Engineering Tomorrow: A Conversation with K.P. David, Managing Director of J.F. Packaging Limited

Behind every packaging breakthrough lies a discipline of reinvention. For K.P. David, JF Packaging’s Managing Director, leadership has meant more than navigating markets it has meant reshaping an entire industry approach. Under his watch, a formerly siloed manufacturer became Sri Lanka’s most diversified, award-winning packaging group. Now preparing for its IPO, JF Packaging stands on the brink of even broader horizons. In this conversation, Mr. David speaks to the power of operational integration, innovation, and human capital—and how they collectively define JF Packaging’s next chapter.

Q: What was your primary focus after assuming leadership at JF Packaging?

A: When I took over in 2017, following the acquisition of JF Packaging by Lankem Ceylon PLC, the first challenge was instilling a corporate mindset. Company was previously a privately owned entity, and we needed to shift toward structured governance and strategic thinking.

My experience in Finance, acquisition and takeovers helped us acquire and integrate three key companies—Ceylon Tapes, Kiffs, and Alliance Five—into a unified, financially disciplined cluster. We adopted a dual strategy: financial hygiene through debt restructuring and operational integration across packaging verticals. This allowed us to evolve from a transactional supplier into a value-driven partner offering comprehensive packaging solutions.

Q: What sets JF Packaging apart from competitors?

A: Vertical integration is our core strength. We offer everything from extruded films and laminates to PET bottles, alu lids, paper tubes, and injection-molded accessories—all under one roof. This gives clients unmatched convenience and control.

Our R&D team, led by industry veterans, drives innovation in both product performance and sustainability. We've pioneered COVID-safe packaging, biofilms, and solutions using up to 70% post-consumer recycled (PCR) materials. Our accolades speaks of our innovative ability which include multiple World Star Awards and the prestigious World Star Presidential Award—making us the only Sri Lankan company to achieve this distinction.

Q: How do you maintain loyalty with major FMCG clients?

A: We serve a wide spectrum of clients—from multinationals to local giants in FMCG food and nonfood, Confectionary, Meat producers, Tea producers, Spices and Staple Food Producers. Our design-to-distribution model minimizes risk and ensures compatibility with client machinery.

Certifications such as FSSC 22000, ISO 22000, ISO 9001, ISO 45001, HACCP, GMP and SMETA reinforce our commitment to quality and safety. We also prioritize responsiveness and consistency. Dedicated account managers, real-time dashboards, and robust inventory planning ensure timely deliveries and seamless operations.

Q: What role does sustainability play in your strategy?

A: Sustainability is embedded in both our operations and product design. Internally, we engaged certified waste disposal partner, reduced solvent usage, and adopted biofuel-based heating systems.

Externally, we offer clients eco-friendly packaging options including compostable, biodegradable, and microbial-active materials. Our entry into the circular economy—through introduction of PCR materials and recyclable laminates —reflects our belief that sustainability should be a design principle, not just a compliance checkbox.

Q: How do you keep your teams aligned with JF Packaging’s ambitions?

A: Our philosophy is simple: “People build systems. Systems build scale.” We invest heavily in training—targeting 60+ workshops per factory annually—and encourage multi-skilling through incentives and cross-functional learning.

Digitally documented training session and internal dashboards foster transparency and data-driven decision-making. We also host knowledge-sharing sessions across subsidiaries and recognize grassroots innovations to keep our teams engaged and future-ready.

Q: What’s next for JF Packaging?

A: We’re expanding our “one-stop packaging” strategy, especially in hygiene-critical and export markets. The acquisition of paper canister business, expansion of PET bottle production, specialty film extrusion facility and our upcoming IPO are pivotal in 2025. This isn’t an exit—it’s a scale-up.

We’re exploring AI-driven quality assurance systems, upgrading machinery, and enhancing human capital. Becoming a public quoted company will strengthen our governance, reduce debt, and unlock new capital for regional growth and digital transformation.

JF Packaging’s journey under K. P. David is a masterclass in strategic reinvention. With innovation, sustainability, and operational excellence at its core, the company is not just packaging products—it’s packaging the future.