The tea selected for the Platinum Jubilee was harvested from the Pedro Estate in Nuwara Eliya, among the very tea bushes that H.R.H The Duke of Edinburgh planted back in 1954, when he, alongside the Queen, paid a royal visit.
This display of Ceylon Tea at the Jubilee symbolises the long-standing bond between the two countries while showcasing the origins of one of what is still today among the most sought-after teas in the world.
While the range of tea has expanded, the philosophy behind the product and its commitment to sustainability and world-class quality continues into the present day.
Kelani Valley Plantations PLC is a member of Hayleys Plantations, the world’s most awarded and certified sustainable plantations on environmental friendliness, community welfare, people empowerment and ethical business standards.
“As a pioneer in sustainable and ethical plantations management, we are honoured by the global recognition of our KVPL Pedro Estate tea.
It is the result of decades of our unmatched expertise in plantations management to harvest export-quality tea to the world in support of one of Sri Lanka’s most important export categories,” Hayleys Plantations Managing Director, Dr. Roshan Rajadurai said.
“Serving the teas grown at the KVPL Pedro Estate at the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee reiterates our status as a globally respected pioneer and helps position Sri Lankan RPCs amongst the best in the world.”
Kelani Valley Plantations PLC Director/ CEO, Anura Weerakoon stated,
“Our achievements are built on the remarkable efforts of our teams, who take the utmost care when crafting every cup of tea, from the tea harvesters to our employees in manufacturing.
Our sustainable business practices generate value creation for our employees, wider estate communities and the rich environment around us, helping to garner respect for Ceylon Tea around the world and potentially serving as the blueprint for success in the plantation sector.”
Pedro Estate is the source of some of the world’s best teas under the Mahagastota and Lovers Leap marks.