Our Story
For over five decades, NIKADO has stood as a symbol of quality, trust, and innovation in Sri Lanka’s food manufacturing industry. Since its establishment in 1975, the Company has remained committed to producing high-quality food products that enrich everyday life while maintaining the values of excellence, integrity, and customer satisfaction.
Nikado Company (Pvt) Ltd was founded by Deshabandu, Wiswa Prasadini Mr. A. A. D. Gunawardana, a visionary entrepreneur whose determination, innovation, and commitment to quality transformed a modest manufacturing venture into one of Sri Lanka’s most respected food brands.
Beginning with the manufacture of noodles and papadam, the Company steadily expanded through continuous innovation, investment in modern technology, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Over the years, NIKADO has evolved into a trusted household name, offering a diverse range of quality food products that meet the changing needs of consumers.
Today, the Company’s portfolio includes Papadam, Rice Noodles, Wheat Flour Noodles, Soy Meat, Instant Food Mixes, Flour Products, Mineral Water, and many other products that combine quality, convenience, and value.
The Company’s flagship product, NIKADO Papadam, has become one of Sri Lanka’s most recognised and trusted brands, reflecting a tradition of quality that has been built over generations.
Nikado’s commitment to excellence has earned international recognition, including the Mondial Award for Innovative Technology in Frankfurt in 1984 and the International Quality Foods Award in Paris in 1987. These prestigious awards reflect the Company’s dedication to maintaining the highest standards of quality and innovation.
Today, supported by a dedicated workforce of more than 200 direct and indirect employees, Nikado continues to invest in advanced manufacturing technology, research and development, product innovation, and quality assurance while expanding its distribution network and strengthening its presence in both local and international markets.
Establishment of Nikado
Expansion of Product Range
Imported Canned Fish & Salt Oorid manufacturing
Fruit juice processing plant
International Quality Award
Diversification into Fruit Processing
Manufacturing Expansion
Automation
New Production Line
Mineral Water Plant
Advanced Milling Technology
Modern Manufacturing
Today
NIKADO continues to strengthen its position as a trusted food manufacturer through continuous innovation, investment in technology, and an unwavering commitment to quality.
A Legacy Built on Vision, Family & Innovation
Tracing our roots from a vision founded in 1975 to becoming one of Sri Lanka’s most trusted household names.
The Foundation
The NIKADO brand was born through the vision, dedication, and entrepreneurial spirit of its founder, Deshabandu, Wiswa Prasadini Mr. A. A. D. Gunawardana. His unwavering commitment to excellence laid the groundwork for decades of trusted craft.
Shared Vision & Modernisation
Working alongside his father from the earliest days, Mr. A. A. Sunil Gunawardana played a pivotal role in driving expansion. His forward-thinking approach introduced modern manufacturing technologies, broadened production, and cemented NIKADO as a household name.
Custodianship & Future Era
As sole owner and custodian registered with the National Intellectual Property Office of Sri Lanka (NIPO), Mr. Sunil Gunawardana continues to lead the brand into a new era—modernising facilities to state-of-the-art contemporary standards while honoring the founder's values.
About Founder
Deshabandu, Wiswa Prasadini Mr. A. A. D. Gunawardana was a visionary entrepreneur whose leadership, determination, and integrity laid the foundation for the success of the NIKADO brand.
Beginning with modest resources, he built a company founded on quality, hard work, and innovation at a time when modern food manufacturing technology was still in its early stages in Sri Lanka.
Beyond his business achievements, he was deeply respected for his generosity, humility, and commitment to society. He supported the construction of temples, assisted many employees in improving their livelihoods, and helped numerous families by providing housing and other assistance.
His inspiring leadership and unwavering values continue to guide the Company and remain an enduring source of inspiration for everyone associated with the NIKADO brand.
Deshabandu A.A.D. Gunawardana
A Seamless Transition Across Generations
The continued success of the NIKADO brand reflects the seamless transition of leadership from one generation to the next, bridging decades of heritage with a bold vision for the future.
Having worked alongside the founder for many years, Mr. A. A. Sunil Gunawardana possesses a deep understanding of the Company's values, operations, and long-term vision. His experience has enabled him to continue the founder's legacy while introducing modern management practices, advanced manufacturing technologies, and strategic investments that have strengthened our competitiveness.
Under his leadership, NIKADO has modernised production facilities, upgraded manufacturing processes, and expanded its product portfolio—all while safeguarding the NIKADO trademark, preserving our heritage, and preparing the business for future generations.
Strategic Pillars of Modernisation
- Facility Upgrades: Modernised production lines with high-throughput tech.
- Brand Stewardship: Strict protection of the NIKADO trademark & heritage.
- Portfolio Expansion: Diversifying products for domestic & global markets.
- Future Readiness: Preparing operational structures for the next generation.
Guided by Principle
Our Core Values
Quality Without Compromise
Unyielding commitment to high-grade standards in every batch and product.
Integrity & Trust
Building transparent, dependable relationships with partners and consumers alike.
Customer Satisfaction
Putting consumer needs and expectations at the heart of everything we do.
Innovation & Improvement
Continuous refinement of processes, technology, and product offerings.
Excellence in Manufacturing
Precision execution utilizing advanced facilities and world-class equipment.
Food Safety & Quality
Strict safety protocols to guarantee safe, healthy, and premium consumables.
Respect for People
Empowering our workforce and treating all stakeholders with dignity.
Social Responsibility
Giving back to local communities and supporting sustainable initiatives.
Sustainable Growth
Balancing long-term economic expansion with environmental responsibility.
Preserving Our Heritage
Honoring the foundation laid in 1975 while building a competitive company for tomorrow.
Looking to the Future
As NIKADO continues its journey, we remain committed to investing in innovation, advanced technology, sustainable manufacturing, and product development to meet the evolving needs of consumers in Sri Lanka and around the world.
Uncompromising Quality
Engineered to excel and endure, maintaining superior standards across every product stage.
Unwavering Integrity
Rooted in transparency, honesty, and reliability since our founding in 1975.
Purposeful Innovation
Embracing advanced technologies and sustainable practices for future generations.
Customer Trust
Dedicated to customer satisfaction for over 50 years across Sri Lanka and globally.
"For more than 50 years, these founding principles have guided every stage of our journey. They continue to inspire our people, shape our products, and strengthen the trust placed in the NIKADO name by generations of customers."