Thirty years ago, a visionary leap reshaped Sri Lanka’s energy future. In 1995, LAUGFS made history by introducing Auto Gas to the local market, offering motorists a cleaner and more economical alternative to conventional fuels. That pioneering step ignited the path for one of the country’s most dynamic business journeys, one that remains as strong today as when it began.
FOUNDERS AND LEADERSHIP
LAUGFS was established under the leadership of Group Chairman Dr. W. K. H. Wegapitiya and former Group Deputy Chairman U. K. Thilak De Silva. Their entrepreneurial drive, commitment to quality and long-term strategic focus have been central to building LAUGFS into a diversified powerhouse. Guided by their vision, the group navigated growth phases, diversification and challenges, becoming a trusted name both locally and internationally.
1995-2005 FOUNDATIONS OF TRUST
The first decade cemented LAUGFS’ reputation as a market innovator. Auto Gas became its flagship, earning motorists’ confidence. Expansion into liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) for homes and industries followed, with strict safety and quality standards through LAUGFS Gas, which commenced operations and was later listed publicly.
This period also saw the beginnings of LAUGFS Engineering, providing specialist engineering services and the launch of LAUGFS Car Care, offering a range of expert vehicle maintenance services. Initial fuel retailing operations were also established, laying the foundation for future growth. During this era, the group’s core values of trust, reliability and operational excellence took root.
2005-2015 GROWTH AND DIVERSIFICATION
The second decade brought ambitious diversification. In 2006, LAUGFS entered the food and beverage sector with Jade Restaurants. LAUGFS Supermarkets redefined retail experiences, while LAUGFS Lubricants introduced the first local lubricant brand in Sri Lanka. LAUGFS Salt & Chemicals., founded in 2008, strengthened the group’s footprint in manufacturing solutions.
LAUGFS Life Sciences was established to provide healthcare and pharmaceutical manufacturing, including intravenous solutions, reinforcing its presence in the medical sector. Petroleum retailing and logistics, led by LAUGFS Petroleum, reinforced the group’s role in the energy value chain.
Subsequently LAUGFS Maritime Services launched, operating one of the largest LPG vessel fleets in the region to ensure secure supply. LAUGFS Rubber also commenced operations with the first solid tire manufacturing plant in Horana. The group ventured into leisure with Anantaya Hotels and Resorts, offering premium hospitality.
In 2014, LAUGFS International. was established to expand global trade and investment. International expansion accelerated with LPG operations in Bangladesh, marking LAUGFS’ emergence on the regional stage.
2015-2025 INNOVATION AND SUSTAINABILITY
In its third decade, LAUGFS embraced technology and environmental stewardship. Investments in renewable energy through LAUGFS Power, including solar and hydro power projects, and energy efficiency technologies reduced the group’s environmental footprint. Expansion included LAUGFS Eco Sri, focussing on environmental management and emission testing services.
In 2017, LAUGFS launched Crimson Bakery and in 2018, LAUGFS Terminals was established, operating South Asia’s largest LPG transshipment terminal with a 30,000 MT storage facility at Hambantota International Port.
Even in challenging economic conditions, the group remained agile, delivering value across its businesses from gas and petroleum to leisure, engineering, life sciences and maritime services. The group also began operations in Dubai through SLOGAL Energy DMCC, its energy trading arm.
A NEW ERA IN LEADERSHIP
Marking a defining moment in its three-decade journey, LAUGFS Holdings entered a bold new chapter with the strategic partnership between Group Founder Dr. W. K. H. Wegapitiya and leading business magnate Mr. Dhammika Perera. The partnership, formed through an equal-share collaboration, unites two of Sri Lanka’s most dynamic entrepreneurs to drive renewed growth, innovation, and long-term value creation.
In line with this transformation, Mr. Mithila Wegapitiya’s appointment as Group Executive Vice Chairman marks a key step in strengthening leadership continuity, while Mr. Dhanusha Muthukumarana’s elevation to Group Executive Director reinforces the Group’s executive leadership capacity.
Together, these developments signal the beginning of a new era in leadership; one defined by strategic collaboration, strengthened governance, and a shared commitment to regional expansion, digital transformation, and sustainable progress.
THE PEOPLE DRIVING SUCCESS
With over 3,200 employees in Sri Lanka and overseas, LAUGFS draws its strength from its people. A culture of innovation, ethics and social responsibility is matched by sustained investment in training, skills development and talent recognition.
SUSTAINABILITY AT THE CORE
Sustainability is central to LAUGFS’ long-term vision. Renewable energy projects and efficiency technologies are helping drive Sri Lanka’s transition to a greener economy. The LAUGFS Gas Deergayu Project remains a flagship corporate social responsibility effort, complemented by rural electrification, education empowerment, environmental conservation and livelihood support initiatives.
LOOKING AHEAD
From introducing Auto Gas to leading in renewable energy and pharmaceuticals, LAUGFS has shown that progress comes from embracing change. The next decades will focus on sustainable energy leadership, regional growth and advanced technologies, ensuring that development benefits both people and planet.
Thirty years strong is not just a celebration, it is a promise to build on a foundation of trust, vision and innovation, powering Sri Lanka into the future.
About The Author
