial Statements / Annual Report of the
behalf of the Board Board of Directors
SUSTAINABILITY INTEGRATION
Our Approach
GROUP SUSTAINABILITY POLICY
The Group has, over the years, made it a
priority to ensure that sustainable practices The Group's Sustainability Policy describes its sustainability priorities, expectations and lays the
are embedded into all operations, recognising foundation on which the Group's management framework is developed and implemented. This
that social responsibility and environmental incorporates a holistic approach encompassing the environment, its workforce and society under
stewardship are inseparable from its financial a framework of operating in line with the highest standards of governance, compliance and
objectives. corporate best practice. Coupled with transparent and open communications with stakeholders,
the Group sustainability policy positions the Group to achieve long-term value creation.
The Group's sustainability approach is based
on four strategic pillars. The Group's Sustainability policy can be found on the Corporate Website.
Economic
Ethical business,
Economic Value
Sustainability Integration
Added and Framework
Employment
creation
Sustainability Identification of
Environment Initiatives to manage Risks, Opportunities
Environmental areas of concern and and Stakeholder
stewardship and Policies External Reporting Concerns
responsibility
Sustainability
People Integration
Internal and External Sustainability Policy
Caring for our
Sustainability and Management
employees and
Processes Assurance Framework
providing a safe
and diverse
workplace IT Platform for
providing Management
Information and Variance
Social Control
Creating mutually
beneficial Technology
relationships and
positive impacts Refer the Governance section on the Corporate Website for a detailed discussion on the Group's sustainability
management framework, sustainability integration process and sustainability organisational structure.
181
SUSTAINABILITY INTEGRATION, STAKEHOLDER
ENGAGEMENT AND MATERIALITY
Sustainability Disclosures
yy A brief discussion of the standards, principles, information verification and assurance is included in the Introduction to the Report section of this report
while a detailed discussion is found under the Governance section on the Corporate Website.
yy Details of measurement techniques, methodologies, assumptions and estimations are included in the relevant 'Disclosures of Management
Approach' section and can be found online at www.keells.com/sustainability-and-csr.
yy Reference to specific information and disclosures required by the GRI Standards can be found through the GRI context index.
Frequency
Stakeholder Annually Bi-annually Quarterly Ongoing Monthly One-off Regularly
Customers
Employees
Community
Institutional investors, fund managers,
analysts, multilateral lenders
Government, Government institutions and
departments
Legal and regulatory bodies
Business partners, principals, suppliers
Society, media, pressure groups, NGOs,
environmental groups
Industry peers and competition
For details on expectations of significant stakeholders and methods of engagement used by the Group, please
refer the Governance section on the Corporate Website.
Building on the foundations of the most recent quantitative and qualitative stakeholder 87 legal entities of the John Keells Group
engagements, the Group continuously monitors key channels of communication to ascertain create the financial reporting boundary of
key concerns of stakeholders and ensure its policies and processes prioritise issues material to the Annual Report 2021/21 of which 48
these groups. companies have been listed in the Group
Directory of the Annual Report as part
This year, challenges raised by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic have highlighted of the sustainability reporting boundary.
sustainability concerns specifically related to health and safety, product quality and Within these, any other exclusions made
responsiveness, areas that the Group has tackled through stringent health and safety have been clearly explained under the
and sanitisation practices for its employees, supply chain, customers, as well as through relevant sustainability topics. This year,
responsiveness to customer demands alongside new and rapidly changing requirements of 'Cinnamon Bentota Beach', 'Cinnamon
stakeholders. In addition, the Group has strived to ensure that its focus on its supply chain Velifushi Maldives' and 15 new 'Keells'
and community-based engagements continued despite difficulties due to the pandemic. outlets were included in the reporting
scope during the year under review.
The Governance section of the Corporate Website details the material sustainability concerns of the Group's
significant internal and external stakeholders.
In defining report content, the Group prioritises material impacts based on their relative importance to internal and external stakeholders which is
summarised below.
Investments
Supplier Assessments - Human Rights
Anti Competitive Behaviour Water
Public Policy Overall Compliance
Market Presence Env. Grievances Freedom of Association Training
Materials
Transportation Impacts Env. Conservation
Human Rights Grievances Labour Grievances
Supplier Assessment - Social Human Rights Assessment
Customer Privacy Products & Services Impacts
Equal Pay Labour Relations
Indigenous Rights
Security Practices
A detailed description of the strategies and approach adopted by the Group in managing its material topics are
contained in the management approach disclosures section hosted on the Group website
https://www.keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
183
RISKS, OPPORTUNITIES AND
INTERNAL CONTROLS
Enterprise Risk Management within the Group is based on a Risks Associated with COVID-19
holistic approach, with integrated processes incorporating The year in review compelled the Group
to adapt to the 'new normal' as the
good governance and sustainable development alongside unprecedented nature of the COVID-19
effective risk management practices. pandemic continued to impact the global and
local economy.
In furtherance of Group's sustainability and digitisation efforts, coupled with the need to strike
a balance between the principles of conciseness and completeness in Integrated Reporting, the The Group responded to this challenge
Group has used a variety of reporting formats to meet diverse stakeholder requirements. Whilst through the adoption of an agile risk response
the section that ensues discusses the key highlights for the year under review, the Corporate given the evolving nature of the pandemic,
Website entails a detailed discussion of the risk management processes and related initiatives. and all businesses continued to monitor
and revisit the 'pandemic' risk item on their
respective risk registers to ensure that risk
ENTERPRISE RISK MANAGEMENT FRAMEWORK responses and mitigation actions were
systematically assessed and updated to tackle
The Group has in place an enterprise-wide risk management (ERM) framework to ensure a
volatile on-ground situations.
structured process of risk identification and mitigation. Risk management is embedded across the
Group and aligned to the Group's corporate governance and sustainability frameworks.
Alongside business continuity plans that were
Overview of Framework operationalised during the early days of the
pandemic, businesses also developed and
yy The ERM strategy is set at a Group level with a bottom up approach to risk identification.
instituted COVID-19-specific response plans
yy Ongoing review and analysis at business unit level, management committees and Board level. and teams to enable smooth and uninterrupted
yy Financial, strategic, operational, information technology, governance and sustainability-related functioning of businesses and operations to
risks are considered and categorised within a common Risk Universe across Group businesses. the extent possible, whilst maintaining strict
yy All risks are rated and assigned to Risk Owners to ensure accountability and focus on mitigation adherence to Government directives and
activities. health and safety considerations. Risk mitigation
was facilitated through Group guidelines on
Refer the Governance section on the Corporate Website for a discussion on the Risk Management Framework.
workplace health and safety and 'work from
home' guidelines, which was further formalised
Key Risks Rating
through the Agile Working Policy.
Macroeconomic and political environment
Regulatory environment The Group rolled out various measures to
Financial exposure ensure a sustainable and agile operating
Information technology model, with a focused view on cash
Global competition management and liquidity, in particular.
Human Resources and talent management While the Group had a strong cash position
Environment and Health & Safety and availability of banking facilities at the
Reputation and Brand Image onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, continued
focus was placed on ensuring balance sheet
Supply chain risk
strength to support the investment pipeline
Ultra-High High Medium Low of the Group. In June 2020, JKH entered into a
ten-year financing agreement with IFC for USD
The Governance section on the Corporate Website details, in depth, the justification for the above risk ratings
along with the mitigation strategies being followed across the Group. 175 million to support funding of the Holding
Company's investment pipeline, marking IFC's
largest investment to date in Sri Lanka.
KEY HIGHLIGHTS DURING THE YEAR:
Given the higher incidence of remote working
yy The operational risks associated with the COVID-19 pandemic were reviewed on an ongoing
basis at all business units. arrangements and the increased digitisation
of supply chains, particularly in light of the
yy Operationalisation and continuous monitoring of business continuity and response plans at
pandemic, measures were taken to further
business unit level.
strengthen the information technology
yy All central risk reviews were conducted remotely, ensuring the uninterrupted continuity governance and cyber security framework.
of such processes, despite limitations and travel restrictions imposed via Government and
health authority guidelines.
yy The Group hedged its exposure to interest rates by covering USD 100 million of the USD Refer the Group Consolidated Review and
175 million long-term financial facility from the International Finance Corporation (IFC) as a Industry Group Review sections of the Report for
a detailed discussion on COVID-19, its impact on
prudent measure.
the Group and its businesses. The sections also
yy Whilst the risk rating in lieu of exchange rate exposure was upgraded to 'High', given the detail the strategies rolled out to minimise the
significant volatility of the Rupee during the year, the Group also adopted measures such as impact on Group operations, its continuity and
liability matching and mitigation of exposure through derivatives, where appropriate, proactively. sustainability.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
187 Annual Report of the Board of Directors 192 The Statement of Directors’ Responsibility
193 Independent Auditors’ Report 196 Income Statement 197 Statement of Comprehensive Income
198 Statement of Financial Position 199 Statement of Cash Flows 200 Statement of Changes in Equity
202 Notes to the Financial Statements
INDEX TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
9 Basis of consolidation and material partly owned 35 Share-based payment plans 265-266
subsidiaries 211-213 36 Insurance contract liabilities 266-269
10 Business combinations and acquisitions of 37 Interest-bearing loans and borrowings 269-272
non-controlling interests 213-215 38 Employee benefit liabilities 272-274
11 Financial risk management objectives and policies 215-224 39 Non current financial liabilities 274
12 Fair value measurement and related fair 40 Other non current liabilities 274
value disclosures 224-226
41 Trade and other payables 274
13 Financial instruments and related policies 226-230
42 Short term borrowings 275
43 Other current liabilities 275
Notes to the Income Statement, Statement of Comprehensive
44 Related party transactions 275-279
Income and Statement of Financial Position
14 Revenue 231-232
15 Dividend income 233 Other Disclosures
45 Contingent liabilities 280-281
16 Other operating income and other operating
expenses 233 46 Capital and other commitments 281
18 Profit before tax 235 48 Events after the reporting period 282
The Directors have pleasure in presenting the the Chairman’s Message and Management reports, together with the Audited Financial
42nd Annual Report of your Company which Discussion and Analysis sections of this Statements, reflect the state of affairs of the
covers the Audited Financial Statements, Annual Report. While the short term outlook Company and the Group. The Segment-wise
Chairman’s Message, Corporate Governance can be impacted on account of COVID-19 contribution to Group revenue, results, assets
Commentary, Management Discussion and related disruptions, the Report also contains and liabilities are provided in Note 8 to the
Analysis including an Industry Group Review a detailed discussion on the medium to long Financial Statements.
and all the other relevant information for the term outlook for the Group and the portfolio
year ended 31 March 2021. Disclosures which considerations related to the same. Financial Results and Appropriations
appear in the Share Information section form Accounting Policies
a part of the Annual Report of the Board Financial Statements All the significant accounting policies adopted
of Directors as it is a requirement of the Financial Statements of the Company and by the Company and Group are mentioned in
Companies Act No. 07 of 2007. Group for the year ended 31 March 2021, the Notes to the Financial Statements. There
which have been prepared in accordance with have been no changes in the accounting
Future Developments and Impact of Sri Lanka Accounting Standards (SLFRS/LKAS), policies adopted by the Group during the
COVID-19 Pandemic with the inclusion of the signatures of the year under review. For all periods up to and
Information on future developments and Chairman, Deputy Chairman/Group Finance including the year ended 31 March 2021,
an assessment, to the extent possible, Director and Group Financial Controller, are
the Group prepared its financial statements
considering the current uncertainty relating given as a part of this Integrated Annual
in accordance with Sri Lanka Accounting
to the COVID-19 pandemic, is contained in Report.
Standards (SLFRS/LKAS) which have materially
converged with the International Financial
Reporting Standards (IFRS) as issued by the
John Keells Holdings PLC International Accounting Standards Board
(IASB).
For the year ended 31 March 2021 2020
interim dividends of LKR. 1.50 per share (2020-LKR. 3.50) paid (1,978,317) (3,295,960)
Profit and Appropriations
out of dividend received
The profit after tax of the Company was LKR.
Final dividend declared LKR. 0.50 to be paid out of dividend (659,832) - 10,566 Mn (2020 – LKR. 8,640 Mn) whilst the
received Group profit attributable to equity holders of
Balance to be carried forward to the next year 67,557,039 59,631,436 the parent for the year was LKR. 4,772 Mn (2020
- LKR. 9,414 Mn).
Principal Activities Corporate Vision and Values The Company’s total comprehensive income
John Keells Holdings PLC (the Company), A culture of innovation, integrity, excellence, net of tax was LKR. 11,296 Mn (2020 - LKR.
the Group’s holding Company, manages a caring and trust has been developed within 8,662 Mn), and the Group total comprehensive
portfolio of holdings consisting of a range of the Group. By being aligned with these values income attributable to parent was LKR.
diverse business operations, which, together, the Directors and employees conduct their 10,761 Mn (2020 - LKR. 16,581 Mn). The Group
constitute the John Keells Group (the Group), activities to achieve the vision, “Building profitability was impacted primarily due to
and provides function-based services to its businesses that are leaders in the region”. the performance of the Leisure industry group
subsidiaries, joint ventures, and associates. on account of the COVID-19 pandemic as
Review of Business Segments discussed elsewhere in the Annual Report.
The companies within the Group and its A review of the financial and operational
business activities are described in the performance and future business Dividend and Reserves
Group Directory under the Supplementary developments of the Group, sectors, and As required by Section 56(2) of the Companies
Information section of the Annual Report. its business units are described in the Act No 7 of 2007, the Board of Directors have
Management Discussion and Analysis section confirmed that the Company satisfies the
There were no significant changes to the of the Annual Report. Significant changes solvency test in accordance with Section 57
principal activities of the Company or its to business combinations and acquisition of the Companies Act No 7 of 2007, and has
subsidiaries during the year. of non-controlling interests are provided in obtained certificates from the auditors, prior
Note 10 to the Financial Statements. These to declaring all dividends. A final dividend will
187
ANNUAL REPORT OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
be paid on or before 25 June 2021 to those in the Statement of Changes in Equity and in Board Committees
shareholders on the register as of 4 June 2021. Note 34.1 to the Financial Statements. Information relating to members of the
Audit Committee, Human Resources and
Capital Expenditure Revenue Reserves Compensation Committee, Nominations
The Company’s and Group’s capital Revenue reserves as at 31 March 2021 for the Committee, Related Party Transactions Review
expenditure on property, plant and equipment Company and Group amounted to LKR. 68,217 Committee and Project Risk Assessment
amounted to LKR. 9 Mn (2020 - LKR. 24 Mn) Mn (2020 - LKR. 59,631 Mn) and LKR. 90,652 Committee, including reports of each of the
and LKR. 5,367 Mn (2020 - LKR. 15,212 Mn), Mn (2020 - LKR. 87,885 Mn), respectively. The committees, where applicable, and attendance
respectively, and all other related information movement of the revenue reserve is disclosed of Directors for each of the committee
and movements have been disclosed in Note in the Statement of Changes in Equity. meetings, are disclosed in the Corporate
22 to the Financial Statements. Governance Commentary section of the
Share Information Annual Report.
Additions of intangible assets of the Company The distribution and composition of
and Group during the year amounted to LKR. shareholders and information relating to Interests Register and Interests in
26 Mn (2020 - LKR. 34 Mn) and LKR. 2,187 Mn earnings, dividends, net assets, market Contracts
(2020 - LKR. 387 Mn), respectively, and all other value per share and share trading is given The Company has maintained an Interests
related movements are disclosed in Note 25 to in the Share Information section of the Register as required under the Companies Act
the Financial Statements. Annual Report. As additional disclosures, the No 7 of 2007.
Company’s Board of Directors’ (including their
Valuation of Land, Buildings, and close family members) shareholdings, options This Annual Report also contains particulars
Investment Properties available under the employee share option of entries made in the Interests Registers of
All land and buildings owned by Group plans (ESOP) as at 31 March 2021, market subsidiaries which are public companies or
companies were revalued as at 31 December capitalisation, public holding percentage and private companies and have not dispensed
2020 and the carrying value amounted to number of public shareholders are given in with the requirement to maintain an Interests
LKR. 90,642 Mn (2020 - LKR. 87,185 Mn). All the Share Information section of the Annual Register as permitted by Section 30 of the
information related to revaluation is given in Report. Companies Act No 7 of 2007.
Note 22.3 to the Financial Statements.
Major Shareholders The Directors have all made a general
Investment properties of business units, when Details of the twenty largest shareholders disclosure relating to share dealings and
significantly occupied by Group companies, of the Company and the percentages held indemnities and remuneration to the Board
are classified as property, plant and equipment by each of them are disclosed in the Share of Directors as permitted by Section 192 (2)
in the consolidated financial statements in Information section of the Annual Report. of the Companies Act No 7 of 2007 and no
compliance with LKAS 40. additional interests have been disclosed by
Equitable Treatment of Shareholders any Director. The Interest Register is available at
The Group revalued all its investment The Company has at all times ensured that all the registered head office of the Company, in
properties as at 31 December 2020, and the shareholders are treated equitably. keeping with the requirements of the section
carrying value amounted to LKR. 14,868 Mn 119 (1) (d) of the Companies Act No 7 of 2007.
(2020- LKR. 15,008 Mn). All information related The Board of Directors
to the revaluation of investment properties The Board of Directors of the Company as at Share Dealings
is provided in Note 24 to the Financial 31 March 2021 and their brief profiles are given Other than for the following entries, particulars
Statements. in the Corporate Governance section of the of the Company interest register are disclosed
Annual Report. in the Share Information section of the Annual
Details of the Group’s real estate as at 31 March Report. .
2021, are disclosed in the Group Real Estate Retirement and Re-Election of Directors
Portfolio in the Supplementary Information Retirement and Re-Election of Directors of the John Keells Holdings PLC
section of the Annual Report. Company as at 31 March 2021 are given in the • Sam Innovators (Pvt) Ltd (Related party of M
Proxy Form. A Omar) Purchase 681,000 shares
Investments
Review of the Performance of the Board • Phoenix Ventures (Pvt) Ltd (Related party
A detailed description of the long term
The performance of the board has been of M A Omar and A N Fonseka) Purchase
investments held as at the reporting date, is
appraised through a formalised process, 2,975,000 shares
given in Notes 26, 27 and 28 to the Financial
Statements. where each individual Director anonymously Given below are the particulars of share
comments on the effectiveness and the dealings of subsidiaries reported, for
Stated Capital dynamics of the Board. The process is subsidiaries which are public companies, or
Stated Capital as at 31 March 2021 for the described in the Corporate Governance private companies, which have not dispensed
Company amounted to LKR. 63,102 Mn Commentary section of the Annual Report. with the requirement to maintain an interest
(2020 - LKR. 62,881 Mn). The movement and register for the period from 1 April 2020 to 31
composition of the Stated Capital is disclosed March 2021.
Ceylon Cold Stores PLC specific management complexities associated Directors’ Remuneration
• S T Ratwatte - Sale of 1,000 shares with the John Keells Group and in keeping Details of the remuneration and other benefits
with the Group remuneration policy. received by the Directors are set out in Note
Union Assurance PLC 44.7 to the Financial Statements.
• J. P. Gomes – Purchase 500 shares The contracts and standard director fees of the
following Non-Executive Directors have been Related Party Transactions
Indemnities and Remuneration approved / renewed by the Board. The director The Company’s transactions with Related
The Board approved the payment of fees are commensurate with the market Parties, given in Note 44 to the Financial
remuneration of the following Executive complexities associated with the John Keells Statements, have complied with the Listing
Directors for the period of 1 April 2020 to 31 Group. Rule 9.3.2 of the Colombo Stock Exchange
March 2021 comprising of; and the Code of Best Practices on Related
Asian Hotels and Properties PLC Party Transactions under the Securities and
• A short term variable incentive based on • C L P Gunawardane (Appointed w.e.f 1 Exchange Commission Directive issued under
the individual performance, organisation January 2021) Section 13(c) of the Securities and Exchange
performance and role responsibility Commission Act.
based on the results of the financial year Ceylon Cold Stores PLC
2019/2020, and • K C Subasinghe (Appointed w.e.f 1 January Employee Share Option Plan (ESOP)
2021) At the beginning of the year, the employee
• A long term incentive plan including share option plan consisted of the Eighth,
employee share options in John Keells John Keells PLC Ninth and Tenth plans approved by the
Holdings PLC. • A Z Hashim (Appointed w.e.f 1 January 2021) shareholders on 28 June 2014, 24 June 2016
• K D Weerasinghe (Appointed w.e.f 1 January and 28 June 2019 respectively.
John Keells Holdings PLC 2021)
• K N J Balendra The Directors confirm that the Company has
• J G A Cooray John Keells Hotels PLC not granted any funding to employees to
• S Rajendra (Appointed w.e.f 1 January 2021) exercise options.
Asian Hotels and Properties PLC • M R Svensson (Appointed w.e.f 1 January
• S Rajendra 2021) Details of the options granted, options
S Rajendra became a Non-Executive Director exercised, the grant price and the options
Keells Food Products PLC cancelled or lapsed and outstanding as at the
with effect from 1 January 2021 at the
• P N Fernando (Appointed w.e.f 1 January date of the Directors’ Report, as required by the
standard Non-Executive fees approved by
2021) Listing Rules of the Colombo Stock Exchange,
the Board for Non-Executive Directors (if
applicable) which fees are commensurate are given under the Share Information section
Tea Smallholders Factories PLC of the Annual Report.
with the market complexities associated
• A Goonetilleke (Appointed w.e.f 7 July 2020)
with the John Keells Group.
• A Z Hashim (Appointed w.e.f 1 January 2021) The highest, lowest and the closing prices of
Ceylon Cold Stores PLC the Company shares are disclosed in the Share
Trans Asia Hotels PLC Information section of the Annual Report.
• D P Gamlath
• C L P Gunawardane (Appointed w.e.f 1
• P N Fernando (Appointed w.e.f 1 January
January 2021) Employment
2021)
• S Rajendra (Appointed w.e.f 1 January 2021) The Group has an equal opportunity policy
Cinnamon Hotel Management Ltd and these principles are enshrined in
Union Assurance PLC specific selection, training, development and
• J R Gunaratne (Retired w.e.f 31 December
• D P Gamlath (Appointed w.e.f 10 June 2020) promotion policies, ensuring that all decisions
2020)
• W. M. De F Arsakularatne (Appointed w.e.f 14 are based on merit. The Group practices
July 2020) equality of opportunity for all employees
• J E P Kehelpannala
• M H Singhawansa irrespective of ethnic origin, religion, political
Walkers Tours Ltd opinion, gender, marital status or physical
• C L P Gunawardane (Appointed w.e.f 1 disability. During the year the Group instituted
Walkers Tours Ltd
January 2021) a Diversity and Inclusion team towards
• I N Amaratunga
• S Rajendra (Appointed w.e.f 1 January 2021) increasing the diversity of its workforce and
All approvals relating to indemnities and launched the ‘ONE JKH’ brand to consolidate
Fees payable to Non-Executive Nominee
remuneration have been recommended by its efforts towards diversity and inclusion and
Directors of John Keells Holdings PLC was paid
the Human Resources and Compensation reinforce its position on non-discrimination
to John Keells Holdings PLC and not to the
Committee, taking into consideration inputs and equal opportunity. Employee ownership
individual Directors concerned.
from market surveys, expert opinions and the in the Company is facilitated through the
employee share option plan.
189
ANNUAL REPORT OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Details of the Group’s human resource Sustainability responsibly towards its stakeholders and to
initiatives are detailed in the Human Capital The Group pursues its business goals based bring about sustainable development in its
section of the Capital Management Review on a model of stakeholder governance. areas of focus. The CSR initiatives, including
section of the Annual Report. Findings of the continuous internal stakeholder completed and on- going projects, are detailed
engagements have enabled the Group to focus in the Group Consolidated Review section in
The number of persons employed by the on material issues such as the conservation the Annual Report.
Company and Group as at 31 March 2021 was of natural resources and the environment as
110 (2020 - 95) and 13,831 (2020 - 14,821), well as material issues highlighted by other In quantifying the Group’s contribution to CSR
respectively. stakeholders such as employees, customers, initiatives and activities, no account has been
suppliers and the community. These steps have taken of in-house costs or management time.
There have been no material issues pertaining been encapsulated in a Group-wide strategy
to employees and industrial relations of the focused on sustainable development which Donations
Company and the Group.. is continuously evolving based on the above Total donations made by the Company and the
mentioned stakeholder engagements. Group during the year amounted to LKR. 5 Mn
Supplier Policy (2020 - LKR. 3.5 Mn) and LKR. 7 Mn (2020 -
The Group applies an overall policy of This is the Group’s sixth Integrated Annual LKR. 4.9 Mn), respectively. These amounts
agreeing and clearly communicating the Report, which presents a comprehensive do not include contributions on account of
terms of payment as part of the commercial discussion on its financial and non-financial corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives.
agreements negotiated with suppliers, and performance, in a bid to provide its
endeavours to pay for all items in accordance stakeholders with holistic information relating Statutory Payments
with these agreed terms. As at 31 March 2021, to its value creation proposition through The Directors confirm that to the best of
the trade and other payables of the Company the six forms of capital reported under the their knowledge, all taxes, duties and levies
and Group amounted to LKR. 373 Mn (2020 - International <IR> Framework. The Group has payable by the Company and its subsidiaries,
LKR. 423 Mn) and LKR. 35,288 Mn (2020 - LKR. sought independent third-party assurance all contributions, levies and taxes payable on
23,881 Mn), respectively. from DNV GL, represented in Sri Lanka by DNV behalf of, and in respect of, the employees
Business Assurance Lanka (Pvt) Ltd, in relation of the Company and its subsidiaries, and all
The Group strives to integrate principles to the non-financial information contained in other known statutory dues as were due and
of sustainable practices and policies in its this Report. payable by the Company and its subsidiaries as
value chain through extensive stakeholder at the statement of financial position date have
consultations, the findings of which are Research and Development been paid or, where relevant, provided for,
integrated into work-plans. The Group has an active approach to research except as specified in Note 45 to the Financial
and development and recognises the Statements covering contingent liabilities.
Ratios and Market price information contribution that it can make to intellectual
The ratios relating to equity, debt and market property and the Group’s operations. Compliance with Laws and Regulations
price information as required by the listing Significant expenditure has taken place over To the best of knowledge and belief of the
requirements of the Colombo Stock Exchange the years and substantial efforts will continue Directors, the Company and the Group has not
are given in the Share Information section of to be made to introduce intellectual property engaged in any activity, which contravenes the
this Report. rights, develop new products and processes laws and regulations of the country.
and improve the operational efficiency of
Corporate Governance existing products and processes. Enterprise Risk Management and Internal
The Board of Directors is committed Controls
towards maintaining an effective Corporate Environmental Protection The Board confirms that there is an ongoing
Governance Framework by effectively The Group complies with the relevant process of identifying, evaluating and
implementing systems and structures required environmental laws, regulations and managing any significant risk faced by the
to ensuring best practices in Corporate endeavours to comply with best practices Group, where the risks are assessed and
Governance. The manner in which the applicable in the country of operation. reviewed by each business unit every quarter
Company has complied with Section 7.10 while further annual risk reviews are carried out
of the Listing Rules of the Colombo Stock Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) by the Enterprise Risk Management Division.
Exchange (CSE) on Corporate Governance are John Keells Foundation, which is funded The headline risks of each listed Company are
given in the Corporate Governance section of by JKH and its subsidiaries, handles most of presented by the Business Unit to its respective
this Report. the Group’s CSR initiatives and activities. The Audit Committee for review and, in the case
Foundation manages a range of programmes of John Keells Holdings PLC, by the Enterprise
that underpin its key principle of acting Risk Management Division to the John Keells
Holdings PLC Audit Committee.
The Corporate Governance section of this improved operating environment, despite Further details on the work of the Auditor and
Report elaborates on these practices and the the ongoing effects of the pandemic, and the the Audit Committee are set out in the Audit
Group’s risk factors. operationalisation of risk mitigation initiatives Committee Report.
and continuous monitoring of business
Internal Controls and Assurance continuity and response plans at each business Integrated Annual Report
The Board, through the involvement of the unit level along with the financial strength The Board of Directors approved the
Group Business Process Review Division, takes of the Group. The management has formed Integrated Annual Report on 24 May 2021. The
steps to gain assurance on the effectiveness judgment that the Company, its subsidiaries, appropriate number of copies of this report will
over the financial, operational and risk associates and joint ventures have adequate be submitted to the Colombo Stock Exchange
management control systems in place. The resources to continue in operational existence and to the Sri Lanka Accounting and Auditing
Audit Committee receives regular reports on for the foreseeable future and continue to Standards Monitoring Board as required.
the adequacy and effectiveness of internal adopt the going concern basis in preparing
controls in the Group, compliance with laws and presenting these financial statements. Annual General Meeting
and regulations and established policies and The Annual General Meeting will be held as a
procedures of the Group. The head of the Appointment and Remuneration of virtual meeting on 25 June 2021 at 10:00 a.m.
Group Business Process Review Division has Independent Auditors
direct access to the Chairman of the Audit Messrs. Ernst & Young, Chartered Accountants, This Annual Report is signed for and on behalf
Committee. Reports of the outsourced internal are willing to continue as Auditors of the of the Board of Directors.
auditors are also reviewed by the Committee. Company, and a resolution proposing their
reappointment will be tabled at the Annual By Order of the Board
Events After the Reporting Period General Meeting.
There have been no events subsequent to
the reporting period, which would have any The Independent Auditors’ Report is found in
material effect on the Company or on the the Financial Statements section of the Annual
Group other than those disclosed in Note 48 to Report. Director
the Financial Statements.
The Audit Committee reviews the appointment
Going Concern of the Auditor, its effectiveness, independence
In determining the basis of preparing the and relationship with the Group, including the
financial statements for the year ended 31 level of audit and non-audit fees paid to the Director
March 2021, based on available information, Auditor.
the management has assessed the prevailing
and anticipated effects of COVID-19 on the The Group works with 3 firms of Chartered
Group Companies and the appropriateness of Accountants across the Group, namely, Ernst
the use of the going concern basis. & Young, KPMG and PricewaterhouseCoopers. Keells Consultants (Pvt) Ltd
Details of audit fees are set out in Note 18 Secretaries
It is the view of the management there are no to the Financial Statements. The Auditors do 24 May 2021
material uncertainties that may cast significant not have any relationship (other than that of
doubt on the Groups’ ability to continue an Auditor) with the Company or any of its
to operate as a going concern due to the subsidiaries.
191
THE STATEMENT OF DIRECTORS’ RESPONSIBILITY
The responsibility of the Directors in relation The Directors are also responsible for taking
to the financial statements is set out in the reasonable steps to safeguard the assets of
following statement. The responsibility of the the Company and of the Group and in this
auditors, in relation to the financial statements regard to give proper consideration to the
prepared in accordance with the provision of establishment of appropriate internal control
the Companies Act No. 7 of 2007, is set out in systems with a view to preventing and
the Report of the Auditors. detecting fraud and other irregularities.
The financial statements comprise of: The Directors are required to prepare the
financial statements and to provide the
income statement and statement of
•
auditors with every opportunity to take
comprehensive income of the Company
whatever steps and undertake whatever
and its subsidiaries, which present a true
inspections that may be considered being
and fair view of the financial performance
appropriate to enable them to give their audit
of the Company and its subsidiaries for the
opinion.
financial year; and
TO THE SHAREHOLDERS OF JOHN KEELLS and of their financial performance and cash flows current period. These matters were addressed
HOLDINGS PLC for the year then ended in accordance with Sri in the context of our audit of the financial
Lanka Accounting Standards. statements as a whole, and in forming our
Report on the audit of the Financial opinion thereon, and we do not provide a
Statements Basis for opinion separate opinion on these matters. For each
Opinion We conducted our audit in accordance with matter below, our description of how our audit
We have audited the financial statements of Sri Lanka Auditing Standards (SLAuSs). Our addressed the matter is provided in that context.
John Keells Holdings PLC (“the Company”) and responsibilities under those standards are further
the consolidated financial statements of the described in the Auditor’s responsibilities for We have fulfilled the responsibilities described
Company and its subsidiaries (“the Group”), which the audit of the financial statements section of in the Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit
comprise the statement of financial position as our report. We are independent of the Group in of the financial statements section of our
at 31 March 2021, and the income statement accordance with the Code of Ethics issued by CA report, including in relation to these matters.
and the statement of comprehensive income, Sri Lanka (Code of Ethics) and we have fulfilled Accordingly, our audit included the performance
statement of changes in equity and statement of our other ethical responsibilities in accordance of procedures designed to respond to our
cash flows for the year then ended, and notes to with the Code of Ethics. We believe that the audit assessment of the risks of material misstatement
the financial statements, including a summary of evidence we have obtained is sufficient and of the financial statements. The results of our
significant accounting policies. appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. audit procedures, including the procedures
performed to address the matters below,
In our opinion, the accompanying financial Key audit matters provide the basis for our audit opinion on the
statements of the Company and the Group give Key audit matters are those matters that, in our accompanying financial statements.
a true and fair view of the financial position of the professional judgment, were of most significance
Company and the Group as at 31 March 2021, in our audit of the financial statements of the
Key Audit Matter How our audit addressed the key audit matter
Impairment testing of significant Non-Current Assets in the Leisure Our audit procedures included the following;
Industry Group
As at 31st March the Group reported the following significant non-current • we gained an understanding of how management has forecast its future
assets which accounted for 17% of the total assets of the Group under discounted cash flows which included consideration of the impacts of
leisure industry Group. the continuing COVID-19 pandemic on the operations of the respective
hotels of the Group.
• Property, Plant & Equipment and Investment Property including Land and
Buildings amounting to Rs 62.2 Bn • we checked the calculations of the future discounted cash flows and
cross checked the data to relevant underlying management information,
• Right of Use Assets amounting to Rs. 29.1 Bn to evaluate their reasonableness.
• Goodwill from leisure industry Group Rs. 166 Mn • we engaged our internal resources to assist us in:
The continuing impacts of COVID -19 on the leisure industry Groups’ results, - assessing the reasonableness of significant assumptions used such
have been considered a trigger for testing impairment of Non-Current as expected period of time for recovery, anticipated occupancy and
Assets. The leisure industry Group tested significant Non-Current Assets average room rates. This included comparing assumptions used with
including Goodwill for impairment using valuation techniques involving available industry data and market conditions,
judgements, estimates and assumptions. In carrying out impairment
assessments, Management evaluated the recoverability of the carrying value - evaluating the sensitivity of the projected cashflows, by considering
of cash generating units being each hotel of the leisure industry Group, by possible changes in key assumptions,
comparing the underlying expected future cash flows and fair values less - assessing appropriateness of the valuation techniques used and the
cost to sell with the related carrying values. reasonableness of the significant judgements and assumptions such as,
Impairment testing of significant non-current assets including goodwill was per perch price and value per square foot.
a key audit matter due to:
• the degree of assumptions, judgements and estimation uncertainty
associated with valuation of Land and Buildings amplified by the impact
of COVID-19. The valuation this year contains a higher estimation
uncertainty as there were fewer market transactions which are ordinarily a
strong source of evidence regarding fair value.
193
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS’ REPORT
Key Audit Matter How our audit addressed the key audit matter
• the degree of underlying assumptions coupled with inherent estimation
uncertainties that arise when deriving the estimated cashflows used for
value in use calculations
Key areas of significant judgments, estimates and assumptions included the
following:
• estimate of per perch value of the land and per square foot value of the
buildings
• key inputs and assumptions related to computing the value in use
expectations of future cash flows, growth rates used for extrapolation
purposes, discount rates and terminal yield rates including the potential
impact from COVID-19.
Waterfront Project Our procedures performed included:
The Group continues to invest in the Waterfront project as detailed in note
29 and 30 to the financial statements. Expenditure incurred include Work-in- • performing sample tests of expenditure and allocation of overheads
progress -Waterfront Project and Inventory work in progress ( apartments) including an examination of management’s assessment as to whether the
amounting to LKR 147 Bn and represent 27 % of the total assets of the expenditure met the recognition and measurement criteria set forth in
Group. accounting policies of the Group.
This was a key audit matter due to; • inspecting the loan agreement to establish that the loan has been
obtained for the project and management’s assessment on the timing of
• the significance of the balances relating to the amounts recorded in capitalization of borrowing costs in compliance with LKAS 23 – Borrowing
the financial statements and the estimated future costs to be incurred Cost and verifying such costs on a sample basis.
including potential impacts from COVID 19.
• reviewing the project status reports and the certificates issued by the
• involvement of management judgements in assessing capitalization of project manager to identify the status of the project.
borrowing costs and other overhead costs to be included as Work-in-
progress -Waterfront Project as detailed in note 29. • assessing on a sample basis the NRV on the Inventories Work -In-Progress
to the selling prices achieved and contracted in the said project and the
• Key assumptions and estimates involved in ascertaining the carrying advertised sales prices.
value and measurement of Inventory work-in-progress as detailed in note
30 Assessing the adequacy of the Group’s disclosures of its capitalization policy
and other related disclosures in Note 29 and 30.
Life insurance contract liabilities To assess the reasonableness of the Life Insurance Contract Liabilities, our
Life Insurance Contract Liabilities amounting to Rs 45 Bn represent 15% of audit procedures included amongst others the following:
total liabilities of the Group as at 31 March 2021. Life Insurance Contract
Liabilities are determined as described in note 36. • we involved the component auditor of the subsidiary company to
perform the audit procedures to assess the reasonableness of the
This was a key audit matters due to: assumptions and test the controls on sample basis over the process of
estimating the insurance contract liabilities.
• Materiality of the reported Life Insurance Contract Liabilities;
• we involved the internal expert of component auditor of the subsidiary
• The degree of assumptions, judgements and estimation uncertainty company to assess the reasonableness of the assumptions used in the
associated with actuarial valuation of Life Insurance Contract Liabilities; valuations of the insurance contract liabilities.
• Liability adequacy test carried out to ensure the adequacy of the carrying • we assessed the adequacy of the disclosures and the movement in the
value of Life Insurance Contract Liabilities. insurance contract liabilities.
Key areas of significant judgments, estimates and assumptions used in the
valuation of the Life Insurance Contract Liabilities included the following:
• The determination of assumptions such as mortality, morbidity, lapses
and surrenders, loss ratios, bonus, interest rate, discount rates and
expenses and expected effects of COVID 19.
Interest Bearing Borrowing from IFC Our audit procedures included the following;
During the year Group has obtained a loan from IFC (International Finance
Corporation) amounting to USD 175Mn (LKR 35 Bn) which represents 12% of • We understood the Group’s processes and assessed the design and
the Group total liabilities. The Group incurred a related finance expense of Rs. operating effectiveness of controls for recording and reporting the terms
528 Mn during the year. and conditions of interest-bearing borrowings, the associated interest
costs and monitoring compliance with the covenants of the loan.
This was a key audit matter due to:
• We validated the compliance with material covenants and obtained direct
• Compliance with relevant covenants to ensure appropriateness of the confirmations from external lending institution.
classification of such borrowings in the financial statements.
• We assessed the appropriateness of the amount recognized as interest
• The magnitude of the borrowings in relation to the total liabilities. expense in the financial statement, performing a re-computation test.
• We assessed the adequacy of the disclosures made in Note 37 in the
financial statements relating to the interest-bearing borrowings and
related finance cost respectively.
Other information included in the Group’s Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and • Obtain sufficient appropriate audit evidence
2020/21 Annual Report are considered material if, individually or in the regarding the financial information of the
Other information consists of the information aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to entities or business activities within the Group
included in the Annual Report, other than the influence the economic decisions of users taken to express an opinion on the consolidated
financial statements and our auditor’s report on the basis of these financial statements. financial statements. We are responsible for the
thereon. Management is responsible for the other direction, supervision and performance of the
information. As part of an audit in accordance with SLAuSs, Group audit. We remain solely responsible for
we exercise professional judgment and maintain our audit opinion.
Our opinion on the financial statements does professional scepticism throughout the audit.
not cover the other information and we do We also: We communicate with those charged with
not express any form of assurance conclusion governance regarding, among other matters,
thereon. • Identify and assess the risks of material the planned scope and timing of the audit
misstatement of the financial statements, and significant audit findings, including any
In connection with our audit of the financial whether due to fraud or error, design and significant deficiencies in internal control that we
statements, our responsibility is to read the other perform audit procedures responsive to identify during our audit.
information and, in doing so, consider whether those risks, and obtain audit evidence that is
the other information is materially inconsistent sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis We also provide those charged with governance
with the financial statements or our knowledge for our opinion. The risk of not detecting a with a statement that we have complied with
obtained in the audit or otherwise appears to material misstatement resulting from fraud ethical requirements in accordance with the
be materially misstated. If, based on the work is higher than for one resulting from error, as Code of Ethics regarding independence, and to
we have performed, we conclude that there is a fraud may involve collusion, forgery, intentional communicate with them all relationships and
material misstatement of this other information, omissions, misrepresentations, or the override other matters that may reasonably be thought to
we are required to report that fact. We have of internal control. bear on our independence, and where applicable,
nothing to report in this regard. related safeguards.
• Obtain an understanding of internal control
Responsibilities of management and those relevant to the audit in order to design From the matters communicated with those
charged with governance audit procedures that are appropriate in the charged with governance, we determine those
Management is responsible for the preparation circumstances, but not for the purpose of matters that were of most significance in the
of financial statements that give a true and fair expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of audit of the financial statements of the current
view in accordance with Sri Lanka Accounting the internal controls of the Company and the period and are therefore the key audit matters.
Standards, and for such internal control as Group. We describe these matters in our auditor’s
management determines is necessary to enable report unless law or regulation precludes public
the preparation of financial statements that are • Evaluate the appropriateness of accounting disclosure about the matter or when, in extremely
free from material misstatement, whether due to policies used and the reasonableness of rare circumstances, we determine that a matter
fraud or error. accounting estimates and related disclosures should not be communicated in our report
made by management. because the adverse consequences of doing so
In preparing the financial statements, would reasonably be expected to outweigh the
management is responsible for assessing the • Conclude on the appropriateness of public interest benefits of such communication.
Group’s ability to continue as a going concern, management’s use of the going concern
disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going basis of accounting and, based on the audit Report on Other Legal and Regulatory
concern and using the going concern basis of evidence obtained, whether a material Requirements
accounting unless management either intends to uncertainty exists related to events or As required by section 163 (2) of the Companies
liquidate the Group or to cease operations, or has conditions that may cast significant doubt Act No. 07 of 2007, we have obtained all the
no realistic alternative but to do so. on the Group’s ability to continue as a going information and explanations that were required
concern. If we conclude that a material for the audit and, as far as appears from our
Those charged with governance are responsible uncertainty exists, we are required to draw examination, proper accounting records have
for overseeing the Company’s and the Group’s attention in our auditor’s report to the related been kept by the Company.
financial reporting process. disclosures in the financial statements or, if
such disclosures are inadequate, to modify CA Sri Lanka membership number of the
Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of our opinion. Our conclusions are based on engagement partner responsible for signing this
the audit evidence obtained up to the date of independent auditor’s report is 2097.
the financial statements our auditor’s report. However, future events or
Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance
conditions may cause the Group to cease to
about whether the financial statements as a
continue as a going concern.
whole are free from material misstatement,
whether due to fraud or error, and to issue
an auditor’s report that includes our opinion. • Evaluate the overall presentation, structure
Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, and content of the financial statements, 24 May 2021
but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted including the disclosures, and whether the Colombo
in accordance with SLAuSs will always detect financial statements represent the underlying
a material misstatement when it exists. transactions and events in a manner that
achieves fair presentation.
195
INCOME STATEMENT
GROUP COMPANY
For the year ended 31 March Note 2021 2020 2021 2020
In LKR '000s
Continuing operations
Revenue from contracts with customers 114,454,483 127,834,824 1,637,063 1,462,190
Revenue from insurance contracts 13,221,167 11,120,928 - -
Total revenue 14 127,675,650 138,955,752 1,637,063 1,462,190
Attributable to:
Equity holders of the parent 4,772,100 9,413,788
Non-controlling interests (821,209) 327,007
3,950,891 9,740,795
LKR. LKR.
GROUP COMPANY
For the year ended 31 March Note 2021 2020 2021 2020
In LKR '000s
Other comprehensive income for the period, net of tax 6,340,008 8,501,897 730,478 22,864
Total comprehensive income for the period, net of tax 10,290,899 18,242,692 11,296,365 8,662,404
Attributable to :
Equity holders of the parent 10,760,991 16,581,451
Non-controlling interests (470,092) 1,661,241
10,290,899 18,242,692
197
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION
GROUP COMPANY
As at 31 March Note 2021 2020 2021 2020
In LKR '000s
ASSETS
Non-current assets
Property, plant and equipment 22 113,076,642 111,533,759 110,801 144,353
Right- of - use assets 23 40,616,850 37,170,270 - -
Investment property 24 14,867,586 15,007,996 - -
Intangible assets 25 4,852,978 3,288,989 97,522 102,542
Investments in subsidiaries 26 - - 101,334,536 87,835,917
Investments in equity accounted investees 27 28,629,936 28,329,492 10,596,880 10,381,881
Non-current financial assets 28 62,589,803 40,078,469 17,611,121 284,978
Deferred tax assets 21.4 1,089,027 902,382 - -
Other non-current assets 29 104,580,215 79,582,749 92,668 18,842
370,303,037 315,894,106 129,843,528 98,768,513
Current assets
Inventories 30 54,296,123 50,168,754 - -
Trade and other receivables 31 17,456,698 12,186,327 114,780 125,451
Amounts due from related parties 44.1 123,553 389,766 1,465,816 681,617
Other current assets 32 5,919,453 6,513,353 170,901 1,124,829
Short term investments 33 69,262,761 38,457,970 51,591,037 27,372,003
Cash in hand and at bank 19,432,579 13,333,743 305,373 176,662
166,491,167 121,049,913 53,647,907 29,480,562
Total assets 536,794,204 436,944,019 183,491,435 128,249,075
EQUITY AND LIABILITIES
Equity attributable to equity holders of the parent
Stated capital 34.1 63,101,661 62,881,295 63,101,661 62,881,295
Revenue reserves 90,651,930 87,885,071 68,216,871 59,631,436
Other components of equity 34.2 72,403,140 66,085,354 3,621,176 2,724,944
226,156,731 216,851,720 134,939,708 125,237,675
Non-controlling interest 16,830,098 26,872,142 - -
Total equity 242,986,829 243,723,862 134,939,708 125,237,675
Non-current liabilities
Insurance contract liabilities 36 45,160,611 38,185,839 - -
Interest-bearing loans and borrowings 37 118,965,640 50,925,346 44,179,490 289,705
Lease liabilities 23 24,234,968 19,910,124 - -
Deferred tax liabilities 21.4 7,720,111 8,294,955 - -
Employee benefit liabilities 38 2,814,006 2,343,911 231,369 171,450
Non-current financial liabilities 39 3,660,952 3,619,863 - -
Other non-current liabilities 40 19,545,655 12,613,909 - -
222,101,943 135,893,947 44,410,859 461,155
Current liabilities
Trade and other payables 41 35,287,700 23,881,479 372,711 423,393
Amounts due to related parties 44.2 1,385 2,073 13,181 777
Income tax liabilities 21.3 1,988,170 1,747,597 717,029 389,510
Short term borrowings 42 6,903,737 5,803,771 - -
Interest-bearing loans and borrowings 37 9,507,473 5,206,020 3,007,368 316,042
Lease liabilities 23 1,472,297 1,382,662 - -
Other current financial liabilities 10.1 2,991,093 - - -
Other current liabilities 43 1,733,398 1,623,137 20,796 3,375
Bank overdrafts 11,820,179 17,679,471 9,783 1,417,148
71,705,432 57,326,210 4,140,868 2,550,245
Total equity and liabilities 536,794,204 436,944,019 183,491,435 128,249,075
I certify that the financial statements comply with the requirements of the Companies Act No. 7 of 2007.
K M Thanthirige
Group Financial Controller
The Board of Directors is responsible for these financial statements.
K N J Balendra J G A Cooray
Chairman Deputy Chairman/Group Finance Director
The accounting policies and notes as set out in pages 202 to 282 form an integral part of these financial statements.
24 May 2021
Colombo
GROUP COMPANY
For the year ended 31 March Note 2021 2020 2021 2020
In LKR '000s
Cash and cash equivalents in the statement of financial position comprise cash at banks and in hand and short-term deposits with a maturity of three
months or less. For the purpose of the cash flow statement, cash and cash equivalents consist of cash and short-term deposits as defined above, net of
outstanding bank overdrafts.
The accounting policies and notes as set out in pages 202 to 282 form an integral part of these financial statements.
199
STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
GROUP COMPANY
For the year ended 31 March Note 2021 2020 2021 2020
In LKR '000s
COMPANY Stated Other Cash flow Fair value reserve Revenue Total
In LKR '000s capital capital hedge of financial assets reserve equity
reserve reserve at FVOCI*
As at 1 April 2019 62,806,482 3,509,194 35,931,552 15,939,589 402,646 2,390,966 472,169 82,834,219 204,286,817 26,071,923 230,358,740
interest
Acquisition, disposal and changes in - - - - - - - 1,084 1,084 (8,991,655) (8,990,571)
non-controlling interest
As at 31 March 2021 63,101,661 3,626,604 37,777,543 26,424,124 349,024 2,863,766 1,362,079 90,651,930 226,156,731 16,830,098 242,986,829
201
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
CORPORATE AND GROUP INFORMATION BASIS OF PREPARATION AND OTHER SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING
1. Corporate information POLICIES
Reporting entity 3. Basis of preparation
John Keells Holdings PLC is a public limited liability Company The consolidated financial statements have been prepared on an accrual
incorporated and domiciled in Sri Lanka. The registered office and basis and under the historical cost convention except for investment
principal place of business of the Company is located at 117, Sir properties, land and buildings, derivative financial instruments, fair
Chittampalam A Gardiner Mawatha, Colombo 2. value through profit or loss financial assets and financial instruments
measured at fair value through other comprehensive income that have
Ordinary shares of the Company are listed on the Colombo Stock been measured at fair value.
Exchange. Global depository receipts (GDRs) of John Keells Holdings PLC
are listed on the Luxembourg Stock Exchange. Going Concern
In determining the basis of preparing the financial statements for
John Keells Holdings PLC became the holding Company of the Group the year ended 31 March 2021, based on available information, the
during the financial year ended 31 March 1986. management has assessed the prevailing and anticipated effects of
COVID-19 on the Group Companies and the appropriateness of the use
Consolidated financial statements of the going concern basis.
The financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2021 comprise
“the Company” referring to John Keells Holdings PLC as the holding It is the view of the management there are no material uncertainties that
Company and “the Group” referring to the companies that have been may cast significant doubt on the Groups’ ability to continue to operate
consolidated therein. as a going concern due to the improved operating environment despite
the ongoing effects of the pandemic and the operationalisation of risk
Approval of financial statements mitigation initiatives and continuous monitoring of business continuity
The financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2021 were and response plans at each business unit level along with the financial
authorised for issue by the Board of Directors on 24 May 2021. strength of the Group. The management has formed judgment that the
Company, its subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures have adequate
Principal activities and nature of operations of the holding resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable
Company future and continue to adopt the going concern basis in preparing and
John Keells Holdings PLC, the Group’s holding Company, manages presenting these financial statements.
a portfolio of investments consisting of a range of diverse business
operations, which together constitute the John Keells Group, and In determining the above significant management judgements,
provides function based services to its subsidiaries, jointly controlled estimates and assumptions, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has
entities and associates. been considered as of the reporting date and specific considerations
have been disclosed under the relevant notes.
Responsibility for financial statements
The responsibility of the Board of Directors in relation to the financial Presentation of functional currency
statements is set out in the Statement of Directors’ Responsibility report The consolidated financial statements are presented in Sri Lankan
in the Annual report. Rupees (LKR), which is the primary economic environment in which the
holding Company operates. Each entity in the Group uses the currency
Statements of compliance of the primary economic environment in which they operate as their
The financial statements which comprise the income statement, functional currency.
statement of comprehensive income, statement of financial position,
statement of changes in equity and the statement of cash flows, The following subsidiaries are using different functional currencies other
together with the accounting policies and notes (the “financial than Sri Lankan Rupees (LKR):
statements”) have been prepared in accordance with Sri Lanka
Accounting Standards (SLFRS/ LKAS) as issued by the Institute of Country of Functional Name of the Subsidiary
Chartered Accountants of Sri Lanka (CA Sri Lanka) and in compliance incorporation Currency
with the Companies Act No. 7 of 2007.
India Indian Rupee (INR) Serene Holidays (Pvt) Ltd
2. Group information Singapore Singapore Dollar John Keells Singapore (Pte) Ltd
Subsidiaries , associates and joint ventures (SGD)
The companies within the Group and its business activities are described Republic of United States Fantasea World Investments (Pte) Ltd
in the Group Directory under the Supplementary Information section of Maldives Dollar (USD) John Keells Maldivian Resort (Pvt) Ltd
the Annual Report.
Mack Air Services Maldives (Pte) Ltd
There were no significant changes in the nature of the principal activities Tranquility (Pte) Ltd
of the Company and the Group during the financial year under review. Travel Club (Pte) Ltd
Mauritius United States John Keells BPO Holdings (Pvt) Ltd
Dollar (USD) John Keells BPO International (Pvt)
Ltd
Sri Lanka United States Waterfront Properties (Pvt) Ltd
Dollar (USD)
202 JOHN KEELLS HOLDINGS PLC | ANNUAL REPORT 2020/21
Group Highlights Management Discussion & Analysis Governance Financial Statements Supplementary Information
Each material class of similar items is presented cumulatively in the Deferred tax assets and liabilities are classified as non-current assets and
Financial Statements. Items of dissimilar nature or function are presented liabilities.
separately unless they are immaterial as permitted by the Sri Lanka
Accounting Standard-LKAS 1 on ‘Presentation of Financial Statements’. Foreign currency translation, foreign currency
transactions and balances
All values are rounded to the nearest rupees thousand (LKR ’000) except The consolidated financial statements are presented in Sri Lanka Rupees
when otherwise indicated. (LKR), which is the Company’s functional and presentation currency.
The functional currency is the currency of the primary economic
The significant accounting policies are discussed with relevant individual environment in which the entities of the Group operate. All foreign
notes. exchange transactions are converted to functional currency, at the
rates of exchange prevailing at the time the transactions are effected.
The indicative US Dollar financial statements under Supplementary Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currency are
Information section of the Annual Report do not form a part of the retranslated to functional currency equivalents at the spot exchange rate
financial statements prepared in accordance with SLFRS/LKAS. prevailing at the reporting date.
Comparative information Non-monetary items that are measured in terms of historical cost in
The presentation and classification of the financial statements of the a foreign currency are translated using the exchange rates as at the
previous years have been amended, where relevant including the dates of the initial transactions. Non monetary assets and liabilities are
following for better presentation and to be comparable with those of translated using exchange rates that existed when the values were
the current year. determined. The gain or loss arising on translation of non-monetary
items is treated in line with the recognition of gain or loss on changing
4. Summary of significant accounting policies fair value of the item.
Summary of significant accounting policies have been disclosed along
with the relevant individual notes in the subsequent pages. Foreign operations
The statement of financial position and income statement of overseas
Those accounting policies presented with each note, have been applied subsidiaries and joint ventures which are deemed to be foreign
consistently by the Group. operations are translated to Sri Lanka rupees at the rate of exchange
prevailing as at the reporting date and at the average annual rate of
Other significant accounting policies not disclosed with exchange for the period respectively.
individual notes
Following accounting policies, which have been applied consistently by The exchange differences arising on the translation are taken directly
the Group, are considered to be significant but not covered in any other to other comprehensive income. On disposal of a foreign entity, the
sections. deferred cumulative amount recognised in other comprehensive
income relating to that particular foreign operation is recognised in the
Current versus non-current classification income statement.
The Group presents assets and liabilities in statement of financial
position based on current/non-current classification. An asset as current The Group treated goodwill and any fair value adjustments to the
when it is: carrying amounts of assets and liabilities arising on the acquisition as
assets and liabilities of the parent. Therefore, those assets and liabilities
• Expected to be realised or intended to be sold or consumed in normal
are non-monetary items already expressed in the functional currency of
operating cycle
the parent and no further translation differences occur.
• Held primarily for the purpose of trading
5. Significant accounting judgements, estimates and
• Expected to be realised within twelve months after the reporting
assumptions
period, or
The preparation of the financial statements of the Group require the
• Cash or cash equivalent unless restricted from being exchanged or management to make judgments, estimates and assumptions, which
used to settle a liability for at least twelve months after the reporting may affect the amounts of income, expenditure, assets, liabilities and the
period disclosure of contingent liabilities, at the end of the reporting period.
All other assets are classified as non-current. Uncertainty about these assumptions and estimates could result in
A liability is current when: outcomes that require a material adjustment to the carrying amount of
assets or liabilities affected in future periods. In the process of applying
• It is expected to be settled in normal operating cycle the Group’s accounting policies, management has made various
• It is held primarily for the purpose of trading judgements. Those which management has assessed to have the
most significant effect on the amounts recognised in the consolidated
• It is due to be settled within twelve months after the reporting period financial statements have been discussed in the individual notes of the
• There is no unconditional right to defer the settlement of the liability related financial statement line items.
for at least twelve months after the reporting period
The key assumptions concerning the future and other key sources of
The Group classifies all other liabilities as non-current. estimation uncertainty at the reporting date, that have a significant
risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets
203
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
and liabilities within the next financial year, are also described in the The amendments provide relief to lessees from applying SLFRS 16
individual notes to the financial statements. The Group based its guidance on lease modification accounting for rent concessions arising
assumptions and estimates on parameters available when the financial as a direct consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a practical
statements were prepared. Existing circumstances and assumptions expedient, a lessee may elect not to assess whether a COVID-19 related
about future developments, however, may change due to market rent concession from a lessor is a lease modification.
changes or circumstances arising that are beyond the control of the
Group. Such changes are reflected in the assumptions when they occur. A lessee that makes this election accounts for any change in lease
payments resulting from the COVID-19 related rent concession the same
The items which have most significant effect on accounting, way it would account for the change under SLFRS 16, if the change were
judgements, estimate and assumptions are as follows; not a lease modification. The Group has applied practical expedient for
COVID-19 related rent concessions.
a) Going concern basis
b) Valuation of property, plant and equipment and investment property The following amendments and improvements do not expect to have a
significant impact on the Group's financial statements.
c) Impairment of non-financial assets
Amendments to SLFRS 3: Definition of a Business
d) Share based payments Amendments to LKAS 1 and LKAS 8 Definition of Material
Conceptual Framework for Financial Reporting
e) Taxes
The CSM is released as profit over the coverage period of the insurance
6. Changes in accounting standards
contract, reflecting the delivery of services to the policyholder. For
The Group applied for the first-time certain standards and amendments,
certain contracts with participating features (where a substantial share
which are effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January
of the fair value of the related investments and other underlying items
2020.
is paid to policyholders) such as the company’s with-profits products,
the CSM reflects the variable fee to shareholders. For these contracts,
Amendments to SLFRS 16 COVID-19 Related Rent Concessions
the CSM is adjusted to reflect the changes in economic experience and
assumptions. For all other contracts the CSM is only adjusted for non- GROUP BUSINESS, OPERATIONS AND MANAGEMENT
economic assumptions. 8. Operating segment information
Accounting policy
SLFRS 17 introduces a new measure of insurance revenue, based on The Group’s internal organisation and management is structured
the delivery of services to policyholders and excluding any premiums based on individual products and services which are similar in nature
related to the investment elements of policies, which will be significantly and process and where the risks and returns are similar. The operating
different from existing premium revenue measures, currently reported segments represent this business structure.
in the income statement. In order to transition to SLFRS 17, the amount
of deferred profit, being the CSM at transition date, needs to be In addition, segments are determined based on the Group’s
determined. geographical spread of operations as well. The geographical analysis
of turnover and profits are based on location of customers and assets
SLFRS 17 requires this CSM to be calculated as if the standard had respectively.
applied retrospectively. However if this is not practical an entity is
required to choose either a simplified retrospective approach or to The activities of each of the operating business segments of the Group
determine the CSM by reference to the fair value of the liabilities at are detailed in the Group directory in the Supplementary section of the
the transition date. The approach for determining the CSM will have a Annual report.
significant impact on both shareholders’ equity and on the amount of
profits on in-force business in future reporting periods. The Group has now organised its business units into seven reportable
operating segments based on their products and services as follows:
SLFRS 17 Implementation Programme - Union Assurance PLC
SLFRS 17 is expected to have a significant impact as the requirements Transportation
of the new standard are complex and requires a fundamental change This operating segment provides an array of transportation related
to accounting for insurance contracts as well as the application of services, which comprise of a container terminal in the Port of Colombo,
significant judgement and new estimation techniques. The effect of a marine bunkering business, domestic airline, joint venture/associations
changes required to the company’s accounting policies as a result with leading shipping, logistics and air transportation multinationals as
of implementing these standards are currently uncertain, but these well as travel and airlines services in Sri Lanka and the Maldives.
changes can be expected to, among other things, alter the timing of
SLFRS profit recognition. Given the implementation of this standard is Consumer Foods
likely to involve significant enhancements to IT, actuarial and finance Consumer foods segment focuses on manufacturing of a wide
systems of the company, it will also have an impact on the company’s range of soft drinks, dairy products, ice creams and processed foods
expenses. which competes in three major categories namely beverages, frozen
confectionery and convenience foods.
The company has an implementation programme underway to
implement SLFRS 17 and SLFRS 9. The programme is responsible for Retail
setting accounting policies and developing application methodologies, Retail segment focuses on modern organised retailing through a chain
establishing appropriate processes and controls, sourcing appropriate of supermarkets and distribution of printers, copiers, smart phones and
data and implementing actuarial and finance system changes. other office automation equipment.
The Steering Committee, chaired by the Chief Financial Officer and Leisure
Chief Actuarial Officer provides oversight and strategic direction to the The leisure segment comprises of five-star city hotels, a lean luxury hotel,
implementation programme. resort hotels spread across prime tourist locations in Sri Lanka, as well as
destination management business in Sri Lanka.
The company remains on track to start providing SLFRS 17 financial
statements in line with the requirements for interim reporting at its Property
effective date, which is currently expected to be 2023. Property segment concentrates primarily on property development,
renting of commercial office spaces and management of the Group’s real
The following amendments and improvements are not expected to have estate.
a significant impact on the Group’s financial statements.
Amendments to LKAS 1 : Classification of liabilities as Current or Non- Financial Services
current. The segment engages in a broad range of financial services including
Amendments to SLFRS 3: Reference to the Conceptual Framework. insurance, commercial banking, debt trading, fund management, leasing
Amendments to LKAS 16 : Property, Plant & Equipment - Proceeds and stock broking.
before Intended Use
Amendments to LKAS 37 : Onerous Contracts - Cost of Fulfilling a Others
Contract. This reportable segment represents companies in the plantation
Amendments to SLFRS 7, SLFRS 9 and LKAS 39 : Interest Rate industry, Information technology, management and holding Company
Benchmark Reform - Phase 2. of the Group as well as several ancillary companies.
Amendments to SLFRS 9, LKAS 39, SLFRS 7, SLFRS 4 and SLFRS 16 :
Interest Rate Benchmark Reform - Phase 2.
205
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
8. Operating segment information (Contd.) of making decisions about resource allocation and performance
assessment. Segment performance is evaluated based on operating
Segment information has been prepared in conformity with the profit or loss which in certain respects, as explained in the operating
accounting policies adopted for preparing and presenting the segments’ information, is measured differently from operating profit
consolidated financial statements of the Group. or loss in the consolidated financial statements. However, except the
Financial Services segment, other segments’ financing activities are
No operating segments have been aggregated to form the above managed on a group basis and are not allocated to operating segments.
reportable operating segments. An individual segment manager is Pricing between operating segments comply with the arm’s length
determined for each operating segment and the results are regularly principals relating to transfer pricing in the ordinary course of business.
reviewed by the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors monitors
the operating results of its business units separately for the purpose
Profit/ (loss) for the year 3,246,251 3,961,722 2,156,263 1,644,404 1,568,847 1,070,213
Purchase and construction of PPE* 100,490 240,974 626,423 1,197,535 2,712,459 3,431,613
Addition to IA* 500 710 210,597 3,957 1,167,094 271,521
Depreciation of PPE* 202,331 195,087 852,524 843,738 1,180,975 1,063,266
Amortisation of IA* 1,517 2,167 3,681 2,568 138,900 76,006
Amortisation of ROU* 59,858 - 6,222 5,991 915,755 773,765
Employee benefit provision and related costs 29,276 28,046 118,387 102,184 90,868 74,053
In addition to segment results, information such as finance costs / income, tax expenses has been allocated to segments for better presentation.
* PPE - Property, plant and equipment, IA - Intangible assets, ROU - Right-of-use assets
(7,555,464) (969,286) 40,590 (175,195) 1,773,064 1,233,475 (131,794) (823,932) 823,111 5,976,409
(1,192,991) (670,849) (16,800) (30,262) (274,019) (61,028) (1,277,129) (336,308) (4,669,206) (3,165,519)
170,104 250,928 64,656 148,174 153,351 200,655 4,716,984 3,924,111 5,391,769 4,772,647
16,250 21,504 (291,262) 455,085 - - 17,714 54,396 (253,425) 573,373
(70,829) (8,307) 99,417 95,173 1,707,823 1,381,909 - - 4,158,793 4,466,457
105,995 (164,180) (33,046) (30,800) - - (34,927) (1,489) (5,876) (220,309)
(8,526,935) (1,540,190) (136,445) 462,175 3,360,219 2,755,011 3,290,848 2,816,778 5,445,166 12,403,058
929,329 (7,929) (139,428) (136,636) (863,062) (532,793) (934,996) (751,960) (1,494,275) (2,662,263)
(7,597,606) (1,548,119) (275,873) 325,539 2,497,157 2,222,218 2,355,852 2,064,818 3,950,891 9,740,795
1,708,144 9,836,772 91,219 293,421 56,395 85,462 71,889 126,132 5,367,019 15,211,909
20,452 24,669 - - 733,987 35,961 54,670 49,845 2,187,300 386,663
2,206,781 1,819,606 45,867 48,830 84,148 86,176 152,908 129,117 4,725,534 4,185,820
67,735 65,215 6,658 6,750 383,053 318,080 40,019 32,058 641,563 502,844
1,489,624 1,347,421 22,582 19,866 125,049 117,737 89 1,175 2,619,179 2,265,955
199,193 195,339 7,091 2,855 67,914 72,615 138,680 130,644 651,409 605,736
207
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Trade and other payables 1,191,007 1,853,419 2,577,616 1,726,140 16,513,758 8,797,570
Short term borrowings 3,192,886 4,073,865 - - 4,248,003 1,984,311
Interest bearing loans and borrowings 13,111 - 543,455 543,455 1,200,000 -
Lease liabilities - - 1,110 11,043 337,921 237,954
Other current financial liabilities - - - - - -
Bank overdrafts 506,826 409,700 1,375,024 1,637,251 4,188,582 9,200,324
Segment current liabilities 4,903,830 6,336,984 4,497,205 3,917,889 26,488,264 20,220,159
Inter company investments made by the Group of companies have not been considered for the calculation of segment assets.
57,793,645 57,493,120 4,802,630 4,795,211 2,463,891 2,491,822 1,362,978 1,377,581 91,451,983 89,763,510
29,163,573 26,859,174 220,666 225,680 298,767 278,669 35,978 37,155 39,474,786 36,047,275
4,429,456 4,522,725 29,891,114 31,311,293 - - 2,125,423 865,776 36,746,288 36,996,215
260,848 308,129 834 29,336 1,807,054 1,316,147 194,592 158,098 4,342,078 2,605,238
7,021,227 6,722,027 43,951 227,449 43,570,046 38,561,535 17,998,486 333,040 69,122,146 46,302,547
24,891 37,318 103,803,090 78,973,882 91,000 112,579 114,461 32,954 105,122,593 80,114,963
98,693,640 95,942,493 138,762,285 115,562,851 48,230,758 42,760,752 21,831,918 2,804,604 346,259,874 291,829,748
362,738 426,131 43,872,141 41,407,129 14,843 12,514 255,930 198,206 54,367,909 50,201,384
879,635 3,340,894 221,386 121,086 7,623,070 1,184,041 3,147,434 1,038,157 19,955,047 12,854,100
2,764,348 3,199,538 286,992 888,226 13,457,845 8,205,827 52,254,596 27,661,442 72,618,093 40,624,147
1,469,552 1,463,798 7,925,556 1,726,800 887,497 1,063,919 2,458,360 2,117,976 19,355,524 11,431,983
5,476,273 8,430,361 52,306,075 44,143,241 21,983,255 10,466,301 58,116,320 31,015,781 166,296,573 115,111,614
5,919,453 6,513,353
(5,724,859) (575,054)
166,491,167 121,049,913
536,794,204 436,944,019
7,720,111 8,294,955
(6,462,732) (6,154,472)
222,101,943 135,893,947
2,523,654 2,281,147 1,739,109 6,005,379 11,690,755 2,708,601 1,596,742 1,032,217 37,832,641 24,404,473
2,770,345 1,914,264 - - - - 22,074 12,074 10,233,308 7,984,514
1,556,407 1,081,608 3,173,799 3,310,571 - - 3,020,702 316,042 9,507,474 5,251,676
1,131,749 1,100,006 - - 114,858 101,110 - - 1,585,638 1,450,113
- - 2,991,093 - - - - - 2,991,093 -
4,905,726 3,789,101 421,127 937,611 143,295 331,411 351,598 1,446,072 11,892,178 17,751,470
12,887,881 10,166,126 8,325,128 10,253,561 11,948,908 3,141,122 4,991,116 2,806,405 74,042,332 56,842,246
1,988,170 1,747,597
1,733,398 1,623,137
(6,058,468) (2,886,770)
71,705,432 57,326,210
293,807,375 193,220,157
104,169,913 104,372,854 191,068,360 159,706,092 70,214,013 53,227,053 79,948,238 33,820,385 512,556,447 406,941,362
49,014,684 40,745,595 87,221,879 64,745,476 57,539,577 41,695,389 49,727,520 3,414,031 294,886,896 190,595,710
209
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
9. Basis of consolidation and material partly owned Profit or loss and each component of other comprehensive income
subsidiaries (OCI) are attributed to the equity holders of the parent of the Group
Accounting policy and to the non-controlling interests, even if this results in the non-
Basis of consolidation controlling interests having a deficit balance. The financial statements
The consolidated financial statements comprise the financial of the subsidiaries are prepared for the same reporting period as the
statements of the Group and its subsidiaries as at the end of reporting parent Company, which is 12 months ending 31 March, using consistent
period. Control over an investee is achieved when the Group is accounting policies.
exposed, or has rights, to variable returns from its involvement with the
Transactions eliminated on consolidation
investee and has the ability to affect those returns through its power
All intra-group assets, liabilities, equity, income, expenses and cash
over the investee.
flows relating to transactions between members of the Group are
eliminated in full on consolidation. A change in the ownership interest
Control over an investee
of a subsidiary, without a loss of control, is accounted for as an equity
Specifically, the Group controls an investee if, and only if, the Group has: transaction.
• Power over the investee (i.e., existing rights that give it the current
ability to direct the relevant activities of the investee) Loss of control
If the Group loses control over a subsidiary, it derecognises the related
• Exposure, or rights, to variable returns from its involvement with the assets (including goodwill), liabilities, noncontrolling interest and other
investee components of equity while any resultant gain or loss is recognised in
the income statement. Any investment retained is recognised at fair
• The ability to use its power over the investee to affect its
value.
returns
Consolidation of entities in which the Group holds less than a The total profits and losses for the year of the Company and of its
majority of voting rights subsidiaries included in consolidation are shown in the consolidated
When the Group has less than a majority of the voting or similar rights income statement and consolidated statement of comprehensive
of an investee, the Group considers all relevant facts and circumstances income and all assets and liabilities of the Company and of its
in assessing whether it has power over an investee, including: subsidiaries included in consolidation are shown in the Consolidated
Statement of Financial Position.
• The contractual arrangement with the other vote holders of the
investee; Non-controlling interest (NCI)
Non-controlling interest which represents the portion of profit or loss
• Rights arising from other contractual arrangements; and
and net assets not held by the Group, are shown as a component of
• The Group’s voting rights and potential voting rights profit for the year in the consolidated income statement and statement
of comprehensive income and as a component of equity in the
Subsidiaries that are consolidated have been listed in the Group
consolidated statement of financial position, separately from equity
directory under Supplementary section of the annual report. attributable to the shareholders of the parent.
The following companies, with equity control equal to or less than 50%, The Consolidated Statement of Cash Flow includes the cash flows of the
have been consolidated as subsidiaries based on above criteria. Company and its subsidiaries.
% Holding
211
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Names of material partly-owned subsidiaries and effective holding % Accounting judgements,estimates and assumptions
owned by non-controlling interest: Consolidation of entities in which the Group holds less than a
majority of voting right (de facto control).
Material partly-owned subsidiary 2021 2020
The Group considers that it controls some subsidiaries even though it
Consumer Foods owns less than 50% of the voting rights. This is because the Group is the
Ceylon Cold Stores PLC 18.64% 18.64% single largest shareholder of those subsidiaries with equity interest. The
remaining equity shares in those subsidiaries are widely held by many
Keells Food Products PLC 11.37% 11.37% other shareholders, and there is no history of the other shareholders
The Colombo Ice Company (Pvt) Ltd 18.64% 18.64% collaborating to exercise their votes collectively or to outvote the Group.
Hikkaduwa Holiday Resorts (Pvt) Ltd 20.40% 20.40% When the fair value of the consideration transferred including the
recognised amount of any non-controlling interests in the acquiree is
International Tourists and Hoteliers Ltd 20.22% 20.22% lower than the fair value of net assets acquired, a gain is recognised
John Keells Hotels PLC 19.68% 19.68% immediately in the income statement. The Group elects on a
transaction-by-transaction basis whether to measure non-controlling
John Keells Maldivian Resorts (Pte) Ltd 19.68% 19.68% interests at fair value, or at their proportionate share of the recognised
Kandy Walk Inn Ltd 20.97% 20.97% amount of the identifiable net assets, at the acquisition date. Transaction
costs, other than those associated with the issue of debt or equity
Nuwara Eliya Holiday Resorts (Pvt) Ltd 19.68% 19.68% securities, that the Group incurs in connection with a business
Rajawella Hotels Company Ltd 19.68% 19.68% combination are expensed as incurred. When the Group acquires a
business, it assesses the financial assets and liabilities assumed for
Resort Hotels Ltd 20.40% 20.40%
appropriate classification and designation in accordance with the
Serene Holidays (Pvt) Ltd 1.65% 1.65% contractual terms, economic circumstances and pertinent conditions as
at the acquisition date. If the business combination is achieved in stages,
Tranquility (Pte) Ltd 19.68% 19.68%
the acquisition date fair value of the acquirer’s previously held equity
Trans Asia Hotels PLC 17.26% 17.26% interest in the acquiree is remeasured to fair value at the acquisition date
through profit or loss. Any contingent consideration to be transferred
Travel Club (Pte) Ltd 19.68% 19.68%
by the acquirer will be recognised at fair value at the acquisition date.
Trinco Holiday Resorts (Pvt) Ltd 19.68% 19.68% Contingent consideration, resulting from business combinations, is
valued at fair value at the acquisition date. Contingent consideration
Trinco Walk Inn Ltd 19.68% 19.68%
classified as equity is not remeasured and its subsequent settlement is
Walkers Tours Ltd 1.95% 1.95% accounted for within equity. Contingent consideration classified as an
asset or liability that is a financial instrument and within the scope of
Wirawila Walk Inn Ltd 19.68% 19.68%
SLFRS 9 Financial Instruments, is measured at fair value with the changes
Yala Village (Pvt) Ltd 24.67% 24.67% in fair value recognised in the Income Statement, in accordance with
SLFRS 9.
213
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
215
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Group
Government securities 11.1.2 29,703,638 - - 10,455,199 - 40,158,837 24%
Corporate debt securities 11.1.3 9,955,243 - - 1,290,325 - 11,245,568 7%
Deposits with banks 11.1.4 18,871,021 - - 54,045,971 - 72,916,992 44%
Loans to executives 11.1.5 990,562 - 341,838 - - 1,332,400 1%
Loans to life policyholders 11.1.6 1,840,841 - - - - 1,840,841 1%
Preference Shares 11.1.7 351,430 - - - - 351,430 0%
Interest rate swap 11.1.8 729,316 - - - - 729,316 1%
Trade and other receivables 11.1.9 - - 16,192,825 - - 16,192,825 10%
Reinsurance receivables 11.1.10 - - 589,306 - - 589,306 0%
Premium receivable 11.1.11 - - 332,729 - - 332,729 0%
Amounts due from related parties 11.1.12 - - - - 123,553 123,553 0%
Cash in hand and at bank 11.1.13 - 19,432,579 - - - 19,432,579 12%
Total credit risk exposure 62,442,051 19,432,579 17,456,698 65,791,495 123,553 165,246,376 100%
Company
Government securities - - - 3,339,580 - 3,339,580 5%
Corporate debt securities - - - - - - -
Deposits with banks 11.1.4 16,729,867 - - 48,251,457 - 64,981,324 92%
Loans to executives 11.1.5 59,592 - 19,406 - - 78,998 0%
Interest rate swap 11.1.8 729,316 - - - - 729,316 1%
Trade and other receivables 11.1.9 - - 95,374 - - 95,374 0%
Amounts due from related parties 11.1.12 - - - - 1,465,816 1,465,816 2%
Cash in hand and at bank 11.1.13 - 305,373 - - - 305,373 0%
Total credit risk exposure 17,518,775 305,373 114,780 51,591,037 1,465,816 70,995,781 100%
2020
Non Cash in Trade Short term Amounts Total %
current hand and and other investments due from of
financial at bank receivables related allocation
assets parties
- - - 2,869,945 -
144,493 - - - -
144,493 - - 2,869,945 -
40,078,469 13,333,743 12,186,327 38,457,970 389,766
- - - - - - -
- - - - - - -
125,472 - - 27,372,003 - 27,497,475 96%
70,457 - 19,721 - - 90,178 0%
- - - - - - -
- - 105,730 - - 105,730 0%
- - - - 681,617 681,617 3%
- 176,662 - - - 176,662 1%
195,929 176,662 125,451 27,372,003 681,617 28,551,662 100%
89,049 - - - -
89,049 - - - -
284,978 176,662 125,451 27,372,003 681,617
217
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
11. Financial risk management objectives and policies (Contd.) 11.1.3 Corporate debt securities
11.1.2 Government securities As at 31 March 2021 corporate debt securities comprise 7% (2020-8%) of
As at 31 March 2021 as shown in table above, 24% (2020 - 30%) of the total investments in debt securities, out of which 53% (2020 – 53%)
debt securities comprise investments in government securities consist were rated “A” or better, or guaranteed by a banking institution with a
of treasury bonds, bills and reverse repo investments. Government rating of “A” or better.
securities are usually referred to as risk free due to the sovereign nature
of the instrument.
GROUP
As at 31 March 2021 2020
Fitch ratings In LKR ’000s % In LKR ’000s %
As at 31 March 2021, fixed and call deposits comprise 99% (2020 - 67%) and 100% (2020 - 74%) for the Group and Company respectively were rated “A”
or better.
GROUP COMPANY
As at 31 March 2021 2020 2021 2020
Fitch ratings In LKR % In LKR % In LKR % In LKR %
’000s ’000s ’000s ’000s
The Group has obtained customer deposit from major customers by 11.1.13 Credit risk relating to cash in hand and Bank Balance
reviewing their past performance and credit worthiness, as collateral. In order to mitigate the concentration, settlement and operational risks
The requirement for an impairment is analysed at each reporting date on related to cash and cash equivalents, the Group consciously manages
an individual basis for major customers. Additionally, a large number of the exposure to a single counterparty taking into consideration, where
minor receivables are grouped into homogenous groups and assessed relevant, the rating or financial standing of the counterparty, where the
for impairment collectively. The calculation is based on actual incurred position is reviewed as and when required, the duration of the exposure
historical data. in managing such exposures and the nature of the transaction and
agreement governing the exposure.
The Group’s exposure to credit risk is influenced by the individual
characteristics of each customer. The individual receivable balances 11.2 Liquidity risk
were re-assessed, specific provisions were made wherever necessary, The Group’s policy is to hold cash and undrawn committed facilities at
existing practice on the provisioning of trade receivables were re-visited a level sufficient to ensure that the Group has available funds to meet
and adjusted to reflect the rearrangement of homogeneous groups its short and medium term capital and funding obligations, including
which the COVID-19 outbreak has affected different types of customers. organic growth and acquisition activities, and to meet any unforeseen
Receivable balances are monitored on an ongoing basis to minimize obligations and opportunities. The Group holds cash and undrawn
bad debt risk and to ensure default rates are kept very low whilst the committed facilities to enable the Group to manage its liquidity risk.
improved operating environment itself during the financial year has
resulted in improved collections. The Group monitors its risk to a shortage of funds using a daily cash
management process. This process considers the maturity of both
11.1.10 Reinsurance receivables the Group’s financial investments and financial assets (e.g. accounts
The Union Assurance PLC operates a policy to manage its reinsurance receivable, other financial assets) and projected cash flows from
counterparty exposures by limiting the reinsurers that may be used and operations.
applying strict limits each reinsurer.
The Group’s objective is to maintain a balance between continuity of
11.1.11 Premium receivable funding and flexibility through the use of multiple sources of funding
Only designated institutions are employed as intermediary parties including debentures, bank loans, loan notes, overdrafts and finance
by Union Assurance PLC. Agreements have been signed within the leases over a broad spread of maturities.
intermediaries committing them to settle dues within a specified time
period.
219
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
11.2.2 Liquidity risk management The Government of Sri Lanka offered certain relief measures including a
The mixed approach combines elements of the cash flow matching moratorium on repayment of loans and concessionary working capital
approach and the liquid assets approach. facilities for eligible industries. Group companies qualified for such relief
measures and it helped ease the financial position further during the
Group has implemented a mixed approach that combines elements of financial year.
the cash flow matching approach and the liquid assets approach. The
business units matched cash outflows in each time bucket against the The daily cash management processes at the business units include
combination of contractual cash inflows plus other inflows that can be active cash flow forecasts and matching the duration and profiles of
generated through the sale of assets, repurchase agreement, or other assets and liabilities, thereby ensuring a prudent balance between
secured borrowings. liquidity and earnings.
The Group continued to place emphasis on ensuring that cash and Maturity analysis - Group
undrawn committed facilities are sufficient to meet the short, medium The table below summarises the maturity profile of the Group’s financial
and long-term funding requirements, unforeseen obligations as well liabilities at 31 March 2021 based on contractual undiscounted (principal
as unanticipated opportunities. Constant dialogue between Group plus interest) payments.
companies and banks regarding financing requirements, ensures that
availability within each single borrower limit is optimised by efficiently
reallocating under-utilised facilities within the Group.
GROUP
In LKR ‘000s Within 1 Between Between Between Between More than Total
year 1-2 years 2-3 years 3-4 years 4-5 years 5 years
Interest-bearing loans and borrowings 10,661,673 63,599,843 7,744,177 11,541,441 13,209,355 34,991,322 141,747,811
Lease liabilities 1,611,278 2,560,451 1,440,887 2,410,028 1,573,467 16,642,933 26,239,044
Interest rate swap 332,858 80,608 - - - - 413,466
Trade and other payables 35,287,700 - - - - - 35,287,700
Amounts due to related parties 1,385 - - - - - 1,385
Short term borrowings 6,903,737 - - - - - 6,903,737
Other current financial liabilities 2,991,093 - - - - - 2,991,093
Bank overdrafts 11,820,179 - - - - - 11,820,179
69,609,903 66,240,902 9,185,064 13,951,469 14,782,822 51,634,255 225,404,415
The table below summarises the maturity profile of the Group’s financial liabilities at 31 March 2020 based on contractual undiscounted (principal plus
interest) payments.
In LKR ‘000s Within 1 Between Between Between Between More than Total
year 1-2 years 2-3 years 3-4 years 4-5 years 5 years
Interest-bearing loans and borrowings 9,720,905 12,181,923 44,183,327 1,600,058 376,823 338,234 68,401,270
Lease liabilities 2,565,337 2,578,140 2,602,566 2,165,463 3,232,001 17,102,235 30,245,742
Interest rate swap 204,881 273,958 65,808 - - - 544,647
Trade and other payables 23,881,479 - - - - - 23,881,479
Amounts due to related parties 2,073 - - - - - 2,073
Short term borrowings 5,803,771 - - - - - 5,803,771
Bank overdrafts 17,679,471 - - - - - 17,679,471
59,857,917 15,034,021 46,851,701 3,765,521 3,608,824 17,440,469 146,558,453
In LKR ‘000s Within 1 Between Between Between Between More than Total
year 1-2 years 2-3 years 3-4 years 4-5 years 5 Years
Interest-bearing loans and borrowings 4,071,811 3,796,671 4,223,052 6,577,937 10,264,328 31,489,326 60,423,125
Trade and other payables 372,711 - - - - - 372,711
Amounts due to related parties 13,181 - - - - - 13,181
Bank overdrafts 9,781 - - - - - 9,781
4,467,484 3,796,671 4,223,052 6,577,937 10,264,328 31,489,326 60,818,798
The table below summarises the maturity profile of the Company's financial liabilities at 31 March 2020 based on contractual undiscounted (principal
plus interest) payments.
11.3 Market risk The sensitivity analyses in the following sections relate to the
Market risk is the risk that the fair value of future cash flows of a financial position as at 31 March in 2021 and 2020.
instrument will fluctuate because of changes in market prices.
The analysis excludes the impact of movements in market variables
Market risk comprises of the following types of risk:
on the carrying values of other post-retirement obligations,
* Interest rate risk
provisions, and the non-financial assets and liabilities.
* Currency risk
* Equity price risk
The following assumptions have been made in calculating the
* Commodity price risk
sensitivity analyses:
The objective of market risk management is to manage and
* The sensitivity of the Statement of Financial Position item mainly
control market risk exposures within acceptable parameters, while
relates to derivatives and debt instruments.
optimising the return.
221
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
* The sensitivity of the relevant Income Statement item is the effect variable rate interest amounts calculated by reference to an agreed-
of the assumed changes in respective market risks. upon notional principal amount.
* This is based on the financial assets and financial liabilities held at The global outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in
31 March 2020 and 2021. reductions in policy rates and monetary easing policies by Central
Bank of Sri Lanka which has resulted in a sharp reduction in lending
11.3.1 Interest rate risk rates. The Group has managed the risk of increased interest rates by
Interest rate risk is the risk that the fair value or future cash flows having a balanced portfolio of borrowings at fixed and variable rates
of a financial instrument will fluctuate because of changes in while interest rate swap agreements are in place for a significant
market interest rates. The Group’s exposure to the risk of changes in portion of the Group’s foreign currency borrowing portfolio.
market interest rates relate primarily to the Group’s long-term debt
obligations with floating interest rates. The table demonstrates the sensitivity to a reasonably possible
change in interest rates, with all other variables held constant, of the
Most lenders grant loans under floating interest rates. To manage Group’s and Company's profit before tax (through the impact on
this, the Group enters into interest rate swaps, in which it agrees to floating rate borrowings).
exchange, at specified intervals, the difference between fixed and
GROUP COMPANY
Increase/ (decrease) in basis points Effect on profit before tax
For the year ended 31 March Rupee Other currency LKR ‘000s
borrowings borrowings
2021 +411 +71 (1,730,706) (736,264)
-411 -71 1,730,706 736,264
The assumed spread of basis points for the interest rate sensitivity external consultants' advice. Based on the suggestions made by Group
analysis is based on the currently observable market environment treasury the GEC takes decisions on whether to hold, sell, or make
changes to base floating interest rates. forward bookings of foreign currency as per decision rights given by
Board of Directors.
11.3.2 Foreign currency risk
Foreign currency risk is the risk that the fair value or future cash flows 11.3.2.1 Effects of currency transaction on forward contract
of a financial instrument will fluctuate because of changes in foreign The table demonstrates the sensitivity to a reasonably possible change
exchange rates. The Group has exposure to foreign currency risk where it in the USD/LKR exchange rate, with all other variables held constant,
has cash flows in overseas operations and foreign currency transactions of the Group’s profit before tax due to changes in the fair value of
which are affected by foreign exchange movements. Group treasury the Group’s forward exchange contracts. Currently these financial
analyses the market condition of foreign exchange and provides market instruments are categerised under trade and other receivables.
updates to the Group Executive Committee (GEC), with the use of
GROUP
For the year ended 31 March Increase/(decrease) in Effect on profit before tax
exchange rate USD LKR ‘000s
2021 + 7% -
- 7% -
The assumed spread of the exchange rate is based on the current observable market environment.
GROUP COMPANY
For the year ended 31 March Increase/(decrease) Effect on profit Effect on equity Effect on profit
in exchange rate USD before tax LKR ‘000s before tax
LKR ‘000s LKR ‘000s
GROUP
As at 31 March 2021 2020
LKR ’000s % LKR ’000s %
11.3.3.2 Financial instruments at fair value through other 11.3.3.3 Sensitivity analysis
comprehensive income statement The table demonstrates the sensitivity to a reasonably possible change
All unquoted equity investments are made after obtaining Board of in the market index, with all other variables held constant, of the Group
Directors approval. and Company's profit before tax and equity due to changes in the fair
value of the listed equity securities.
223
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
GROUP
For the year ended 31 March Change in year-end Effect on profit Effect on equity
market price index before tax LKR ‘000s LKR ‘000s
11.4 Capital management The Group manages its capital structure, and makes adjustments to it, in
The primary objective of the Group’s capital management is to ensure the light of changes in economic conditions. To maintain or adjust the
that it maintains a strong financial position and healthy capital ratios in capital structure, the Group may issue new shares, have a rights issue or
order to support its business and maximise shareholder value. buy back of shares.
GROUP COMPANY
As at 31 March 2021 2020 2021 2020
12. Fair value measurement and related fair value disclosures A fair value measurement of a non-financial asset takes into account
Fair value measurement a market participant’s ability to generate economic benefits by using
Fair value related disclosures for financial instruments and non-financial the asset in its highest and best use or by selling it to another market
assets that are measured at fair value or where fair values are only, disclosed participant that would use the asset in its highest and best use.
are reflected in this note. Aside from this note, additional fair value related
disclosures, including the valuation methods, significant estimates and The Group uses valuation techniques that are appropriate in the
assumptions are also provided in: circumstances and for which sufficient data are available to measure fair
Investment in unquoted equity shares - Note 28.1
•
value, maximising the use of relevant observable inputs and minimising
the use of unobservable inputs.
Property, plant and equipment under revaluation model -
•
Note 22.3
All assets and liabilities for which fair value is measured or disclosed in
Investment properties - Note 24
•
the financial statements are categorised within the fair value hierarchy,
Financial Instruments (including those carried at amortised cost) -
• described as follows, based on the lowest level input that is significant to
Note 13 the fair value measurement as a whole:
• Level 1 — Quoted (unadjusted) market prices in active markets for
Accounting policy identical assets or liabilities
Fair value is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to
• Level 2 — Valuation techniques for which the lowest level input that
transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants
is significant to the fair value measurement is directly or indirectly
at the measurement date. The fair value measurement is based on the
observable.
presumption that the transaction to sell the asset or transfer the liability
takes place either: • Level 3 — Valuation techniques for which the lowest level input that is
significant to the fair value measurement is unobservable.
• In the principal market for the asset or liability, or
• In the absence of a principal market, in the most advantageous For assets and liabilities that are recognised in the financial statements
market for the asset or liability on a recurring basis, the Group determines whether transfers have
occurred between levels in the hierarchy by re-assessing categorisation
The principal or the most advantageous market must be accessible by (based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value
the Group. measurement as a whole) at the end of each reporting period.
The fair value of an asset or a liability is measured using the assumptions The Group determines the policies and procedures for both recurring fair
that market participants would use when pricing the asset or liability, value measurement, such as investment properties and unquoted equity
assuming that market participants act in their economic best interest. instruments, and for non-recurring measurement, such as assets held for
sale in discontinued operations.
The services of external valuers are obtained for valuation of significant The Group decides, after discussions with the external valuers, which
assets, such as land and building and investment properties. Selection valuation techniques and inputs to use for individual assets.
criteria for external valuers include market knowledge, reputation,
independence and whether professional standards are maintained. For the purpose of fair value disclosures, the Group has determined
classes of assets on the basis of the nature, characteristics and risks of the
asset and the level of the fair value hierarchy as explained above.
In determining the fair value, highest and best use of the property has Financial assets at fair value through Profit and loss
been considered including the current condition of the properties, There may be an increase in the amount of subjectivity involved in fair
future usability and associated redevelopment requirements. Also, the value measurements, and as such, a greater use of unobservable inputs will
valuers have made reference to market evidence of transaction prices for be required because relevant observable inputs are no longer available.
similar properties, with appropriate adjustments for size and location. The This will have a direct impact to the policyholder profit or loss where
appraised fair values are rounded within the range of values. diversification of the portfolio with the unaffected and growing industries
will mitigate the risk.
All the other financial instruments were properly categorized and during
the period were not materially different from the transaction prices at the The Colombo Stock Exchange re-commenced trading in May 2020 and by
date of initial recognition. The fair value changes on financial instruments 31 March 2021, investor sentiment has improved significantly, providing
in Level 3 category was properly recorded in the statement of other an active market for price discovery. Therefore, the fair value of the equity
comprehensive income Fair valuation was done as of 31 March 2021. portfolio as of 31 March 2021 was determined based on the closing prices
available as of 31 March 2021.
225
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
12. Fair value measurement and related fair value disclosures (Contd.)
12.3 Reconciliation of fair value measurements of level 3 financial instruments
The Group and Company carries unquoted equity shares are classified as Level 3 within the fair value hierarchy. A reconciliation of the beginning and
closing balances including movements is summarised below:
GROUP COMPANY
In LKR ‘000s Fair Value through other
comprehensive income
Fair valuation done as at 31 March 2021 for all unquoted equity shares are classified as Level 3 within the fair value hierarchy using fair valuation
methodology. Fair value would not significantly vary if one or more of the inputs were changed.
The classification of financial assets at initial recognition depends on the • The contractual terms of the financial asset give rise on specified dates
financial asset’s contractual cash flow characteristics and the Group’s to cash flows that are solely payments of principal and interest on the
business model for managing them. This assessment is referred to as the principal amount outstanding.
SPPI test and is performed at an instrument level. The business model
determines whether cash flows will result from collecting contractual Financial assets at amortised cost are subsequently measured using the
cash flows, selling the financial assets, or both. With the exception of effective interest (EIR) method and are subject to impairment. Gains and
trade receivables that do not contain a significant financing component losses are recognised in profit or loss when the asset is derecognised,
or for which the Group has applied the practical expedient are measured modified or impaired.
at the transaction price.
The Group’s financial assets at amortised cost includes trade receivables
At initial recognition, the Group measures a financial asset at its fair value and short term investments.
plus, in the case of a financial asset not at fair value through profit or loss
(FVPL), transaction costs that are directly attributable to the acquisition Financial assets at fair value through OCI
of the financial asset. Transaction costs of financial assets carried at FVPL Assets that are held for collection of contractual cash flows and for
are expensed in profit or loss. selling the financial assets, where the assets’ cash flows represent solely
payments of principal and interest, are measured at FVOCI. The Group
The Group’s financial assets include cash and short-term deposits, measures debt instruments at fair value through OCI if both of the
trade and other receivables, loans and other receivables, quoted and following conditions are met:
unquoted financial instruments and derivative financial instruments.
• The financial asset is held within a business model with the objective
of both holding to collect contractual cash flows and selling and;
Subsequent measurement
For purposes of subsequent measurement, financial assets are classified • The contractual terms of the financial asset give rise on specified dates
in four categories to cash flows that are solely payments of principal and interest on the
principal amount outstanding.
• Financial assets at amortised cost
rate method. Foreign exchange gains and losses are presented in other Impairment of financial assets
gains/(losses) and impairment expenses are presented as separate line From 31 March 2021, the Group assesses on a forward looking basis
item in the income statement. the expected credit losses associated with its debt instruments carried
at amortised cost and FVOCI. The impairment methodology applied
Equity Instruments depends on whether there has been a significant increase in credit risk.
Financial assets designated at fair value through OCI
Upon initial recognition, the Group can elect to classify irrevocably its For trade receivables, the Group applies the simplified approach
equity investments as financial assets at fair value through OCI when permitted by SLFRS 9, which requires expected lifetime losses to be
they meet the definition of equity under LKAS 32 Financial Instruments: recognised from initial recognition of the receivables. The Group has
Presentation and are not held for trading. The classification is determined established a provision matrix that is based on its historical credit loss
on an instrument-by-instrument basis. experience, adjusted for forward-looking factors specific to the debtors
and the economic environment.
Gains and losses on these financial assets are never recycled to profit
or loss. Dividends are recognised as other income in the statement of Financial Liabilities
profit or loss when the right of payment has been established, except Initial recognition and measurement
when the Group benefits from such proceeds as a recovery of part of the Financial liabilities are classified, at initial recognition, as financial
cost of the financial asset, in which case, such gains are recorded in OCI. liabilities at fair value through profit or loss, loans and borrowings,
Equity instruments designated at fair value through OCI are not subject payables, or as derivatives designated as hedging instruments in an
to impairment assessment. effective hedge, as appropriate.
The Group elected to classify irrevocably its non-listed equity All financial liabilities are recognised initially at fair value and, in the
investments under this category. case of loans and borrowings and payables, net of directly attributable
transaction costs.
Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss
The Group’s financial liabilities include trade and other payables, loans
Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss include financial assets
and borrowings including bank overdrafts, and derivative financial
held for trading, financial assets designated upon initial recognition at
instruments.
fair value through profit or loss, or financial assets mandatorily required
to be measured at fair value. Financial assets are classified as held for Subsequent measurement
trading if they are acquired for the purpose of selling or repurchasing in The measurement of financial liabilities depends on their classification,
the near term. Derivatives, including separated embedded derivatives, as described below:
are also classified as held for trading unless they are designated as
effective hedging instruments. Financial assets with cash flows that are Financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss
not solely payments of principal and interest are classified and measured Financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss include financial
at fair value through profit or loss, irrespective of the business model. liabilities held for trading and financial liabilities designated upon initial
Notwithstanding the criteria for debt instruments to be classified at recognition as at fair value through profit or loss.
amortised cost or at fair value through OCI, as described above, debt
instruments may be designated at fair value through profit or loss on Financial liabilities are classified as held for trading if they are incurred for
initial recognition if doing so eliminates, or significantly reduces, an the purpose of repurchasing in the near term. This category also includes
accounting mismatch. derivative financial instruments entered into by the Group that are not
designated as hedging instruments in hedge relationships as defined by
Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss are carried in the SLFRS 9. Separated embedded derivatives are also classified as held for
statement of financial position at fair value with net changes in fair value trading unless they are designated as effective hedging instruments.
recognised in the statement of profit or loss.
Gains or losses on liabilities held for trading are recognised in the Income
This category includes derivative instruments and listed equity statement.
investments which the Group had not irrevocably elected to classify at
fair value through OCI. Dividends on listed equity investments are also Loans and borrowings
recognised as finance income in the statement of profit or loss when the This is the category most relevant to the Group. After initial recognition,
right of payment has been established. interest-bearing loans and borrowings are subsequently measured at
amortised cost using the EIR method. Gains and losses are recognised in
Dividends received from equity instruments have been disclosed in note profit or loss when the liabilities are derecognised as well as through the
no 17 (finance income expense note). EIR amortisation process.
Financial assets - derecognition Amortised cost is calculated by taking into account any discount or
Financial assets are derecognised when the rights to receive cash premium on acquisition and fees or costs that are an integral part of the
flows from the financial assets have expired or have been transferred EIR. The EIR amortisation is included as finance costs in the statement of
and the Group has transferred substantially all the risks and rewards of profit or loss.
ownership.
227
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
13. Financial instruments and related policies (Contd.) Offsetting of financial instruments
Derecognition Financial assets and financial liabilities are offset and the net amount is
A financial liability is derecognised when the obligation under the reported in the consolidated statement of financial position if there is a
liability is discharged or cancelled or expires. When an existing currently enforceable legal right to offset the recognised amounts and
financial liability is replaced by another from the same lender on there is an intention to settle on a net basis, to realise the assets and
substantially different terms, or the terms of an existing liability are settle the liabilities simultaneously.
substantially modified, such an exchange or modification is treated as
the derecognition of the original liability and the recognition of a new
liability. The difference in the respective carrying amounts is recognised
in the Income statement.
13.1 Financial assets and liabilities by categories in accordance with SLFRS 9 - Group
Financial assets at Financial assets at fair value
amortised cost through OCI
As at 31 March 2021 2020 2021 2020
In LKR ‘000s
13.2 Financial assets and liabilities by categories in accordance with SLFRS 9 - Company
Financial assets at Financial assets at fair value
amortised cost through OCI
As at 31 March 2021 2020 2021 2020
In LKR ‘000s
Derivative financial instruments and hedge accounting - Initial For the purpose of hedge accounting, hedges are classified as:
recognition and subsequent measurement
• Fair value hedges when hedging the exposure to changes in the
The Group uses derivative financial instruments, such as forward
fair value of a recognised asset or liability or an unrecognised firm
currency contracts, interest rate swaps and forward commodity
commitment
contracts, to hedge its foreign currency risks, interest rate risks and
commodity price risks, respectively. Such derivative financial instruments • Cash flow hedges when hedging the exposure to variability in cash
are initially recognised at fair value on the date on which a derivative flows that is either attributable to a particular risk associated with a
contract is entered into and are subsequently remeasured at fair value. recognised asset or liability or a highly probable forecast transaction or
Derivatives are carried as financial assets when the fair value is positive the foreign currency risk in an unrecognised firm commitment
and as financial liabilities when the fair value is negative.
• Hedges of a net investment in a foreign operation.
Financial assets at fair value Derivative financial Total Financial liabilities measured
through profit or loss instruments at amortised cost/fair value
2021 2020 2021 2020 2021 2020 2021 2020
17,611,121 284,978 - -
- - 44,179,490 289,705
229
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The management assessed that, cash and short-term deposits, trade The fair value of unquoted instruments, loans from banks and other
receivables, trade payables, bank overdrafts and other current financial financial liabilities, obligations under finance leases, as well as non-
liabilities approximate their carrying amounts largely due to the short- current financial liabilities are estimated by discounting future cash flows
term maturities of these instruments. using rates currently available for debt on similar terms, credit risk and
remaining maturities.
Fair value is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to
transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants Fair value of the unquoted ordinary shares has been estimated using a
at the measurement date. Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model. The valuation requires management
to make certain assumptions about the model inputs, including forecast
The following methods and assumptions were used to estimate
cash flows, the discount rate, credit risk and volatility. The probabilities
the fair values:
of the various estimates within the range can be reasonably assessed
Fair value of quoted equities, debentures and bonds is based on price and are used in management’s estimate of fair value for these unquoted
quotations in an active market at the reporting date equity investments.
Accounting judgements, estimates and assumptions Where this is not feasible, a degree of judgement is required in
Fair value of financial instruments establishing fair values. The judgements include considerations of inputs
Where the fair value of financial assets and financial liabilities recorded such as liquidity risk, credit risk and volatility.
in the statement of financial position cannot be derived from active
markets, their fair value is determined using valuation techniques
including the discounted cash flow model. The inputs to these models
are taken from observable markets where possible.
Notes to the Income Statement, Statement of Comprehensive Services transferred over time
Income and Statement of Financial Position Under SLFRS 15, the Group determines, at contract inception, whether it
14. Revenue satisfies the performance obligation over time or at a point in time. For
Accounting policy each performance obligation satisfied over time, the Group recognises
14.1 Total revenue the revenue over time by measuring the progress towards complete
14.1.1 Revenue from contract with customers satisfaction of that performance obligation.
Revenue from contracts with customers is recognised when control of
the goods or services is transferred to the customer at an amount that 14.1.2 Revenue from insurance contracts
reflects the consideration to which the Group expects to be entitled in Revenue from insurance contracts comprise of gross written premiums
exchange for those goods or services. net of premium ceded to reinsurers.
GROUP COMPANY
For the year ended 31 March Note 2021 2020 2021 2020
In LKR ‘000s
231
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
14. Revenue (Contd.) In providing destination management services, the entity acts as the
principal. Customer receives and consumes the benefits of the entity's
14.5 Performance obligations and significant judgements
performance, as and when the service is performed. Therefore, revenue
The Group’s performance obligations and significant judgements are
is recognised at gross over the period, based on the output method.
summarised below:
The timing and the amount of cashflow will vary according to the
Transportation agreements.
This operating segment provides an array of transportation related
services, which primarily include a marine bunkering business, shipping, Transaction price shall comprise of supplier fee and company mark-up,
logistics and air transportation multinationals as well as travel and airline summing up to be the Gross Service fee. The advance payments are
services. In providing airline services, net revenue is recognised at a point recognised as a liability. Upon provision of the services, the liability is set
in time upon the sale of tickets as the entity is deemed as the agent. off and revenue is recognised over the period.
Total transaction price is comprised of cost and commission which is
equal to the total ticketing service fee. Property
Property segment concentrates primarily on property development,
In providing Marine Services, the principal activity of the entity is to renting of office, retail space and management of the Group’s real estate.
supply bunker services to their customers, in exchange for a bunker
fee. The performance obligation can be termed as bunkering services. At inception of the contract, the entity determines whether it satisfies
Revenue is recognised at a point in time, upon supply of the bunker to the performance obligation over time or at a point in time. Timing and
the vessels. Transaction price shall comprise of cost and mark up which amount of cashflow will be determined according to the agreement.
is equal to total bunkering fee.
Customers who purchase from outlets may enter the entity’s customer Some contracts include multiple deliverables. Where the contracts
loyalty programme and earn points that are redeemable against future include multiple performance obligations, the transaction price will
purchases of the entity’s products. The entity will allocate a portion be allocated to each performance obligation based on the stand-
of the transaction price to the loyalty programme based on relative alone selling prices. Where these are not directly observable, they are
standalone selling price. estimated based on expected cost plus margin.
COMPANY
For the year ended 31 March 2021 2020
In LKR ‘000s
Dividend income from investments in subsidiaries and equity accounted investees 8,346,260 6,367,610
16. Other operating income and other operating expenses Gains and losses arising from activities incidental to the main revenue
Accounting policy generating activities and those arising from a group of similar
Gains and losses transactions, which are not material are aggregated, reported and
Net gains and losses of a revenue nature arising from the disposal of presented on a net basis.
property, plant and equipment and other non-current assets, including
Any losses arising from guaranteed rentals are accounted for, in the
investments in subsidiaries, joint ventures and associates, are accounted
year of incurring the same. A provision is recognised if the projection
in the income statement, after deducting from the proceeds on disposal,
indicates a loss.
the carrying amount of such assets and the related selling expenses.
233
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
GROUP COMPANY
For the year ended 31 March 2021 2020 2021 2020
In LKR '000s
Finance cost
Interest expense on borrowings (2,891,345) (1,883,689) (1,244,941) (237,046)
Finance charge on lease liabilities (1,503,908) (1,220,822) - -
Realised loss on financial assets at fair value through profit or loss (273,953) (61,008) - -
Total finance cost (4,669,206) (3,165,519) (1,244,941) (237,046)
Net finance income 6,019,516 6,191,823 3,372,388 3,585,296
18. Profit before tax For the purpose of presentation of the income statement, the “function
Accounting policy of expenses” method has been adopted, on the basis that it presents
Expenditure recognition fairly the elements of the Company’s and Group’s performance.
Expenses are recognised in the income statement on the basis of a
direct association between the cost incurred and the earning of specific
items of income. All expenditure incurred in the running of the business
and in maintaining the property, plant and equipment in a state of
efficiency has been charged to the income statement.
GROUP COMPANY
For the year ended 31 March 2021 2020 2021 2020
In LKR '000s
235
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
19. Earnings per share by dividing the profit attributable to ordinary equity holders of the
parent (after adjusting for outstanding share options) by the weighted
Accounting policy average number of ordinary shares outstanding during the year plus
Basic EPS is calculated by dividing the profit for the year attributable to the weighted average number of ordinary shares that would be issued
ordinary equity holders of the parent by the weighted average number on conversion of all the dilutive potential ordinary shares into ordinary
of ordinary shares outstanding during the year. Diluted EPS is calculated shares.
Equity dividend on ordinary shares declared and paid during the year
Final dividend (Previous years’ final dividend paid in the current year) - - 1.00 1,318,173
Interim dividends 1.50 1,978,317 2.50 3,295,960
Total dividend 1.50 1,978,317 3.50 4,614,133
237
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Income statement
Current tax charge 21.5 2,169,340 1,878,025 801,201 614,311
(Over)/Under provision of current tax of previous years (46,189) (5,110) - -
Irrecoverable economic service charge 21.7 163,682 4,682 - -
Withholding tax on inter company dividends and other taxes - 122,582 - -
Deferred tax charge/(reversal)
Relating to origination and reversal of temporary differences 21.2 (792,558) 662,084 - -
21.6 1,494,275 2,662,263 801,201 614,311
Income statement
Deferred tax expense arising from;
Accelerated depreciation for tax purposes 31,487 (16,861)
Revaluation of investment property to fair value (212,179) 116,562
Retirement benefit obligations 71,433 (35,277)
Benefit arising from tax losses (626,830) 575,652
Others (56,469) 22,008
Deferred tax charged/(reversal) directly to Income Statement (792,558) 662,084
Temporary differences associated with the undistributed reserves in As the Bill has been Gazetted and also printed by order of Parliament
subsidiaries for which a deferred tax liability has not been recognised, as of the reporting date, the Group's management, having applied
amounts to LKR. 2,880 Mn (2020 - LKR. 3,100 Mn). The deferred tax effect significant judgement, have concluded the provisions of the Inland
on undistributed reserves of subsidiaries has not been recognised since Revenue (Amendment) Bill to be substantially enacted, and have relied
the parent can control the timing of the reversal of these temporary upon the income tax rates specified therein to calculate the income tax
differences. liability and deferred tax provision for the 2020/21 financial year of the
Group.
The Inland Revenue (Amendment) Bill, to amend the Inland Revenue
Act, No. 24 of 2017, incorporating announcements implemented by the
Inland Revenue Circular Nos. PN/IT/2020-03 (Revised) and PN/IT/2021-01
was Gazetted on 18 March 2021.
The closing deferred tax asset and liability balances relate to the following;
Revaluation of land and building to fair value (24,215) (24,646) 4,684,580 4,927,392
Revaluation of investment property to fair value 8,735 (2,587) 876,082 338,989
Accelerated depreciation for tax purposes 172,231 295,829 2,625,177 2,935,088
Employee benefit liability 35,783 39,104 (553,452) (276,732)
Losses available for offset against future taxable income 971,047 679,832 (313,715) (125,756)
Net gain/loss on fair value through OCI (35,956) (54,779) - -
Others (38,598) (30,371) 401,439 495,974
1,089,027 902,382 7,720,111 8,294,955
A deferred tax liability for the Group amounting to LKR. 490 Mn (2020 arising between the actual results and the assumptions made, or future
– LKR. 490 Mn) has been recognised based on the impact of declared changes to such assumptions, could necessitate future adjustments to
dividends of subsidiaries and the Group’s portion of distributable tax income and expense already recorded. Where the final tax outcome
reserves of equity accounted investees. of such matters is different from the amounts that were initially recorded,
such differences will impact the income and deferred tax amounts in the
Accounting judgements, estimates and assumptions period in which the determination is made.
The Group is subject to income tax and other taxes including VAT.
Significant judgement was required to determine the total provision for The Group has tax contingent amounting to LKR. 1,999 Mn (2020
current, deferred and other taxes due to uncertainties that exist with – LKR. 2,055 Mn). These have been arrived at after discussing with
respect to the interpretation of the applicability of tax law at the time of independent legal and tax experts and based on information available.
the preparation of these financial statements. All assumptions are revisited as of the reporting date.
239
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
21.6 Reconciliation between tax expense and the product of accounting profit
GROUP COMPANY
For the year ended 31 March 2021 2020 2021 2020
In LKR '000s
Adjusted accounting profit chargeable to income taxes 2,247,957 11,128,865 5,198,819 5,690,395
Group tax expense is based on the taxable profit of individual companies within the Group. At present the tax laws of Sri Lanka do not provide for
Group taxation.
The Group has tax losses amounting to LKR. 11,303 Mn (2020 - LKR. 6,644 Mn) that are available to offset against future taxable profits of the companies
in which the tax losses arose.
241
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Capital gains from sale of listed shares are exempted from chargeability to income tax. Income/profits from offshore dividends and interest are
exempt from income tax. Effective from 1 January 2020, exemption is available on interest income earned in foreign currency denominated accounts
opened with the approval of the Central Bank, gains and profits from services rendered in or outside Sri lanka to be utilised outside Sri Lanka where
the payments is received in foreign currency through a bank in Sri lanka and dividend received from another resident company is subject to income
tax at a concessionary rate of 14% and an exemption on dividend paid by a resident company to a member to the extent that dividend payment is
attributable to, or derived from, another dividend received by that resident.
22. Property , plant and equipment plant and equipment and borrowing costs for long-term construction
Accounting policy projects if the recognition criteria are met. When significant parts of
Basis of recognition plant and equipment are required to be replaced at intervals, the Group
Property, plant and equipment are recognised if it is probable that future derecognises the replaced part, and recognises the new part with its
economic benefits associated with the asset will flow to the Group and own associated useful life and depreciation. Likewise, when a major
the cost of the asset can be reliably measured. inspection is performed, its cost is recognised in the carrying amount of
the plant and equipment as a replacement if the recognition criteria are
Basis of measurement satisfied. All other repair and maintenance costs are recognised in the
Property, plant and equipment except for land and buildings are stated income statement as incurred.
at cost less accumulated depreciation and any accumulated impairment
loss. Such cost includes the cost of replacing component parts of the
Land and buildings are measured at fair value less accumulated Borrowing costs
depreciation on buildings and impairment charged subsequent to the Borrowing costs directly attributable to the acquisition, construction
date of the revaluation. or production of an asset that necessarily takes a substantial period of
time to get ready for its intended use or sale are capitalised as part of the
The carrying values of property, plant and equipment are reviewed for cost of the asset. All other borrowing costs are expensed in the period
impairment when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the in which they occur. Borrowing costs consist of interest and other costs
carrying value may not be recoverable. that an entity incurs in connection with the borrowing of funds.
Any revaluation surplus is recognised in other comprehensive income Impairment of property plant and equipment
and accumulated in equity under the asset revaluation reserve, except The Group assesses at each reporting date whether there is an indication
to the extent that it reverses a revaluation decrease of the same asset that an asset may be impaired. If any such indication exists, or when
previously recognised in the income statement, in which case the annual impairment testing for an asset is required, the Group makes
increase is recognised in the income statement. an estimate of the asset’s recoverable amount. An asset’s recoverable
A revaluation deficit is recognised in the income statement, except amount is the higher of an asset’s or cash generating unit’s fair value
to the extent that it offsets an existing surplus on the same asset less costs to sell and its value in use and is determined for an individual
recognised in the asset revaluation reserve. asset, unless the asset does not generate cash inflows that are largely
independent of those from other assets or groups of assets. Where the
Accumulated depreciation as at the revaluation date is eliminated carrying amount of an asset exceeds its recoverable amount, the asset
against the gross carrying amount of the asset and the net amount is considered impaired and is written down to its recoverable amount.
is restated to the revalued amount of the asset. Upon disposal, In assessing value in use, the estimated future cash flows are discounted
any revaluation reserve relating to the particular asset being sold to their present value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects current
is transferred to retained earnings. Where land and buildings are market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to
subsequently revalued, the entire class of such assets is revalued at fair the asset. Impairment losses are recognised in the income statement,
value on the date of revaluation. The Group has adopted a policy of except that, impairment losses in respect of property, plant and
revaluing assets by professional valuers at least every 5 years, except for equipment previously revalued are recognised against the revaluation
properties held for rental and occupied mainly by group companies, reserve through the statement of other comprehensive income to the
which are revalued by professional valuers at least every 3 years. extent that it reverses a previous revaluation surplus.
Derecognition The Group has not determined Impairment as at the reporting date
An item of property, plant and equipment is derecognised upon due to the COVID-19 pandemic as each business unit implemented
replacement, disposal or when no future economic benefits are its business continuity plans which were operationalised during the
expected from its use. Any gain or loss arising on derecognition of early days of the pandemic. Businesses also developed and instituted
the asset is included in the income statement in the year the asset is COVID-19-specific response plans and teams to enable smooth and
derecognised. uninterrupted functioning of businesses and operations to the extent
possible, whilst maintaining strict adherence to Government directives
Depreciation and health and safety considerations in situations where normal
Depreciation is calculated by using a straight-line method on the cost or operations are disrupted.
valuation of all property, plant and equipment, other than freehold land,
in order to write off such amounts over the estimated useful economic An assessment is made at each reporting date as to whether there is
life of such assets. any indication that previously recognised impairment losses may no
longer exist or may have decreased. If such an indication exists, the
The estimated useful life of assets is as follows: recoverable amount is estimated. A previously recognised impairment
loss is reversed only if there has been a change in the estimates used
Assets Years to determine the asset’s recoverable amount since the last impairment
loss was recognised. If that is the case, the carrying amount of the asset
Buildings (other than hotels) 50 is increased to its recoverable amount. That increased amount cannot
Hotel buildings up to 70 exceed the carrying amount that would have been determined, net of
depreciation, had no impairment loss been recognised for the asset in
Plant and machinery 10 – 25
prior years. Such reversal is recognised in the income statement unless
Equipment 2– 15 the asset is carried at revalued amount, in which case the reversal is
Furniture and fittings 2– 15 treated as a revaluation increase. After such a reversal, the depreciation
Motor vehicles 4 – 10 charge is adjusted in future periods to allocate the asset’s revised
carrying amount, less any residual value, on a systematic basis over its
Returnable Containers 10
remaining useful life.
Vessels 10-25
243
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Cost or valuation
At the beginning of the year 61,384,997 30,615,473 15,324,453 13,839,202
Additions 33,807 1,035,142 713,591 775,379
Disposals - (13,481) (84,812) (259,613)
Revaluations 316,726 160,304 - -
Transfers (from revaluation adjustment) (212,178) (444,722) - -
Impairment/ Derecognition - - - -
Transfers 156,142 2,703,080 510,726 1,124,323
Exchange translation difference - 695,305 1,132 159,385
At the end of the year 61,679,494 34,751,101 16,465,090 15,638,676
Carrying value
As at 31 March 2021 60,549,380 30,092,912 9,223,250 7,237,266
As at 31 March 2020 60,349,598 26,834,918 9,003,256 6,748,779
Cost
At the beginning of the year 3,768 299,825 50,162 353,755 344,585
Additions 253 8,824 - 9,077 23,601
Disposals (567) (15,490) - (16,057) (14,431)
At the end of the year 3,454 293,159 50,162 346,775 353,755
Carrying value
As at 31 March 2021 270 87,364 23,167 110,801
As at 31 March 2020 32 113,210 31,111 144,353
22.3 Revaluation of land and buildings The valuations as of 31 December 2020 were contained a higher
Accounting judgements, estimates and assumptions estimation uncertainty as there were fewer market transactions which
The Group uses the revaluation model of measurement of land and are ordinarily a strong source of evidence regarding fair value, the value
buildings. The Group engaged independent expert valuers to determine reflected represents the best estimate based on the market conditions
the fair value of its land and buildings. Fair value is determined by that prevailed, which in valuers’ considered opinion, meets the
reference to market-based evidence of transaction prices for similar requirements in SLFRS-13 Fair Value Measurement.
properties. Valuations are based on open market prices, adjusted for any
difference in the nature, location or condition of the specific property.
These valuation techniques that are appropriate in the circumstances
and for which sufficient data is available to measure fair value,
maximising the use of relevant observable inputs and minimising the
use of unobservable inputs. The most recent revaluation was carried out
on 31 December 2020.
245
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
22.4 The carrying amount of revalued land and buildings if they were carried at cost less depreciation and impairment, would be as follows;
GROUP
As at 31 March 2021 2020
In LKR '000s
Group land and buildings with a carrying value of LKR 3,878 Mn (2020 - in use by the Group. The cost of fully depreciated assets of the Company
LKR. 3,887 Mn) have been pledged as security for term loans obtained, amounts to LKR. 605 Mn (2020 – LKR. 611 Mn).
details of which are disclosed in note 37.2.
The amount of borrowing costs capitalised during the year ended 31
Group property, plant and equipment with a cost of LKR 7,628 Mn March 2021 was LKR. 2,868 Mn (2020 - LKR. 1,934 Mn).
(2020 - LKR. 6,365 Mn) have been fully depreciated and continue to be
23. Right of use assets and lease liabilities the lease term, a change in the in-substance fixed lease payments or a
Accounting Policy change in the assessment to purchase the underlying asset.
Right of use assets
The Group recognises right of use assets when the underlying asset The Group uses 6 months AWPLR based plus margin when calculating
is available for use. Right of use assets are measured at cost, less any the incremental borrowing rate which reflects the average rate of
accumulated depreciation and impairment losses, and adjusted for any borrowings in the Group. Quarterly calculated incremental borrowing
remeasurement of lease liabilities. The cost of right of use assets includes rates were used to discount new leases obtained during the year.
the amount of lease liabilities recognised, initial direct costs incurred,
and lease payments made at or before the commencement date less Short-term leases and leases of low-value assets
any lease incentives received. Unless the Group is reasonably certain to The Group applies the short-term lease recognition exemption to leases
obtain ownership of the leased asset at the end of the lease term, the that have a lease term of 12 months or less from the commencement
recognised right of use assets are depreciated on a straight-line basis date. It also applies the lease of low-value assets recognition exemption
over the shorter of its estimated useful life or the lease term. Right of use to leases of office equipment that are considered of low value. Lease
assets are subject to impairment. payments on short-term leases and leases of low-value assets are
recognised as expense on a straight-line basis over the lease term.
Lease liabilities
At the commencement date of the lease, the Group recognises lease The Group has not determined Impairment as at the reporting date
liabilities measured at the present value of lease payments to be due to the COVID-19 pandemic as each business unit implemented
made over the lease term. In calculating the present value of lease its business continuity plans which were operationalised during the
payments, the Group uses the incremental borrowing rate at the lease early days of the pandemic. Businesses also developed and instituted
commencement date if the interest rate implicit in the lease is not COVID-19 specific response plans and teams to enable smooth and
readily determinable. After the commencement date, the amount uninterrupted functioning of businesses and operations to the extent
of lease liabilities is increased to reflect the accretion of interest and possible, whilst maintaining strict adherence to Government directives
reduced for the lease payments made. In addition, the carrying amount and health and safety considerations in situations where normal
of lease liabilities is remeasured if there is a modification, a change in operations are disrupted.
247
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Following are the amounts recognised in income statement for the year ended 31 March
Amortisation of right-of-use assets 2,619,179 2,265,955
Interest expense on lease liabilities 1,503,908 1,220,822
Total amount recognised in income statement 4,123,087 3,486,777
Expenses relating to short term leases and leases of low value assets amounting to 293 Mn (2020 - 472 Mn) has recognized in profit or loss.
GROUP
As at 31 March 2021 2020
In LKR ‘000s
Carrying value
At the beginning of the year 15,007,996 13,985,379
Additions 113,015 1,011
Transfers - 523,233
Change in fair value during the year (253,425) 573,373
Disposals - (75,000)
At the end of the year 14,867,586 15,007,996
249
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Freehold property
Ahungalla Holiday Resort Ltd S Fernando DCC LKR 240,000 - - - Positive
LKR 390,000
Asian Hotels and Properties PLC P B Kalugalagedara IM - - 6.25% Negative
Ceylon Cold Stores PLC -do- DCC LKR 1,550,000 LKR 1,000 - - Positive
LKR 2,000
Facets (Pvt) Ltd S Fernando DCC LKR 440,000 - - Positive
Glennie Properties (Pvt) Ltd P B Kalugalagedara OMV LKR 15,000,000 - - Positive
John Keells Properties Ja-Ela (Pvt) Ltd -do- DCC LKR 1,250,000 LKR 4,500 - Positive
John Keells Property Development (Pvt) -do- OMV LKR 11,500,000 - - Positive
Ltd
Keells Realtors Ltd P B Kalugalagedara OMV LKR 1,500,000 - LKR 500 - - Positive
LKR 2,250,000 LKR 1,500
Whittall Boustead (Pvt) Ltd P B Kalugalagedara DCC LKR 2,000,000 LKR 500 - - Positive
LKR 1,500
Vauxhall Land Developments (Pvt) Ltd P B Kalugalagedara OMV LKR 15,500,000 - - Positive
Leasehold property
Tea Smallholder Factories PLC P B Kalugalagedara DCC LKR 2,500,000 LKR 1,000 - Positive
* Summary of valuation methodologies can be found in property plant and equipment Note no 22.3.
Following initial recognition, intangible assets are carried at cost less any Research and development costs
accumulated amortisation and any accumulated impairment losses. Research costs are expensed as incurred. An intangible asset arising from
development expenditure on an individual project is recognised as an
Internally generated intangible assets, excluding capitalised development
intangible asset, when the Group can demonstrate:
costs, are not capitalised, and expenditure is charged to income statement
in the year in which the expenditure is incurred. • The technical feasibility of completing the intangible asset so that it
will be available for use or sale,
Useful economic lives, amortisation and impairment
• Its intention to complete and its ability to use or sell the assets,
The useful lives of intangible assets are assessed as either finite or
indefinite lives. Intangible assets with finite lives are amortised over the • how the assets will generate future economic benefits,
useful economic life and assessed for impairment whenever there is an • the availability of resources to complete the assets,
indication that the intangible asset may be impaired. • the ability to measure reliably the expenditure during development.
The amortisation period and the amortisation method for an intangible
asset with a finite useful life is reviewed at least at each financial year- Following initial recognition of the development expenditure of an asset,
end and treated as accounting estimates. The amortisation is calculated the cost model is applied requiring the asset to be carried at cost less
by using straight-line method on the cost of all the intangible assets any accumulated amortisation and accumulated impairment losses.
and the amortisation expense on intangible assets with finite lives is Amortisation of the asset begins when development is complete and
recognised in the income statement. the asset is available for use. It is amortised over the period of expected
Intangible assets with indefinite useful lives and goodwill are not future benefit from the use or expected future sales from the related
amortised but tested for impairment annually, or more frequently project. During the period of development, the asset is tested for
when an indication of impairment exists either individually or at the impairment annually.
cash-generating unit level. The useful life of an intangible asset with an Contractual relationships
indefinite life is reviewed annually to determine whether indefinite life Contractual relationships are rights which provide access to distribution
assessment continues to be supportable. If not, the change in the useful networks. Contractual relationships are initially recognised at cost and
life assessment from indefinite to finite is made on a prospective basis. amortised over the contract period.
PVIB 12 Acquired When indicators of impairment exists. The amortisation method is reviewed at each
Purchased software 5 financial year end
Software license 5
Contractual 5 - 10
relationships
Developed software 5 - 10 Internally generated Annually for assets not yet in use and more frequently when indicators of
impairment arise. For assets in use, when indicators of impairment arise. The
amortisation method is reviewed at each financial year end.
Gains or losses arising from derecognition of an intangible asset are measured as the difference between the net disposal proceeds and the carrying
amount of the asset and are recognised in the income statement when the asset is derecognised.
251
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Software
As at 31 March Developed Purchased Licenses WIP
In LKR ‘000s
Cost/carrying value
At the beginning of the year 630,542 960,145 1,393,201 41,661
Additions 1,284,547 68,018 234,735 -
Transfers 22,694 1,311 17,431 (22,694)
Disposal - (39,182) - -
At the end of the year 1,937,783 990,292 1,645,367 18,967
Carrying value
As at 31 March 2021 1,494,428 595,864 744,389 18,967
As at 31 March 2020 290,211 633,439 643,337 41,661
Group Intangible assets with a cost of LKR. 151 Mn (2020 - LKR. 89 Mn) intangible asset representing the present value of future profits on UA’s
have been fully amortised and continue to be in use by the Group. portfolio of long term life insurance contracts, known as the present
value of acquired in-force business (PVIB) at the acquisition date. Further,
Present value of acquired in-force business (PVIB) PVIB recognised at the acquisition date will be amortised over the
Upon acquiring a controlling stake in Union Assurance PLC (UA), the estimated life of the business acquired and reviewed annually for any
Group has recognised in the consolidated financial statements an impairment in value.
Goodwill acquired through business combinations have been allocated to following cash generating units (CGU's) for
impairment testing,
Airlines Services 5,054
Cinnamon Hotels and Resorts 166,248
Consumer Foods 299,293
Financial Services 265,360
Logistics, Ports and Shipping 2,641
738,596
The recoverable amounts of all CGUs have been determined based on the fair value, less cost to sell or the value in use (VIU) calculation.
GROUP COMPANY
PVIB Goodwill Other Software Licenses
2021 2020 2021 2020
Total Total Total Total
253
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Cost
Asian Hotels and Properties PLC 347,824,190 78.56% 347,824,190 78.56% 5,381,562 5,369,619
Ceylon Cold Stores PLC 77,321,326 81.36% 67,155,813 70.66% 1,662,908 1,646,015
John Keells Hotels PLC 1,169,598,478 80.32% 1,169,598,478 80.32% 7,102,140 7,102,140
John Keells PLC 52,834,784 86.90% 52,834,784 86.90% 485,455 482,649
Keells Food Products PLC 22,937,250 88.63% 20,364,054 79.86% 1,239,768 1,237,188
Tea Smallholder Factories PLC 11,286,000 37.62% 11,286,000 37.62% 66,809 66,478
Trans Asia Hotels PLC 184,107,284 82.74% 97,284,256 48.64% 1,616,425 1,615,761
Union Assurance PLC 53,035,715 90.00% 53,035,715 90.00% 2,672,952 2,666,062
20,228,019 20,185,912
GROUP COMPANY
As at 31 March 2021 2020 2021 2020
In LKR '000s
Market Value*
Asian Hotels and Properties PLC 13,008,625 14,086,880 13,008,625 14,086,880
Ceylon Cold Stores PLC 48,074,534 61,470,454 41,754,126 53,388,871
John Keells Hotels PLC 11,111,186 13,567,342 11,111,186 13,567,342
John Keells PLC 3,698,435 2,588,904 3,698,435 2,588,904
Keells Food Products PLC 3,727,303 2,809,813 3,309,159 2,494,597
Tea Smallholder Factories PLC 462,726 310,365 462,726 310,365
Trans Asia Hotels PLC 10,291,597 12,832,278 5,438,190 6,780,713
Union Assurance PLC 16,573,661 17,501,786 16,573,661 17,501,786
106,948,067 125,167,822 95,356,108 110,719,458
* The indicative market values of the 2020 were based on 31 December 2019 active market prices, since as at 31 March 2020 shows factors which
were indicative of an inactive market due to COVID-19 pandemic.
255
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
GROUP COMPANY
As at 31 March 2021 2021 2020
Number of Effective Number of Effective Cost Cost
shares holding % shares holding % In LKR ‘000s In LKR ‘000s
27. Investment in equity accounted investees Joint ventures incorporated in Sri Lanka entered into by the Group,
Accounting policy which have been accounted for using the equity method, are:
An associate is an entity over which the Group has significant influence. Braybrooke Residential Properties (Pvt) Ltd
Significant influence is the power to participate in the financial and DHL Keells (Pvt) Ltd
operating policy decisions of the investee, but is not control or joint Sentinel Reality (Pvt) Ltd
control over those policies.
The considerations made in determining significant influence or
joint control are similar to those necessary to determine control over
Associate companies incorporated in Sri Lanka of the Group which have
subsidiaries.
been accounted for under the equity method of accounting are:
Capitol Hotel Holdings (Pvt) Ltd Nature of the entity’s relationship, principal place of business and the
Fairfirst Insurance Ltd country of incorporation is disclosed in group directory.
Indra Hotels and Resorts Kandy (Pvt) Ltd
The Group’s investments in its associate and joint venture are accounted
Maersk Lanka (Pvt) Ltd
for using the equity method. Under the equity method, the investment
Nations Trust Bank PLC
in an associate or a joint venture is initially recognised at cost. The
Saffron Aviation (Pvt) Ltd
carrying amount of the investment is adjusted to recognise changes in
South Asia Gateway Terminals (Pvt) Ltd
the Group’s share of net assets of the associate or joint venture since the
A joint venture is a type of joint arrangement whereby the parties that acquisition date. Goodwill relating to the associate or joint venture is
have joint control of the arrangement have rights to the net assets of the included in the carrying amount of the investment and is not tested for
joint venture. Joint control is the contractually agreed sharing of control impairment individually.
of an arrangement, which exists only when decisions about the relevant
activities require unanimous consent of the parties sharing control.
The income statement reflects the Group’s share of the results of carrying value, and then recognises the loss as ‘Share of results of equity
operations of the associate or joint venture. Any change in OCI of those accounted investees’ in the Income Statement.
investees is presented as part of the Group’s OCI. In addition, when there
has been a change recognised directly in the equity of the associate Upon loss of significant influence over the associate or joint control
or joint venture, the Group recognises its share of any changes, when over the joint venture, the Group measures and recognises any retained
applicable, in the statement of changes in equity. investment at its fair value. Any difference between the carrying amount
of the associate or joint venture upon loss of significant influence or joint
Unrealised gains and losses resulting from transactions between the control and the fair value of the retained investment and proceeds from
Group and the associate or joint venture are eliminated to the extent of disposal is recognised in income statement.
the interest in the associate or joint venture.
The accounting policies of associate companies and joint ventures
The aggregate of the Group’s share of profit or loss of an associate conform to those used for similar transactions of the Group. Accounting
and a joint venture is shown on the face of the income statement policies that are specific to the business of associate companies are
outside operating profit and represents profit or loss after tax and non- discussed below.
controlling interests in the subsidiaries of the associate or joint venture.
Equity method of accounting has been applied for associates and joint
After application of the equity method, the Group determines whether ventures using their corresponding/matching 12 months financial
it is necessary to recognise an impairment loss on its investment period. In the case of associates, where the reporting dates are different
in its associate or joint venture. At each reporting date, the Group to Group reporting dates, adjustments are made for any significant
determines whether there is objective evidence that the investment in transactions or events up to 31 March.
the associate or joint venture is impaired. If there is such evidence, the
Group calculates the amount of impairment as the difference between
the recoverable amount of the associate or joint venture and its
GROUP COMPANY
As at 31 March Number of Effective 2021 2020 Number of Effective 2021 2020
shares Holding In LKR In LKR shares Holding In LKR In LKR
% ‘000s ‘000s % ‘000s ‘000s
257
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
27. Investment in equity accounted investees (Contd.) of the NTB to 20 per cent. Subsequent to that, the Group is required
to reduce its shareholding in the NTB to 15 per cent on or before 31
Group's shareholding in Nations Trust Bank PLC (NTB)
December 2022. The Monetary Board has also required NTB to limit the
The Director of Bank Supervision of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL)
voting rights of the Group to 10 per cent with effect from 31 March
informed John Keells Holdings PLC, in terms of a decision taken by the
2018. NTB will continue to be an associate company of the Group. As at
Monetary Board of the CBSL, the Group has been granted further time
31 March 2021, the Group has an economic interest of 32.57 per cent in
till 31 December 2021 to reduce its shareholding in the voting shares
NTB.
GROUP COMPANY
As at 31 March 2021 2020 2021 2020
In LKR '000s
Market Value*
Quoted shares of Nations Trust Bank PLC
Voting shares 3,997,077 5,782,390 2,673,593 3,867,766
Non voting shares 1,216,338 1,613,716 964,848 1,280,063
5,213,416 7,396,106 3,638,441 5,147,829
* The indicative market values of the 2020 were based on 31 December 2019 active market prices, since as at 31 March 2020 shows factors which are
indicative of an inactive market due to COVID-19 pandemic.
Contingent liabilities - - - - - - - -
Capital commitments - - 142,202 199,359 5,776,691 6,742,274 5,918,893 6,941,633
Other commitments and - - 14,801,322 15,445,819 - - 14,801,322 15,445,819
Guarantees
Dividend received 3,991,513 1,725,410 351,138 522,987 100,000 100,000 4,442,651 2,348,397
The share of results of equity accounted investees in the Income Statement and the Statement of Other Comprehensive Income are shown net of all
related taxes.
The Group and the Company have neither contingent liabilities nor capital and other commitments towards its associates and joint ventures.
Significant accounting policies that are specific to the business of any incremental costs) form an integral part of the corresponding
equity accounted investees financial instruments and are recognised as interest income through
Nations Trust Bank PLC (Bank) an adjustment to the EIR. The exception is, when it is unlikely that a
Revenue from contracts with customers loan will be drawn down, the loan commitment fees are recognised
Revenue is recognised to the extent that it is probable that the as revenue on expiry.
economic benefits will flow to the Bank and the revenue can be reliably
measured. The following specific recognition criteria must also be met Dividend income
before revenue is recognised. Dividend income is recognised when the Bank’s right to receive the
payment is established which is generally when the shareholders
Interest income and expense approve the dividend.
The Bank calculates interest income by applying the EIR to the gross
Net trading income
carrying amount of financial assets other than credit-impaired assets.
Results arising from trading activities include all gains and losses from
The Bank ceases the recognition of interest income on assets when it is
changes in fair value.
probable that the economic benefit associated will not continue to flow
to the Bank. Interest income on all trading assets and financial assets Rental income
mandatorily required to be measured at fair value through profit or loss Rental income is recognised on a straight line basis
is also recognised using the contractual interest rate in interest income.
Other income
Other income is recognised on an accrual basis
Fee and commission income
The Bank earns fee and commission income from a diverse range of South Asia Gateway Terminals (Pvt) Ltd
services it provides to its customers. Fee income can be divided in to the Stevedoring revenue
following three categories: Stevedoring revenue is recognised on the berthing time of the vessel.
Fee income earned from services that are provided over a certain
• Storage revenue
period of time Fees earned for the provision of services are Storage revenue is recognised on the issue of delivery advice.
recognised as revenue as the services are provided. These fees include
South Asia Gateway Terminals (Pvt) Ltd uses United States Dollar (USD)
commission income and asset management fees, custody and other
as its functional currency.
management and advisory fees.
Fairfirst Insurance Ltd
Fee income from providing financial services are earned on the
•
Revenue from insurance contracts
execution of a significant act Fees and commissions arising from
General insurance business-gross written premium
negotiating or participating in the negotiation of a transaction for
Gross written premiums (GWP) comprise the total premiums received/
a third party, such as the arrangement/participation or negotiation
receivable for the whole period of cover provided by contracts entered
of the lending transactions or other securities are recognised on
into during the accounting period. GWP is generally written upon
completion of the underlying transaction. Fees or components of fees
inception of the policy. Rebates that form part of the premium rate, such
that are linked to a certain performance are recognised after fulfilling
as no-claim rebates, are deducted from the gross written premium
the corresponding criteria.
Insurance contract liabilities - general
Fee income forming an integral part of the corresponding financial
•
Non-life insurance contract liabilities include the outstanding claims
instrument Fees that the Bank considers to be an integral part of the
provision (Reserve for gross outstanding and incurred but not reported,
corresponding financial instruments include: loan origination fees,
and incurred and not enough reported - IBNR/ IBNER) and the provision
loan commitment fees for loans that are likely to be drawn down and
for unearned premium and the provision for premium deficiency.
other credit related fees. The recognition of these fees (together with
259
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Asia Power (Pvt) Ltd 388,527 75,846 72,549 388,527 75,846 72,549
Other equity instruments - 71,819 71,819 - 16,500 16,500
147,665 144,368 92,346 89,049
* The freehold and leasehold property are located at Glennie Street and Justice Akbar Mawatha, Colombo 2.
Other Non-Current Assets represents the construction work in progress, 29.2 Total project cost - Waterfront project
which mainly consists of Freehold Land, advance paid on obtained Lease Upon completion of the Waterfront project, the total cost will be
Land and other project cost incurred. Freehold land included under allocated in the following percentages under each asset category. As
other non-current asset is carried at cost. Lease prepaid in advance estimated at this juncture of time the final project cost allocation will be
consists of the prepayment made to obtaining the lease land rights done in an absolute manner once the project is at near completion.
for 99 years. Other project cost includes advances paid to contractors,
directly attributable cost incurred on the project and borrowing cost Asset category Type Cost percentage
capitalized.
Property, plant and Hotel 52%
Details of the Waterfront Integrated Resort Project
equipment
The company is engaged in the development and construction of an
integrated complex with an approximate area of 4,500,000 square feet, Investment Property Commercial buildings 27%
comprising of offices, residential units, a hotel and conference centre, Inventory Residential apartments 21%
retail and associate facilities and a car park. 100%
* Board of Investment
** Urban Development Authority
261
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
30. Inventories During the year ended 31 March 2021, LKR 100 Mn (2020 - LKR 85Mn)
Accounting policy was recognised as an expense for inventories carried at net realisable
Inventories are valued at the lower of cost and net realisable value. Net value. This is recognised in cost of sales and other operating expenses.
realisable value is the estimated selling price less estimated costs of
completion and the estimated costs necessary to make the sale. GROUP
As at 31 March 2021 2020
The costs incurred in bringing inventories to its present location and
In LKR '000s
condition, are accounted for as follows:
direct labour and an appropriate proportion of fixed production Finished goods 7,391,309 6,539,106
overheads based on normal operating capacity but excluding Produce stocks 253,605 182,161
borrowing costs Other stocks 2,168,124 1,387,884
Other inventories – At actual cost
• Inventory work in progress 43,854,213 41,384,448
54,296,123 50,168,754
Inventory work in progress includes transfer of Waterfront project
•
GROUP COMPANY
As at 31 March Note 2021 2020 2021 2020
In LKR '000s
Above list mainly comprises of the investments made by Union Assurance PLC (UA) under the unit linked equity tracker fund.
263
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The number of shares in issue as at 31 March 2021 was 1,320 Mn which include global depository receipts (GDRs) of 1,320,942 (2020 -1,320,942 ). Further
information on the composition of shares in issue is given under the share information section of the annual report.
A quantum of 38,047,143 shares (2020 - 41,563,469) have been reserved to be issued under the employee share option plan as at 31 March 2021.
Revaluation reserve consists of the net surplus on the revaluation of Regulatory Reserve, is subject to meeting governance requirements
property, plant and equipment and present value of acquired in-force stipulated by the IRCSL and can only be released upon receiving
business (PVIB). approval from the IRCSL. The one-off surplus in the SHF is represented by
government debt securities as per the direction of the IRCSL.
Foreign currency translation reserve comprises the net exchange
movement arising on the currency translation of foreign operations and Nations Trust Bank PLC (NTB)
equity accounted investees into Sri Lankan rupees. Statutory reserve fund is maintained as per the requirement in terms
of Section 20 of the Banking Act No 30 of 1988. Accordingly, a sum
The other capital reserve is used to recognise the value of equity- equivalent to 5% of profit after tax transferred to the reserve fund until
settled share-based payments provided to employees, including key the reserve fund is equal to 50% of the Bank’s Stated Capital. Thereafter, a
management personnel, as part of their remuneration. further 2% of profits will transferred until the said reserve fund is equal to
the Bank’s stated Capital.
Restricted regulatory reserve
Cash flow hedge reserve includes the fair value changes on the effective
Union Assurance PLC (UA)
portion of interest rate swaps designated as cash flow hedges.
Based on the direction issued by the IRCSL dated 20 March 2018, and
subsequent approval, UA has transferred LKR. 3,382 Mn attributable to
Fair value reserve of financial assets at FVOCI includes changes in fair
non-participating and non unit fund of unit linked business from the
value of financial instruments designated as financial assets at FVOCI.
life policyholder fund to the life shareholder fund (SHF). The distribution
of the one-off surplus to shareholders, held as part of the Restricted
35. Share-based payment plans Where the terms of an equity-settled transaction award are modified,
Accounting Policy the minimum expense recognised is the expense as if the terms had not
Employee share option plan - Equity-settled transactions been modified, if the original terms of the award are met. An additional
Employees of the Group receive remuneration in the form of share- expense is recognised for any modification that increases the total fair
based payment transactions, whereby employees render services as value of the share-based payment transaction, or is otherwise beneficial
consideration for equity instruments (equity-settled transactions). to the employee as measured at the date of modification.
The Group applies SLFRS 2 Share Based Payments in accounting for The dilutive effect of outstanding options is reflected as additional share
employee remuneration in the form of shares from 1 April 2013 onwards. dilution in the computation of diluted earnings per share (further details
are given in Note 19.2).
The cost of equity-settled transactions is recognised, together with
a corresponding increase in other capital reserves in equity, over the Employee share option scheme
period in which the performance and service conditions are fulfilled. Under the John Keells Group’s Employees share option scheme (ESOP),
The cumulative expense recognised for equity-settled transactions at share options of the parent are granted to executives of the Group
each reporting date until the vesting date reflects the extent to which generally with more than 12 months of service. The exercise price of the
the vesting period has expired and the Group’s best estimate of the share options is equal to the 30 days volume weighted average market
number of equity instruments that will ultimately vest. The expense or price of the underlying shares on the date of grant. The share options
credit to the income statement for a period represents the movement vest over a period of four years and is dependent on a performance
in cumulative expense recognised as at the beginning and end of that criteria and a service criteria. The performance criteria being a minimum
period and is recognised in employee benefits expense. performance achievement of “Met Expectations” and service criteria
being that the employee has to be in employment at the time the share
No expense is recognised for awards that do not ultimately vest, options vest. The fair value of the share options is estimated at the grant
except for equity-settled transactions where vesting is conditional date using a binomial option pricing model, taking into account the
upon a market or non-vesting condition, which are treated as vesting terms and conditions upon which the share options were granted.
irrespective of whether or not the market or non-vesting condition is
satisfied, provided that all other performance and service conditions are The contractual term for each option granted is five years. There are no
satisfied. cash settlement alternatives. The Group does not have a past practice of
cash settlement for these share options.
Total expense arising from share-based payment transactions 225,007 328,425 66,035 87,085
GROUP COMPANY
As at 31 March 2021 2020 2021 2020
No. WAEP No. WAEP No. WAEP No. WAEP
Outstanding at the beginning of the year 41,563,469 152.67 45,736,456 159.26 14,419,940 152.76 16,231,867 159.80
Granted during the year 6,557,100 132.86 6,568,000 136.97 1,819,700 132.86 2,124,000 136.97
Transfers - - - - (56,195) 159.13 (173,386) 148.55
Exercised during the year (1,113,183) 142.81 (377,489) 147.21 (363,100) 142.83 (101,311) 148.55
Expired during the year (8,960,243) 150.47 (10,363,498) 172.01 (3,049,045) 150.13 (3,661,230) 174.61
Outstanding at the end of the year 38,047,143 150.06 41,563,469 152.67 12,771,300 150.82 14,419,940 152.76
Exercisable at the end of the year 22,717,896 155.17 23,800,846 154.13 8,392,388 155.40 9,199,686 154.43
265
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
35. Share-based payment plans (Contd.) The expected life of the share options is based on historical data and
current expectations and is not necessarily indicative of exercise patterns
Accounting judgements, estimates and assumptions that may occur. The expected volatility reflects the assumption that
The Group measures the cost of equity-settled transactions with the historical volatility over a period similar to the life of the options
employees by reference to the fair value of the equity instruments at is indicative of future trends, which may not necessarily be the actual
the date at which they are granted. Estimating fair value for share-based outcome either.
payment transactions require determination of the most appropriate
valuation model, which is dependent on the terms and conditions of the The following information were used and results was generated using
grant. This estimate also requires determination of the most appropriate binomial model for ESOP.
inputs to the valuation model including the expected life of the share
option, volatility and dividend yield and making assumptions about
them.
COMPANY
As at 31 March 2021 2020 2019 2018 2017
Plan no 10 Plan no 10 Plan no 9 Plan no 9 Plan no 9
award 2 award 1 award 3 award 2 award 1
Life insurance contract liabilities outflows less the discounted value of the expected premiums. Valuation
Life insurance contract liabilities are recognised when contracts are assumptions are derived based on the best estimate experience
entered into and premiums are charged. These liabilities are measured with a prescribed risk margin to allow for adverse deviations. Non
by using the gross premium valuation method as prescribed by the participating liabilities are discounted using the risk free yields. The
Regulation of Insurance Industry Act, No. 43 of 2000. The liability is value of participating policy liabilities is the higher of the value of the
determined as the discounted value of the expected contractual cash guaranteed benefits liability and the total benefits liability, derived at
the participating insurance fund level. In calculating the guaranteed Discretionary participating features (DPF)
benefits liability, only the guaranteed benefits are considered and the DPF is a contractual right to receive, as a supplement to guaranteed
cashflows are discounted using the risk free interest rate yield curve. benefits, additional benefits that;
Total benefits liability includes all the guaranteed and non guaranteed
• are likely to be a significant portion of the total contractual benefits;
benefits, and discount the cash flows using the fund based yield of the
participating insurance fund. The Liability is de-recognised when the • the amount or timing of which is contractually at the discretion of the
contract expenses is discharged or is cancelled. At each reporting date, issuer; and contractually based on:
an assessment is made of whether the recognised life insurance liabilities
• The performance of a specified pool of contracts or a specified type of
are adequate, by using a liability adequacy test.
contract,
Liability adequacy test (LAT) • Realised and or unrealised investment returns on a specified pool of
At each reporting date, an assessment is made of whether the recognised assets held by the issuer, and
life insurance liabilities are adequate by using an existing liability adequacy
• The profit or loss of the company, fund or other entity that issues the
test as laid out under SLFRS 4. The liability value is adjusted to the extent
contract.
that it is adequate to meet future benefits and expenses. In performing
the adequacy test, current best estimates of future contractual cash
Derivatives embedded in an insurance contract or an investment
flows, including related cash flows such as claims handling and policy
contract with DPF are separated and fair valued through the income
administration expenses, policyholder options and guarantees, as well as
statement unless the embedded derivative itself is an insurance contract
investment income from assets backing such liabilities, are used.
or investment contract with DPF. The derivative is also not separated if
the host insurance contract and / or investment contract with DPF is
Any deficiency is recognised in the income statement by setting up a
measured at fair value through the profit and loss.
provision for liability adequacy.
IRCSL regulations and the terms and conditions of these contracts
Accounting judgements, estimates and assumptions
set out the bases for the determination of the amounts on which the
Product classification
additional discretionary benefits are based (the DPF eligible surplus)
SLFRS 4 requires contracts written by insurers to be classified as either
and within which the company may exercise its discretion as to the
insurance contracts or investment contracts depending on the level of
quantum and timing of their payment to contract holders. At least 90%
insurance risk transferred.
of the eligible surplus must be attributed to contract holders as a group
(which can include future contract holders) and the amount and timing
Insurance contracts are contracts under which one party (the Insurer)
of the distribution to individual contract holders is at the discretion
accepts significant insurance risk from another party (the policyholder)
of the company, subject to the advice of the appointed actuary.
by agreeing to compensate the policyholder if a specified uncertain
All DPF liabilities including unallocated surpluses, both guaranteed
future event (the insured event) adversely affects the policyholder.
and discretionary, at the end of the reporting period are held within
Significant insurance risk exists if an insured event could cause an insurer
insurance contract liabilities, as appropriate.
to pay significant additional benefits in any scenario, excluding scenarios
that lack commercial substance (i.e. have no discernible effect on the
Valuation of life insurance contract liabilities
economics of the transaction). The classification of contracts identifies
Long duration contract liabilities included in the life insurance fund,
both the insurance contracts that the company issues and reinsurance
result primarily from traditional participating and non participating life
contracts that the company holds.
insurance products. Short duration contract liabilities are primarily group
term, accident and health insurance products. The actuarial reserves
Contracts where the company does not assume a significant insurance
have been established based on the following;
risk is classified as investment contracts.
• Non participating liabilities are discounted using risk free yield curve
Investment contracts are those contracts that transfer significant
provided by the IRCSL and the participating liabilities are based on the
financial risks and no significant insurance risks. Financial risk is the risk
fund yield of the life fund.
of a possible future change in one or more of a specified interest rates,
financial instrument prices, commodity prices, foreign exchange rates, • Mortality rates based on published mortality tables adjusted for actual
index of price or rates, credit ratings or credit index or other variables, experience as required by regulations issued by the IRCSL.
provided in the case of a non financial variable that the variable is not
• Surrender rates based on actual experience.
specific to a party to the contract.
The amount of policyholder dividend to be paid is determined annually
Once a contract has been classified as an insurance contract, it remains
by the company. The dividend includes life policyholders share of net
an insurance contract for the remainder of its lifetime, even if the
income that is required to be allocated by the insurance contract.
insurance risk reduces significantly during this period, unless all rights
and obligations are extinguished or expired. Investment contracts
Mortality, morbidity, longevity, investment returns, expenses, lapses,
can, however, be reclassified as insurance contracts after inception if
surrender rates and discount rates were the assumptions used for the
insurance risk becomes significant.
valuation of insurance contract liabilities. For those contracts that insure
risk related to longevity, prudent allowance is made for expected future
Insurance and investment contracts are further classified as being either
mortality improvements, as well as wide ranging changes to the life
with or without discretionary participating features.
style, which could result in significant changes to the expected future
mortality exposure.
267
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
36. Insurance contract liabilities (Contd.) In the opinion of the consultant actuary, the admissible assets of
the conventional life insurance fund and the non unit fund of linked
Estimates are also made for future investment income arising from the
assets backing Life Insurance contracts. These estimates are based on
long term business as at 31 December 2020 is adequate to cover the
current market returns, as well as expectations about future economic liabilities of the funds.
and financial developments.
As at 31 March 2021, an internal actuarial valuation has been carried
Assumptions on future expenses are based on current expense levels,
out for the conventional life insurance fund and the non unit fund of
adjusted for expected expense inflation, if appropriate. Lapse and
linked long term business. In the opinion, it was concluded that the
surrender rates are based on the company’s historical experience of
lapses and surrenders. admissible assets are adequate to cover the liabilities of the funds.
There is no material impact on the assumptions used for the valuation One - off surplus arising from change in policy
of insurance contract liabilities due to COVID-19 outbreak as at 31 liability valuation
March 2021 since insurance contract liability valuations use long The one-off surplus comprises of LKR. 432.5 Mn attributable to
term assumptions except for risk free interest rate which has dropped participating business and LKR. 2.5 Mn attributable to unit linked fund
drastically during the year was used for discounting nonparticipating and LKR. 3,382 Mn attributable to non-participating and non-unit fund
insurance contract liabilities. However, there is no significant impact of unit linked business.
given the Company’s liability composition.
Based on the directions issued by the IRCSL dated 20 March 2018 and
Valuation of life insurance fund
subsequent approval, the Company has transferred LKR. 3,382 Mn
The valuation of the conventional life insurance fund as at 31
attributable to non - participating and non-unit fund of unit linked
December 2020 was carried out by Mr. Vivek Jalan FIA, FIAI of
business from life policyholder fund through Income Statement to life
Willis Towers Watson India (Pvt) Ltd and a sum of LKR. 825 Mn
shareholder fund and held as part of the Restricted Regulatory Reserve
was transferred from the conventional life insurance fund to the
under equity in the statement of financial position.
shareholders fund for the year 2020. Subsequent to the transfer the
conventional life fund stood at LKR. 41,827 Mn. One - off Surplus was determined as the difference between the
NPV solvency basis liability and the GPV distribution basis liability as
Similarly, the non unit fund of linked long term business valuation
of 31 December 2015. This is calculated for Participating and other
was carried out by Mr. Vivek Jalan FIA, FIAI of Willis Towers Watson
than participating funds, separately. Above basis is in line with the
India (Pvt) Ltd and non unit fund stood at LKR. 55 Mn.
‘Minimum One - off Surplus’ calculation basis provided in the IRCSL
guideline.
Liability adequacy test (LAT) - Life insurance contract liabilities 36.2 Change in life insurance contract liabilities
As at 31 December 2020, liability adequacy test was performed by the The results of Union Assurance PLC’s (UA) life business segment is
appointed actuary Mr. Vivek Jalan FIA, FIAI of Willis Towers Watson India consolidated into the Group’s Consolidated Income Statement. The
Private Limited who concluded that, the liability value is sufficient to change in life insurance contract liabilities represents the transfer to
meet future benefits and expenses. Hence, no provision was required to the Life Fund, the difference between all income and expenditure
be made for any premium deficiency. attributable to life policy holders during the year.
Union Assurance PLC follows a risk mitigation approach for inherent uncertainty regarding the occurrence, amount or timing of insurance contract
liabilities.
Investment return on underlying items failing below guaranteed minimum Management discretion to determine amount and timing of policy
rates holders bonuses (within limits)
Insufficient fees to cover cost of guarantees and expenses Hedging programme
Differences in duration and yield of assets and liabilities • Matching of assets and liabilities cash flows
• Investing in investment grade assets
Policy holder behavioural risk Surrender penalty
269
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Company
John Keells Holdings 1 month LIBOR 36 monthly installments - 306,013 605,747
PLC plus margin commencing from March 2019
Fixed rate 28 quarterly installments - 5,876,085 -
commencing from December 2020
Fixed rate 60 monthly installments - 5,925,000 -
commencing from December 2020
6-month LIBOR 12 semi annual installments - 35,079,760 -
plus margin commencing from December 2024
after 4 years grace period
47,186,858 605,747
Group companies
Asian Hotels & Fixed rate 17 monthly installments - 50,000 -
Properties PLC commencing from May 2021 after
6 months grace period
Beruwala Holiday 1 month LIBOR 7 quarterly installments LKR 3.9 Bn primary floating 218,677 198,350
Resorts (Pvt) Ltd plus margin commencing from June 2021 mortgage bond over hotel property.
Fixed rate 3 monthly installments - 47,240 -
commencing from June 2021
Fixed rate 3 monthly installments Letter of Comfort from John Keells 25,753 -
commencing from June 2021 after Holdings PLC
a grace period of 9 months
Ceylon Holiday Resort AWPLR plus 77 monthly installments after a LKR 2.45Bn Corporate guarantee - 2,092,297
Ltd margin grace period of 18 months from from John Keells Hotels PLC
the date of first disbursement
Fixed for the first 102 monthly installments LKR 3.0Bn Corporate Guarantee from 2,838,352 -
5 years and 1 commencing from August 2022 John Keells Hotels PLC
month AWPLR after 18 months grace period
plus margin for
the next 5 years
Cinnamon Hotel Fixed rate 15 monthly installments - 24,692 -
Management Ltd commencing from April 2021
Fantasea World Inv 3 months LIBOR 22 quarterly installments Leasehold rights of Island of 3,817,658 3,678,725
(Pte) Ltd plus margin commencing from December 2018 Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa.
after 18 months grace period
3 months LIBOR 12 Monthly installments 146,508 -
plus margin commencing from March 2021
Habarana Walk Inn Ltd Fixed rate 18 monthly installments LKR 12.7Mn Corporate Guarantee 12,680 -
commencing from June 2021 after from John Keells Hotels PLC and
6 months grace period Letter of Comfort from John Keells
Holdings PLC
Habarana Lodge Ltd 1 month LIBOR 8 quarterly installments - 37,939 35,058
plus margin commencing from September
2021
Fixed rate 18 monthly installments LKR 37.9Mn Corporate Guarantee 38,453 -
commencing from June 2021 after from John Keells Hotels PLC and
6 months grace period Letter of Comfort from John Keells
Holdings PLC
271
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Tranquility (Pte) Ltd 3 months LIBOR 16 quarterly installments Leasehold right on the Island of 5,591,934 5,347,425
plus margin commencing from September Kanuoiy Huraa in Kaafu (Male')
2019 after 12 months grace period
3 months LIBOR 12 monthly installments - 177,866 -
based plus margin commencing from March 2021
Trinco Holiday Resorts AWPLR minus 13 monthly installments Letter of comfort from John Keells 94,238 91,000
(Pvt) Ltd margin commencing from April 2021 after Hotels PLC
12 months grace period
1 month LIBOR 8 quarterly installments - 63,152 39,480
plus margin commencing from September
2021
Waterfront Properties 1 month LIBOR 13 quarterly installments Freehold and leasehold land of LKR 58,505,919 41,044,683
(Pvt) Ltd plus margin commencing from September 11.4 Bn.
2019
Yala Village (Pvt) Ltd 1 month LIBOR 8 quarterly installments - 28,463 26,300
plus margin commencing from September
2021
Fixed rate 18 monthly installments LKR 21.4Mn Corporate Guarantee 21,712 -
commencing from June 2021 after from John Keells Hotels PLC and
6 months grace period Letter of Comfort from John Keells
Holdings PLC
Whittal Boustead 364-days Treasury 24 monthly installments - 101,400 95,547
Travel Ltd Bills rate plus commencing from March 2021
margin after a 6 months grace period
Walkers Tours Ltd Fixed rate 23 monthly installment - 250,342 251,439
commencing from September
2021 after 6 months grace period
128,473,113 56,131,366
38. Employee benefit liabilities Under the Payment of Gratuity Act No. 12 of 1983, the liability to an
Accounting Policy employee arises only on completion of 5 years of continued service. The
Employee contribution plans - EPF/ETF obligation is not externally funded.
Employees are eligible for Employees’ Provident Fund contributions
and Employees’ Trust Fund contributions in line with respective statutes Other long term employee benefit
and regulations. The companies contribute the defined percentages of A new Long-Term Incentive Plan (LTI) has been launched for senior
gross emoluments of employees to an approved Employees’ Provident employees of the Group. The overall incentive will be paid in cash as a
Fund and to the Employees’ Trust Fund respectively, which are externally lump sum payment upon achievement of key performance indicators
funded. linked to the five year strategic plan in place.
Employee defined benefit plan - gratuity The Liability recognised in respect other long term employee benefits
The liability recognised in the statement of financial position is the are measured as the present value of the estimated future cash outflows
present value of the defined benefit obligation as at the reporting date expected to be made by the Group in relation to the performance and
using the projected unit credit method. Any actuarial gains or losses the services of the relevant employees, up to the reporting date.
arising are recognised immediately in other comprehensive income.
Employee defined benefit plan - gratuity 38.2 2,330,114 2,073,046 123,194 107,318
Other long term employee benefit 38.3 483,892 270,865 108,175 64,132
At the end of the year 2,814,006 2,343,911 231,369 171,450
The expenses are recognised in the income statement in the following line
items;
Cost of sales 218,109 205,689 2,895 2,171
Selling and distribution expenses 44,986 25,895 - -
Administrative expenses 175,287 198,916 18,814 21,002
438,382 430,500 21,709 23,173
The principal assumptions used in determining the cost of employee benefits were:
Discount rate:
1% Increase (100,137) (119,625) (6,955) (4,392)
1% Decrease 110,514 78,005 7,673 4,738
Salary Increment rate:
1% Increase 111,402 85,654 7,867 5,008
1% Decrease (102,399) (80,440) (7,249) (4,714)
273
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Weighted average duration (years) of defined benefit obligation 7.45 7.95 12.26 6.81
Trade and other payables are non-interest bearing and settled within one year. Reinsurance payables are settled within one year. For further explanation
on the Group’s liquidity risk management process refer Note 11.2.2.
GROUP COMPANY
As at 31 March 2021 2020 2021 2020
In LKR '000s
275
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Subsidiaries
Purchases of goods - - 5,996 2,470
Rendering of services 44.5 - - 1,307,624 1,122,614
Receiving of services 44.6 - - 428,543 123,341
Rent paid - - 31,641 40,095
Dividend received - - 3,959,814 4,137,917
The Group held interest bearing deposits of LKR 1,023 Mn (2020 - LKR 1,370 Mn) at Nations Trust Bank PLC as at 31 March 2021.
Subsidiaries
Asian Hotels and Properties PLC 55,255 62,723 9,776 6,961
Beruwala Holiday Resorts (Pvt) Ltd 12,350 12,254 1,235 4,135
Ceylon Cold Stores PLC 162,226 94,178 208,835 24,902
Ceylon Holiday Resorts Ltd 12,968 8,181 1,268 2,189
Cinnamon Hotel Management Services Ltd 56,568 59,284 6,010 11,238
Fantasea World Investments (Pvt) Ltd 5,809 3,360 854 574
Habarana Lodge Ltd 10,236 10,490 1,041 1,832
Habarana Walk Inn Ltd 8,395 8,473 3,150 1,464
Hikkaduwa Holiday Resorts (Pvt) Ltd 10,206 10,762 999 2,192
InfoMate (Pvt) Ltd 48,792 43,478 3,474 6,938
JayKay Marketing Services (Pvt) Ltd 363,285 201,434 63,912 48,252
John Keells Information Technologies (Pvt) Ltd 76,727 77,090 63,245 112,203
John Keells International (Pvt) Ltd 5,627 6,030 3,158 -
John Keells Logistics (Pvt) Ltd 36,455 43,046 8,264 10,777
John Keells Maldivian Resorts (Pte) Ltd 3,983 4,044 913 588
John Keells Office Automation (Pvt) Ltd 33,544 33,933 19,412 11,996
John Keells PLC 16,560 18,578 1,080 382
John Keells Stock Brokers (Pvt) Ltd 9,917 9,678 - 945
John Keells Teas Ltd 2,407 1,550 270 789
John Keells Warehousing (Pvt) Ltd 3,323 2,331 324 208
Kandy Walk Inn Ltd 10,065 9,250 1,048 851
Keells Consultants (Pvt) Ltd 4,198 3,118 13,109 777
Keells Food Products PLC 38,554 37,764 3,947 4,342
Lanka Marine Services Ltd 13,814 14,783 2,553 1,644
Mack Air (Pvt) Ltd 12,771 17,582 356 1,445
Mackinnon Keells Ltd 1,829 1,488 - 261
Mackinnons Travels (Pvt) Ltd 11,290 13,370 878 2,247
Rajawella Holdings Ltd 5,772 5,359 1,144 2,763
Tea Small Holder Factories PLC 2,224 2,466 236 396
The Colombo Ice Company (Pvt) Ltd 11,702 10,235 1,126 2,765
Tranquility (Pte) Ltd 12,226 9,892 1,969 1,753
Trans Asia Hotels PLC 38,298 41,908 - 4,072
Travel Club (Pvt) Ltd 5,349 5,435 867 503
Trinco Holiday Resorts (Pvt) Ltd 8,531 7,810 880 1,182
Union Assurance PLC 97,810 74,052 944,644 38,674
Walkers Tours Ltd 37,800 49,866 3,023 9,008
Waterfront properties (Pvt) Ltd - 53,453 - 14,854
Whittall Boustead (Pvt) Ltd 23,230 23,252 1,493 5,082
Whittall Boustead (Travel) Ltd 8,438 10,284 1,054 4,020
Yala Village (Pvt) Ltd 8,774 9,922 904 2,612
Other subsidiaries 20,316 10,428 3,388 5,368
1,307,624 1,122,614 1,379,839 353,184
277
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
COMPANY
Rendering of services Amounts due from
For the year ended/As at 31 March 2021 2020 2021 2020
In LKR ‘000s
Joint ventures
DHL Keells (Pvt) Ltd 318,378 314,009 70,049 158,292
Braybrooke Residential Properties (Pvt) Ltd 651 848 1,479 891
Sentinel Reality (Pvt) Ltd 23 111 76 50
Associates
Fairfirst Insurance Ltd 37 - 400 12,635
Nations Trust Bank PLC - - 1,401 149,243
Saffron Aviation (Pvt) Ltd 3,705 4,167 334 1,219
Sancity Hotels and Properties Ltd 9,679 9,897 5,813 2,643
South Asia Gateway Terminals ( Pvt ) Ltd 5,623 5,640 6,425 3,460
338,096 334,672 85,977 328,433
Subsidiaries
Asian Hotels and Properties PLC 3,033 4,901 - -
InfoMate (Pvt) Ltd 5,581 5,690 - -
Trans Asia Hotels PLC 25,710 3,275 1,632 -
John Keells Information Technologies (Pvt) Ltd 377,163 90,494 - -
Whittall Boustead (Pvt) Ltd 9,819 7,968 - -
Other subsidiaries 7,237 11,013 11,549 777
428,543 123,341 13,181 777
Joint ventures
DHL Keells (Pvt) Ltd - 227 - -
Associates
Sancity Hotels and Properties Ltd - 42 - -
- 269 - -
COMPANY
2021 2020
Expiry date Adjusted exercise Number of shares Number of shares Number of shares Number of shares
price outstanding at exercisable at the outstanding at the exercisable at the
LKR the end of period end of period end of period end of period
No share options have been granted to the non-executive members of the Board of Directors under the employee share option plan.
279
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
OTHER DISCLOSURES Having discussed with independent legal and tax experts and based on
45. Contingent liabilities the information available, the contingent liability as at 31 March 2021 is
Accounting policy estimated at Rs.36.5 Mn.
Provisions, contingent assets and contingent liabilities
Provisions are recognised when the Group has a present obligation Kandy Walk Inn Ltd (KWIL)
(legal or constructive) as a result of a past event, it is probable that an The contingent liability of KWIL as at 31 March 2021, relates to the
outflow of resources embodying economic benefits will be required following:
to settle the obligation and a reliable estimate can be made of the
amount of the obligation. Where the Group expects some or all of a Income tax assessment relating to year of assessment 2016/17. The
provision to be reimbursed, for example under an insurance contract, company has lodged appeals against the assessments and is contesting
the reimbursement is recognised as a separate asset but only when the these under appellate procedure.
reimbursement is virtually certain.
Having discussed with independent legal and tax experts and based on
The expense relating to any provision is presented in the income the information available, the contingent liability as at 31 March 2021 is
statement net of any reimbursement. estimated at LKR. 5.4 Mn.
If the effect of the time value of money is material, provisions are Lanka Marine Services (Pvt) Ltd (LMS)
discounted using a current pre-tax rate that reflects, where appropriate, The contingent liability of LMS as at 31 March 2021, relates to the
the risks specific to the liability. Where discounting is used, the increase following:
in the provision due to the passage of time is recognised as a finance
cost. Assessment of Turnover tax levied by the Western Provincial Council for
the period from 1 January 2003 to 31 December 2004. The company has
All contingent liabilities are disclosed as a note to the financial lodged appeals against the assessment and is contesting these under
statements unless the outflow of resources is remote. A contingent appellate procedure.
liability recognised in a business combination is initially measured at its
fair value. Income tax assessment relating to years of assessment from 2001/02 to
2017/18. The company has lodged appeals against the assessments and
Subsequently, it is measured at the higher of: the amount that would is contesting these under the appellate procedure.
be recognised in accordance with the general guidance for provisions Apart from the procedural grounds of appeal, the substantive issue
above (LKAS 37) or the amount initially recognised less, when under dispute is the position taken by the company that the sale of
appropriate, cumulative amortisation recognised in accordance with bunker to foreign ships is an export and is entitled to the exemptions/
the guidance for revenue recognition (SLFRS 15). Contingent assets are concessions attached thereto.
disclosed, where inflow of economic benefit is probable.
Having discussed with independent legal and tax experts and based
The contingent liability of the Company and the Group as at 31 March on information available, the contingent liability as at 31 March 2021, is
2021, relates to the following; estimated at LKR. 1,233 Mn.
John Keells Holdings PLC (JKH) Mackinnons Travels (Pvt) Ltd (MTL
The contingent liability of the Company as at 31 March 2021, relates to The contingent liability of MTL as at 31 March 2021, relates to the
the following: following;
Income tax assessment relating to year of assessment 2006/07. Value Added Tax assessments relating to the periods from 1 April 2009 to
31 March 2011 and 1 January 2017 to 31 July 2018.
The Company has lodged appeals against the assessment and is The company has lodged appeals against the assessments and is
contesting it under appellate procedure. contesting these under appellate procedure.
Having discussed with independent legal and tax experts and based Having discussed with independent legal and tax experts and based
on information available, the contingent liability as at 31 March 2021, is on information available, the contingent liability as at 31 March 2021 is
estimated at LKR. 54 Mn. estimated at LKR. 83 Mn.
Ceylon Cold Stores PLC (CCS) Trans Asia Hotels PLC (TAH)
The contingent liability of CCS as at 31 March 2021, relates to the The contingent liability of TAH as at 31 March 2021, relates to the
Following: following:
Income tax assessments relating to years of assessment 2011/12 to Income tax assessments relating to years of assessments 2012/13 to
2013/2014. The company has lodged appeals against the assessments 2017/2018. The company has lodged appeals against the assessments
and is contesting these under appellate procedure. and is contesting these under appellate procedure.
Having discussed with independent legal and tax experts and based on Financial Services VAT and NBT assessments relating to the periods from
the information available, the contingent liability as at 31 March 2021 is 1 January 2016 to 31 December 2017.
estimated at LKR. 157.6 Mn.
The company has lodged appeals against the assessments and is
Walkers Tours Ltd (WTL) contesting these under appellate procedure. Having discussed with
The contingent liability of WTL as at 31 March 2021, relates to the independent legal and tax experts and based on information available,
following: the contingent liability as at 31 March 2021, is estimated at LKR. 405 Mn.
Economic Service Charge assessment relating to the year of assessment Income Tax Assessments received for years of assessments 2010/11,
2014/15. The company has lodged an appeal against the assessment 2011/12, 2012/13, 2013/14, 2014/15, 2015/16,2016/17 and 2017/18.
and is contesting it under appellate procedure. The assessments were raised for the above years of assessments by
making life insurance income liable to pay income taxes of LKR. 13 Mn,
Having discussed with independent legal and tax experts and based on LKR. 132 Mn, LKR. 411 Mn, LKR. 175 Mn, LKR. 887 Mn, LKR. 832 Mn, Rs.
the information available, the contingent liability as at 31 March 2021, is 472 Mn and LKR 749 Mn respectively. The company has lodged valid
estimated at LKR. 10.5 Mn. appeals against the assessments raised and is contesting these under
the appellate procedure.
Union Assurance PLC (UA)
The contingent liability of UA PLC as at 31 March 2021, relates to the Having discussed with independent legal and tax experts and based on
following; information available, the Directors are of the view that the company has
followed due process and acted in accordance with the prevailing laws
Value Added Tax assessments relating to the periods from 1 April 2016 to in its tax submissions for years of assessment from 2010/11 to 2017/18
31 December 2017. and accordingly have concluded that the above assessments have no
rationale or basis in law.
The company has lodged appeals against the assessments and is
contesting these under appellate procedure. Having discussed with
independent legal and tax experts and based on information available,
the contingent liability as at 31 March 2021, is estimated at LKR. 13.9 Mn.
281
48. Events after the reporting period
Final dividend
The Board of Directors of the Company has declared a final dividend
of LKR 0.50 per share for the financial year ended 31 March 2021.
As required by section 56 (2) of the Companies Act No. 07 of 2007,
the Board of Directors has confirmed that the Company satisfies the
solvency test in accordance with section 57 of the Companies Act No.07
of 2007, and has obtained a certificate from auditors, prior to declaring a
final dividend which is to be paid on or before 25 June 2021.
In accordance with LKAS 10, Events after the reporting period, the
final dividend has not been recognised as a liability in the financial
statements as at 31 March 2021.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION
284 History of John Keells Group 285 Decade at a Glance 286 Economic Value Statement
288 Indicative US Dollar Financial Statements 290 Group Real Estate Portfolio
292 Glossary 293 Independent Assurance Statement on Non-Financial Reporting
296 Group Directory 302 GRI - Disclosure 207-4 303 GRI Content Index
HISTORY OF THE JOHN KEELLS GROUP
DECADE AT A GLANCE
31 March 2021 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013 2012
LKR Mn
OPERATING RESULTS
Group revenue 127,676 138,956 135,456 121,215 106,273 93,710 91,852 86,706 85,408 75,924
EBIT 7,931 15,508 20,198 28,155 23,324 20,192 19,226 16,537 16,677 14,192
Finance cost (4,669) (3,166) (2,722) (521) (436) (994) (668) (1,217) (1,081) (1,416)
Share of results of equity accounted 4,159 4,466 4,727 3,596 3,303 2,781 2,778 3,089 3,440 2,809
investees (net of tax)
Profit before tax 5,445 12,403 18,616 27,634 22,888 19,198 18,557 15,320 15,595 12,778
Tax expense (1,494) (2,662) (2,378) (4,515) (4,771) (3,406) (2,812) (2,362) (2,162) (1,827)
Profit after tax 3,951 9,741 16,237 23,120 18,117 15,792 15,745 12,958 13,433 10,951
Attributable to:
Equity holders of the parent 4,772 9,414 15,254 21,021 16,275 14,070 14,348 11,721 12,113 9,689
Non-controlling interests (821) 327 983 2,099 1,842 1,722 1,397 1,237 1,320 1,262
3,951 9,741 16,237 23,120 18,117 15,792 15,745 12,958 13,433 10,951
CAPITAL EMPLOYED
Stated capital 63,102 62,881 62,806 62,802 62,790 58,702 50,703 49,749 26,480 25,111
Capital reserves and other components 72,403 66,085 58,646 49,852 38,652 28,715 24,501 21,845 20,635 13,226
of equity
Revenue reserves 90,652 87,885 82,834 87,266 77,193 67,565 62,594 51,304 42,704 33,001
226,157 216,851 204,286 199,920 178,635 154,982 137,798 122,898 89,819 71,338
Non-controlling interest 16,830 26,872 26,072 24,944 15,696 13,499 12,279 11,421 11,152 8,624
Total equity 242,987 243,723 230,358 224,864 194,331 168,481 150,077 134,319 100,971 79,962
Total debt 172,904 100,907 54,513 29,722 22,766 20,750 23,934 26,139 20,107 20,054
415,891 344,630 284,871 254,586 217,097 189,231 174,011 160,458 121,078 100,016
ASSETS EMPLOYED
Property, plant and equipment (PP&E) 113,077 111,534 97,688 87,260 64,396 52,737 49,563 47,406 49,200 34,246
Non-current assets other than PP&E 257,226 204,360 170,687 136,427 107,912 93,376 78,030 71,969 59,787 52,397
Current assets 166,491 121,050 95,421 98,762 104,964 94,863 90,493 82,206 49,934 47,412
Liabilities net of debt (120,903) (92,314) (78,925) (67,862) (60,175) (51,745) (44,075) (41,123) (37,843) (34,039)
415,891 344,630 284,871 254,587 217,097 189,231 174,011 160,458 121,078 100,016
CASH FLOWS
Net cash flows from operating activities 13,825 (10,350) (4,743) 16,012 21,020 20,513 20,855 8,041 14,568 16,476
Net cash flows from / (used in) investing (44,944) (27,039) (8,452) (16,640) (17,670) (9,567) (1,255) (19,710) (16,199) (9,003)
activities
Net cash flows from / (used in) financing 55,427 18,431 (11,000) (4,587) (4,105) (7,717) (4,838) 25,446 (1,320) 496
activities
Net increase / (decrease) in cash and cash 24,308 (18,959) (14,709) (5,215) (755) 3,229 14,762 13,777 (2,951) 7,969
equivalents
KEY INDICATORS
Basic earnings per share (Rs.) 3.62 7.14 11.13 15.20 11.9 10.5 12.6 10.5 10.7 9.5
Interest cover (no. of times) 1.7 4.9 7.8 54 52.8 51.5 27.7 13.6 15.4 10.0
Net assets per share** (Rs.) 171.4 164.3 154.9 151.7 135.5 117.6 104.5 93.2 68.1 54.1
Enterprise value (EV) 244,679 186,236 210,020 187,926 136,022 124,182 155,675 124,182 203,615 166,143
EV / EBITDA 15.7 9.2 8.5 5.8 5.0 5.0 6.6 10.0 10.0 13.1
ROE (%) 2.2 4.5 7.5 11.1 9.8 9.6 11. 0 11.0 15.0 14.7
Debt / equity ratio (%) 71.2 41.4 23.7 13.2 11.7 12.3 15.9 19.5 19.9 25.0
Dividend payout (Rs. Mn) 1,978 4,614 8,186 8,325 7,280 8,038 3,476 3,267 2,982 2,314
Current ratio (no. of times) 2.3 2.1 1.7 3.0 3.7 4.0 2.6 2.4 2.0 2.0
Market price per share unadjusted (Rs.) 148.5 115.4 156.0 159.6 137.9 148.0 199.4 227.0 247.0 206.0
Market price per share diluted (Rs.) 148.5 115.4 156.0 159.6 137.9 129.5 192.7 173.8 238.2 152.6
Revenue growth rate (%) -8.1 2.6 11.8 14.1 13.4 1.6 5.9 4.1 9.7 25.5
USD closing rate (Rs.) 200.3 189.6 175.5 155.9 151.9 147.7 133.5 130.7 126.8 128.1
USD average rate (Rs.) 189.0 179.4 168.6 153.6 148.0 139.2 131.2 130.1 129.9 112.6
* The figures are derived from financial statements prepared in accordance with SLFRS/LKAS. Figures for the remaining periods are derived from
financial statements prepared in accordance with previous SLASs.
** Net assets per share has been calculated, for all periods, based on the net assets of the Group and number of shares in issue as at 31 March 2021
285
ECONOMIC VALUE STATEMENT
For the year ended 31 2021 2020 2021 2020 2021 2020 2021 2020 2021 2020
March
LKR. Mn
Economic value
distributed
Operating costs 16,266 25,335 10,363 10,612 61,697 57,862 4,686 11,557 839 1,234
Employee wages & 728 820 2,892 2,863 3,914 3,454 4,105 5,021 375 359
benefits
Payments to providers 546 932 2,325 2,579 2,548 2,213 539 1,231 20 90
of funds
Payments to 142 143 1,088 1,664 499 277 47 364 65 46
government
Community 6 6 25 14 11 19 4 10 - 1
investments
17,688 27,236 16,693 17,732 68,669 63,825 9,381 18,183 1,299 1,730
Economic value
retained
Depreciation 202 195 853 844 1,181 1,063 2,207 1,818 46 35
Amortisation 61 2 10 9 1,055 850 1,557 1,413 23 27
Profit after dividends 3,254 967 1,777 1,349 1,473 953 (6,211) (982) (236) 177
Retained for 3,517 1,164 2,640 2,202 3,709 2,866 (2,447) 2,249 (167) 239
reinvestment /
growth
Above data has been derived from the audited Financial Statements that were prepared based on Sri Lanka Accounting Standards (SLFRS/LKAS).
This report has been prepared in accordance with the GRI Standards: Core option
2021 2020 2021 2020 2021 2020 2021 2020 2021 % 2020 %
13,603 11,251 6,358 5,976 134,250 146,282 (6,574) (7,326) 127,676 88.11 138,956 89.31
5,450 4,785 13,067 10,342 19,429 17,365 (8,740) (8,008) 10,689 7.38 9,357 6.01
1,708 1,382 - - 4,159 4,466 - - 4,159 2.87 4,466 2.87
42 50 1,861 2,082 5,504 4,662 (2,877) (2,420) 2,627 1.81 2,242 1.44
14,944 13,639 12,129 8,169 120,924 128,408 (10,947) (17,591) 109,977 75.90 110,817 71.22
1,351 1,226 1,977 2,062 15,342 15,805 - - 15,342 10.59 15,805 10.16
1,178 1,324 3,707 5,264 10,863 13,633 (4,444) (5,630) 6,419 4.43 8,003 5.14
17,793 16,190 18,807 16,256 150,330 161,152 (15,391) (23,221) 134,939 93.13 137,931 88.65
287
INDICATIVE US DOLLAR FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Income Statement
for information purposes only
GROUP COMPANY
For the year ended 31 March 2021 2020 2021 2020
In USD '000s
Continuing operations
Revenue from contracts with customers 571,415 674,145 8,173 7,711
Revenue from Insurance Contracts 66,007 58,647 - -
Total Revenue 637,422 732,792 8,173 7,711
Attributable to:
Equity holders of the parent 23,825 49,645
Non-controlling interests (4,100) 1,724
19,725 51,369
This information does not constitute a full set of financial statements in compliance with SLFRS/LKAS. The above should be read together with the
Auditors' opinion and the notes to the financial statements. Exchange rates prevailing at year end USD/LKR 200.30 (2020 - 189.62) have been used to
convert the income statement and statement of financial position.
ASSETS
Non-current assets
Property, plant and equipment 564,536 588,181 553 761
Right- of - use assets 202,780 196,020 - -
Investment property 74,225 79,146 - -
Intangible assets 24,229 17,345 487 541
Investments in subsidiaries - - 505,914 463,209
Investments in equity accounted investees 142,935 149,397 52,905 54,750
Non-current financial assets 312,480 211,356 87,924 1,503
Deferred tax assets 5,437 4,759 - -
Other non-current assets 522,118 419,685 463 99
1,848,740 1,665,889 648,246 520,863
Current assets
Inventories 271,074 264,568 - -
Trade and other receivables 87,153 64,265 573 662
Amounts due from related parties 617 2,055 7,318 3,595
Other current assets 29,553 34,349 853 5,932
Short term investments 345,795 202,811 257,569 144,348
Cash in hand and at bank 97,017 70,316 1,525 932
831,209 638,364 267,838 155,469
Total assets 2,679,949 2,304,253 916,084 676,332
Non-current liabilities
Insurance contract liabilities 225,465 201,376 - -
Interest-bearing loans and borrowings 593,937 268,558 220,567 1,528
Lease liabilities 120,993 104,998 - -
Deferred tax liabilities 38,543 43,744 - -
Employee benefit liabilities 14,049 12,361 1,155 904
Non-current financial liabilities 18,277 19,090 - -
Other non-current liabilities 97,582 66,520 - -
1,108,846 716,647 221,722 2,432
Current liabilities
Trade and other payables 176,174 125,941 1,861 2,233
Amounts due to related parties 7 11 66 4
Income tax liabilities 9,926 9,216 3,582 2,054
Short term borrowings 34,467 30,607 - -
Interest-bearing loans and borrowings 47,466 27,454 15,014 1,667
Lease liabilities 7,350 7,292 - -
Other current financial liabilities 14,933 - - -
Other current liabilities 8,654 8,560 104 18
Bank overdrafts 59,012 93,231 49 7,475
357,989 302,312 20,676 13,451
Total equity and liabilities 2,679,949 2,304,253 916,084 676,332
This information does not constitute a full set of financial statements in compliance with SLFRS/LKAS. The above should be read together with the
Auditors' opinion and the notes to the financial statements. Exchange rates prevailing at year end USD/LKR 200.30 (2020 - 189.62) have been used to
convert the income statement and statement of financial position.
289
GROUP REAL ESTATE PORTFOLIO
PROPERTIES IN COLOMBO
John Keells PLC
56/1, 58, 58 1/1 Kirulapone Avenue, Colombo 5. - - 0.08 - 1,250 1,250
Keells Realtors Ltd
427 & 429, Ferguson Road, Colombo 15. 2 27,750 1.22 - 405,060 405,060
Mackinnon Keells Ltd
Leyden Bastian Road, York Street, Colombo 01. 1 31,656 0.45 - 703,646 703,646
Union Assurance PLC
No 20, St. Michaels' Road, Colombo 03. 1 57,910 0.58 - 1,949,985 2,225,438
Vauxhall Developments (Pvt) Ltd
No.199 ,Union Place, Colombo 2 and 148, Vauxhall
Street, Colombo 2. 7 209,484 3.56 - 8,832,830 8,832,830
No.188, 188/1, 188/2, 190, 192 Vauxhall Street, Colombo
2 and 42, Dawson Street, Colombo 2. - - 2.09 - 5,183,200 5,183,200
No. 186, 186/3 Vauxhall Street, Colombo 2. - - 3.72 - 9,236,605 9,236,605
John Keells Property Developments
No. 12, 12/1, 12/2, 12/2A, 12/3, Tickell Road, Borella. - - 0.62 - 1,137,120 1,137,120
Glennie Properties (Pvt) Ltd
No.82, Glennie Street, Colombo 02. - - 0.08 - 181,800 181,800
John Keells Logistics (Pvt) Ltd
No.11, York Street, Colombo 01. 3 147,500 - - 160,146 -
14 474,300 12.40 - 27,791,642 27,906,950
HOTEL PROPERTIES
Asian Hotels and Properties PLC
Cinnamon Grand Premises, Colombo 2. 4 734,932 8.03 - 25,363,435 25,198,868
Crescat Boulevard, Colombo 2. 1 145,196 1.39 - 6,030,134 6,266,355
Ahungalla Holiday Resort (Pvt) Ltd
Ahungalla. - - 6.51 - 295,250 289,900
Beruwala Holiday Resorts (Pvt) Ltd
Cinnamon Bey, Beruwala. 5 460,515 11.39 - 3,884,246 3,880,649
Ceylon Holiday Resorts Ltd
Bentota Beach Hotel, Bentota. 9 334,457 2.32 11.02 4,298,059 2,277,807
Fantasea World Investments (Pte) Ltd
Chaaya Lagoon Hakuraa Huraa, Republic of Maldives. 163 236,730 - 18.90 8,371,773 7,686,489
Habarana Lodge Ltd
Cinnamon Lodge, Habarana. 79 202,999 - 25.48 662,512 731,855
Habarana Walk Inn Ltd
Chaaya Village, Habarana. 84 121,767 - 9.34 280,376 321,678
Hikkaduwa Holiday Resort (Pvt) Ltd
Chaaya Tranz, Hikkaduwa. 5 233,965 0.29 4.36 1,220,381 1,280,601
Kandy Walk Inn Ltd
Cinnamon Citadel, Kandy. 6 173,900 6.57 - 1,605,598 1,620,820
Nuwara Eliya Holiday Resort (Pvt) Ltd
Nuwara Eliya. - - 2.66 - 279,000 276,900
Resort Hotels Ltd
Medway Estate, Nilaveli. 1 4,485 41.73 - 906,900 900,600
Trans Asia Hotels PLC
Cinnamon Lake Side, Colombo 2. 2 371,611 - 7.65 6,148,708 6,224,647
Tranquility (Pte) Ltd
Chaaya Island Dhonveli, Republic of Maldives. 146 261,327 - 17.16 17,491,160 14,614,995
Tranquility (Pte) Ltd
Velifushi, Republic of Maldives. 145 263,512 - 13.22 6,404,531 6,667,102
Travel Club (Pte) Ltd
Chaaya Reef Ellaidhoo, Republic of Maldives. 115 178,294 - 13.80 5,121,455 5,406,983
Trinco Holiday Resorts (Pvt) Ltd
Chaaya Blu, Trincomalee. 9 120,910 13.24 - 1,358,613 1,289,389
Trinco Walk Inn Ltd
Club Oceanic, Trincomalee. - - 14.64 - 369,200 369,200
Wirawila Walk Inn Ltd
Randunukelle Estate, Wirawila. - - 25.15 - 89,300 88,133
Yala Village (Pvt) Ltd
Cinnamon Wild, Tissamaharama. 76 113,509 - 11.25 487,108 488,440
850 3,958,109 133.92 132.18 90,667,739 85,881,410
291
GLOSSARY
• GRI 302: Energy 2016 – 302-1, 302-4; The Report articulates that the process Nothing has come to our attention to
and outcome of stakeholder engagement, suggest that the Report does not meet the
• GRI 303: Water and Effluents 2018 – 303-1,
considering the pandemic situation by the requirements related to the Principle of
303-2, 303-3, 303-4;
Group and its business sectors; further the Responsiveness.
• GRI 304: Biodiversity 2016 - 304-1; Report also brings out the engagement
frequencies and stakeholder expectations Impact
• GRI 305: Emissions 2016 – 305-1, 305-2;
to be addressed on a regular basis by JKH to Organisations should monitor, measure, and be
• GRI 306: Effluents and Waste 2016 – 306-3; develop sustainability action plans based the accountable for how their actions affect their
inputs of these engagements. broader ecosystems.
• GRI 306: Waste 2020 – 306-1, 306-2, 306-3;
• GRI 307: Environmental Compliance Nothing has come to our attention to The Report brings out the key metrics and
2016 – 307-1; suggest that the Report does not meet the management processes established for
requirements related to the Principle of monitoring, measurement, and evaluation
• GRI 308: Supplier Environmental Assessment
Inclusivity of key non-financial impacts of business on
2016 – 308-1;
internal and external stakeholders of Group
• GRI 401: Employment 2016 – 401-1; Materiality and business sectors including its value chain.
Decision makers should identify and be clear
• GRI 403: Occupational Health and Safety
about the sustainability topics that matter. Nothing has come to our attention to
2018 – 403-1, 403-2, 403-3, 403-4, 403-5,
suggest that the Report does not meet the
403-6, 403-7, 403-9;
The Report brings out the application of the requirements related to the Principle of
• GRI 404: Training and Education Materiality principle of GRI Standards to arrive Impact.
2016 – 404-1, 404-3; at significant material topics considering its
nature of business, importance to internal and Specific Evaluation of the Information on
• GRI 405: Diversity and Equal Opportunity
external stakeholders. The Group considers Sustainability Performance
2016 – 405-1;
materiality assessment as a key process in We consider the methodology and the
• GRI 407: Freedom of association and its sustainability journey to define key ESG process for gathering information developed
collective bargaining 2016 – 407-1 issues that are of significance and vital to by JKH for its sustainability performance
drive performance, improve its sustainability reporting to be appropriate, and both
• GRI 408: Child Labor 2016 – 408-1;
framework and institutionalise the Group’s qualitative and quantitative data included
• GRI 409: Forced or Compulsory Labor corporate governance philosophy at all levels. in the Report was found to be identifiable
2016 – 409-1; and traceable; the personnel responsible
Nothing has come to our attention to were able to demonstrate the origin and
• GRI 413: Local Communities 2016 – 413-1;
suggest that the Report does not meet the interpretation of the data and its reliability.
• GRI 414: Supplier Social Assessment requirements related to the Principle of Nothing has come to our attention that the
2016 – 414-1; Materiality. information provided to us was inconsistent,
inaccurate and unreliable, or that the Report
• GRI 416: Customer Health and Safety
Responsiveness is not a faithful description of JKH’s reported
2016 - 416-1;
The extent to which an organisation responds to sustainability activities for the reporting period.
• GRI 417: Marketing and Labeling stakeholder issues.
2016 – 417-1, 417-3; Reliability
Report discloses that the Group uses both its The accuracy and comparability of information
• GRI 419: Socioeconomic Compliance
Annual Report and corporate website as the presented in the report, as well as the quality of
2016 – 419-1.
primary means of responding to stakeholder underlying data management systems.
Observations concerns, and outlines its sustainability
Without affecting our assurance opinion, strategy, including materiality assessments, JKH uses a data management software
we also provide the following observations management policies and processes, and to capture and analyse data related to its
evaluating the Report’s adherence to the includes Environment, Social and Governance sustainability performance for its material
AA1000 Accountability Principles Standard (ESG) disclosures/ indicators considering topics from all operational sites on a quarterly
(2018):
basis and performs regular internal audits. which JKH subscribes in terms of identified Statement of Competence and
The majority of data and information verified scope, boundary and time; further the Report Independence
(remote assessment considering pandemic brings out exclusions as per GRI Standard, DNV applies its own management standards
situation) based on DNV sampling plan for where applicable without impacting the and compliance policies for quality control,
sampled sites and aggregated at corporate completeness of Report. in accordance with ISO IEC 17021:2015 -
level, were found to be fairly accurate and Conformity Assessment Requirements for
reliable. Some of the data inaccuracies Nothing has come to our attention to bodies providing audit and certification
identified during the verification process suggest that the Report does not meet the of management systems, and accordingly
were found to be attributable to transcription, requirements related to the Principle of maintains a comprehensive system of quality
interpretation and aggregation errors and the Completeness. control including documented policies and
errors have been identified, communicated procedures regarding compliance with ethical
and corrected. Neutrality requirements, professional standards and
The extent to which a report provides a balanced applicable legal and regulatory requirements.
Nothing has come to our attention to account of an organisation’s performance,
suggest that the Report does not meet the delivered in a neutral tone. We have complied with the DNV Code of
requirements related to the Principle of Conduct during the assurance engagement
Reliability. The disclosures within the Report, related and maintain independence where required
to sustainability issues and performances by relevant ethical requirements including
Additional principles as per DNV are presented in a neutral tone, in terms of the AA1000AS v3 Code of Practice. This
VeriSustain content and presentation along with key engagement work was carried out by an
Completeness concerns and challenges faced during the independent team of sustainability assurance
How much of all the information that has been period. professionals. DNV was not involved in
identified as material to the organisation and its the preparation of any statements or data
stakeholders is reported? Nothing has come to our attention to included in the Report except for this
suggest that the Report does not meet the Assurance Statement and Management
The Report brings out the key disclosure requirements related to the Principle of Report. DNV maintains complete impartiality
requirements of GRI Standards and the Neutrality. toward stakeholders interviewed during the
chosen disclosures of other frameworks to assurance process. DNV did not provide any
services to JKH and its subsidiaries in the
scope of assurance during 2020-21 that could
compromise the independence or impartiality
of our work.
For DNV GL Business Assurance Lanka Private Limited, Sri Lanka,
DNV GL Business Assurance Lanka (Private) Limited is part of DNV GL – Business Assurance, a global provider of certification, verification, assessment
and training services, helping customers to build sustainable business performance. www.dnv.com
295
GROUP DIRECTORY
Sector Company Name Nature Incorporated Addresses Directors Stated Capital &
Year Effective Holding
Mackinnons Shipping Agency 1973 4, Layden Bastian Road, K.D.Weerasinghe,K C LKR 5,000,000
Mackenzie & Co representation & logistics (PB 359) Colombo 1 Subasinghe, A.Z.Hashim 100%
(Shipping) Ltd services T. 2475423
Maersk Lanka (Pvt) Shipping Agency 1992 Level 16, “Park Land” 33, W.T.Ellawala, R.M.David, LKR 10,000,000
Ltd** representation & freight (PV 2550) Park Street, Colmbo 2 F.Dedenis, S.Bandara, 30%
Ports and Shipping
Mack International International freight 1980 No. 11, York Street, K.D.Weerasinghe, LKR.130,000,000
Freight (Pvt) Ltd forwarding and clearing & (PV 831) Colombo 1. T. 7671671 K.C.Subasinghe, A.Z.Hashim 100%
forwarding
Logistics
Lanka Marine Importer & supplier of heavy 1993 4, Leyden Bastian Road, A.Z.Hashim, LKR. 350,000,000
Services (Pvt) Ltd marine fuel oils (PV 475) Colombo 1. T. 2475410-421 K.D.Weerasinghe, 99.44%
D.P.Gamlath
Mackinnon Foreign recruitment agents & 1975 No. 11, York Street, K.D.Weerasinghe, LKR. 90,000
Mackenzie & Co of consultants (PB 348) Colombo 1. T. 2475509 K.C.Subasinghe, 100%
Ceylon Ltd* A.Z.Hashim
Saffron Aviation (Pvt) Domestic air line operations 2012 No. 117, Sir Chittampalam J.G.A.Cooray-Chairman, LKR. 622,179,000
Ltd (PV 84728) A. Gardiner Mawatha, K.D.Weerasinghe, 40%
Colombo 2. A.Z.Hashim, B.A.B.Goonetilleke,
T. 2475502 K.Balasundaram,
H.D.Abeywickrema
Trans-ware Logistics Renting of storage space 1994 No. 11, York Street, K.C.Subasinghe, LKR. 220,000,080
(Pvt) Ltd* (PV 3134) Colombo 1. T. 2475545/539 A.Z.Hashim, 100%
N.N.Mawilmada,
K.D.Weerasinghe
Mack Air (Pvt) Ltd General sales agents for 1980 No. 11, York Street, K.D.Weerasinghe, LKR. 12,500,000
airlines in Sri Lanka (PV 868) Colombo 1 K.C.Subasinghe, A.Z.Hashim 100%
T. 2475375/2475335
Mackinnons Travels IATA accredited travel 1971 No. 186, Vauxhall Street, K.D.Weerasinghe, LKR. 5,000,000
(Pvt) Ltd agent and travel related (PV 1261) Colombo 2 K.C.Subasinghe, A.Z.Hashim 100%
Air Lines
T. 2318600
services
Mack Air Services General sales agents for 2000 4th Floor, STO Aifaanu K.C.Subasinghe, LKR. 677,892
Maldives (Pte) Ltd* airlines in the Maldives (C/I 35-2000) Building, Boduthakurufaanu A.Z.Hashim, S.Hameed, 49%
Magu, Male 20-05, A.Shihab
Republic of Maldives
T. +9603334708 - 09
Ceylon Cold Stores Manufacture & Marketing 1926 No.117,Chittampalam A K.N.J.Balendra- Chairman, LKR 918,200,000
PLC of Beverages and frozen (PQ 4) Gardiner Mawatha, J.G.A.Cooray, D.P.Gamlath, 81.36%
confectionery and the Colombo 02 M.Hamza, S.T.Ratwatte,
holding company of JayKay T. 2318798 R.S.W.Wijeratnam,
CONSUMER
Marketing P.N.Fernando,
FOODS
K.C.Subasinghe
The Colombo Ice Manufacturing and 2016 No.117, Chittampalam P.N.Fernando, D.P.Gamlath LKR.1,700,000,000
Company (Pvt) Ltd Marketing of frozen (PV 113758) A Gardiner Mawatha, 81.36%
confectionery Colombo 02. T. 2306000
Sector Company Name Nature Incorporated Addresses Directors Stated Capital &
Year Effective Holding
John Keells Foods Marketing of Branded meat 2008 Luthra and Luthra Chartered P.N.Fernando, D.P.Gamlath LKR.220,294,544
India (Pvt) Ltd* and convenience food (U15122MH Accountants A 16/9, Vasant (INR 90,000,000)
2008 FTC Vihar, New Delhi -110057, 88.63%
products
180902) India
T. 0091 1142591823,
0091 1126148048, 26151853,
2614736
Fax: +91-11-2614 5222
Keells Food Products Manufacturer and 1982 P.O Box 10,No.16, K.N.J.Balendra- LKR.1,294,815,000
PLC distributor of Processed (PQ 3) Minuwangoda Road, Ekala Chairman, J.G.A.Cooray, 88.63%
CONSUMER
John Keells Office Distributor/Reseller and 1992 Corporate Office: 90 Union N.W.Tambiah, LKR. 5,000,000
Automation (Pvt) Ltd Services Provider in Office (PV 127) Place, Colombo 2 K.C.Subasinghe, 100%
Technical Services:148, D.P.Gamlath
Automation(OA), Retail
Vauxhall Street, Colombo 2
Automation (RA) and T. 2313000, 2431576,
Mobile Devices 2445760
Cinnamon Hotel Operator & marketer of resort 1974 No.117, Chittampalam J.E.P.Kehelpannala, LKR. 19,520,000
Management Ltd hotels (PB 7) A Gardiner Mawatha, M.H.Singhawansa, 100%
Colombo 02 M.R.Svensson,
T. 2306600, 2421101-8 K.C.Subasinghe
Cinnamon Hotel Operator & marketer of 2018 No.117 Chittampalam J.E.P.Kehelpannala, LKR. 500,000
Management overseas hotels & resorts (PV 131788) A Gardiner Mawatha, M.H.Singhawansa, 100%
International (Pvt) Colombo 02 M.R.Svensson,
Ltd* K.C.Subasinghe
Hotel Management
John Keells Hotels Holding company of group 1979 No.117, Chittampalam K.N.J.Balendra– LKR.9,500,246,939
PLC* resort hotel companies in (PQ 8) A Gardiner Mawatha, Chairman, J.G.A.Cooray, 80.32%
Colombo 02 S.Rajendra, M.R.Svensson,
Sri Lanka & Maldives
T. 2306600 J.E.P.Kehelpannala,
M.H.Singhawansa,
T.L.F.W Jayasekera,
A.K.Moonesinghe,
Dr.K.Gunasekera
Sentinel Realty (Pvt) Investment company for 2011 No.117, Chittampalam B.A.B.Goonetilleke- LKR. 132,288,080
Ltd** Hotel Development land (PV 80706) A Gardiner Chairman, 40.16%
Mawatha,Colombo 02 C.L.P.Gunewardane,
T. 2306600 N.N.Mawilmada,
LEISURE
K.Balasundaram
Asian Hotels and Owner & operator of the five 1993 77, Galle Road, Colombo 3 K.N.J.Balendra - LKR.3,345,118,012
Properties PLC - star city hotel "Cinnamon (PQ 2) T. 2437437 /2497206 Chairman/ - Managing 78.56%
Cinnamon Grand. Grand" Director, J.G.A.Cooray,
C.L.P.Gunawardane,
S.Rajendra, M.R.Svensson,
C.J.L.Pinto, J.Durairatnam,
A.S De Zoysa
Capitol Hotel Developer of City Business 2012 No.117, Chittampalam M.R.Svensson , LKR. 1,168,800,100
Holdings Ltd** (PB 5013) A Gardiner Mawatha, K.C.Subasinghe, 19.47%
City Hotels
Hotels
Colombo 02 M.S.Weerasekera-Chairman,
T. 2306000 W.R.K.Wannigama,
D.A.Kannangara,
M.D.R.Gunatilleke,
L.C.H.Leow, A.J.Pathmarajah
Trans Asia Hotels PLC Owner & operator of 1981 No. 115, Sir Chittampalam K.N.J.Balendra-Chairman, LKR.1,112,879,750
the five star city hotel (PQ 5) A Gardiner Mawatha, J.G.A.Cooray, S.Rajendra, 82.74%
Colombo 02 C.L.P.Gunawardane,
"Cinnamon Lakeside".
T. 2491000 M.R.Svensson,
N.L.Goonaratne, C.J.L.Pinto,
E.H.Wijenaike, J.C.Ponniah
297
GROUP DIRECTORY
Sector Company Name Nature Incorporated Addresses Directors Stated Capital &
Year Effective Holding
Ahungalla Holiday Owner of real estate 2012 No.117, Chittampalam C.L.P.Gunawardane, LKR. 133,490,000
Resorts (Pvt) Ltd* (PV 85046) A Gardiner Mawatha, K.C.Subasinghe, 80.32%
Colombo 02 M.H.Singhawansa,
T. 2306000 M.R.Svensson
Beruwala Holiday Owner & operator of 2009 Moragolla Beruwala C.L.P.Gunawardane, LKR. 2,338,150,000
Resort Hotels - Sri Lanka
Resorts (Pvt) Ltd "Cinnamon Bey" in (PV 69678) T. 2306600, 034 2297000 K.C.Subasinghe, 79.78%
M.H.Singhawansa,
Beruwala
M.R.Svensson
Ceylon Holiday Owner & operator of 1966 Galle Road, Bentota S.Rajendra, LKR.2,845,469,318
Resorts Ltd -Bentota "Cinnamon Bentota Beach" (PB 40) T. 034 2275176 / 034 C.L.P.Gunawardane, 79.60%
Beach Hotel in Bentota 2275266 M.H.Singhawansa,
M.R.Svensson
Habarana Lodge Ltd Owner & operator of 1978 P.O Box 2, Habarana S.Rajendra, LKR.341,555,262
"Cinnamon Lodge" in (PB 38) T. 066 2270011-2/ 066 C.L.P.Gunawardane, 78.99%
Habarana 2270072 M.H.Singhawansa,
M.R.Svensson
Habarana Walk Inn Owner & operator of 1973 P.O Box 1, Habarana C.L.P Gunawardane, LKR. 126,350,000
Ltd "Habarana Village by (PB 33) T. 066 2270046-7/ K C.Subasinghe, 79.34%
066 2270077 M H Singhawansa,
Cinnamon" in Habarana
M R Svensson
Hikkaduwa Holiday Owner & operator of "Hikka 2010 P.O Box 1, Galle Road , C.L.P.Gunawardane, LKR.1,062,635,460
Resorts (Pvt) Ltd Tranz by Cinnamon" in (PV 71747) Hikkaduwa K.C.Subasinghe, 79.60%
Hikkaduwa T. 091 2298000 M.H.Singhawansa,
M.R.Svensson
Indra Hotel and Owner of Cinnamon Red 2017 No. 273, Katugastota Road, Y.S.H.I.K.Silva, Y.S.H.R.S.Silva, LKR.1,051,400,493
Resorts (Pvt) Ltd* Kandy (PV 124247) Kandy Y.S.H.H.K.Silva, S.Rajendra , 32.13%
T. 081 2234346 C.L.P Gunawardane
International Tourists Owner of Cinnamon Bey 1973 No.117, Chittampalam C.L.P.Gunawardane, LKR. 1,939,760,925
and Hoteliers Ltd* (PB 17) A Gardiner Mawatha, K.C.Subasinghe, 79.78%
Colombo 02 M.H.Singhawansa,
T. 2306600, 2421101- 8 M.R.Svensson
LEISURE
Kandy Walk Inn Ltd Owner & operator of 1979 No.124, Srimath Kuda C.L.P.Gunawardane, LKR. 115,182,009
"Cinnamon Citadel" in Kandy (PB 395) Ratwatte Mawatha, Kandy K.C.Subasinghe, 79.03%
T. 081 2234365-6/ M.H.Singhawansa,
081 2237273-4 M.R.Svensson
Nuwara Eliya Holiday owner of real estate 2014 No.117, Chittampalam C.L.P.Gunawardane, LKR.325,024,820
Resorts (Pvt) Ltd* (PV98357) A Gardiner Mawatha, K.C.Subasinghe, 80.32%
Resort Hotels - Sri Lanka
Colombo 02 M.H.Singhawansa,
T. 2306000 M.R.Svensson
Rajawella Hotels Owner of real estate 1992 No.117, Chittampalam C.L.P.Gunawardane, LKR.35,701,762
Company Ltd* (PB 92) A Gardiner Mawatha, K.C.Subasinghe, M.H 80.32%
Colombo 02 Singhawansa, M.R.Svensson
T. 2306000
Resort Hotels Ltd* Owner of real estate 1978 No.117,Chittampalam C.L.P.Gunawardane, LKR.8,849,150
(PB 193) A Gardiner Mawatha, K.C.Subasinghe, 79.60%
Colombo 02 M.H Singhawansa ,
T. 2306780, 2421101-8 M.R.Svensson
Trinco Holiday Owner & Operator of 2009 Alles Garden, Uppuvelli, C.L.P.Gunawardane, LKR.357,000,000
Resorts (Pvt) Ltd "Trinco Blu by Cinnamon" in (PV 69908) Sampathiv Post K.C.Subasinghe, M.H 80.32%
Trincomalee T. 026 2222307 / Singhawansa, M.R.Svensson
026 2221611
Trinco Walk Inn Ltd* Owner of Real Estate 1984 Alles Garden, Uppuveli, C.L.P.Gunawardane, LKR.119,850,070
(PB 168) Sampathiv Post, Trincomalee K.C.Subasinghe, M.H 80.32%
T. 026 2222307 / Singhawansa, M.R.Svensson
011 2306600
Wirawila Walk Inn Owner of Real Estate 1994 No.117, Chittampalam C.L.P.Gunawardane, LKR.20,734,150
Ltd* (PB 89) A Gardiner Mawatha, K.C.Subasinghe, 80.32%
Colombo 02 M.H.Singhawansa
T. 2306780, 2421101-8
Yala Village (Pvt) Ltd Owner & operator of 1999 P.O Box 1, Kirinda, M.A.Perera -Chairman, LKR.319,427,600
"Cinnamon Wild" in Yala (PV 2868) Tissamaharama C.L.P.Gunawardane, 75.33%
T. 047 2239449-52 S.Rajendra,
M.H.Singhawansa, J.A.Davis,
M.R.Svensson, N.W.Tambiah
Sector Company Name Nature Incorporated Addresses Directors Stated Capital &
Year Effective Holding
Fantasea World Owner & operator of 1997 2nd Floor, H.Maizan Building, C.L.P.Gunawardane, LKR. 341,573,190
Investments (Pte) Ltd "Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa" (C 143/97) Sosun Magu, Male, S.Rajendra, 80.32%
in Maldives Republic of Maldives J.E.P.Kehelpannala-
T. 00960 6720014 / 00960 Managing Director,
6720064 / 00960 6720065 M.H.Singhawansa,
M.R.Svensson
John Keells Maldivian Hotel holding company in 1996 2nd Floor, H.Maizan Building, J.E.P.Kehelpannala- LKR.3,978,671,681
Resorts (Pte) Ltd the Maldives (C 208/96) Sosun Magu, Male, Republic Managing Director, 80.32%
of Maldives S.Rajendra,
Resort Hotels - Maldives
of Maldives J.E.P.Kehelpannala-
T. 00960 6660839 / 00960 Managing Director,
6660663 / 00960 6660664 M.H.Singhawansa,
M.R.Svensson
Cinnamon Holidays Service providers of Inbound 2015 No.117, Chittampalam A C.L.P.Gunawardane, LKR.200,000
(Pvt) Ltd and Outbound Tours (PV 101005) Gardiner Mawatha, Colombo K.C.Subasinghe, M.H 80.32%
02 Singhawansa, M.R.Svensson
T. 2306000
Serene Holidays Tour operators 2006 110, Bldg 2, Rolex Shopping K.C.Subasinghe, LKR.6,492,000
Destination Management
T. 0112152100 N.N.Mawilmada,
S.P.G.N.Rajapakse,
PROPERTY
D.P.Gamlath
Braybrooke Investor of Braybrooke 1998 No.186, Vauxhall Street, Y.S.H.R.S.Silva-Chairman, LKR.1,403,970,000
Residential Residential Towers (Pvt) Ltd (PV19165) Colombo 02 S.Rajendra, K.C.Subasinghe, 50%
Properties (Pvt) Ltd* T. 0112152100 N.N.Mawilmada,
D.P.Gamlath, Y.S.H.I.K.Silva,
Y.S.H.H.K Silva,
C.P.Palansuriya
Braybrooke Developer of 'TRI-ZEN' 2017 No.186, Vauxhall Street, K.N.J.Balendra, LKR. 3,636,900,000
Residential Towers Residential Towers (PV128387) Colombo 02 Y.S.H.R.S.Silva-Chairman, 50%
(Pvt) Ltd* T. 0112152100 J.G.A.Cooray, S.Rajendra,
N.N.Mawilmada,
Y.S.H.I.K.Silva, A.D.B.Talwatte,
C.P.Palansuriya
299
GROUP DIRECTORY
Sector Company Name Nature Incorporated Addresses Directors Stated Capital &
Year Effective Holding
Glennie Properties Property Development 2012 No.186, Vauxhall Street, K.C.Subasinghe, LKR 163,861,400
(Pvt) Ltd* (PV 84278) Colombo 02 N.N.Mawilmada, 100%
T. 0112152100 D.P.Gamlath,
N.W.R.Wijewantha
J K Land (Pvt) Ltd* Investment Company for 2012 No.186, Vauxhall Street, N.W.R.Wijewantha, LKR. 23,027,602,460
Property Sector (PV 84272) Colombo 02 K.C.Subasinghe, 100%
T. 0112152100 N.N.Mawilmada
J K Thudella Owner of Real Estates 2018 No.186, Vauxhall Street, N.W.R.Wijewantha, LKR. 453,467,620
Properties (Pvt) Ltd* (PV 129825) Colombo 02 N.N.Mawilmada, 100%
T. 0112152100
John Keells Developer & Manager of ' 2010 No.186, Vauxhall Street, N.W.R.Wijewantha, LKR.954,360,000
Properties Ja-Ela K-Zone Ja-Ela' Shopping Mall (PV 76068) Colombo 02 K.C.Subasinghe, 100%
(Pvt) Ltd T. 0112152100 N.N.Mawilmada
John Keells Developer of "On320" 2010 No.186, Vauxhall Street, N.W.R.Wijewantha, LKR. 925,200,000
Residential Residential Towers (PV 75050) Colombo 02 K.C.Subasinghe, 100%
Properties (Pvt) Ltd T. 0112152100 N.N.Mawilmada
J K Property Property Development 2018 No.186, Vauxhall Street, N.W.R.Wijewantha, LKR. 1,054,056,800
Development (Pvt) (PV 130036) Colombo 02 K.C.Subasinghe, 100%
Property Development
+94(0)11234 2066 -7
Nations Trust Bank Commercial banking and 1999 No. 242, Union Place, J.G.A.Cooray-Chairman, LKR.9,408,135,000
PLC** leasing operations (PQ 118) Colombo 2 K.O.V.S.M.S.Wijesinghe, 32.57%
T.114313131 R.S.Cader, J.C.A.D'Souza,
R.D Rajapaksa, N.I.R.De
Mel, S.Maheshwari,
S.L.Sebastian,
C.H.A.W.Wickramasuriya,
A.R.Fernando, P.Talwatte
Union Assurance PLC Providers of Life insurance 1987 No.20, St. Michaels' Road, K.N.J.Balendra -Chairman, LKR.1,000,000,000
solutions (PQ 12) Colombo 03 S.Rajendra, D.P.Gamlath, 90%
T. #1330 D.H.Fernando,
S.A.Appleyard, W.M De
Fonseka Arsakularatne
Sector Company Name Nature Incorporated Addresses Directors Stated Capital &
Year Effective Holding
John Keells Software services 1998 No. 148, Vauxhall Street, J.G.A.Cooray -Chairman, LKR. 96,500,000
Services
Holdings (Pvt) Ltd* group companies (C 60882) Ebene, Mauritius K.D.Weerasinghe, 100%
IT Enabled
Services
tea factories (PV 522) Gardiner Mawatha, K.C.Subasinghe, A.Z Hashim 100%
Colombo 02 T. 2306518
John Keells Warehousing of Tea and 2001 No.93,1st Avenue, K.D.Weerasinghe, LKR.120,000,000
Warehousing (Pvt) Rubber (PV 638) Muturajawela, Hendala, K.C.Subasinghe, A.Z.Hashim 86.90%
Ltd Wattala
T. 4819560
Tea Smallholder Owner and operator of 1991 No.4, Leyden Bastian Road, K.N.J.Balendra–Chairman, LKR.150,000,000
Factories PLC Bought Leaf factories (PQ 32) Colombo 1 J.G.A.Cooray, E.H.Wijenaike, 37.62%
T. 2149994 / 2335880 A.S.Jayatilleke,
S.K.L.Obeyesekere,
A.K.Gunaratne,
A.Goonetilleke, A.Z.Hashim
Facets (Pvt) Ltd* Owner of real estate 1974 No.117,Sir Chittampalam A K.M.Thanthirige, LKR.150,000
(PV1048) Gardiner Mawatha, D.P.Gamlath 100%
Colombo 02 T. 2306000
J K Packaging (Pvt) Printing and packaging 1979 No 148, Vauxhall street, K.C.Subasinghe, LKR.14,500,000
OTHERS
Ltd* services provider for the (PV 1265) Colombo 02 K.D.Weerasinghe, 100%
export market T. 2475308 D.P.Gamlath
John Keells Holdings Group holding company & 1979 No.117, Sir Chittampalam AK.N.J.Balendra- LKR.62,881,295,320
PLC function based services (PQ 14) Gardiner Mawatha, Colombo Chairman, J.G.A.Cooray- 98.05%
02 Deputy Chairman,
T. 2306000 M.A.Omar, D.A.Cabraal,
A.N.Fonseka, M.P Perera,
S.S.H.Wijayasuriya
Centre & Others
John Keells Regional holding company 2006 No.117, Chittampalam A D.P.Gamlath, K,M. LKR. 1,991,600,000
International (Pvt) providing administrative & (PV 46) Gardiner Mawatha, Colombo Thanthirige, N.W.Tambiah 100%
Ltd* function based services 02
T. 2306000 /2421101-9
John Keells International trading services 1992 No.16 Collyer Quay, Level J.G.A.Cooray-Chairman, LKR.9,638,000
Singapore (Pte) Ltd* (199200499C) 21, Office Suit No.21-38, K.M .Thanthirige, 80%
Singapore 049318 K.C.Subasinghe,
T. 65 63296409/ 65 D.P.Gamlath,
68189150/ 65 96346593 R.Ponnampalam
Keells Consultants Company secretarial services 1974 No.117, Chittampalam A K.M.Thanthirige, LKR.160,000
(Pvt) Ltd to the group (PB 3) Gardiner Mawatha, Colombo N.W.Tambiah, 100%
02 I.V.Gunasekera,
T. 2421101-9 C.Subasinghe
Mortlake (Pvt) Ltd* Investment company 1962 No. 148, Vauxhall Street, K.M.Thanthirige, LKR. 3,000
(PV 756) Colombo 2 K.C.Subasinghe 100%
T. 2475308
* The company is a non-operational company/ investment company/ holding company or owner of real estate.
** The company has not been considered for sustainability reporting as the Group does not exercise management control over the entity.
301
GRI - DISCLOSURE 207-4
COUNTRY-BY-COUNTRY REPORTING
Description Reference Page No Sri Lanka India Mauritius Republic of Singapore Total
LKR 000 Maldives
b)
i. Names of the resident entities Group 296-301
Directory
ii. Primary activities of the organization Group 296-301
Directory
iii. Number of employees 13,226 - - 604 1 13,831
iv. Revenues from third-party sales 124,969,713 - - 2,724,202 - 127,693,915
v. Revenues from intra-group
transactions with other tax
jurisdictions
vi. Profit/loss before tax 8,809,372 (918) 9,840 (3,385,942) 12,814 5,445,166
vii. Tangible assets other than cash and 287,694,992 - - 39,742,236 188 327,437,416
cash equivalents
viii. Corporate income tax paid on a cash Not
basis Applicable
ix. Corporate income tax accrued on 2,179,135 - 1,647 (12,115) 673 2,169,340
profit/loss
x. Reasons for the difference between Note 21.5 240
corporate income tax accrued on
profit/loss and the tax due if the
statutory tax rate is applied to profit/
loss before tax
Part Omitted
Explanation
Reason
GRI 101: Foundation 2016
GRI 102: General Disclosures 2016
Organisational Profile
102-1 Name of the organisation 3
102-2 Activities, brands, products, and 8, 64
services
102-3 Location of headquarters 3
102-4 Location of operations 3
102-5 Ownership and legal form 3
102-6 Markets served 3, 8
102-7 Scale of the organisation 3, 47, 52
102-8 Information on employees and 52-57
other workers
102-9 Supply chain 11 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
Disclosures_2020_21.pdf, 74, 83, 94, 107, 116, 124, 133
102-10 Significant changes to the 19-24
organisation and its supply chain
102-11 Precautionary Principle or 3 of Risks, Opportunities and Internal Controls at https://keells.com/
approach resource/governance/John-Keells-Holdings-PLC-AR-2020_21-Risk.pdf
102-12 External initiatives 4, 165, 182
102-13 Membership of associations https://keells.com/resource/governance/John-Keells-Holdings-PLC-
AR-2020_21-Profiles.pdf
Strategy
102-14 Statement from senior decision- 9-18
maker
Ethics and integrity
102-16 Values, principles, standards, and 165
norms of behaviour
Governance
102-18 Governance structure 167
Stakeholder engagement
102-40 List of stakeholder groups 4-5 of Sustainability Integration, Stakeholder Engagement & Materiality at
https://keells.com/resource/governance/John-Keells-Holdings-PLC%20
AR%202020_21-Sustainability-and-Materiality.pdf
102-41 Collective bargaining 57
agreements
102-42 Identifying and selecting 4 of Sustainability Integration, Stakeholder Engagement & Materiality
stakeholders at https://keells.com/resource/governance/John-Keells-Holdings-
PLC%20AR%202020_21-Sustainability-and-Materiality.pdf
102-43 Approach to stakeholder 4-5 of Sustainability Integration, Stakeholder Engagement &
engagement Materiality at https://keells.com/resource/governance/John-Keells-
Holdings-PLC%20AR%202020_21-Sustainability-and-Materiality.pdf
102-44 Key topics and concerns raised 6 of Sustainability Integration, Stakeholder Engagement & Materiality
at https://keells.com/resource/governance/John-Keells-Holdings-
PLC%20AR%202020_21-Sustainability-and-Materiality.pdf
303
GRI CONTENT INDEX
Part Omitted
Explanation
Reason
Reporting practice
102-45 Entities included in the 296-301
consolidated financial statements
102-46 Defining report content and 4-5, 6-7 of Sustainability Integration, Stakeholder Engagement &
topic Boundaries Materiality at https://keells.com/resource/governance/John-Keells-
Holdings-PLC%20AR%202020_21-Sustainability-and-Materiality.pdf
102-47 List of material topics 6-7 of Sustainability Integration, Stakeholder Engagement &
Materiality at https://keells.com/resource/governance/John-Keells-
Holdings-PLC%20AR%202020_21-Sustainability-and-Materiality.pdf
102-48 Restatements of information 3-4 of Sustainability Integration, Stakeholder Engagement &
Materiality at https://keells.com/resource/governance/John-Keells-
Holdings-PLC%20AR%202020_21-Sustainability-and-Materiality.pdf
102-49 Changes in reporting 3-4 of Sustainability Integration, Stakeholder Engagement &
Materiality at https://keells.com/resource/governance/John-Keells-
Holdings-PLC%20AR%202020_21-Sustainability-and-Materiality.pdf
102-50 Reporting period 4
102-51 Date of most recent report 3 of Sustainability Integration, Stakeholder Engagement & Materiality
at https://keells.com/resource/governance/John-Keells-Holdings-
PLC%20AR%202020_21-Sustainability-and-Materiality.pdf
102-52 Reporting cycle 3 of Sustainability Integration, Stakeholder Engagement & Materiality
at https://keells.com/resource/governance/John-Keells-Holdings-
PLC%20AR%202020_21-Sustainability-and-Materiality.pdf
102-53 Contact point for questions IBC
regarding the report
102-54 Claims of reporting in 4
accordance with the GRI Standards
102-55 GRI content index 303-310
102-56 External assurance 293-295
Material Topics
GRI 200: Economic Standard Series
Economic Performance
GRI 103 103-1 Explanation of the material 6-7 of Sustainability Integration, Stakeholder Engagement & Materiality at
Management topic and its Boundary https://keells.com/resource/governance/John-Keells-Holdings-PLC%20
Approach 2016 AR%202020_21-Sustainability-and-Materiality.pdf
103-2 The management approach and 4 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
its components Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
103-3 Evaluation of the management 4 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
approach Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
GRI 201: Economic 201-1 Direct economic value 286-287
Performance 2016 generated and distributed
201-3 Defined benefit plan obligations 57
and other retirement plans
Indirect Economic Impacts
GRI 103 103-1 Explanation of the material 6-7 of Sustainability Integration, Stakeholder Engagement & Materiality at
Management topic and its Boundary https://keells.com/resource/governance/John-Keells-Holdings-PLC%20
Approach 2016 AR%202020_21-Sustainability-and-Materiality.pdf
103-2 The management approach and 4 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
its components Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
103-3 Evaluation of the management 4 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
approach Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
Part Omitted
Explanation
Reason
GRI 203: Indirect 203-1 Infrastructure investments and 58
Economic services supported
Impacts 2016
Procurement Practices
GRI 103 103-1 Explanation of the material 6-7 of Sustainability Integration, Stakeholder Engagement & Materiality at
Management topic and its Boundary https://keells.com/resource/governance/John-Keells-Holdings-PLC%20
AR%202020_21-Sustainability-and-Materiality.pdf
Approach 2016
103-2 The management approach and 4 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
its components Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
103-3 Evaluation of the management 4 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
approach Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
GRI 204: 204-1 Proportion of spending on local 58
Procurement suppliers
Practices 2016
Anti-Corruption
GRI 103 103-1 Explanation of the material 6-7 of Sustainability Integration, Stakeholder Engagement & Materiality at
Management topic and its Boundary https://keells.com/resource/governance/John-Keells-Holdings-PLC%20
AR%202020_21-Sustainability-and-Materiality.pdf
Approach 2016
103-2 The management approach and 7-10 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
its components Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
103-3 Evaluation of the management 10 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
approach Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
GRI 205: 205-1 Operations assessed for risks 58
Anticorruption related to corruption
2016
Tax
GRI 103 103-1 Explanation of the material 6-7 of Sustainability Integration, Stakeholder Engagement &
Management topic and its Boundary Materiality at https://keells.com/resource/governance/John-Keells-
Approach 2016 Holdings-PLC%20AR%202020_21-Sustainability-and-Materiality.pdf
103-2 The management approach and 4 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
its components Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
103-3 Evaluation of the management 4 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
approach Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
GRI 207: Tax 2019 207-1 Approach to tax 23-24 of https://keells.com/resource/governance/John-Keells-
Holdings-PLC-AR-2020_21-Corporate-Governance.pdf
207-2 Tax governance, control, and risk 23-24 of https://keells.com/resource/governance/John-Keells-
management Holdings-PLC-AR-2020_21-Corporate-Governance.pdf
207-3 Stakeholder engagement and 23-24 of https://keells.com/resource/governance/John-Keells-
management of concerns related to Holdings-PLC-AR-2020_21-Corporate-Governance.pdf
tax
207-4 Country-by-country reporting 302
GRI 300: Environment Standard Series
Energy
GRI 103 103-1 Explanation of the material 6-7 of Sustainability Integration, Stakeholder Engagement & Materiality at
Management topic and its Boundary https://keells.com/resource/governance/John-Keells-Holdings-PLC%20
Approach 2016 AR%202020_21-Sustainability-and-Materiality.pdf
103-2 The management approach and 5 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
its components Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
103-3 Evaluation of the management 6 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
approach Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
305
GRI CONTENT INDEX
Part Omitted
Explanation
Reason
GRI 302: Energy 302-1 Energy consumption within the 47-48
2016 organisation
302-4 Reduction of energy 47-48
consumption
Water and Effluents
GRI 103 103-1 Explanation of the material 6-7 of Sustainability Integration, Stakeholder Engagement & Materiality at
Management topic and its Boundary https://keells.com/resource/governance/John-Keells-Holdings-PLC%20
Approach 2016 AR%202020_21-Sustainability-and-Materiality.pdf
103-2 The management approach and 5 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
its components Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
103-3 Evaluation of the management 6 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
approach Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
GRI 303: Water 303-1 Interactions with water as a 5 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
and Effluents shared resource Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
2018 303-2 Management of water 5 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
discharge-related impacts Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
303-3 Water withdrawal 47, 49
303-4 Water discharge 47, 50
Biodiversity
GRI 103 103-1 Explanation of the material 6-7 of Sustainability Integration, Stakeholder Engagement & Materiality at
Management topic and its Boundary https://keells.com/resource/governance/John-Keells-Holdings-PLC%20
Approach 2016 AR%202020_21-Sustainability-and-Materiality.pdf
103-2 The management approach and 5-6 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
its components Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
103-3 Evaluation of the management 6 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
approach Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
GRI 304: 304-1 Operational sites owned, leased, 105
Biodiversity 2016 managed in, or adjacent to, protected
areas and areas of high biodiversity
value outside protected areas
Emissions
GRI 103 103-1 Explanation of the material 6-7 of Sustainability Integration, Stakeholder Engagement & Materiality at
Management topic and its Boundary https://keells.com/resource/governance/John-Keells-Holdings-PLC%20
Approach 2016 AR%202020_21-Sustainability-and-Materiality.pdf
103-2 The management approach and 5 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
its components Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
103-3 Evaluation of the management 6 https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
approach Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
GRI 305: 305-1 Direct (Scope 1) GHG emissions 47-48
Emissions 2016 305-2 Energy indirect (Scope 2) GHG 47-48
emissions
Effluents and Waste
GRI 103 103-1 Explanation of the material 6-7 of Sustainability Integration, Stakeholder Engagement & Materiality at
Management topic and its Boundary https://keells.com/resource/governance/John-Keells-Holdings-PLC%20
Approach 2016 AR%202020_21-Sustainability-and-Materiality.pdf
103-2 The management approach and 5-6 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
its components Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
103-3 Evaluation of the management 6 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
approach Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
Part Omitted
Explanation
Reason
GRI 306: Effluents 306-3 Significant spills 73
and Waste 2016
Waste
GRI 103 103-1 Explanation of the material 6-7 of Sustainability Integration, Stakeholder Engagement &
Management topic and its Boundary Materiality at https://keells.com/resource/governance/John-Keells-
Approach 2016 Holdings-PLC%20AR%202020_21-Sustainability-and-Materiality.pdf
103-2 The management approach and 5-6 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
its components Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
103-3 Evaluation of the management 6 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
approach Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
GRI 306: 306-1 Waste generation and 5-6 https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
Waste 2020 significant waste-related impacts Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
306-2 Management of significant 5-6 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
waste-related impacts Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
306-3 Waste generated 47,50-51
Environmental Compliance
GRI 103 103-1 Explanation of the material 6-7 of Sustainability Integration, Stakeholder Engagement & Materiality at
Management topic and its Boundary https://keells.com/resource/governance/John-Keells-Holdings-PLC%20
Approach 2016 AR%202020_21-Sustainability-and-Materiality.pdf
103-2 The management approach and 5-6 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
its components Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
103-3 Evaluation of the management 6 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
approach Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
GRI 307: 307-1 Non-compliance with 47
Environmental environmental laws and regulations
compliance 2016
Supplier Environmental Assessment
GRI 103 103-1 Explanation of the material 6-7 of Sustainability Integration, Stakeholder Engagement &
Management topic and its Boundary Materiality at https://keells.com/resource/governance/John-Keells-
Approach 2016 Holdings-PLC%20AR%202020_21-Sustainability-and-Materiality.pdf
103-2 The management approach and 5-6 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
its components Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
103-3 Evaluation of the management 6 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
approach Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
GRI 308: Supplier 308-1 New suppliers that were 58
Environmental screened using environmental criteria
Assessment 2016
GRI 400: Social Standard Series
Employment
GRI 103 103-1 Explanation of the material 6-7 of Sustainability Integration, Stakeholder Engagement & Materiality at
Management topic and its Boundary https://keells.com/resource/governance/John-Keells-Holdings-PLC%20
Approach 2016 AR%202020_21-Sustainability-and-Materiality.pdf
103-2 The management approach and 7-8 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
its components Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
103-3 Evaluation of the management 10 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
approach Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
307
GRI CONTENT INDEX
Part Omitted
Explanation
Reason
GRI 401: 401-1 New employee hires and 52, 55
Employment employee turnover
2016
Occupational Health and Safety
GRI 103 103-1 Explanation of the material 6-7 of Sustainability Integration, Stakeholder Engagement & Materiality at
Management topic and its Boundary https://keells.com/resource/governance/John-Keells-Holdings-PLC%20
Approach 2016 AR%202020_21-Sustainability-and-Materiality.pdf
103-2 The management approach and 7-9 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
its components Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
103-3 Evaluation of the management 10 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
approach Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
GRI 403: 403-1 Occupational health and safety 8-9 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
Occupational management system Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
Health and Safety
2018 403-2 Hazard identification, risk 8-9 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
assessment, and incident investigation Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
403-3 Occupational health services 8-9 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
403-4 Worker participation, 8-9 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
consultation, and communication on Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
occupational health and safety
403-5 Worker training on occupational 8-9 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
health and safety Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
403-6 Promotion of worker health 8-9 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
403-7 Prevention and mitigation 8-9 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
of occupational health and safety Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
impacts directly linked by business
relationships
403-9 Work-related injuries 52, 57
Training and Education
GRI 103 103-1 Explanation of the material 6-7 of Sustainability Integration, Stakeholder Engagement & Materiality at
Management topic and its Boundary https://keells.com/resource/governance/John-Keells-Holdings-PLC%20
Approach 2016 AR%202020_21-Sustainability-and-Materiality.pdf
103-2 The management approach and 7-8 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
its components Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
103-3 Evaluation of the management 10 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
approach Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
GRI 404: Training 404-1 Average hours of training per 52, 55-56
and Education year per employee
2016
404-3 Percentage of employees 52
receiving regular performance and
career development reviews
Diversity and Equal Opportunity
GRI 103 103-1 Explanation of the material 6-7 of Sustainability Integration, Stakeholder Engagement & Materiality at
Management topic and its Boundary https://keells.com/resource/governance/John-Keells-Holdings-PLC%20
Approach 2016 AR%202020_21-Sustainability-and-Materiality.pdf
103-2 The management approach and 7-8 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
its components Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
103-3 Evaluation of the management 10 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
approach Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
Part Omitted
Explanation
Reason
GRI 405: Diversity 405-1 Diversity of governance bodies 53-54
and equal and employees
opportunity 2016
Freedom of Association and Collective Bargaining
GRI 103 103-1 Explanation of the material 6-7 of Sustainability Integration, Stakeholder Engagement & Materiality at
Management topic and its Boundary https://keells.com/resource/governance/John-Keells-Holdings-PLC%20
Approach 2016 AR%202020_21-Sustainability-and-Materiality.pdf
103-2 The management approach and 7-8 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
its components Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
103-3 Evaluation of the management 10 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
approach Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
GRI 407: Freedom 407-1 Operations and suppliers 57
of association in which the right to freedom of
and collective association and collective bargaining
bargaining 2016 may be at risk
Child Labour
GRI 103 103-1 Explanation of the material 6-7 of Sustainability Integration, Stakeholder Engagement & Materiality at
Management topic and its Boundary https://keells.com/resource/governance/John-Keells-Holdings-PLC%20
Approach 2016 AR%202020_21-Sustainability-and-Materiality.pdf
103-2 The management approach and 7-10 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
its components Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
103-3 Evaluation of the management 10 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
approach Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
GRI 408: Child 408-1 Operations and suppliers at 52
Labour 2016 significant risk for incidents of child
labour
Forced or Compulsory Labour
GRI 103 103-1 Explanation of the material 6-7 of Sustainability Integration, Stakeholder Engagement &
Management topic and its Boundary Materiality at https://keells.com/resource/governance/John-Keells-
Approach 2016 Holdings-PLC%20AR%202020_21-Sustainability-and-Materiality.pdf
103-2 The management approach and 7-10 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
its components Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
103-3 Evaluation of the management 10 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
approach Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
GRI 409: Forced 409-1 Operations and suppliers at 52
or Compulsory significant risk for incidents of forced
Labour 2016 or compulsory labour
Local Communities
GRI 103 103-1 Explanation of the material 6-7 of Sustainability Integration, Stakeholder Engagement & Materiality at
Management topic and its Boundary https://keells.com/resource/governance/John-Keells-Holdings-PLC%20
Approach 2016 AR%202020_21-Sustainability-and-Materiality.pdf
103-2 The management approach and 12-13 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
its components Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
103-3 Evaluation of the management 13 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
approach Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
GRI 413: Local 413-1 Operations with local community 58-63
communities engagement, impact assessments, and
2016 development programs
309
GRI CONTENT INDEX
Part Omitted
Explanation
Reason
Supplier Social Assessment
GRI 103 103-1 Explanation of the material 6-7 of Sustainability Integration, Stakeholder Engagement & Materiality at
Management topic and its Boundary https://keells.com/resource/governance/John-Keells-Holdings-PLC%20
Approach 2016 AR%202020_21-Sustainability-and-Materiality.pdf
103-2 The management approach and 11 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
its components Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
103-3 Evaluation of the management 11 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
approach Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
GRI 414: Supplier 414-1 New suppliers that were 58
social assessment screened using social criteria
2016
Customer Health and Safety
GRI 103 103-1 Explanation of the material 6-7 of Sustainability Integration, Stakeholder Engagement & Materiality at
Management topic and its Boundary https://keells.com/resource/governance/John-Keells-Holdings-PLC%20
Approach 2016 AR%202020_21-Sustainability-and-Materiality.pdf
103-2 The management approach and 14 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
its components Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
103-3 Evaluation of the management 14 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
approach Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
GRI 416: 416-1 Assessment of the health and 14 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
Customer Health safety impacts of product and service Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
and Safety 2016 categories
Marketing and Labelling
GRI 103 103-1 Explanation of the material 6-7 of Sustainability Integration, Stakeholder Engagement & Materiality at
Management topic and its Boundary https://keells.com/resource/governance/John-Keells-Holdings-PLC%20
AR%202020_21-Sustainability-and-Materiality.pdf
Approach 2016
103-2 The management approach and 14 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
its components Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
103-3 Evaluation of the management 14 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
approach Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
GRI 417: 417-1 Requirements for product and 58
Marketing and service information and labelling
Labelling 2016 417-3 Incidents of non- 58
compliance concerning marketing
communications
Socioeconomic Compliance
GRI 103 103-1 Explanation of the material 6-7 of Sustainability Integration, Stakeholder Engagement & Materiality at
Management topic and its Boundary https://keells.com/resource/governance/John-Keells-Holdings-PLC%20
Approach 2016 AR%202020_21-Sustainability-and-Materiality.pdf
103-2 The management approach and 14 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
its components Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
103-3 Evaluation of the management 14 of https://keells.com/resource/Management_Approach_
approach Disclosures_2020_21.pdf
GRI 419: 419-1 Non-compliance with laws and 58
Socioeconomic regulations in the social and economic
Compliance 2016 area
311
312 JOHN KEELLS HOLDINGS PLC | ANNUAL REPORT 2020/21
CORPORATE INFORMATION
Digital Plates & Printing by Softwave Printing and Publishing (Pvt) Ltd
www.keells.com