By The Next Chapter of Harry Jayawardena’s Business Empire: A Family Legacy Continues
The late business tycoon Harry Jayawardena was a towering figure in Sri Lanka’s corporate world, building an empire that spanned multiple industries, from beverages and plantations to leisure and logistics. Until his passing at the age of 82, he remained actively involved in the operations of his vast business network, ensuring that his legacy would endure beyond his lifetime. Now, his children, Stasshani Jayawardena and Hasitha Jayawardena, have officially stepped into leadership roles, marking a new chapter in one of Sri Lanka’s most formidable business dynasties.
A Smooth Transition of Power
Following Harry Jayawardena’s passing, there was much speculation about how the leadership of his business empire would evolve. With Stasshani Jayawardena taking over as Chairperson of Aitken Spence PLC and Hasitha Jayawardena stepping in as Executive Chairman of Melstacorp and Distilleries Company of Sri Lanka, it is evident that the family intends to keep control of the empire and continue their father’s legacy.
Both have been groomed under the direct mentorship of their late father. Stasshani, with over 15 years of experience, has been instrumental in steering Aitken Spence’s hospitality and leisure sectors, while Hasitha, with over 12 years of experience, has played a crucial role in the plantation and beverage sectors. Their appointments signal continuity and stability within the group, ensuring that the vision set by Harry Jayawardena remains intact.
What This Means for the Business Empire
Harry Jayawardena was known for his aggressive business acumen and ability to navigate Sri Lanka’s corporate and political landscape effectively. His empire, which includes stakes in Melstacorp, Distilleries Company of Sri Lanka, Aitken Spence, and Stassen Group, is a dominant force in multiple industries. The leadership transition to his children suggests that the family is committed to maintaining control over these assets rather than allowing external stakeholders to influence the direction of the companies.
Melstacorp, which holds a 92.44% stake in the Distilleries Company of Sri Lanka, remains a powerhouse in the beverage sector, and with Hasitha Jayawardena at the helm, the company is expected to consolidate its market position. Similarly, Aitken Spence, under Stasshani’s leadership, will likely continue its focus on hospitality, logistics, and power generation, sectors that have been key to the company’s success.
Challenges and Opportunities
While the transition appears seamless, the Jayawardena siblings will face significant challenges. The current economic climate in Sri Lanka, including inflationary pressures and policy shifts, could impact business operations. Additionally, competition in the hospitality and beverages sectors is fierce, requiring strategic leadership to maintain profitability.
However, both Stasshani and Hasitha bring modern management approaches and international exposure to their leadership roles. Their ability to innovate and expand into new markets will be critical in determining whether the empire not only sustains itself but also grows in the coming years.
The Future of the Jayawardena Legacy
With Stasshani and Hasitha taking charge, Harry Jayawardena’s empire remains firmly in family hands. Their leadership will be closely watched by investors and industry players alike, as they attempt to balance continuity with innovation. If they successfully navigate the evolving business landscape, they could take the empire to even greater heights, ensuring that the name Harry Jayawardena continues to be synonymous with corporate dominance in Sri Lanka.
