Dilmah Story

A handcrafted journey from our tea gardens to your cup

Taste. Goodness. Purpose.

Tea with Integrity, made with Kindness to people and nature without ever compromising Quality.

He named his tea after his sons and travelled the world inviting people, to “Do try it!”.

He gave hope to producers around the world and as God blessed him with success, he fulfilled his promise of kindness.

At the time of his passing, his Dilmah Tea had generated over Rs. 7 billion of humanitarian aid for education, livelihoods, people with disability, less fortunate women, children and youth.

More than anything, at Dilmah we believe in being kind.

Kindness is at the heart of everything we do.

We spread kindness by doing everything with care and respect.

This means respecting nature - growing only the finest ingredients and protecting the environment. Respecting our workers, providing them good working conditions and fair wages for their efforts. Respecting our consumers - we do not blend our teas. We uphold the highest standards and do not compromise quality to make a profit.

We make the best tea in the world and use our profits to support those that need the little bit of kindness the most.

A handcrafted journey

from our tea gardens to your cup

Dilmah is much more than a brand of tea. It is an uncompromising promise of quality. Merrill J. Fernando, an artisan teamaker who is driven by his passion for tea and a desire to share the luxury and natural goodness in Ceylon tea, is the same teamaker behind the world’s best tea.

Decades of an extraordinary love for tea gave Dilmah the unquenchable spirit it has today.

Taste

Deliciously authentic, honouring the influence of Nature in our Single Origin Teas and handpicked ingredients. We are tea growers and our commitment is to great taste with tea that is garden fresh, single origin and of the finest quality.

Goodness

Tea that is grown, handpicked and handmade, and Infusions from ingredients that are authentic, all freshly packed at source, to ensure that natural antioxidant goodness is nurtured and protected for your enjoyment.

Purpose

Formed around our Founder’s sincere wish to make business a matter of human service, earnings from Dilmah Tea are shared with less privileged people and the environment.

What is Dilmah?

Merrill J. Fernando dedicated his life to tea in the 1950s, When he saw the concentration of ownership in the tea industry in the hands of a few large corporations. This was leading to the commoditisation of tea. He decided that in the interest of tea drinkers around the world, and the crop that his country produced with so much care and artistry, he would fight this process of commoditisation.

It took him nearly four decades and in 1988 he launched his own brand - Dilmah.

Dilmah was the first producer owned tea brand, and offered tea ‘picked, perfected and packed’ at origin. Unlike the multi-origin blends that monopolised supermarket shelves, Dilmah brought tea that is freshly packed at source and therefore rich in flavour and natural goodness.

Dilmah is unique; a brand that is founded on a passionate commitment to quality and authenticity in tea, It is also a part of a philosophy that goes beyond commerce in seeing business as a matter of human service. This is what makes Dilmah the first ethically produced tea. In 2005, Merrill and his sons Dilhan and Malik, pledged to follow the 12 Principles of Dilmah in every aspect of their business and in the conduct of their workers, staff and management.

‘Dilmah presents Sri Lankan tea as the purest - and most expensive - in the world, while also salving high minded consumers’ health consciousness.’

Eric Ellis, The Sydney Morning Herald

Dilmah, our family tea company, was founded by my father, Merrill J. Fernando, with the assurance of Quality & Integrity.

My family’s love for tea and our father’s mission of kindness is now honoured by my brother Malik and I as we follow in our father’s footsteps.

We are the 2nd generation of our ‘Dilmah family’, with the same love for tea as our father, and with the same uncompromising commitment to his founding promise of Taste, Goodness and Purpose.

Dilhan C. Fernando 2nd Generation Tea Grower

Earnings from Dilmah Tea fund our mission to serve humanity. Our Founder’s philosophy is to make every cup of Dilmah a Cup of Kindness.

Educational Scholarships and School Support

so that young people on the plantations and low income backgrounds access higher education

Training for Government Practitioners in health and education to ensure that people with disabilities are supported in society

Entrepreneurs Developed have the tools, knowledge and support to create sustainable business models

Financially Independent Women who can make smart decisions that impact their entire families for the better

Early Childhood Development Programmes

so that children under 5 have a stronger start to life

Network of Community Centres taking knowledge & opportunity to remote, rural communities.

Life Skills & Vocational Training for Youth to increase their preparedness for the job market of the future

Nutrition Support and Awareness promotes healthy minds and bodies that are crucial for children’s wellbeing

Investment in Disability Friendly Technologies so that apps, databases and communications support PWDs and their families

Covid Support and Relief to the local health system and other beneficiaries a ected by the pandemic

Support to Elders ensures their dignity and recognises their continued capacity to contribute

Therapy, Education and Vocational Training for an improved quality of life for children with disabilities

Housing and Infrastructure Improvement in the Tea Gardens

so that everyone has a place to call home

1 Million Cashew Trees Planted in Eastern Sri Lanka to revitalise the land and uplift communities under Dilmah’s Green Recovery Programme.

Our One Earth Urban Arboretum models greening of urban spaces for healthier cities and people.

Indigenous Communities empowered through initiatives to preserve their traditions and knowledge.

Sustainable Beekeeping and bee research to conserve Sri Lankan bees while empowering communities and promoting biodiversity.

Every sip of Dilmah Tea strengthens our efforts at conserving & restoring Nature.

Research Collaboration

between scientists and our Dilmah Climate Change Centre demonstrate solutions for climate resilience in agriculture.

Our Marine Conservation e orts support the creation of marine sanctuaries and preservation of endangered marine wildlife.

Our Environmental Education researches and shares knowledge on nature, wildlife, natural medicine, sustainability and cultural heritage to inspire commitment to conserve.

Our Nature Corridor replaces tea lands with biodiversity to allow wildlife to move freely between two fragmented forest reserves and strengthen species richness & resilience.

Elephant Conservation e orts including the Elephant Information Centre, support for a unique orphan elephant care and reintroduction programme and supporting elephant research.

Aided Discovery of New Species in Sri Lanka to generate scientific evidence and conserve herpetofauna species.

For Tea Aficionados

This versatile herb has the potential to be enjoyed in many different ways, and therefore we are determined to extract its natural richness and subtle flavours, in a way that allows you to also clearly distinguish the individuality in each variety.

Our Teas

Our range includes traditional Speciality Gourmet and Premium Tea, Herbal Infusions, pure Ceylon Green Teas and Fun Flavoured Teas, Spiced Chais, Organic Tea, the Dilmah Exceptional range with its contemporary selection of teas, our boutique Watte, VIVID range, t-Series teas, Silver Jubilee Gourmet and our exclusive Teamaker’s Private Reserve. Our newest additions to the family is the Dilmah Elixir of Ceylon Tea range – an all natural tea extract – and our latest combination of luxury and wellness, the Ceylon Golden Pekoe range

DILMAH’S ENTIRE RANGE OF PRODUCTS IS NOW CARBON NEUTRAL

Awarded through the United Nations Framework convention on Climate Change and Sri Lanka Climate Fund, the carbon neutral certification recognizes our commitment to offset Dilmah’s carbon footprint.

DILMAH ORGANIC SELECTION

Dilmah Premium

Tea Selection

Finely balanced richness, flavour, strength and aroma for the perfect tea. Tea from the central highlands of Sri Lanka, reputed for its brightness and medium strength, perfect for everyday drinking. Introducing tea lovers to the romance of real Ceylon Tea.

“In my 27 years of enjoying it with one sugar and a dash of milk, this brew is ‘the finest tea on earth’, and I would not prefer anything else. I will try other varieties when they become available, but it will be hard to find something better than this.”

DJW, Australia

FORMATS AVAILABLE

Loose Leaf Tea

Pot Bags/Tagless

String & Tag Bags/Cup Bags

Individually Foil Wrapped Bags

Individually Paper Wrapped Bags

Available in Bulk Food Service packs

BREW A BETTER FUTURE, POUR A BETTER TEA

Our new plant based and sustainable teabags are tag free to reduce waste without compromising the great Taste and natural antioxidant Goodness in the finest Ceylon Tea. We are also planting a tree for every pack made, as part of our commitment to biodiversity and ecosystem restoration. We work with scientists from around the world in fulfilling our Founder’s promise of kindness to Nature through our restoration, conservation, advocacy and environmental education initiatives.

Our new plant based and sustainable teabags are tag free to reduce waste without compromising the great Taste and natural antioxidant Goodness in the finest Ceylon Tea. We are also planting a tree for every pack made, as part of our commitment to biodiversity and ecosystem restoration. We work with scientists from around the world in fulfilling our Founder’s promise of kindness to Nature through our restoration, conservation, advocacy and environmental education initiatives.

Endana Nature Corridor Anawilundawa Mangrove Elephant Conservation Lost Ingredients Species Conservation

Kanneliya Reforestation Climate Change Centre Butterfly Conservation Green Energy Project

Dilmah Ceylon Gold Selection

Celebrating the true value of this noble herb, its natural goodness, fresh aroma, delicious taste and premium quality. A drop of liquid gold that adds that extra spark of life, goodness and freshness to your day, this special black tea is for the true connoisseur. Enjoy Dilmah Ceylon Gold in its purest form - straight with no milk or sugar - to truly understand and appreciate why the paradise isle of Ceylon produces the world’s finest teas.

“I have enjoyed it very much....I think it is without a doubt the mildest and the nicest tea I have ever enjoyed...perfect for tea time.”

FORMATS AVAILABLE

String & Tag Bags/Cup Bags

Individually Foil Wrapped Bags

Available in Bulk Food Service packs

Loose Leaf Tea

“Congrats Mr. Merrill Fernando.Your passion & commitment is the key of success of DILMAH. Yor service to the humans cause are inspiring.”

D K

FORMATS

Ceylon Golden Pekoe

Our Ceylon Golden Pekoe Teas express the passion of the teamaker in a selection of exquisite Single Region teas from our Kahawatte tea gardens. With a choice of Pure, naturally Ayurveda Inspired and indulgently aromatic, flavoured Pekoes, these teas present a combination of luxury, taste and wellness. Each tea is made from carefully handpicked leaves which are pleasing in the eye, nose and palate, brewing a refined, golden cup, that is fragrant and delicious..

Loose Leaf Tea

The teas are available in 7 varieties and the above formats.

Dilmah Ceylon Green Tea

Grown high in the pristine central highlands of ancient Sri Lanka, arguably one of the best tea-growing regions on earth. Created with traditional and sustainable methods, our green tea leaves are handpicked to ensure they remain free from impurities and their natural goodness is in every cup.

The teas are available in 9 varieties and the above formats.

“The only tea I’ve used forever. Why? ‘cause it’s the very best!”

M

FORMATS

Loose Leaf Tea

Pot Bags/Tagless

String & Tag Bags/Cup Bags

Individually Foil Wrapped Bags

Available in Bulk Food Service packs

I’m going to have a dilmah cup of t most days to help relax and unwind

A

FORMATS

String & Tag Bags/Cup Bags

Available in Bulk Food Service packs

Flavoured Green Teas

Our new Green Teas combine the purity of natural green tea with fruit and spice flavours, chosen to gently enhance the combination. They can be deliciously brewed hot in the conventional style, as iced or sparkling green teas, or brewed into green tea inspired water. Each tea is delectable in its own sense, with a lingering, fragrant finish.

The teas are available in 6 varieties and the above formats.

Dilmah Founder named Oslo Business for Peace Honouree

Dilmah Founder Merrill J. Fernando received the Business for Peace Award on the 6th of May 2015, incidentally it was also his birthday, as one of the five 2015 Oslo Business for Peace Honourees, by the Award Committee of Nobel Laureates in Peace and Economics.

The Business for Peace Foundation annually names honourees for the Oslo Business for Peace Award in recognition of business persons who, “through their own actions and commitments truly are business worthy, promoting socially responsible and ethical business practices in an outstanding way, and standing out as examples to the world.”

Accepting the award – a bronze figure entitled ‘The Just Man’ - on his birthday, Merrill J. Fernando spoke of his parents’ influence on the values that govern his business today, and paid tribute to the quality of Ceylon Tea as the foundation of his success with Dilmah Tea.

“Today this business is a global, much respected brand of Ceylon tea. Dilmah has re-established the image of Ceylon tea cross the world and is much known as ethical tea. That success is not my own alone. I decided to share what I have with the poor. And it gives me immense satisfaction” stated Merrill J. Fernando at an event held at the Peliyagoda factory premises with regards to receiving the Oslo award.

The Business for Peace Award was initiated by Per L. Saxegaard, a banker whose commitment to recognising and encouraging sustainability in business led to the establishment of the award with considerable global support.

Writing in the Huffington Post, Per Saxegaard declares, “We want the world to know: there are better ways of doing business -- effective ways -- that lead to stability and peace. Just look to the 2015 Oslo Business for Peace honourees. We need more like them now.”

FIRST Award for Responsible Capitalism

The man known as the TeamakerDilmah Founder Merrill J. Fernando - was honoured in the United Kingdom with the FIRST Award for Responsible Capitalism 2016, on November 30 at the Royal Automobile Club, London. The Award recognises business ethics, emphasising his unique philosophy of making business a matter of human service.

At the presentation of the Award by Rt. Hon. Philip Hammond MP., Chancellor of the Exchequer, at the Royal Automobile Club in London, Merrill J. Fernando explained, “When I look back on my life, for many years, I believe I was very lucky. Ten years ago, I realised it was divine guidance. I owe everything to Almighty God. The Holy Bible states that what we spend on charity is lending to God and God repays us in abundance. I am a beneficiary of that abundance, which I share generously.”

In selecting the recipient of the Award, the judges were looking for a business leader who has demonstrated social responsibility as an integral part of commercial success; someone who has run a company in a clearly responsible way. The Dilmah Founder received the main Award whilst two special awards were also presented. Commended recipients were judged on their concern for the environment and the local communities in which their companies and organisations are active.

The FIRST Award summarises the reason for the selection of Dilmah Founder. “The First Award for Responsible Capitalism 2016 is awarded to Merrill Joseph Fernando Founder and Chairman MJF Group who, over more than four decades has been responsible for establishing and enhancing the reputation of Ceylon Tea in an exemplary manner; and in so doing has brought great benefits to his native country, improved immeasurably the conditions of plantation workers and made a particular success of helping to improve the lives and prospects of underprivileged children and deprived communities.”

Dilmah Fun Tea Selection

It is often said that at the heart of gastronomy is the harmony of flavours on the tongue. It is with this principle in mind that the selection of Dilmah Fun Teas was crafted. Each tea is designed to offer a taste experience that is as pleasurable as it is authentic and functional.

“Apple - The tea is so nourishing with a fascinating smell that you would not stop after the first sip. I love the apple flavour.”

K

FORMATS

String & Tag Bags/Cup Bags

Individually Foil Wrapped Bags

Available in Bulk Food Service packs

“Love this - I have tried peppermint leaves in the past and did not like them till I had a cup of Dilmah’s Pure Peppermint and I love it now. It is perfect after a big meal or any time you just want a refreshing drink.”

S. F.

FORMATS

String & Tag Bags/Cup Bags

Individually Foil Wrapped Bags

Available in Bulk Food Service packs

Dilmah Infusions

Our new Infusions have a beautiful combination of the elegance of spices, herbs and their amazing functional ability. At the heart of several of our Infusions is Rooibos - either the green or unfermented Rooibos which is known as an anti-diabetic and anti-carcinogen. In composing these beautiful Infusions, we emphasised authentic, Sri Lankan spices, so you have wonderful provenance in every sip.

The infusions are available in 21 varieties and the above formats.

Dilmah’s Natural Infusions wins the Australian consumer award for Product of the Year 2020. Winner tea category, survey of 10,000 people by Nielsen

Arana Natural Herbal Infusion

Amidst the rich biodiversity of Sri Lanka, there is a sacred part of our ancient forests – the forest within – where the herbs, roots and spices used for traditional, Sri Lankan healing are grown. That is the ‘Arana’, where nature induces tranquility & shares her pristine goodness. Our herbal teas and infusions are named Arana because we strive to echo the same respect for nature while offering the genuine, plant based goodness that our ancestors and ayurvedic physicians today take pride in. We invite you to experience authentic, natural, goodness inspired by three millennia of traditional healing.

So many reasons why I have chosen to drink Dilmah Tea for just over 30 years. Bless you all for your commitment to valuing the people, the land, the environment, and your business, which leads to incredibly tasty tea.

FORMATS AVAILABLE

Pot Bags/Tagless

4g Tag Tea Bags

Available in Bulk Food Service packs

The Arana Teas are available in 10 varieties and the above formats

“Dilmah is wonderful tea and the exceptional philosophy you have regarding your company, in relation to the community, is very refreshing.”

S FORMATS

Individually Foil Wrapped Bags

Available in Bulk Food Service packs

Dilmah Organic Selection

Dilmah presents a selection of certified organic teas and infusions designed to enhance a natural lifestyle. Dilmah Organic includes pure tea and natural organic herbal infusions in a fusion developed uniquely by Dilmah. The teas and infusions are IMO certified and include Black tea, Green tea and Infusions.

Dilmah’s Organic Range wins the Australian consumer award for Product of the Year 2022. Winner tea category, survey of 5,000 people by Nielsen

The teas and infusions are available in 8 varieties and the above formats.

Dilmah Gourmet Tea Selection

The specialty tea selection includes the popular Ceylon Supreme, English Breakfast, English Afternoon, Earl Grey, Irish Breakfast and Darjeeling. Dilmah provides exclusively authentic, traditional real tea. The speciality selections bring back the original taste profiles which made these teas famous. Each Speciality tea has its own distinctive taste and character.

Well known Food & Beverage Writer, Fiona Beckett had this to say in The Times; “Dilmah Earl Grey tea is the best I’ve ever tasted - and the strong Breakfast Tea and Afternoon Tea are good, too.” - The Times, London 20th October, 2001

“Dilmah Ceylon Supreme is my absolute favourite tea. It has a full-bodied flavour but is never bitter. It has a lovely, soft finish on the palate and suits all times of the day. I am yet to find a tea that comes close to Ceylon Supreme - just add hot water for ‘heaven in a cup’! “

Bags/Tagless

&

Bags/Cup Bags

Foil Wrapped Bags

in Bulk Food Service packs

FORMATS

Individually Wrapped Biodegradable Bags

Yum Tea & Herb Inspired Deliciousness

Yum is seriously tea inspired deliciousness for lovers of life. It’s great tea .. not the ordinary stuff.. single origin, ethically packed right where it is grown with kindness to people and planet. We do that, to protect the taste and antioxidant goodness in every cuppa while fulfilling our Founder’s commitment to brewing kindness in every cup.

The Yum Teas are available in 10 varieties

4g Family Leaf Tea Bag

The Dilmah Family Leaf Tea Bag is a Dilmah innovation for the ease of brewing tea for two. Featuring a unique tag that can be attached onto a teapot handle, the Family Leaf Tea Bag is ideal for hospitality venues and is available in selected varieties of the Gourmet, Green Tea and Herbal Infusion ranges.

I switched to Dilmah when it first came out and I’m still with it! It’s absolutely the best!!

S E

FORMATS AVAILABLE

4g Tag Tea Bags

Available in Bulk Food Service packs

FORMATS AVAILABLE

Dilmah Finest

Capturing the care, generations of craftsmanship and personal pride that inspires every single cup of the finest tea. A limited batch that has the personal signature of our founder - the world’s most famous tea maker : Merril J. Fernando.

The teas are available in 20 varieties and the above formats.

Luxury Leaf Tea Bags

Dilmah Founder

Merrill J. Fernando awarded honorary doctorate

“This honorary doctorate, only the fourth to be bestowed upon an international recipient, celebrates his prowess in business and science, but also his commitment to ethical food production and his philanthropic activities that has seen Dilmah known for its commitment to people,”

- Vice-Chancellor Professor Jan Thomas -

He was nominated for the honorary doctorate by the Pro Vice Chancellor College of Sciences, Professor Ray Geor, together with Distinguished Professor Paul Moughan, director Massey University’s renowned Riddet Institute.

Merrill J. Fernando has had a long association with both the university and its institute, supporting doctorate research and as a keynote speaker at the 2018 Australasian Business Ethics Network conference held at Massey University last year.

Massey University Vice-Chancellor Professor Jan Thomas says the honorary doctorate recognizes Merrill J.

Fernando’s great contribution to the food industry globally as well as his strong connection with Massey through research collaborations, including work into the antioxidant and health properties of tea.

“This honorary doctorate, only the fourth to be bestowed upon an international recipient, celebrates his prowess in business and science, but also his commitment to ethical food production and his philanthropic activities that has seen Dilmah known for its commitment to people,” Professor Thomas says. “We are proud to welcome Mr Fernando amongst our ranks and welcome further collaboration in future.”

Lifetime Achievement Award by World Association of Chefs

Sri Lankan Tea pioneer Merrill J. Fernando was honoured at the WorldChefs Congress 2018 with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award for his extraordinary passion and commitment to tea and for his unique philosophy of making business a matter of human service.

Amongst the outcomes of the Dilmah philosophy is the Empower Culinary School, a WorldChefs approved training school that offers culinary training free of charge to young women and men who are economically, socially or otherwise disadvantaged. Amongst those that have benefited from the Empower School are youth with cerebral palsy, down syndrome amongst other typical persons. The second Empower Culinary & Hospitality School

was opened at the MJF Centre East, the largest privately funded charitable initiative in Sri Lanka, which is designed to serve differently abled children, youth, women and communities that are economically disadvantaged through the principle of empowerment with dignity.

Dilmah Inspiration Selection

Dilmah Inspirations offers a selection of the finest gourmet black, green and oolong teas. The teas & infusions are offered in pure, natural form or in inspired combinations featuring authentic, artisanal and ethical teas, flavours, herbs, roots and spices. Each of our Inspirations is an experience with perfectly selected herbs, and expertly crafted tea and spice chai, offering tea that is infused with deliciousness and natural wellness.

Dilmah’s Inspirations wins the Australian consumer award for Product of the Year 2021. Winner tea category, survey of 8,000 people by Nielsen

Taste UK awarded our Inspiration range Rose with French Vanilla tea a Star

Made from a true artisanal method and unmatched devotion

FORMATS

The teas and infusions are available in 7 varieties and the above formats

Taste UK awarded our Inspiration range Springtime Oolong tea a 2-Star tea a Star accolade for its phenomena taste.

Luxury Leaf Tea Bags

Great

Great

accolade for its taste.

“I just wanted to send through a compliment on the Dilmah Exceptional tea range. I am an avid tea drinker; first tried a number of varieties in the Qantas lounge in Hong Kong airport, and was very impressed by the variety and flavours... Thanks a lot and keep up the great work!”

G. L.

Dilmah Exceptional Selection

in Bulk Food Service packs

www.dilmahexceptional.com

The Dilmah Exceptional teas and infusions offer handpicked teas and herbal infusions which are selected for their quality, fragrance and character. Gourmet Ceylon black and green teas, herbal infusions in deliciously different combinations. All are exceptional, forming together a contemporary and indulgent selection that fuse the 5,000 year history of tea and herbs with 21st century taste and style.

Vivid Tea Selection by Dilmah

True lovers of tea know that together with an explosion of flavours, pure tea bursts in colour, painting its own story in the process. Through this, its character, personality and vibrance is portrayed forging a connection of sorts between the drinker and the tea. Believing in the potential and versatility of tea, Dilmah wanted to enhance this connection and through this, the Vivid range came into being. A gallery of new teas exploding with new flavours such as Ceylon Tea with Pomegranate, Springtime Chocolate Mint and Gentle Minty Green Tea were some of the delights introduced to the world.

A teamaker’s canvas… an explosion of colourful flavours each as different as the next!

in Bulk Food Service packs

dilmahtea.com/vivid-tea/

Loose Leaf Tea Luxury Leaf Tea Bags

Sachets

Milestone etched in time. These teas are truly fitting to celebrating 25 years of the best. Congratulations!

A.L.

Dilmah Silver Jubilee Gourmet

Available in Bulk Food Service packs

dilmahtea.com/silver-jubilee/

Dilmah tea had made a mark with its fresh, single origin, 100% pure Ceylon tea. However, we needed to produce something spectacular to celebrate 25 years infused in the goodness of Dilmah tea. To explore its diverse varieties whilst remaining true to its origins, and giving this 5000 year old herb a touch of the 21st century whilst embracing the time of its ancestors. Introducing the Silver Jubilee Gourmet range was a fitting celebration for the tapestry of tea Dilmah has woven across, over two decades. Revel in the flavours of Blood Orange & Eucalyptus, Mandarin & Marzipan Pekoe and Pure Darjeeling Single Region Tea.

Dilmah Watte Boutique Tea

The Dilmah WATTE (meaning estate) series represent the unique qualities of select tea gardens in the four primary Ceylon Tea growing regions: Ran Watte (peak elevation), Uda Watte (high elevation), Meda Watte (mid elevation) and Yata Watte (low elevation). The unique aspects of a place - climate, soil and topography - influences and shapes the tea made there and gives it a specific personality, much like terroir in wine.

“Fabulous union of earth & sun - a very stimulating brew, full of rich earthiness, caressed under a gentle baking from the sun. A truly remarkable gift from the gods of holy Lanka!!”

watteboutiquetea.com

“If Prince of Kandy is a prince - also from its name - then Nuwara Eliya has become the princess, in my mind. I love ‘her’ sweetness, which seems to differ that two. Simply a beautiful tea.”

M. D.

t-Series Designer

Loose Leaf Tea

Luxury Leaf Tea Bags

Tea Sachets

Available in Bulk Food Service packs

teatimerocks.com

Gourmet Teas by Dilmah

A tea for every occasion. Dilmah t-Series presents a collection of teas that are known around the world only for their excellence. Teas so different that there is a tea for every mood. The range presents a vast array of designer gourmet teas including Very Special Rare Tea like the Ceylon Silver Tips and Seasonal Flush.

Dilmah 85 Reserve

Celebrating the year in which our Founrder, Merrill J. Fernando, first offered the world a tea with the assurance of Quality & Integrity. Dilmah 85 Reserve is a selection of our finest handmade small batch teas. Some pure, others ever-so delicately scented with natural flavours. Each honouring the art of the World’s Most Experienced Tea Grower.

Always on our table. For everyone in the family. Dilmah has been with us for years. The blend the smoothness the taste the veraities. No one in the world can beat them. Thank you Mr.Fernando and family.

M D

FORMATS AVAILABLE

Available in Bulk Food Service packs The teas and infusions are available in 6 varieties and the above formats.

Luxury Leaf Tea Bags

“When you first sip this tea early in the morning, you close your eyes. It is just to remind you that even though you are awake, you are still dreaming. Thanks for this sensorial trip.”

M. R.

The Teamaker’s Private Reserve by Dilmah

The Teamaker’s Private Reserve is an eclectic collection of rare, fine teas celebrating the variety, the individuality and the spectrum of taste and aroma that only teamakers know and relish. Each handpicked by Merrill J. Fernando, Founder of Dilmah, they are chosen to present the indulgent pleasure in tea, bringing together some very special teas, limited in availability, some rare and all representing the finest teas in the world.

Dilmah Seasonal Flush

Very Special Rare Tea

Dilmah’s Seasonal Flush teas are quite simply the most exclusive of all teas, and a true tea connoisseur’s dream. Sri Lanka is blessed with two distinct weather systems affecting the tea country at different times. The resulting Dimbula and Uva Seasonal Teas, though rare, are said to be chief amongst the reasons why Ceylon Tea was always considered to be the finest in the world. They are unique in taste, and embody the sense of place and time – terroir in tea - perfectly.

The two highly prized seasons in the island are in February or March, and the other in August or September. On several occasions over the last few years, the Seasonal Flush has been cancelled for want of proper weather conditions – such is our insistence on perfection.

“Congratulations - I am very, very impressed by this green tea (Seasonal Flush Park Estate Emerald Green OP1) - if I tasted it blind, I would have thought it to be a top end Japanese green tea in the semi Gyokuro style! Wow!“

Edwin Soon: Oenologist and author of

‘The Dilmah Way of Tea’

I“I love your tea and today I was given a present for Christmas, one of your 2 cup tea pots, I have already used it. I enjoy many cups of Dilmah per day and my wife says I am a Dilmaholic!!”

FORMATS

Loose Leaf Tea

String & Tag Bags/Cup Bags

Individually Foil Wrapped Bags

Luxury Leaf Tea Bags

Tea Sachets

Dilmah Gift of Tea

A gift of goodness in taste, and wellness: The Dilmah Gift of Tea range presents a series of gift selections for everyday gifting and special occasions. With a range of price options to suit your budget and customisable gift options for corporates and organisations.

Dilmah Iced Tea

Dilmah’s relentless commitment to delivering the best tea to the world has seen the company take over five years to develop a premium Iced Tea using tea leaves grown and handpicked from the family tea gardens in Sri Lanka. The result is a great tasting range of authentic and ethical Iced Teas, which are also a natural source of antioxidants.

The iced teas are available in in multiple flavours

“How does place matter..? It’s the moment. And that moment is when you are thirsty and get the first “sip” of Dilmah.... AAAAAAAAAAAAAH”

O. M.

FORMATS

Glass Bottles

Tetra Pack

“Dilmah RTD Iced Tea is a completely different beverage from all other Iced Teas sold in the market.”

FORMATS

Dilmah Real Tea Cordial

The Dilmah Tea Cordial is made from fresh tea, & not from teas which had been processed several months ago. It is the only tea concentrate made with 100% Pure Ceylon Tea, sourced from a single estate. The fresh tea is converted to a high quality concentrate within hours of harvesting. It is made at a state of the art, ISO 9001: 2008 & ISO 22000:2005 certified manufacturing facility based on the family tea garden where the black tea is produced. This helps lock in the freshness, goodness and the real taste of garden fresh, single estate Ceylon Tea. Voted the Best New Product at the WA Oceanafest 2015 event in Perth

PET Bottles

The Tea Cordials are available in 6 varieties

Dilmah Elixir of Ceylon Tea

Natural extract of handpicked Ceylon Tea for Iced Tea, Infused Water, Tea Mixology, Tea Shakes and Smoothies. Made with perfect provenance, fresh on our Rilhena Tea Garden in Sri Lanka’s Ratnapura region. This extract contains the same taste and freshness of garden fresh tea, and is rich in antioxidants.

“The legacy of Dilmah is not only for Malik and Dilhan but for the whole country.”

Malinga H. Gunaratne/ Tea Planter

The Elixir of Ceylon Teas are available in 13 varieties

FORMATS

PET Bottles

Glass Bottles

elixirofceylontea.com/

“Do Try It”. Merrill J. Fernando! I always rememeber. And we do drink it!

J G

FORMATS

Wild Island

Our ingredients are grown amidst rich biodiversity and are cared for and harvested by artisans for whom the rhythm of nature, the exotic taste and goodness in our ingredients can never be compromised. From the fragrant, woody sweetness of our Ceylon Cinnamon prized since biblical times, to the savoury deliciousness of our Moringa - the miracle tree, the alluring citrussy earthiness of the Coriander, and the vitality of Gotukola - the herb of longevity, our ancient recipes for harmony and wellness are recorded on ola leaf manuscripts, passed down through generations of ayurveda Specialists. Wild Island is the untold story of an extraordinary wellness gastronomy, a truly Sri Lankan tradition of holistic health intertwined with the exotic deliciousness of herbs, spices, nuts and roots, crafted by Mother Nature, offered from the hearts of our communities.

The Wild Island teas are available in 5 varieties and the above formats

Loose Leaf Tea

Luxury Leaf Tea Bags wildisland.lk/

t-Lounge by Dilmah

‘Totally relaxing environment with nice tea taste. Well trained staffs and really friendly chef who can recommend to you good food and tea types. I love this place, will visit here every time I come to Sri Lanka!’

JK

The t-Lounge is an upscale, elegant place designed around the enjoyment and appreciation of fine tea; complemented by light snacks and tea inspired food and beverages. The t-Lounge by Dilmah is unique in that our emphasis on tea is founded on our passionate commitment to tea as tea growers and a family business; established and headed by the world’s most experienced tea maker; the first tea grower to offer his tea direct to tea drinkers around the world.

The t-Lounge offers casual visitors an inspiring ambiance with uniquely healthy and innovative tea and tea based drinks. Tea cocktails and mocktails enhance the appeal of fine tea made in the traditional artisanal manner. These are served with cakes, pastries, crêpes and waffles that maintain the Dilmah commitment to nutritious, healthy and sustainable food. For the tea aficionado, Seasonal and Single Estate teas are exclusively available at t-Lounge by Dilmah, while tea education in cooperation with the Dilmah School of Tea, tea tasting events and a Leaf & Artisan Tea Society is dedicated to tea appreciation and tea inspired events for members.

The t-Lounge by Dilmah offers the most comprehensive and authentic tea experience, which is especially relevant to the millennial generation which is leading a renaissance in tea--centred on the authenticity of tea and teas that are genuinely different. Dilmah as a tea grower is uniquely able to deliver on that promise whilst maintaining the integrity, ethics and authenticity of the experience and every element within it.

www.dilmaht-lounge.com

‘Fine tea has the ability to dignify food in a way that no other beverage can. Functionally, tea is an elegant accompaniment to food for its ability to cleanse the palate of fats, sweetness and prepare the taste buds to appreciate the next dish. Good food, good tea, delicious individually but together having the potential to produce a magical sensation on the palate.’

Dilhan C. Fernando Son of Dilmah Founder Merrill J Fernando

Brew 1867

Exceptional Ceylon Tea & Ceylon Coffee indulgently complemented by sweet and savoury deliciousness in good food, for casual takeaway. Paradise Island’s two great beverages and our homemade salads, wraps, bagels, paninis, cakes, cookies, tea ice creams and more make mornings, afternoons and evenings deliciously indulgent. Savour our island’s finest brews, and her light, loaded or wonderfully decadent cuisine.

1867 was the year that Ceylon Coffee gave way to Ceylon Tea, over a century later both are nostalgically reunited at Brew 1867 for the best of both worlds.

This is an industry that has been incredibly slow to innovate, and relatively tiny Dilmah has showed it how.

William Gorman

Executive Chairman of Britain’s Tea Council

Tea for Travel & Hospitality

With the resurgence of tea and the increased appreciation of tea culture, tea has become a modern must-have experience within the global hospitality industry. Dilmah fuses quality, authenticity, passion and ethics with the romance and sensory adventure that tea offers to form the Seven Star Luxury Tea Experience which aims to change the way the world perceives tea.

A SEVEN STAR LUXURY TEA EXPERIENCE IN HOSPITALITY

With the sophistication of tea and the aura of opulence and rich heritage it commands, tea lends itself well to be placed as an essential in the modern world. The Dilmah Seven Star Luxury Tea Experience is designed to offer a unique experience in tea to guests in any hospitality situation. Dilmah offers a wide range of products specially created for the travel and hospitality sector. Additionally, the much needed training in the art of tea and knowledge sharing takes place through custom designed programmes as well as the Dilmah School of Tea sessions.

www.sevenstartea.com

TEA IN THE 21ST CENTURY

From its selection of tea to the events with tea at the heart of it, Dilmah has always been a thought leader in the ever widening circle of the global tea industry. It stems from the visionary thinking of the Founder of Dilmah who believes that tea is something that certainly goes beyond one’s daily cuppa. Many events have been designed around fresh, new ideas bringing about a paradigm shift in the way the world looks at tea, breathing new life in to this age-old herb, infusing it with colour and depth.

Tea mixology is about tea in drinks, tea gastronomy is about tea in food, and tea inspired is about anything… but it must have an element of tea in it. It is where tea infused masterpieces are brought to life. Our exploration of ‘tea gastronomy’ began in 1999 with roast chicken marinated in Ceylon Tea. Over the years, it became apparent that the sensorial and functional justification for the combination of tea and food was more than just a coincidence. There is a tea for every moment, for every mood, and for every occasion. There is a tea for every fruit, vegetable and meat, a tea for every culinary style and a tea whose unique personality matches every person’s individual taste.

As part of a dish, as an element in mixology or an ingredient, as a part of savoury and sweet morsels and spirits, there can be no doubt of it. In the sensations that tea offers- its taste, mouthfeel, and in its natural goodness, there is a delicious harmony in the union of tea and food. Our School of Tea sessions also include in-depth training on this aspect.

Tea Gastronomy

At the heart of gastronomy, there is tea. Dilmah was a pioneer in the area of tea gastronomy, having started an exploration of the harmonious marriage of flavour and texture in tea and food in the 1990s. Gastronomy could be considered as the richest medium in which one could understand the complexity in tea. The best expression is to marry together these complexities and the expertise of the culinary artist in connection with gastronomy.

teagastronomy.com

“What is very interesting when you see how Dilmah has pushed the boundaries of tea they are pushing the boundaries in similar ways to how wine has been approached with different origins, different heights, different flavours - it becomes very interesting to see how that can marry not only in cooking but also used as a pairing to food like you do in wine, so it is a great experience actually, it’s a huge eye opener!”

Ragnar Fridriksson Managing Director of WACS

Dilmah Real High Tea,

THE REVOLUTION FOR THE 21ST CENTURY

AFTERNOON TEA

realhightea.dilmahtea.com

The tradition of afternoon High Tea is said to have begun in the 18th century, aided by Anna Maria Stanhope, Duchess of Bedford who invited friends to tea with cakes and pastries at 5 o’clock. The modern interpretation of Afternoon Tea is compromised by an over emphasis on food, forgetting the central element- tea.

It all started with a desire to offer tea to a new generation. Tea with style, substance and natural goodness. We chose to transform the world’s tea ceremony - Afternoon Tea. The most popular global tea drinking occasion, so clearly defined by 18th century tradition, more than two centuries later. The Dilmah Real High Tea Challenge stirred up the world of tea. Tea is luxury. Tea is indulgence. Tea is without parallel. It was clear that there is no better way to express the diversity, subtle influence of nature on taste, flavour, fragrance, character of tea than through gastronomy.

The Dilmah Real High Tea Challenge has shared the natural goodness, serenity and luxurious indulgence in tea with the world, at challenges from Paris to Perth, Auckland to Amsterdam. Our tea inspired Challengers are all exceptional - pioneers in reimagining the experience of the world’s most popular beverage after water. Together we are creating history as we bring tea into the 21st Century, and its sublime, natural goodness and pleasure with a new generation.

Dilmah pioneered the concept of a Real High Tea Competition in 2007 to challenge chefs and tea

aficionados to understand tea, its variety and the limitless possibilities in tea gastronomy and tea mixology. Dilmah Real High Tea is a contemporary approach to redefining the 21st Century High Tea and to enhance the importance of Tea as an ingredient and as a pairing within Gastronomy. The simple objective is to put the central theme, central component ‘Tea’ back in High Tea with authenticity and quality.

The Dilmah Real High Tea Global Challenge was conducted from 1st to 3rd July 2015 in Colombo, Sri Lanka. 21 teams from 14 countries competed over the course of these 3 days for the top spot. The Leaf and Artisan Trophy was awarded to the winner who presented the ultimate afternoon tea for the 21st century, revolutionising the concept of High Tea. The panel of judges consisted of Bernd Uber, Simon Gault, Peter Kuruvita and Dilhan C. Fernando. The award ceremony was held on the 4th of July, Laurent Loudeac and Camille Furminieux from Museum Art Hotel New Zealand were declared the Dilmah Global High Tea Champions.

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The Dilmah Real High Tea Challenge was initiated in 2007, when Dilmah Founder - Merrill J. Fernando felt that the concept of High Tea had lost its affinity with its origins. He felt that tea had lost its rightful flair, pushed down to the bottom of menus without its due place. A passionate tea grower who worked tirelessly to share the joy of ‘real’ tea with the tea lovers around the world, he vowed to put the tea back in High Tea. Thus Dilmah Real High Tea was born.

Held in partnership with the World Association of Chefs Societies (WACS), the primary objective of the competition is to put the ‘tea’ back in high tea, giving it authenticity while enhancing its overall quality. The criteria for judging is very simple; understanding the exact influence of terroir, the awareness of rationale, a sound knowledge of the exact taste of different teas, the perfect brew, the use of sustainable ingredients ideally sourced from a family business which effectively reflect the family values that have always been an integral part of Dilmah.

Tea, known as Camellia sinensis in the botanical world, has a history of over 5000 years steeped in culture and tradition. Dilmah successfully resurrected the versatile traits of this herb through the introduction and implementation of tea gastronomy and mixology, where the presence of tea in a setting exudes other characteristics than that of being a mere beverage. The health benefits of tea were hailed more profoundly since its use not only as a drink, but also an ingredient in food. Its popularity in the 21st century is so much so, that tea can be safely concluded to be the most consumed beverage after water.

The beauty of tea and its attraction amongst tea-lovers lies in its varying results on the senses in taste, aroma and smell based on each tea’s individual terroir. Weather conditions play an integral role in the formation and compound structure of different teas and their flavours which are then transferred onto us. Hence tea comes in a multitude of options enabling us to differentiate and utilise it across a range of culinary platforms. Welcome to Dilmah Real High Tea: Where tea is pushed beyond the rim.

The Mixologists & The Teamaker

realhightea.dilmahtea.com

Tea mixology is the art of respectfully combining nature’s most indulgent herbal beverage, with other ingredients to produce tea inspired cocktails, mocktails and shooters. Mixing different ingredients to produce harmony on the palate is an art itself. Mixology with tea however is even more demanding on the expertise and commitment of the tea mixologist for it requires an understanding of the unique identity of each tea.

“I know now that when I go back to Australia, everything that I see, smell and touch that is to do with a product of tea, it is a completely new world.”

- Simon Toohey, Celebrity Mixologist, Australia-

The Chefs and The Teamaker

chefsandtheteamaker.dilmahtea.com

In celebration of the 21st anniversary of Dilmah in 2009, the family tea company launched an innovative programme that fulfils the objective of integrating tea, the 21st century beverage, into modern lifestyles.

The first Chefs and the Teamaker was held in 2008, when Sri Lankan born Australian Chef, Peter Kuruvita gathered 8 celebrated Chefs from Australia to experience an adventurous culinary journey in Sri Lanka. Subsequently the second session of ‘The Chefs and the Tea Maker’ adventure took place in 2010, where Chefs from 12 different countries participated in this culinary expedition. The countries represented by the Chefs were, New Zealand, Australia, Belgium, Chile, Czech Republic, India, Indonesia, Lithuania, Maldives, Netherlands, Poland and Sri Lanka.

In early May 2014, a group of prominent chefs from ten different countries travelled a third time to Sri Lanka to meet the teamaker Merrill J. Fernando and to explore the diversity and limitless possibilities of tea and its terroir; and, of course, to cook with tea using it as an ingredient. They took their experience back to the lands where they came from to create something extraordinary using their talent and the surprising versatility of this simple herb.

These Chefs were inspired to create Tea infused food and beverage through an exciting culinary journey through out Sri Lanka, which ultimately led to publishing an exquisite book of a world class Tea infused recipes.

Tea in Five Senses

teainfivesenses.teagastronomy.com

At the heart of Dilmah lies the notion that fine tea is a pleasure to be experienced, literally in every sense.

‘Tea in Five Senses’ is an innovation to create an understanding of the versatility and the tantalising luxury of tea in all senses. In the case of fine tea, the sophistication lies beyond, in appreciating tea on the eye, the nose, and understanding the influence of nature in crafting a magical interrelationship amongst these. Further exploring, Dilmah has introduced the fourth sense of touch or the texture of the leaf, in the case of tea, is as revealing of the personality of tea as are its aroma or appearance. In the fifth sense, the tranquility in tea is magnified. In the same way that harmony of flavour on the tongue produces pleasure, the relationship that exists amongst taste, aroma and sound, is beautiful in its harmony.

“Our adventure in the School of Tea is about extending the 3 senses that have been the basis of appreciation over the last 5000 years. The two additional senses concern the sense of touch and sense of sound. It consists of matching the elegance, character & personality of each tea with a similar or equivalent harmonious match in sound”

-

Dilhan C. Fernando, son of Dilmah Founder Merrill J. Fernando-

PROFESSIONAL

Tea Inspiration for the 21st Century

For Professional, Next Gen, Aficionados & Junior www.teainspired.com

Tea Inspiration for the 21st Century - Ti21 - is a global contest designed by Ceylon Tea growing family Dilmah, to express the natural sophistication of fine tea through gastronomy and mixology, for morning, afternoon and evening. TI21 challenges Chefs, Sommeliers, Tea Aficionados and young culinary enthusiasts to present the unique goodness in tea as well as the fingerprint of nature that are both beautifully expressed in the terroir of handcrafted Tea. It is a demanding challenge that tests the skills of every contestant with the emphasis on respect for tea while requiring expertise in understanding tea as a herbal beverage, as a complement to food, and as an ingredient in mixology and gastronomy. The contest is exacting in its emphasis on crafting a contemporary, tea inspired experience that honours the seven dimensions on which the contest is judged, including Sustainability, Cultural context, Heritage and of course Taste. Tea Inspiration for the 21st Century is the evolution of the revolution in tea that Dilmah sparked through its pioneering Real High Tea Challenge; that contest involved 710 contestants in 14 countries and challenged dated concepts of afternoon tea. TI21 continues that spirit in taking the message of great Taste, natural Goodness and ethical Purpose in fine tea, to a new generation with 21st Century style.

“Tea Inspiration for the 21st Century is about crafting an experience across morning, afternoon and evening. It is designed to express the incredible sophistication and beauty of taste, appearance and aroma in tea, through gastronomy and mixology.”

- Dilhan C. Fernando, Son of Dilmah Founder Merrill J. Fernando-

AFICIONADOS

JUNIOR

The name Camellia Epicurean, derived from Camellia sinensis – the scientific name for tea, is thought innovation pioneered into a tea gastronomy concept by Dilmah in 2010. It expresses the true beauty of nature’s fingerprint on each tea with tea gastronomy. Honouring the philosophy behind Camellia Epicurean, chefs and mixologists would create tea inspired masterpieces to craft an exquisite fine dining experience in tea.

The reasoning behind the term ‘Camellia Epicurean’ is gastronomy and the hedonistic pleasure of gastronomy expressed through tea. Tea has a unique ability in its marriage with food and it can be used elegantly within food in several dimensions; firstly with aroma, secondly with flavour and thirdly with texture however it requires a certain degree of artistry. When tea is combined with food, the food takes something from the tea, and in turn the tea too takes something from the food. Camellia Epicurean is a visual presentation of a tea inspired experience in order to garner enthusiasm for replication of the same with guests.

School of Tea

“I really enjoyed myself throughout the whole trip and have since gained further knowledge about tea. I will definitely share the experience and knowledge from this trip with people I meet”

- SL, Singapore

Dilmah has traditionally taken the lead in bringing innovation to a global tea category that has suffered a decline as a result of commoditisation. Signature events such as the Dilmah Thé Culinaire, Dilmah Tea Sommelier, Chefs & the Teamaker, Tea in Five Senses, Mixologists and the Teamaker and Real High Tea and Tea Inspiration for the 21st Century are innovations in the tea category that seek to educate and inspire hospitality professionals to offer their guests a completely new tea experience. The events foster greater interest in quality tea, and greater respect for this healthy, natural and versatile beverage.

The Dilmah School of Tea is a tea program that seeks to inspire passion in tea through knowledge of the artisanal aspects of tea amongst hospitality professionals, tea aficionados and consumers. The emphasis is on the importance of Real Tea and the versatility of this natural herb in tea gastronomy, food pairing and tea mixology.

The first Dilmah School of Tea, was established in 2009 with the aim of upholding the traditions of tea, by cultivating a respect for tea and sharing its rich cultural heritage. The teamaker Merrill J. Fernando and his sons have a unique perspective on tea. Their desire to share the special pleasure in real tea is complemented by an emphasis on educating tea drinkers led to the establishment of the school.

Dilmah and the Lyon based centre of culinary and hospitality excellence, Institut Paul Bocuse announced a partnership in establishing the first International Tea School in October 2009. In the innovative style of Paul Bocuse, the Chairman of the Institute and one of the finest Chefs of the 20th century, and Dilmah Tea, the Dilmah Tea School at the Institute is a groundbreaking venture.

The Institut Paul Bocuse (IPB) (www.institutpaulbocuse.com), formed in 1990, is a culinary and hospitality institution established by renowned French Chef, Paul Bocuse, and Gerard Pelisson, the President of the Institute and Co-Founder of the Accor Group.

This is the world’s first consumer and hospitality tea school, which unlike existing tea training facilities, seeks to educate professionals in the hospitality and culinary industries - those in the ‘front lines’ of customer service internationally, in the art of preparing and presenting tea with an understanding of the attributes of tea. The partnership is designed to inspire passion in tea through knowledge of the artisanal aspects of tea.

www.schooloftea.org

PARTNERSHIP WITH WACS

Dilmah’s School of Tea is a World Association of Chefs’ Societies (WACS) recognised culinary education institution. WACS is a World Chef ‘s body consisting of 10 million chefs and the Dilmah School of Tea is the first and only WACS certified Tea School.

Quality Assurance

“Dear Mr. Merrill J. Fernando, Thank you, for your delicious teas! I have been enjoying them for years now & always feel refreshed & extremely grateful for the exceptional quality & flavour of your teas. I just want you & your family to know how much your commitment & dedication to quality is very much appreciated.”

L.

W.

Every stage of the production process, from the receiving point (incoming stage) to the final packaging, is subjected to stringent quality control and laboratory testing to ensure that the final product exceeds the customer’s most exacting specifications. All teas shipped from our facility meet high standards of hygiene and quality. The in-house state of the art Chemical and Microbiological laboratory, which is ISO/ IEC 17025 Accredited , certifies that all shipments comply with International Regulatory requirements on Food Safety. Furthermore the organisation is certified for ISO 9001, FSSC 22000, BRC and ISO 14001 standards.

THE COMPANY IS CERTIFIED IN COMPLIANCE WITH

ISO 9001: 2015 –Quality Management System Standard

Certifying body: DNV GL Business Assurance

FSSC 22000 –Certification scheme for food Safety Systems including ISO 22000, ISO/TS 22002-1 and FSSC 22000 requirements for certification

Certifying body: DNV GL Business Assurance

BRC - Global Standard for Food Safety

Certifying body: SGS

ISO 14001:2015 - Environmental Management System Standard

Certifying body: DNV GL Business Assurance

From the Tea Plant to Your Cup

Dilmah was the first producer-owned tea brand to offer tea ‘picked, perfected and packed’ at origin - Single Origin Tea from Sri Lanka, one of the finest tea countries in the world. Unlike the multi-origin blends that monopolised supermarket shelves, Dilmah offered tea that is freshly packed at origin and therefore rich in flavour and natural goodness.

At the Dilmah head office in Peliyagoda, (300,000 square feet of built up space on 4 acres, with 1200 staff), over 70 advanced tea packaging machines and stringent quality assurance standards are employed to consistently provide the finest cup of tea. Dilmah is the only fully vertically integrated tea company with ownership of some of Sri Lanka’s finest tea gardens, modern factories, printing and packaging facilities and investments in every segment of the tea industry.

MJF Holdings is the parent company of several businesses that have grown around Dilmah Tea, several of which are listed on the Colombo Stock Exchange.

The purpose of life and the purpose of business is in pursuing the possibilities to change people’s lives

Tasting Kitchen: Hong Kong

KAHAWATTE PLANTATIONS

Kahawatte Plantations has topped the Colombo tea auction averages for the last 5 years. Along with two other joint venture plantation companies, Dilmah accounts for 25 million kilograms of tea & 2.5 million kilograms of rubber annually. Kahawatte Plantations produces high quality tea and rubber on 17 estates. It is also the largest single cinnamon grower. There is an emphasis on worker relations, facilitated by the activities of the MJF Charitable Foundation.

FORBES & WALKER

Formed over 125 years ago, Forbes & Walker has a reputation for service and integrity. It is the largest tea and commodity broker in Sri Lanka, providing a quality service to growers of tea, rubber, coconut and spices since 1881.

PRINTCARE

Dilmah Tea is packed at origin in a world-class plant, operating the most technologically advanced packing machines. The manufacturing processes are ISO 9001:2008 as well as food safety certified, initially by HACCP; the first such company in any industry in Sri Lanka, and now ISO 22000. When Dilmah was created, there was a need for sophisticated packaging material then unavailable in Sri Lanka. In addition to being the supplier of Dilmah’s requirements of printed boxes, tea bag tags and envelopes, Printcare is the largest specialist packaging supplier to the tea industry globally.

MJF BEVERAGES

MJF Beverages operates the first tea concentrate plant in the country at its Rilhena Estate in South Central Sri Lanka. At the scenically located plant, fresh tea is converted to a high quality concentrate the same day, to make ready to drink and iced tea.

TIMBER CONCEPTS

Timber Concepts was formed to supply the many designs of wooden presenters used by Dilmah and other brands; it now also supplies cigar boxes for export.

THE CEYLON SPICE COMPANY

While Dilmah’s core business continues to be tea - growing, broking, packaging and marketing, Ceylon Spice Company focuses on the rich heritage of Sri Lankan spices. The company packages and exports a variety of ethically processed Sri Lankan spices in attractive packaging.

The Resplendent Sri Lanka Journey Tea, Sea & Safari

Conceived by the Fernando family, Sri Lankan tea producers & founders of Dilmah Ceylon Tea, Resplendent Ceylon’s collection of small, luxury resorts offer the discriminating traveller a remarkable circuit across Sri Lanka, with a range of authentic experiences, while contributing towards local communities & the environment through the MJF Foundation & Dilmah Conservation.

This “best of Sri Lanka” circuit features distinctively original resorts, connected by a thread of peerless service. They are the sole Sri Lankan members of Relais & Chateaux, the global fellowship of individually owned & operated luxury hotels and restaurants.

CEYLON TEA TRAILS

The world’s first tea bungalow resort is perched at an altitude of 1250 metres in Sri Lanka’s panoramic Ceylon tea region, bordering the World Heritage Central Highlands. Five historic tea planters’ bungalows, with 27 rooms in all, are connected by walking trails through stunningly beautiful Ceylon tea gardens. This is the ideal setting for trekking and biking against the breathtaking backdrop of mountains, lakes, winding roads and waterfalls. If you prefer to unwind, observe life on a working tea estate while being pampered by your butler, enjoy a spa treatment, croquet on the lawn or sunbathe alongside the pool. Or explore the lush tea fields & visit a century old factory for a gentle education in the art of Ceylon Tea. Fully Inclusive rates at Tea Trails include breakfast, lunch, afternoon cream tea, dinner, beverages including spirits & wines, laundry, WiFi, taxes & service charge.

CAPE WELIGAMA

This gorgeous cliff top resort inhabits twelve manicured acres above the Indian Ocean on Sri Lanka’s southern coast, just thirty minutes east of Galle. A collection of 39 Villas & Suites, offering the most sumptuous rooms in Sri Lanka, create the welcoming illusion of a traditional Sri Lankan village. Yet beneath terracotta-tiled rooftops, stylish interiors unfold as generously sized contemporary living quarters, each one surrounded by tropical gardens. The iconic 60m crescent shaped cliff-top infinity pool takes in sweeping, 270-degree blue views. While a diverse range of activities are on offer, from scuba diving to surfing lessons to rice paddy bicycling, you may find the greatest pleasure in simply unwinding on your private shaded terrace.

WILD COAST TENTED LODGE

This luxurious tented camp is stunningly located where the jungle meets a rugged, empty beach, next to the Yala National Park; renowned for its dense leopard population. Our uniquely shaped tents, called Cocoons & Urchins, truly represent a luxury five star resort room under canvas, offering all comforts including airconditioning. The open-air bamboo-clad bar and dining pavilion mirror the boulders scattered across the golden beach beyond and wrap around the large free-form swimming pool. Guests enjoy dailychanging menus of authentic Sri Lankan cuisine and post safari sundowners watching the Indian Ocean sunset. Fully Inclusive rates at Wild Coast include breakfast, lunch, afternoon cream tea, dinner, beverages including spirits & wines, in room mini bar, daily game drive, laundry, Wi-Fi, taxes & service charge.

CULTURAL TRIANGLE SIGIRIYA - DAMBULLA

Thirty-five rooms and suites are elevated to tree top level, with spectacular views of lakes, rice paddies & mountains, set in a 14-acre ancient forest 10 minutes from Dambulla. The resort is designed by star architect Lek Bunnag who also created Cape Weligama. Expected to open 2020, it will bring Resplendent Ceylon’s signature blend of sumptuous accommodations, personalised service, gourmet dining and authentic experiences to the Cultural Triangle, the most visited part of Sri Lanka, capped by the World Heritage Sigiriya Rock Fortress. After climbing Sigiriya or an elephant safari in the nearby National Parks, cool off in the longest swimming pool in Sri Lanka.

TRINCOMALEE NORTH EAST COAST

Design work is underway on a castaway Robinson Crusoe style low impact resort in a pristine bay near the historic port town of Trincomalee. With a 2000 year maritime history, “Trinco” sits on one the world’s finest natural harbours. It’s possibly the site of historic Gokana in the Mahavamsa (Great Chronicle), and its Shiva temple the site of Trikuta Hill in the Hindu text Vayu Purana.

The Ethical Tea Society (ETS)

The Ethical Tea Society (ETS) was established by Dilmah, in recognition of the importance of sharing one small but important aspect of the work of the MJF Charitable Foundation; the deep sense of fulfillment that is an indirect benefit of the process of changing lives.

The main function of the Dilmah Ethical Tea Society is to facilitate greater understanding and discussion around the concept - business is a matter of human service. The objective is to gain wider acceptance of the possibility of co-existence of commercial, positive, humanitarian and environmental objectives in a profitable business. The Society also has the objective of harnessing the enormous goodwill and creativity of the global family of Dilmah consumers and well wishers to benefit the underprivileged.

By purchasing Dilmah, the consumers indirectly become a part of a process of helping to improve the life of a less privileged person. Therefore, it is only logical that they share in the sense of satisfaction that comes with the philosophy of making business a matter of human service.

www.ethicalteasociety.org

“I know now that when I go back to Australia, everything that I see, smell and touch that is to do with a product of tea, it is a completely new world.”

Tasting Kitchen: Hong Kong

Business is a matter of human service

Dilmah’s purpose is uniquely aligned to drive the company’s strategic approach towards the achievement of Sri Lanka’s Sustainable Developmental Goals (SDGs). Through MJF Charitable Foundation and Dilmah Conservation, we look forward to developing and implementing conservation initiatives that are novel and timely, maximizing efficiency in the utilization of resources and efficiently addressing biodiversity and environmental concern, while leading community-driven projects, with a 3-year target to change the lives of over 18,000 women, men, girls and boys, leading to increased equity, economic prosperity and dignified empowerment for all.

Serving the poor and helping those who are less privileged and marginalized lies close to the heart of the Founder of Dilmah. It is also played an integral role of his business vision, throughout his working career.

While taking Dilmah to the world, the Founder also dreamed of ensuring that as the company profited, these benefits flowed through to the plantation industry and its workforce and to the upliftment of poorer communities at large.

MJF CHARITABLE FOUNDATION

The Foundation was established to ensure that philanthropic endeavours are carried out in a systematic and effective manner. The focus of the Foundation revolves around longer-term engagement and sustainability; empowering individuals and their families eventually helps entire communities become self-sufficient and give back to others creating a chain of change.

The outcome has been the running of projects and programmes in 14 centres across the island, which are meaningful, eco-friendly and innovative. They allow beneficiaries to live self-sustaining and rewarding lives. The Foundation serves to embody the Founder’s philosophy and is also a tribute and symbol of appreciation to the millions of Dilmah Tea consumers around the world, who are stakeholders of the MJF Charitable Foundation.

Dilmah’s purpose is uniquely aligned

Through its work, vulnerable women, men, girls and boys are given the opportunity to control their future and give back to their communities.

www.mjffoundation.org

If only more businesses in this world adopted the way Merrill goes about his business, by giving back to their country the way Merrill does, through his Foundation that inevitably allows the poorer people of Sri Lanka make more of their lives than they could ever achieve on their own, then this would be a far better world than it currently is..

Ian R. Woodvine - Former buyer for Coles, Australia

NURTURING FUTURE DECISION-MAKERS

Through the MJF Youth Programme, youth are provided with life changing opportunities to prepare them for adulthood. Participants are taught life skills, well-being, leadership, etiquettes and other skills which will further equip them in avenues for self-discovery, entrepreneurship, vocational training, career guidance and life.

EMPOWERING THE EAST OF SRI LANKA

Sri Lanka’s East is rising, after nearly a 30 year armed conflict and ten years since its end; communities are piecing their lives together. Dilmah’s philosophy of changing lives in marginalised people through knowledge, skills, tools and inspiration, fits in ideally with the region’s zeitgeist. Since its opening in September 2018, multifaceted programmes at MJF Centre - East serve communities in 9 DS divisions.

DELIVERING - Resources for Children with Disabilities and Their Families

The National Centre for Children with Cerebral Palsy and Other Developmental Disorders (NCCCPDD) provides therapeutic services for over 350 children and youth with intellectual and neurological disabilities daily. As a Centre of Excellence, it act as a resource hub for practical education for children with cerebral palsy and other development disorders and their families as wells as caregivers, teachers and professionals.

REVAMPING RURAL MEDICAL INFRASTRUCTURE

The MJF Charitable Foundation led the hospital development projects in Kayts & Point Pedro with the intent to expedite the revival of the healthcare system in the region to ensure that the catchment population received the best possible services.

CURTISS INSTITUTE

The Curtiss Institute facilitates access to a range of IT and software related training including e-learning at no cost and aims to bridge learning divides and inequality. MS Office, courses in graphic design and even photography are some of the key courses in demand by the young people who access the Centre. Special sessions are also available to train parents and adults who do not have access to computers and the internet. Furthermore children with disabilities are also trained in IT.

CARING FOR ELDERS

MJF Foundation supports & provide caring for elders in 2 locations including one on a tea plantations estates. Infrastructure development, daily operations and health care as well as meals is supported as a part of foundation’s mandate.

ENABLING THE DIFFERENTLY ABLED

PREPARING - SCHOOL OF INSPIRATION –PRESCHOOLS FOR THE FUTURE

Located in Udawalawa & Cape Weligama, children under the age of 5 benefit through this unique model for preschools. Children engage in multisensory activities, with technology and learn all 3 of Sri Lanka’s languages. A mix of discipline and creativity also develop their cognitive skills, motor skills, sense of colour and most importantly give a head start to their formal education.

BOOSTING WOMEN CBOS

Women especially those in rural areas have tremendous potential to drive social and economic change. All women CBOs located in Aranayaka, Udawalawa & Moratuwa are supported and provided with necessary resources, training and value chain market linkages to engage in business and provide for their families without having to leave their homes and villages.

Poverty and inadequate infrastructure aggravates the plight of differentlyabled individuals, especially in less developed areas. The MJFCF supports the Monaragala and Ratmalana Schools for the Hearing & Visual Impaired and through the MJF Centres in Moratuwa and Ambalantota. The foundation also supports similar schools in more remote areas where funding is scarce.

LOCAL HEROESCHANGING LIVES

Dilmah’s Small Entrepreneurship Programme (SEP) enhances the dignity and self-worth of vulnerable women and men by providing them with the means to build a successful business. The SEP process focuses on incorporating relevant line agencies support and better supervision, monitoring and most of all for having a better selection of individuals with the real need of grants.

TRAINING - RURAL YOUTH AND VOCATIONAL SKILLS

The Diriya Resource Centres in Pahalalanda – Ampara & Siyambalanduwa provides community support, by granting youth of the village the necessary resources to rise above their challenges and successfully thread the needle of their lives. In addition to vocational training in scientific dress making & IT, Community of the area benefit through educational support sessions and SEPs on a daily basis.

INSPIRING CHILDREN TO BE THE BEST THEY CAN BE

Our Rainbow Centre initiative provides holistic development for children with special needs. The Centre was established with the vision of providing therapy and education facilities that are a disability and gender sensitive and provide safe, non-violent, inclusive and effective learning environments for less-privileged children.

Environmental Sustainability

There should be no greater IUCN appreciates the foresight and leadership of Mr. Merrill J. Fernando and the MJF Charitable Foundation for the pioneering work in recognising the need and opportunities for mainstreaming and integrating environmental aspects in business..

Julia Marton-Lefèvre Former Director General, IUCN, International Union

for Conservation of Nature

Dilmah was founded on the knowledge of its enduring connection to the land and the surrounding communities in which it operates. Dilmah Conservation is a symbol of Dilmah’s comprehensive commitment to minimizing its impact on the planet, to fostering respect for the environment and ensuring its protection by encouraging a harmonious co-existence of man and nature and the sustainable use of the environment.

Dilmah Conservation was thus initiated in 2007 to incorporate environmental conservation efforts into the work of the MJF Charitable Foundation, which focuses on social justice. Since its inception, Dilmah Conservation has engaged in numerous projects which promote research and environmental education, the conservation and protection of Sri Lanka’s biodiversity, habitat and ecosystem restoration, and empowering traditional and indigenous communities.requirements and conventions.

• We recognise that conservation of the environment is an extension of our founding commitment to human service.

• We will assess and monitor the quality and environmental impact of its operations, services and products whilst striving to include its supply chain partners and customers, where relevant and to the extent possible.

• We are committed to transparency and open communication about our environmental and social practices.

• We promote the same transparency and open communication from our partners and customers.

• We strive to be an employer of choice by providing a safe, secure and non-discriminatory working environment for our employees whose rights are fully safeguarded and who can have equal opportunity to realise their full potential.

• We promote good relationships with all communities of which we are a part and we commit to enhance their quality of life and opportunities whilst respecting their culture, way of life and heritage.

www.dilmahconservation.org

There should be no greater priority than ensuring that the quality of the air we breathe, the rainfall that provides our sustenance and the host of ecosystem services that make human life possible, are protected for our children and their generations.

- Merrill J. Fernando, Founder

CREATING NATURE CORRIDORS ACROSS OUR TEA GARDENS

The Endana Nature Corridor is a reforestation project by Dilmah that hopes to enhance the species richness within our tea estate which borders the Sinharaja Rainforests, a UNESCO designated World Heritage site and Biosphere Reserve, and restore the species diversity of a forest ecosystem fragmented by years of human activity.

THE ONE EARTH URBAN ARBORETUM - bringing

urban communities closer to forests

Dilmah Conservation’s One Earth Urban Arboretum houses 500 different trees. This diverse collection of some of Sri Lanka’s common, threatened and rare species of flora, not only contributes to increasing forest cover in the city but stands to illustrate the vital role trees play in our society, economy and day to day lives.

EXPLORING THE LIFE IN SRI LANKA’S DARK CAVES

Dilmah Conservation conducted the 4th biospeleological study, the first in four decades, to survey Sri Lanka’s dark caves, leading to the identification of 100 taxonomic groups of fauna from the 18 caves which were surveyed.

GENERATING SUSTAINABLE AND CLEAN ENERGY FOR DILMAH’S OPERATIONS

As we strive to reduce the carbon emission resulting from our operations we are adopting newer and more environmentally friendly methods to generate electricity, both solar energy and hydropower, while increasing the efficiency with which we use our resources.

CREATING HABITATS FOR BUTTERFLIES IN URBAN ENVIRONMENTS

The Dilmah Conservation Butterfly Garden located inside the MJF Centre Moratuwa, is home to over 50 species of butterflies, some of them endemic. This model garden in an urban environment is now being replicated in other locations to offer a safe haven for butterflies, whose natural life cycles are threatened by a loss of habitat and host plants.

EDUCATING AND ENCOURAGING THE CONSERVATIONIST IN EACH OF US

Our range of publications on biodiversity and heritage bring invaluable scientific information at a very affordable price, encouraging nature conservation and learning among the old and the young. Dilmah Conservation also looks towards bridging the gap between people and nature through educational programs such as field excursions, workshops and lectures.

CONSERVING SRI LANKA’S SENSITIVE MARINE HABITATS

Sri Lanka is blessed with pristine beaches while the sea is home to a diverse range of species. Dilmah Conservation’s collaboration with Department of Wildlife - Sri Lanka to document the coral reefs and shipwrecks in some of Sri Lanka’s pristine coastal areas in the north and east of the country, to ensure conservation of these habitat has advanced the declaration of Kayankerni as a Marine Sanctuary.

PLANTING 1 MILLION TREES TO ENRICH SRI LANKA’S ECONOMY AND ECOLOGY

The Greening Batticaloa initiative planted 1 million cashew plants in Sri Lanka’s eastern coast, a region which had experienced consecutive natural disasters in the past three decades. While this would help restore the region’s green cover, the cashew nuts which will be harvested from these trees will also provide a new livelihood opportunity to the local communities.

KEEPING WETLANDS ALIVE

Together with Biodiversity Sri Lanka, we are restoring over 24 acres of degraded mangrove forests. Mangroves are unique ecosystems, highly effective carbon sinks, which also protect coastlines, sustain flora & fauna and absorb pollutants.

SHARING KNOWLEDGE ON SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE

The Dilmah Conservation Sustainable Agriculture Research CentreDCSARC was established at the MJF Centre Moratuwa to carry out research on high yield crops, grow pesticide free vegetables and provide training on sustainable agriculture. Visitors are shown how to adapt agriculture to suit a changing climate, set up vertical agriculture models in limited spaces & create organic fertilizer.

LEADING THE DIALOGUE ON CLIMATE CHANGE ADAPTATION IN SRI LANKA’S CORPORATE SECTOR

As the first private sector company to establish a Climate Change Research Centre, Dilmah Tea leads the Sri Lankan private sector as the thought leader in addressing climate change. We are committed to finding smart & innovative solutions that will help in adapting to the growing concerns presented by global warming.

CARING FOR ELEPHANTS

The Elephant Transit Home in Sri Lanka’s Udawalawe National Park is a haven for displaced baby elephants, including our very own Baby Dilmah. Here they are taken care of until they are old enough to return to the wild. Through our efforts in radio-collaring, and a dedicated information centre which we established to share knowledge on Sri Lanka’s elephants, we look towards strengthening the conservation of this impressive species

www.historyofceylontea.com

The ‘History of Ceylon Tea’ is an outcome of Dilmah Tea’s collaboration with the Planters’ Association of Sri Lanka, to digitally archive and share with the world, the story of Ceylon Tea.

The project is a tribute to those courageous men of whom Conan Doyle spoke, that the memory of their sacrifice and dedication in creating a great and life-giving industry shall not be dimmed with time. The Tea Industry of Ceylon, now called Sri Lanka, is the lifeblood of the country today, providing direct employment to over 500,000 people, and producing for the world a beverage that is healthy, refreshing and delicious. It is an imperative for the future of this industry that we shall not forget the past, and those that made history in creating our tea industry.

In this small way, Merrill J. Fernando, Founder of Dilmah, his family, staff and workers hope to contribute to the preservation of the history of one of the world’s great industries.

DILMAH STAYS TRUE TO ITS HERITAGE

12 Unique Principles which Guide Dilmah

The promise our father gave consumers when offering the first genuinely ethical tea that was packed garden fresh at source, is what Dilmah offers today, twenty-nine years later. He has been steadfast in his commitment to keeping Dilmah a truly local product - this has not been easy. The pressure to adapt to changing circumstances, market conditions as they were called, has been unrelenting in the use of CTC tea, blending teas from other origins, costing a fraction of Ceylon Tea, to offer tea that is more competitive in price but is less authentic. This method was adapted by all our competitors because they believed in the new reality.

Dilhan and Malik are the younger and elder sons of Dilmah Founder Merrill J. Fernando, from whose names he coined his brand Dilmah.

DILMAH DID NOT CHANGE

Adaptation would mean compromise - this is not an option for us tea makers who have a commitment to real tea that goes a long way beyond profit. The 12 features included represent the story of Dilmah. It will explain why everything about Dilmah is different. There is no single aspect that substantiates the claim of being different - it is more a series of inter-related and inter-dependent elements that form what Dilmah stands for today.

“I want people to treasure tea. The world’s best is grown here in Ceylon, now called Sri Lanka. We are not using it to help our country… Tea must illuminate our country and the lives of our people.”

Merrill J. Fernando, Founder of Dilmah

pure ceylon tea

In Ceylon, we value a tradition of teamaking that gave Ceylon Tea the reputation of being the finest in the world. Known for centuries as the home of the world’s finest tea, the island now known as Sri Lanka offers a wonderful array of tea, the result of the aspect of terroir that tea is blessed with combined with the unique topography of the country. Dilmah selects the finest amongst Ceylon Teas, protecting the heritage of the island’s centuries old tea industry and nurturing the artisanal style that makes the finest Ceylon Teas indisputably the best in the world.

handpicked from amongst the finest teas on earth

unblended

Our Founder Merrill J. Fernando made a commitment to quality in making Dilmah unblended. At the time tea first enjoyed its global acclaim, tea was unblended, celebrating the identity of tea from origins known for quality. A century later the concept of blending became popular, as celebrated teas from Ceylon and other famous regions became expensive. Blending in this way compromises authenticity, freshness and sacrifices quality in tea. Dilmah remains true to the pledge that Merrill J. Fernando made to quality and authenticity in keeping Dilmah unblended.

a commitment to authenticity, and integrity

garden fresh

In tea, Freshness is as important as Quality. Fresh Tea is richer in flavour, aroma, and the subtle characteristics that form the terroir of fine tea. Fresh Tea is also richer in antioxidants. Tea that is shipped in bulk for blending and packing overseas, or not packed and protected shortly after harvesting, absorbs moisture as it ages. This leads to the development of toxins which degrade flavour and can significantly affect the natural antioxidants in tea.

natural goodness, natural flavour guaranteed

the single origin tea

Origin defines the character and identity of tea. Influenced by the natural blessing that terroir offers tea made on well located gardens, it is mostly origin that determines the combination of elements that form flavour in tea. Dilmah is unique in maintaining an unwavering commitment to the integrity of origin. Rejecting the more profitable but unacceptable compromise of multi origin blends which has become the standard in the tea industry, an important part of Dilmah Founder Merrill J. Fernando’s pledge to offer tea drinkers the finest tea, is his commitment to the purity of origin.

purity of origin and the luxury of terroir in tea

cared for by a teamaker who is passionate about tea

The pleasure in fine tea comes from the continually changing aroma, taste, strength, texture and the many elusive elements that form quality in tea. They are infinitely variable, the result of soil and natural climatic influence on tea. This complexity defies standardisation, making teamaking an art that is based on science. The commitment of the artist that composes the teas is central to the pleasure in those teas. Merrill J. Fernando devoted his life to tea. Now joined by his sons Dilhan and Malik, whose names form that of his ‘third son’ Dilmah, his experience of over six decades, his dedication as a producer and the foundation of quality and integrity he established are what make Dilmah different.

tea selected and cared for by a farmer who devoted his life to tea

ethical

Ethical behaviour is part of being human. Merrill J. Fernando established his business on family values and humanity, which naturally led him to commit to the unique philosophy of making business a matter of human service. Rejecting the commercialisation of ethics, Dilmah stays true to its Founders’ philosophy which was crystallised at a time when ethics and social responsibility were neither as much in the public eye as they are today, nor considered even to be amongst the responsibilities of business. The success of Dilmah is shared with the underprivileged with a minimum of 10% of the global earnings from Dilmah funding the work of the MJF Charitable Foundation and Dilmah Conservation. The powerful expression of Merrill J. Fernando’s pledge to make his business a matter of human service is in the thousands of lives transformed by the work of the his foundation in the areas of education, health, community development, care for the elderly, differently abled and the environment.

genuinely ethical tea, founded on goodness

traditional

The traditional style of manufacturing tea is artisanal, demanding expertise at each step. It is an exacting method, demanding expertise but it is the only way to make good tea. Being delicate in its character, tea does not condone any error in the method of manufacture and requires perfection from handpicking two leaves and a bud to the final stage of manufacture. Whilst the recent and more prevalent CTC method is cheaper, it represents a compromise that sacrifices the soul of tea. In Dilmah we offer only tea that is made in the traditional manner.

there is only one way to make good tea, and it is the more difficult way

finest quality

For the farmer who loves his craft, quality can never be compromised. In the same way, as the pioneer in offering tea that is garden fresh, and packed at source direct to tea drinkers around the world we will not compromise the quality of our Dilmah. From the moment our tea is handpicked on our tea gardens to the artisanal style of manufacture and tasting over 5,000 teas each week to select only the finest, Dilmah comes with a guarantee of Quality.

in tea, tradition and quality are synonymous

natural

Tea is a herb that is blessed by Nature in a very special way. In each cup of tea, one can discern from the appearance of the tea, from its aroma and taste, the influence of rainfall, sunshine, wind and temperature. We commit to keeping Dilmah Tea natural, as an important element in the natural goodness that tea offers through antioxidants. There is no better teamaker than Nature, and our task is to nurture the terroir of fine tea by respecting the artisanal style of production, and thereby respecting Nature.

tea crafted by nature

authentic

The natural result of our commitment to traditional manufacture, purity of origin, and selecting each tea for its quality by tasting, is a level of authenticity that is unprecedented. We stay true to the heritage of Camellia sinensis - real tea - and the terroir of specific origins. In this way Dilmah offers genuinely authentic teas that celebrate the subtle variations of different origins, the natural goodness and character in real tea and a style of manufacture that has been perfected over millennia.

inspiring variety, respecting the identity of each tea

the pioneer

When Dilmah was first introduced to tea drinkers in 1988, it represented a paradigm shift, being the first producer owned tea company in the world, offering its tea garden fresh, direct from origin to retailers and consumers around the world. It was a small but momentous change for it symbolised an end to a colonial economic model. Merrill J. Fernando’s boldness brought genuinely fair tea to tea drinkers for the first time, with the benefits of value addition reaching producers and helping sustain an ailing and exploited tea industry. His endeavour also benefited tea drinkers for he shared the unique perspective of a producer and the strong emotional ties of a farmer to his produce. This led eventually to innovations like Dilmah Seasonal Flush Tea, the Dilmah School of Tea, and the Tea Gastronomy programme amongst others, designed to share the pleasure in tea in a very authentic way.

as natural as a farmer bringing his produce to market, for the first time

committed to sustainability and

to the future of the Ceylon Tea Industry

A business established on love for tea and stewarded by a life dedicated to the herb must have an enduring connection with tea, the Ceylon Tea industry, the millions of people whose survival depends on tea and their families. A firm commitment to sustainability and the future of the Ceylon Tea Industry has led to Dilmah Founder Merrill J. Fernando championing Ceylon Tea and striving for a better future for those engaged in tea. The establishment of the Dilmah School of Tea with affiliation around the world is one part of the Dilmah effort to share knowledge of tea and inspire passion for quality amongst tea drinkers. Dilmah Conservation and the MJF Charitable Foundation and the work both do in sharing the success of Dilmah with the underprivileged seeks to address humanitarian and environmental issues in the industry. Merrill J. Fernando and his ferocious defence of quality, purity and Ceylon Tea are a legendary part of the history of a great industry.

sharing the success of Dilmah with those less privileged and the environment

Our Awards

• Dilmah receives Presidential Merit Award for its contribution to the preservation of the environment

• Dilmah wins People’s Export Brand of the year at the SLIM-Nielsen Peoples Awards

• Merrill J Fernando named Global Businessman at the Sri Lankan of the year Awards. Merrill J. Fernando felicitated as ‘Honoured Citizen’ by Colombo Municipal Council

• Dilmah Founder, Merrill J. Fernando recognized by Business Today in the ‘Passionate 2017’ list of Sri Lankans

• Dilmah Founder Merrill J. Fernando honoured by the International Chamber of Commerce as one of the 3 Most Admired Leaders in Sri Lanka.

• Dilmah receives Brand with a Conscience recognition from Medinge Group

• Dilmah awarded Superbrands

• Interbrand recognizes Dilmah as one of the bestperforming brands in 2017

• Lifetime Service Award for Dilmah Founder, Merrill J. Fernando at National Tea Awards 2017

• Dilmah was presented the “Most Globally Outreached Brand in Sri Lanka” at the Presidential Export Award, presented by H.E. Maithripala Sirisena, the MoDSIT and the EDB.

• Dilmah selected as one of Sri Lanka’s Most Admired Companies by the International Chamber of Commerce in Sri Lanka.

• Dilmah was awarded ‘Best Corporate Citizen Sustainability’  for the 3rd consecutive year (2020, 2021 and 2022

• Dilmah is voted by New Zealand as their most trusted tea brand for the 7th year in a row.

• Dilmah is voted by Australia as their most trusted tea brand for the 3rd year in a row.

• Great Taste UK awarded our Inspiration range Rose with French Vanilla tea a Star accolade for its taste.

• Great Taste UK awarded our Inspiration range Springtime Oolong tea a 2-Star tea a Star accolade for its phenomena taste.

• Dilmah Founder, Merrill J. Fernando was bestowed with the “Deshamanaya” title at the 2019 National Honours Ceremony presided by President Maithripala Sirisena.

• Dilmah’s Natural Infusions wins the Australian consumer award for Product of the Year 2020

• Dilmah’s Inspiration Selection wins the Australian consumer award for Product of the Year 2021

• Dilmah’s Organic Range wins the Australian consumer award for Product of the Year 2022. Winner tea category, survey of 5,000 people by Nielsen

WINNER TEA CATEGORY, SURVEY OF 10,000 PEOPLE BY NIELSEN

From the Press

A Sri Lankan family firm is challenging multinational companies’ control of the global tea industry. Dilmah has become the third largest global tea brand but has turned away from mass market blends.

BBC, Asia Today

…in 1988 Fernando founded Dilmah Tea. Today, Dilmah is Sri Lanka’s most recognized international brand.

Cynthia Rosenfeld, CNN

…one family’s enduring love affair with tea. A one small family business in Sri Lanka has grown in to a global empire that supplies to more than 100 countries around the world…

Haslinda Amin, High Flyer’sBloomberg

His face has sold millions of packets of tea across the world, Merrill J. Fernando is the man behind Dilmah, one of Sri Lanka’s most recognisable and well-loved brand of tea

The Successors, Channel NewsAsia

Mr. Fernando has relished his role as the underdog battling the giants of the global tea business. In the last two decades, he has built Dilmah into one of the world’s largest independent tea companies.

Vikas Bajaj, New York Times

A Sri Lankan family firm is challenging multinational companies’ control of the global tea industry. Dilmah has become the third largest global tea brand but has turned away from mass market blends.

Eric Ellis, Fortune Magazine

In many respects, the MJF story is the antithesis of globalisation. It is the tale of success for the small family unit working hard to overcome the power of the multinationals.

Paul Harris, writing in LMD Magazine

Long before fair trade and sustainability were buzzwords for an eco-conscious generation, Merrill J. Fernando was embodying them through his business.

Shalaka Paradhkar writing in Friday Magazine UAE

In rural Sri Lanka, an independent player took on the big tea brands. Merrill J. Fernando, founder of Dilmah, flew to Australia 30 years ago, bearing samples of his Ceylon tea, hoping to sell it. He convinced Coles and Woolworth to stock his teaand, lo and behold he did not go broke as he was otherwise told..

AWW

A push for real tea, world loves Sri Lankan Dilmah …unlike its international competitors’ teas Dilmah is what Mr. Fernando calls “single origin tea”, tea grown and processed in the hills and valleys of Sri Lanka.

Richards Slusser, The Washington Times

In Sri Lanka, Fernando is the man who pioneered the concept of ‘single origin tea’picked, perfected, processed and packed right where tea is grown in order to retain its garden fresh flavour and quality.

For Dilmah, business is all about character and quality. “You can always price tea cheaper than someone else but you can never reciprocate quality,” says Fernando.

Meera Srinivasan

*Trademarks, Patents, All brands, Service marks or names displayed herein are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective IP owners and are hereby acknowledged.

Methil Renuka, Emirates Portfolio

“During a trip, I bought Dilmah Exceptional Ceylon Pekoe Valley of Kings. Back home in Buenos Aires, Argentina, I was extraordinarily surprised to find the material of the bag or pouch, (as we call it here) as I had never seen anything like that so far. Incredible texture and of extraordinary quality!

“I’ve been giving my wife ‘bed tea’ in the morning for 25 years, and have tried all the teas available in Canada and yours stands above them all. The taste is nothing short of remarkable”

Refreshing Cuppa

I just want to say Thank You for making the world’s most amazing tea! I have been a big fan since I first drank your Dilmah tea, many years ago, and now have just tried your new Earl Grey, it’s amazing!! I live in the middle of Australia, in Alice Springs, a harsh desert with no water, and having your tea to drink is something I look forward to.

An exceptional product My Choice of Tea Helps Others Nothing short of Remarkable

As I sit and sip my cup of tea, it is comforting to know that my choice in tea is helping others and improving their quality of life. Thank you for providing this opportunity, a simple choice that benefits all concerned.

A blissful tea experience

I have not enjoyed Green Tea this much since trying good Japanese Green Tea. It is outstanding and exceeded expectations with its freshness while the difference in quality, when compared with the Chinese products, is clearly evident. You have definitely ‘sold’ me on your new product and I will continue to purchase it.

Great Taste

“Thank you, thank you, thank you for your delicious teas! I have been enjoying them for almost 30 years now & always feel refreshed & extremely grateful for the exceptional quality & flavour of your teas. And I just want you & your family to know how much your commitment & dedication to quality is very much appreciated. “

For centuries, problems of mankind have been solved over a cup of tea whether they were problems between nations, amongst businesses, even in families, between husbands and wives, tea has been the soothing balm that helped their solution. The simple act of pouring a cup of tea is, in itself, an ice-breaker, providing pleasurable anticipation of the goodness that is to follow. I have dedicated my life towards providing that cup: not only to solve problems but to add sunshine, to our day, with every sip of Dilmah.

Merrill J. Fernando Founder of Dilmah Tea

www.mjffoundation.org www.dilmahtea.com wwwdilmahconservation.org