Advantis’ story is one of evolution, innovation, and leadership in transportation and logistics. From humble beginnings as a steamer agency, it has grown into an industry leader, setting new benchmarks with ingenuity and adaptability. Over the decades, Advantis has mastered the art of managing intricate supply chains and delivering seamless solutions, earning the trust of partners worldwide. Guided by a vision that embraces technology, champions sustainability, and prioritises customer needs, Advantis remains at the forefront of integrated logistics, freight management, marine and energy, projects and engineering and travel and aviation. With a legacy built on resilience and excellence, it continues to shape the future while staying true to the values of its remarkable past.
Hayleys Limited was established in the bustling Southern port of Galle, Sri Lanka, by British industrialist Charles Pickering Hayley. This visionary step laid the foundation for one of the country’s most iconic conglomerates, sparking a legacy of innovation and industry leadership that would endure for generations.
Hayleys Advantis emerged as the shipping division of Hayleys Limited, marking its first venture into maritime services. It began its journey as a steamer agency for the Dutch shipping line, Holland Burma Bengal Line, embarking on an exciting maritime adventure.
A pivotal year saw the enactment of the Licensing of Shipping Agents Act. In response, Hayleys Advantis Agencies was born, allowing the company to navigate new industry regulations and strengthen its position in Sri Lanka’s export landscape.
The mid-1980s marked a transformative era as Hayleys Advantis diversified into freight-forwarding, bunkering, warehousing, and sea-air consolidation. By the late 1980s, the shipping industry’s liberalisation enabled Hayleys to gain full equity control, solidifying its leadership.
Hayleys Advantis entered the airline general sales agency sector, expanded into container depot operations, and laid the groundwork for its logistics fleet. These strategic investments paved the way for future growth in integrated logistics solutions.
The company acquired its first vessel, MV Orient Stride, launching its ship-owning and management operations. This bold move demonstrated Advantis’ commitment to expanding its presence in the maritime industry.
Advantis entered India with 3PL and supply chain solutions. The company also partnered with FedEx to launch courier services.
The establishment of Moceti Lanka introduced a leading NVOCC brand to its growing portfolio.
The company expanded internationally, opening branches in the Maldives and India. The launch of the ‘Civaro’ brand positioned Advantis as a regional leader in integrated logistics services.
Advantis introduced ‘Logilink,’ a modern Container Freight Station, and entered the oil and gas logistics sector with Hayleys Energy Services. Free zone operations, including Mercury and Venus facilities, further enhanced its offerings.
Advantis ventured into Myanmar and Indonesia, solidifying its presence in the region.
The acquisition of Sri Lanka Shipping Company strengthened Advantis’ maritime portfolio.
Advantis unveiled the state-of-the-art Advantis Logistics City and entered the domestic courier market with the acquisition of Citypak, showcasing its commitment to innovation and service expansion.
Expanding into aviation, Advantis acquired Hayleys Aviation. In 2020, the Group restructured into five clusters, offering end-to-end logistics solutions and integrating Unisyst Engineering PLC into its portfolio.
Advantis bolstered its Projects and Engineering portfolio with the acquisition of S&T Interiors. The Integrated Logistics cluster grew with the addition of bonded storage solutions through Colombo Cargo Express.
Advantis unified its brand structure through a rebranding initiative, heralding a new era of cohesion. It was honoured as the ‘Best Transportation and Logistics Company’ in Sri Lanka and South Asia by Global Brands Magazine, UK. Advantis also expanded into Thailand, partnering with LEO Global Logistics to launch Advantis LEO Thailand.
Today, Advantis continues to build on its legacy of innovation, adaptability, and excellence, shaping the future of logistics and inspiring the industry with its bold vision and commitment to progress.
