Sri Lankan food giant, CBL Group, has announced a strategic partnership with global logistics firm Expolanka Freight Limited, and local distributor Peniel Acumen Distributors to establish a distribution hub in Nairobi, marking its entry into Kenya and the broader East African market.
The partnership will see CBL Group invest in a robust route-to-market strategy, enabling wholesalers and retailers across Kenya and the region to stock its flagship brands Munchee and Ritzbury, a diverse range of high-quality biscuits and premium chocolates that have gained popularity in over 65 countries.
“Kenya’s dynamic youth-driven market and growing demand for high-quality snacks make it an ideal location for Munchee and Ritzbury. Our commitment is not only to bring delicious products but also to introduce a range that addresses the varied food requirements of the Kenyan consumer,” said Kamal Geeganage, CEO of CBL Foods International – A subsidiary of CBL Group.
Expolanka Freight Limited, which operates a highly efficient supply chain network in Kenya, will oversee the seamless distribution of Munchee and Ritzbury products, ensuring availability in supermarkets, local retail outlets, and wholesale markets.
“We are thrilled to partner with CBL Group to introduce their range to Kenya. Our expertise in logistics will ensure that consumers across the country have access to these high-quality snacks,” said Mr Wasantha Ranasinghe, Director of Expolanka Freight East Africa.
The entry of Munchee biscuits and Ritzbury chocolates into Kenya marks the expansion of a legacy that started in 1968 when CBL Group was founded to combat malnutrition in Sri Lankan school children. Over the years, it has grown into one of Sri Lanka’s largest diversified food conglomerates, recognized for quality, innovation, and sustainability.
“As a trusted local distributor, we are excited to partner with CBL Group and Expolanka to bring Munchee and Ritzbury brands to Kenyan consumers. This collaboration is more than just distribution, it’s about making high-quality, globally recognized snacks accessible to every corner of the country” said Joyce Mukami, Director of Peniel Acumen Distributors.
By establishing a Kenyan distribution hub, CBL Group is positioning itself to serve not just Kenya but the entire East African region, replicating a successful model that has seen it grow across West Africa and Asia.
CBL Group market presence
CBL Group is a leading food conglomerate in Sri Lanka, with a global presence spanning 65+ markets. The company’s flagship biscuits brand Munchee boasts of a large portfolio which includes crackers, cookies, savoury biscuits, cream-filled biscuits, wafers and rice crackers. They also market a varied portfolio of chocolates under their brand Ritzbury which includes chocolate slabs, bars, coated products as well as chocolate beans and balls.
The CBL group also manufactures long-shelf-life sponge cakes, coconut-based products, soy-based products, cereals, nutritious supplementary foods, organic fruits and spices produced to international quality standards.
CBL Group prioritizes sustainability, entrepreneurship development, and community empowerment through its global operations.
ALSO READ: Capwell Industries to Support Kenyan Rice Farmers in Bid to Safeguard the Country’s Food Security
