D P Logistics has acquired 100% of Logicare from Ceylon Tea Brokers in a Rs. 1.3 billion transaction, expanding its warehousing and logistics capabilities. The deal enhances DPL’s end-to-end service portfolio, reinforces its growing market share, and aligns with the David Pieris Group’s strategy to strengthen high-growth sectors across its diversified business portfolio.
David Pieris Logistics has made a decisive move in Sri Lanka’s logistics sector with the acquisition of Logicare (Pvt) Ltd from Ceylon Tea Brokers PLC, marking a significant consolidation in a market that has long been characterised by fragmentation and fierce competition. Valued at Rs. 1.3 billion, the deal reflects the growing ambition of the David Pieris Group to deepen its foothold in the country’s logistics and supply chain landscape by bringing together complementary strengths under one umbrella. The agreement, executed on October 30, 2025, transfers 100% ownership of Logicare to D P Logistics (Private) Limited (DPL), a move expected to reshape operational capabilities for both the acquiring company and its clients across multiple sectors.
The acquisition structure includes a direct payment of Rs. 635.3 million to Ceylon Tea Brokers PLC for its shares, while the rest of the deal value consists of the assumption of bank and related-party borrowings tied to Logicare. For Ceylon Tea Brokers, the sale represents a strategic divestment allowing the company to narrow its focus to its core domain—tea broking and associated services—where it continues to hold a strong position as one of the most respected players in the industry. Logicare, established in 2017 as an extension of its diversification efforts, has grown steadily over the years with modern warehousing facilities and integrated logistics solutions. But in the shifting economic climate, Ceylon Tea Brokers appears more intent on strengthening its primary vertical than managing an increasingly demanding logistics enterprise.
For D P Logistics, the deal is a natural extension of its long-term growth strategy. The company already ranks among Sri Lanka’s top ten players in warehousing and third-party logistics operations and is recognised for owning one of the country’s largest container fleets. In a logistics environment where global supply chain disruptions and rising customer expectations are reshaping demand patterns, DPL has positioned itself as a rare local operator capable of managing end-to-end logistics operations across multiple specialised disciplines. Freight forwarding, in particular, remains a highly fragmented segment in Sri Lanka, dominated by a mix of small and mid-sized operators and only a handful of larger, integrated players. DPL’s rising market share signals a steady consolidation of trust from businesses seeking reliable partners to navigate increasingly complex supply-chain requirements.
The acquisition is also part of a broader expansion push by the David Pieris Group, which has been steadily strengthening multiple verticals across its portfolio. In 2022, the Group acquired Pulsar Shipping Agencies (Pvt) Ltd, the shipping division of Expolanka Holdings PLC—a move that extended its reach into ship agency management, husbandry services and marine logistics. That acquisition laid the groundwork for the Group’s Logistics & Shipping Cluster, which has since become one of its fastest-growing business divisions. The addition of Logicare now adds another layer of operational muscle, particularly in warehousing and value-added logistics solutions, fields where DPL aims to scale up in anticipation of rising domestic and regional demand.
With Logicare’s integration, DPL’s service portfolio becomes more robust and diversified. The company already operates across container transport, distribution services, freight forwarding, project logistics, customs clearance and supply chain management. Logicare brings with it advanced infrastructure tailored for modern logistics requirements—climate-controlled warehousing, technologically enabled inventory systems, and compliance-oriented processes that meet stringent international standards. For clients who deal in fast-moving consumer goods, pharmaceuticals, exports and import-dependent industries, these enhancements can translate into smoother operations and more predictable supply-chain performance.
The acquisition is expected to unlock synergies on multiple fronts. Operationally, Logicare’s assets will allow DPL to expand its capacity at a time when Sri Lanka is attempting to revive investor confidence and rebuild growth momentum in trade-oriented sectors. Strategically, the consolidation gives DPL greater leverage to negotiate better rates with shipping lines, transport providers, and technology vendors, helping the company enhance efficiencies and scale its service offerings. Furthermore, the shared capabilities could enable DPL to integrate technology platforms more seamlessly, offering customers unified dashboards, real-time tracking, and end-to-end visibility in a market where supply-chain transparency is becoming a baseline expectation rather than a luxury.
For Sri Lanka’s logistics and supply-chain ecosystem, this acquisition signals the increasing maturity of one of the country’s most critical economic enablers. As industries—from apparel and food processing to e-commerce and automotive—depend on faster, more flexible and more reliable logistics solutions, the need for well-capitalised players capable of offering complete, integrated services has grown sharply. Consolidations like the one between DPL and Logicare bring a structural stability that can help the sector evolve from fragmented, cost-led competition to value-driven, innovation-led growth.
From the perspective of the David Pieris Group, the deal underlines its commitment to building long-term capabilities in sectors with strong growth potential. The Group, which has over forty years of experience across multiple industries, has consistently shown a willingness to invest boldly in businesses where it can create sustained impact. With more than 30 companies across automotive, finance, logistics, shipping and marine services, renewable energy, real estate, racing and leisure, the conglomerate is not only one of Sri Lanka’s largest but also among its most financially resilient. The acquisition of Logicare fits into its pattern of targeted investments that strengthen operational clusters rather than spreading capital thinly across unrelated ventures.
The timing of the acquisition is also notable. As Sri Lanka works through economic challenges and aims to reposition itself as a competitive logistics hub in South Asia, the efficiency of the private sector becomes crucial. Public infrastructure developments—such as port expansions, highway networks and free-trade zone enhancements—can only reach their full potential when matched by private operators with the scale, expertise and technology to support businesses. DPL’s strengthened position following this acquisition could become a catalyst for improved service standards within the industry and potentially attract international partnerships or clients seeking reliable supply-chain solutions in the region.
For Ceylon Tea Brokers, the sale may be seen as a return to its roots. The company has built a reputation as one of the country’s most respected tea brokers, operating in a sector deeply entwined with Sri Lanka’s identity and export economy. By stepping back from logistics and refocusing on its core business, the company can consolidate resources, enhance operational efficiency, and deepen its role in the tea industry’s evolving global markets.
As the acquisition moves toward completion pending the fulfilment of contractual conditions, both sides appear aligned in their objectives. For DPL, the focus is on growth, integration and service enhancement. For Ceylon Tea Brokers, it is about strategic discipline and strengthening its market position. And for Sri Lanka’s logistics ecosystem, the deal represents an encouraging consolidation—one that promises stronger capabilities, better service standards and renewed competitiveness in a challenging global environment.
In an industry where reliability, scale and agility increasingly dictate success, the acquisition of Logicare positions D P Logistics at a defining moment. As it absorbs new capabilities and expands its operational reach, the company seems poised to play an even more central role in shaping Sri Lanka’s logistics future, offering businesses the kind of integrated, end-to-end solutions that modern supply chains demand.
