John Keells Holdings PLC (JKH) has reported a robust start to the financial year 2025/26, with a 64% year-on-year surge in revenue and a 69% increase in EBITDA, supported by strong performances in its Retail and Transportation sectors.

The diversified conglomerate posted Group revenue of Rs.114.15 billion for the quarter ended 30 June 2025, compared to Rs.69.66 billion in the same period last year. Group EBITDA rose to Rs.12.97 billion from Rs.7.70 billion a year ago.

Retail sector gains were largely fuelled by the continued expansion of the Group’s Supermarket chain and the rapid growth of John Keells CG Auto, its New Energy Vehicle (NEV) business. Same-store supermarket sales rose by 13% during the quarter, underpinned by a 17% increase in customer footfall and contributions from new outlets. Meanwhile, the NEV segment exceeded expectations in order volumes, with a significant number of vehicles already delivered to customers.

JKH also marked a major operational milestone during the quarter with the completion of its first full quarter of commercial operations at the West Container Terminal (WCT-1) in the Port of Colombo. The ramp-up in volumes and operational productivity at WCT-1 has surpassed initial expectations. However, as the venture is equity accounted, its current impact on EBITDA remains negative.

Excluding WCT-1, the Transportation sector recorded an 11% growth in EBITDA, largely driven by Lanka Marine Services (LMS), the Group’s bunkering business.

The Group’s Leisure sector reported higher profitability and improved margins, benefiting from increased tourist arrivals and stronger occupancy rates.

The Property segment also contributed positively to earnings, with sales across residential projects such as Cinnamon Life, TRI-ZEN, and VIMAN, as well as real estate transactions through Rajawella Holdings in Digana.

Despite a 10% decline in beverage volumes due to adverse weather, the Group’s Confectionery business managed a 3% growth in volumes, supported by both impulse and bulk segments.

In the financial services sector, Nations Trust Bank reported solid growth in profitability, attributed to rising loan volumes and reduced impairments.

JKH is gearing up for the full-scale launch of its flagship City of Dreams Sri Lanka integrated resort on August 2, 2025. The project will feature a top-tier international casino, the ultra-luxury Nuwa hotel, and a premium lifestyle shopping mall.

As part of its sustainability initiatives, the Group reported an 8.3% reduction in its carbon footprint and a 9.5% drop in water withdrawal per million rupees of revenue, excluding the Cinnamon Life hotel.