Ceylon Cold Stores PLC (CCS), a subsidiary of John Keells Holdings PLC, has introduced its iconic Elephant House Ice Cream to the Australian market, marking a significant step in the brand’s global expansion. The official launch event was held on 4th December 2025 at the Novotel Melbourne Glen Waverley, attended by industry leaders, local distributors, and strategic partners. The occasion was further distinguished by the presence of Ms. Pradeepa Seram, Consul General Designate of Sri Lanka, and Ms. Cassandra Fernando, Member of the Australian Parliament, highlighting the strengthening ties between Sri Lanka and Australia.
Elephant House is one of the most recognized Sri Lankan brands among expatriate communities, with a footprint in 16 countries, including the Maldives, Australia, and the United Kingdom.
Marking a milestone in its 150-year history, Elephant House Ice Cream is now being manufactured locally in Melbourne, aiming to increase availability within Australia’s ethnic markets. The current product range includes Vanilla, Karutha Kolomban, and Fruit and Nut flavors, available in 500ml packs. This is the first time Elephant House Ice Cream has been produced outside Sri Lanka, representing a new phase in the company’s international growth in partnership with Millennium Imports Pty Ltd, one of its franchise partners in Australia.
Daminda Gamlath, President of John Keells Consumer Foods Sector, commented, “We are thrilled to introduce Elephant House Ice Cream to the Australian market. This launch represents more than expansion—it’s about taking a brand that Sri Lankans trust and love, and making it available to wider communities abroad, with the right partners and the right long-term ambition.”
Sathish Rathnayake, Category Head for Confectionery and Business Head for Exports at Ceylon Cold Stores PLC, noted, “Elephant House has already earned a strong following internationally, and Australia is a natural next step given the strength of our broader export presence here. This launch is a strategic move to grow availability, build familiarity beyond the Sri Lankan community, and expand the range over time to meet evolving consumer preferences.”
Sudantha Victoria, Head of International Marketing at Ceylon Cold Stores PLC, added, “This is a proud milestone for CCS and for Elephant House. Producing ice cream outside Sri Lanka for the first time is a major operational and brand achievement, made possible through collaboration with our partners in Australia. Our focus now is on expanding distribution across the country and introducing new flavours and formats that will help Elephant House become a preferred choice in the market.”
With its flagship range now available, CCS plans to extend its reach across Australia and progressively launch additional popular flavours and formats. This approach aims to reinforce Elephant House’s status as a globally recognised Sri Lankan brand with lasting appeal.
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