Q: What is the significance of your group’s 150th anniversary in the broader context of the economy?

A: Reaching a 150 year milestone is a rare achievement – and more so in today’s volatile environment. For Browns, it reflects resilience, adaptability and long-term vision.

The group has navigated economic cycles, global disruptions and shifting technologies for a century and a half. From an economic standpoint, such endurance highlights the importance of stable, values driven businesses.

Organisations such as Browns have played a vital role in the economy – creating jobs, developing infrastructure and contributing to national progress. Our legacy shows that sustainable, forward-thinking enterprises can anchor growth especially in uncertain times.

Q: How has the group evolved over the last 150 years?

A: Our journey began in 1875 as a mechanical workshop in Hatton, born from the vision of the late James Brown.

Later, the leadership of the late Edmund J. Cooray transformed Browns into a pioneering industrial powerhouse. Initially known for engineering excellence, we introduced groundbreaking innovations including tea plantation machinery that revolutionised Ceylon’s plantation sector.

Over time, we diversified into agriculture, manufacturing, motor, veterinary pharmaceuticals, leisure, power generation, consumer electronics and beyond.

What sets the group apart is its ability to anticipate change. From colonial Ceylon to today’s digital economy, Browns has remained relevant by continually reinventing itself. Its commitment to quality, innovation and service has earned lasting trust across generations.

Q: What makes you most proud of the group’s past?

A: Pride stems from our contribution to the nation as a partner in Sri Lanka’s development. Browns takes pride in the trust it has built with stakeholders, durability of its products and loyalty of its customers.

Even today, machinery sold by Browns over a century ago remains operational – a rare testament to the product quality and exceptional after sales service. In a world where machines often struggle to last even a decade, Browns’ legacy speaks volumes for its enduring value proposition.

The group is also proud of the people – past and present – who have shaped this legacy. Their dedication, values and ingenuity have laid the foundation for all these accomplishments.

Q: How do you plan to carry this legacy forward?

A: Looking ahead, the group’s focus is on innovation, sustainability and global competitiveness. Browns is actively embracing emerging technologies – from AI and machine learning to IoT and data analytics – to enhance capabilities and sharpen decision making.

Sustainability is central to the future and Browns is embedding environmental, social and corporate governance (ESG) principles across its operations. This includes precision agriculture, clean energy solutions and digital platforms that optimise resource use.

Culturally, the group is also undergoing a transformation to balance core values with the agility needed for the modern age. The aim is to foster a forward-looking mindset, empowering the next generation of leaders to build on its legacy.

Q: What lessons can other companies learn from Browns’ 150 year journey?

A: Long-term relevance requires a clear purpose, adaptability and an unwavering focus on the customer. Businesses must evolve with the times – not only in terms of products or services but how they operate, think and engage.

Strong leadership is critical especially in turbulent times. Companies must be willing to make bold, future facing decisions while staying grounded in their founding principles.

It is also important to maintain a customer first mindset. The ability to build loyalty over generations stems from truly understanding customer needs and delivering real, lasting value.

Finally, corporate responsibility is no longer optional. Businesses that contribute positively to society and the environment will earn trust, and secure their place in the future.

Q: In your view, what qualities are needed for a brand to endure 150 years?

A: Resilience is needed to adapt across economic, political and technological shifts while innovation is necessary not only for survival but to lead markets and industries forward.

Consistency is the key. Customers must know what to expect from your brand and you must deliver, time and again. A long-term vision is an essential one that transcends short-term gains and builds for future generations.

Furthermore, cultural integrity or a strong, values based culture provides the glue that holds everything together. It is what enables continuity and trust even as strategies evolve.

Q: Could you highlight some key milestones in Browns’ journey?

A: Browns has always been at the forefront of progress – from introducing Sri Lanka’s first tractors and revolutionising farming practices, to supporting modern agri-tech projects through IoT and data analytics to date, being the world’s largest producer of tea and one of the key players in the leisure sector locally.

One of the proudest partnerships is with Exide – a collaboration that has lasted over 100 years. The relationship has remained solid through changing times and leadership, built on mutual respect and shared commitment.

In 2024, Browns accelerated its digital transformation – harnessing artificial intelligence for customer profiling, credit assessments and operational optimisation. These steps are preparing the group for a future where speed, intelligence and adaptability will define success.

– Compiled by Yamini Sequeira
COMPANY DETAILS

Telephone: 5063000 | Email: info@brownsgroup.com | Website: www.brownsgroup.com