Ownership and Brand Transition

For nearly five decades, Colman’s presence in Sri Lanka was defined by a unique cross-continental partnership. The de Fonseka family acted as steadfast custodians of the brand locally, manufacturing and distributing Colman’s vinegar and drinks, even as the trademark itself was owned by the multinational parent company. This loyal alliance with Reckitt & Colman (later Reckitt Benckiser) remained unbroken from the 1970s onward, thanks to unwavering quality and mutual trust. To Sri Lankan consumers, Colman’s always felt like a familiar local brand, few realized it was technically part of a foreign portfolio because the same family that started bottling vinegar in Panadura was still behind every product on the shelf.

In 2019, a proud new chapter began. When Reckitt Benckiser decided to divest its food brands in Sri Lanka, C. D. de Fonseka & Sons seized the moment to bring Colman’s fully into Sri Lankan hands.

They acquired the exclusive rights to the Colman’s name in Sri Lanka, officially forming Colman’s Lanka (Pvt) Ltd that year. For the first time, the beloved brand was 100% locally owned. This transition from multinational to local ownership was more than a legal change, it felt like the homecoming of a prodigal son. The same family who nurtured Colman’s for decades became its rightful owner, ensuring continuity in values and vision. For the average shopper, nothing changed in the taste or packaging of their favorite vinegar or drink. But behind the scenes, this shift meant that a piece of Sri Lankan culinary heritage was now fully stewarded by the island’s own people. It was a moment of national pride, cementing Colman’s status not just as an adopted global brand, but as a truly Sri Lankan brand going forward.