Raffles Consolidated marks 25 years of excellence with bold plans for future growth

Thursday, 14 November 2024 00:23 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Founder and Chairman Tony Bohoran

Newly revamped banquet halls will open to guests on 1 December
Starting with a single client serving Raffles has expanded with 350 employees serving nearly 70,000 meals daily to multiple businesses

Raffles Consolidated Ltd., a leading name in Sri Lanka’s hospitality industry, will celebrate its 25th anniversary on 1 December 2024.

To mark this milestone, the company is preparing to usher in a new era of growth as it embarks on the next chapter of its journey.

Since its launch in December 1999 as an outdoor catering company serving an established corporate and upscale clientele, Raffles has evolved into a multi-segment catering leader, catering to three tiers of the industry: cafés, industrial catering, and premium banquets and event catering.

In 2001, Raffles entered the industrial catering segment by winning contracts to operate cafeterias for several leading establishments in Sri Lanka. Starting with a single client serving 350 employees, Raffles now provides nearly 70,000 meals daily across multiple factories, offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Industrial catering has since become a core focus of its business model.

In 2016, Raffles expanded its capabilities with the unveiling of Raffles Residence, a premium event space designed for life’s memorable moments. Located in Mirihana, Nugegoda, Raffles Residence epitomises luxury, featuring two banquet halls with capacities for 100 and 300 guests, catering to all banquet and event needs. Raffles is currently undertaking an interior refurbishment of Raffles Residence to enhance its appeal to evolving consumer demographics. The newly revamped halls will open to guests on 1 December 2024, just in time for the 25th anniversary celebrations.

Reflecting on this 25-year journey, Raffles Founder and Chairman Tony Bohoran stated, “Our journey has been one of rapid growth and resilience despite the numerous challenges we’ve faced, including the pandemic and economic crisis. These challenges tested our resolve, compelling us to adapt swiftly and think innovatively. I am proud to say we’ve succeeded in achieving all that – and more.”

Raffles said it has consistently prioritised high service standards, achieving industry certifications that underscore its commitment to meeting international standards. This commitment extends to food safety, with a dedicated quality assurance team working around the clock to ensure all operational aspects meet required standards. Additionally, the company has implemented a comprehensive supply chain, ensuring fresh, high-quality food is delivered daily for its industrial operations.

Raffles CEO Upul Gamage shared, “As we mark our 25th anniversary, our growth and success highlight the incredible dedication of our talented staff, management, and directors. Their passion, hard work, and commitment have been the foundation of our resilience, helping us thrive against all odds. As we look to the future, I am confident it will be filled with promise and opportunity.”

Looking ahead, the Raffles management team has outlined bold plans to fast-track growth and elevate its brand standards within Sri Lanka’s hospitality industry.