Global logistics provider Hellmann Worldwide Logistics and MAS Holdings have announced plans to develop a new purpose-built contract logistics facility in Kimbulapitiya, strengthening Sri Lanka’s position as a regional hub for fashion supply chains and integrated logistics services.

The project, undertaken through their joint venture Hellmann MAS Supply Chain (HMSC), marks a major expansion of operations since the partnership was established in 2018. Located in Sri Lanka’s Gampaha District, approximately six kilometres from Bandaranaike International Airport, the new facility will operate as a dedicated fashion logistics hub within Hellmann’s South Asia network.

The development also aligns with Hellmann’s Forward2030 growth strategy, which identifies fashion logistics as a key long-term business pillar. The company said Sri Lanka’s strategic location at the crossroads of Asia, Africa and Europe strengthens its role as an international trade gateway and supports the delivery of customer-focused supply chain solutions for global fashion brands.

For MAS Holdings, the investment represents a further step in its strategic expansion agenda as it continues to diversify beyond traditional apparel manufacturing and reinforce its position as South Asia’s largest apparel technology company.

Spanning more than 8,000 square metres, the new facility has been designed to support the full spectrum of fashion logistics operations. Features include dual-zone humidity and climate control systems, solar energy infrastructure and scalable operational capacity aimed at supporting regional distribution requirements across Asia, Africa and Europe. The partners said the facility would combine operational efficiency with sustainability-focused design.

The investment builds on the long-standing collaboration between Hellmann and MAS through HMSC, which combines Hellmann’s international logistics expertise with MAS’ experience in apparel manufacturing and supply chain innovation. Together, the companies provide integrated end-to-end logistics services to leading global fashion brands across South Asia.

Patrick Grzywa, Regional COO Contract Logistics IMEA at Hellmann Worldwide Logistics, said Sri Lanka’s combination of advanced manufacturing capabilities and agile fashion supply chains makes it a trusted sourcing and logistics destination for international brands. He said the new development would strengthen HMSC’s end-to-end fashion logistics offering.

Shakthi Ranatunge, Chief Operating Officer of MAS Holdings and Board Member of HMSC, said the investment underscores MAS’ commitment to enhancing Sri Lanka’s competitiveness as a global apparel hub. He noted that the initiative would support faster and more integrated supply chain solutions while contributing to the development of a more resilient and future-ready apparel ecosystem.

MAS Holdings operates across 13 countries with a workforce of around 100,000 and has expanded its portfolio into sectors including wearable technology, logistics and textile innovation. Hellmann Worldwide Logistics, meanwhile, operates in 62 countries with annual revenue of approximately EUR 3.7 billion and handles around 21 million shipments annually through a workforce exceeding 12,000 employees.