Sun’s group revenue for FY 2011 increased by 14% YoY to LKR 10,732 million supported by the Plantation and Healthcare segments, which recorded revenues of LKR 6,158 million, and LKR 4,329 million respectively.
Sunshine Holdings has a strong foothold in the plantations segment through its subsidiary Watawala plantations. Watawala (WATA) is engaged in the cultivation and manufacture of tea, rubber and palm oil, with the primary revenue generator for the Company being tea. The plantations segment has seen a revenue growth of 9.7% YoY to LKR 6,158 million.
Tea prices have held steady within the last year resulting in a 9.2% YoY increase in Tea revenue. However, the key growth category was rubber, recording an 85% growth YoY. This is attributed to the strong natural rubber prices that prevailed. With the global demand for natural rubber on the rise, the outlook looks positive for this segment.
WATA also has a strong FMCG arm and markets popular brands such as Watawala Kahata and Zesta. These brands have successfully penetrated the rural areas in the island and has captured significant market share. Increased margins in the FMCG sector has also positively contributed to group gross profit.
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