The journey of FMJ commenced with the vision of the late M. Y. A. Dastakeer, whose entrepreneurial spirit laid the cornerstone for the company’s success through the establishment of FMJ Plastics.

Today, under its second generation, FMJ continues its legacy of excellence with wholly owned subsidiaries A One Polymer, JD Polymer and Wingro, alongside its inaugural company FMJ Plastics and luxury trade arm Royal Lanka.

It marked its 50th corporate anniversary milestone recently at Hilton Colombo with the gracious presence of over 500 local and international esteemed guests.

Q: What significance does this celebration hold for FMJ Holdings?

Jawzi Dastakeer (JD1): Recently held in grandeur and themed ‘Our Journey,’ we would describe this event as more than merely a celebration. This occasion served as an expression of gratitude to all those who have supported FMJ throughout its 50 year journey.

The event was graced by ambassadors, esteemed brand principals, our valued customers, suppliers, respected bankers and well-wishers – all of whom have stood by FMJ over the years, playing a fundamental role in shaping who we are today. Overall, it was a day dedicated to acknowledging their invaluable contributions.

Q: How do you perceive your current standing within the sector?

Jezmi Dastakeer (JD2): From a technical standpoint, it is appropriate to introduce FMJ as the foremost technological leader in the plastic packaging sector. With vast technological know-how, industrial experience and state-of-the-art machinery, FMJ’s expertise spans varying cutting-edge plastic moulding technologies and facilities.

Along with a diverse range of value added packaging solutions, driven by an innovative mindset, we take pride in successfully serving the food and beverage, cosmetics, pharmaceutical and fertiliser sectors, and many more, with our proven adherence to industry compliances.

Q: Could we shed light on the measures you have taken to ensure industry compliance?

JD1: Over time, we have implemented subtle yet credible measures to make sure all legal as well as moral obligations are met, to ensure the highest possible culmination of compliance for our clientele through hygienic facilities and internationally acknowledged accreditations, some of which are ISO 9001, FSSC 22000 and SMETA (Sedex Members Ethical Trade Audit).

We cater to both B2B and B2C markets, and are humbly honoured to take the spotlight in the B2B sector as the major packaging solution provider for the majority of local as well as multinational companies in Sri Lanka.

Q: You must have witnessed market peaks and lows. What is your perspective on the business atmosphere in Sri Lanka?

JD2: Based on our experience, there is no such thing as an ultimate pinnacle in business. We’ve faced a nearly 30 year conflict, a pandemic, natural disasters, a tragic Easter attack, protests and periodic economic downturns, and the list goes on.

In the business landscape, there exists a fascinating choice akin to a crossroads. On one path lies the temptation to lament the impossibilities and adversities that obstruct progress. And on the other path lies the mindset to capitalise on market intricacies, sculpting opportunities from the very fabric of adversity.

With this in mind in our specific context, as a provider of packaging solutions, we acknowledge that even a minor delay at any point in our supply chain can have significant ramifications for our customers, potentially leading them to explore alternative suppliers.

It is imperative for businesses to recognise that modern consumers are not inclined to wait indefinitely for the perfect product or service.

At junctures, irrespective of existing resources, we often go the extra mile, leveraging cutting-edge technologies and tool facilities sourced from leading markets, such as India, China and Taiwan.

Ultimately, our success is not determined solely by the resources at our disposal but rather, our willingness to go above and beyond to fulfil the diverse needs of our customers.

Q: What is FMJ’s stance on diversification?

JD1: Historically, people believed in specialisation and proficiency. But at some point, we are bound to step out of our comfort zones to grow further.

Apart from our manufacturing ventures, we have made significant strides in the luxury retail sector through our wholly owned subsidiaries Royal Lanka Agencies, Jewel Laurel and its independent verticals, Turret, GMT, UrbanTrendz and UrbanGo.

This represented a 180 degree shift for FMJ, transitioning from our initial focus of manufacturing to venturing into services where we became the face of a plethora of internationally renowned global brands in Sri Lanka, including Montblanc, Raymond Weil, Jockey and United Colors of Benetton among many others.

Q: Given FMJ’s years of experience, how do you perceive the role of businesses in society?

JD2: It all starts within the organisation, encompassing fair and equitable treatment for employees, and extending further to delivering exceptional value to customers and other stakeholders, as well as contributing positively to the broader community and environment at large.

At FMJ, we sculpt tomorrow’s excellence by carving wisdom from yesterday’s experience. Our commitment lies in the art of evolving in seamlessly catering to the nation’s needs. It’s all about how prepared you are to do what you do best.

– Compiled by Allaam Ousman
COMPANY DETAILS

Telephone: 038 2232976 | Email: fmjholdings@fmjgp.lk | Website: www.fmjgp.lk