Sajani Amarasiri, a Sri Lankan immigrant and entrepreneur, recently launched her company, Kola Goodies, in August 2021. Inspired by her heritage and the ancient South Asian wellness rituals, Amarasiri wanted to bring these traditions to America with a modern twist. One of her flagship products is the Sri Lankan Milk Tea, which has gained popularity and landed her products in 40 Whole Foods stores in the Bay Area.
The journey to launching Kola Goodies was not easy, as Amarasiri had to navigate the complexities of the American grocery store industry. She learned that Whole Foods has high standards and the process of getting products on their shelves is rigorous. Despite the challenges, Amarasiri persevered and found success with her unique products.
One of the key aspects of Kola Goodies is the direct sourcing of ingredients from farmers in Sri Lanka. By eliminating the middleman, Amarasiri ensures quality and supports local farmers by paying them a fair price. This commitment to transparency and traceability sets Kola Goodies apart from larger conglomerates.
Amarasiri’s products, such as the Super Green Latte and Masala Chai, are a modern take on traditional South Asian rituals. She aims to make these wellness products accessible and easy to prepare for the average consumer. By modernizing these ancient rituals, she hopes to bridge cultures and provide equity from seed to shelf.
Despite the initial skepticism about the pricing of her products, Amarasiri believes in the value of her offerings. She questions why South Asian products are expected to be cheap when the process of sourcing and manufacturing high-quality ingredients is time-consuming and costly. She hopes to educate consumers about the value of these products and the effort that goes into creating them.
Looking ahead, Amarasiri is excited about the future of Kola Goodies. The company has seen significant growth, with a 40% repeat purchase rate and a projected doubling of revenue from the previous year. She hints at a special holiday collaboration that will be a limited edition drop and promises to be delicious.
Through hard work, dedication, and a commitment to quality, Sajani Amarasiri has turned her passion for Sri Lankan wellness rituals into a successful business in America. Her story is a testament to the power of entrepreneurship, cultural heritage, and the pursuit of one’s dreams.
