About KDU – KD UPASENA

Brewing Success

Cultivating corporate through the delicate flavors of our premium teas, where business discussions find harmony in the richness of every leaf.

Our History

Our Founder and Chairman, the Late Mr. K.D. Upasena established his corporate empire through humble beginnings by initially embarking upon a small-scale vegetable distribution business in Bandarawela during the early 1950s. Following his marriage in 1957, he ventured into the illustrious business of river gemming. He soon proved to be a success in the gem industry and was also the first to introduce the “Gemming Diving Kit” to Sri Lanka. His entrepreneurial journey continued as he decided to make his mark in the tea industry by leasing a tea factory named “Maha Kade Istoruwa”, which he purchased in the year 1982. The factory was later renamed “Galpaditenne Tea Factory”.

Since then, he purchased and leased several tea factories in the low country, with the final addition during his lifetime being “Nilvin View” in 2001. His demise later that year left his legacy in the safe and capable hands of his wife Mrs. Karuna Upasena, who presided over the business and was appointed as chairperson of the KDU Group. The family enterprise further expanded its wings, as their two sons took over the Group following their mother’s passing. They now manage their own individual companies while Mr. Thushan Upasena’s experience and knowledge has expanded the company into further diversity and growth.

Board of Directors

Thushan Upasena

Chairman

Our inherent commitment, dedication to quality and productivity, traditional wisdom, and innovative thinking have placed KDU Group at the pinnacle of success, establishing us as a forerunner in the market. Our strong values and firm beliefs that have enriched our past, continue to empower our future.

Thushan spearheads four of the tea factories under the KDU Group umbrella and is the pioneer behind the largest fuel mart in Sri Lanka. His ambitious nature and skills in successful management have led the company to new areas of interest and diversification, including gem mining, petroleum, and a modern restaurant.

He aspires to upgrade Sabaragamuwa teas to rank No.1 in Sri Lanka and has introduced new technologies and fully trained human resources into his factories. He has also initiated a unique task force to identify and amend any grievances of his green leaf suppliers, thus ensuring a steady and continuous flow.

Dilushini Umenga Amarasinghe brings a strong foundation in leadership and a passion for the financial industry. Committed to driving growth and innovation, she leverages her analytical skills and strategic thinking to ensure the company delivers exceptional value to its clients and stakeholders. Dilushini Umenga Amarasinghe is dedicated to fostering collaborative environments and maintaining the company’s core values of integrity, excellence, and client-focused service, fostering enduring partnerships that propel KD Upasena Group to new heights of success.

Dilushini Umenga Amarasinghe

Director

In every decision, we blend the wisdom of experience with the innovation of tomorrow, guiding our company toward a future where success is not just achieved, but sustained.