Dilmah F&B has long been a global leader in premium tea hospitality, but today, the brand is bringing its philosophy to life across international markets. By combining authentic tea experiences with innovative dining concepts, Dilmah transforms tea culture into meaningful, memorable hospitality offerings.
Leading this international expansion is Orshadi Perera, General Manager of Dilmah F&B Concepts. In this interview with World Franchise Associates, Orshadi explains how strategic leadership, operational excellence, and a focus on authenticity make Dilmah’s franchising model a unique and compelling opportunity for global partners today.
How long have you been in your current position and what are your key responsibilities?
3 years – Strategic Leadership & brand expansion, Operational Excellence, Menu innovation and product development, Financial and Commercial Management, stakeholder and team leadership
Overall, how long have you been involved in franchising?
8 years
What do you like most about your job?
What I enjoy most about my role is the unique opportunity to bring the philosophy of Dilmah to life—transforming a legendary tea brand into meaningful, memorable hospitality experiences.
What is the most challenging aspect of your job?
Maintaining Brand Consistency Across Markets, Scaling Without Diluting the Brand Philosophy, and Managing Cross‑Functional Complexity.
What is it like to work with franchisees from different countries and cultures?
Working with franchisees across different countries and cultures is one of the most enriching—and strategically important—parts of my role. A Dynamic Exchange of Cultures while balancing global consistency with local adaptation.
What is the main reason you are considering international franchising?
The main reason we are pursuing international franchising is to scale Dilmah’s unique tea-inspired hospitality experience globally while partnering with passionate operators who deeply understand their local markets.
What is unique or special about your brands products and services?
What makes our brand special is that everything we offer is built around one uncompromising principle: authenticity in tea
Why do you think you will be successful internationally?
I believe we will be successful internationally because our brand offers a uniquely authentic, purpose‑driven tea experience that the global market is increasingly seeking—but very few can genuinely deliver.
What are the priority countries/territories you are looking to develop?
Middle east, Europe, South East Asia, Australia and New Zealand
Why have you identified these countries and/territories as a top priority?
We have prioritized these countries because they offer the strongest alignment between market demand, cultural fit, commercial viability, and our brand’s long-term strategic goals.
What are the main qualifications and capabilities you are looking for in a master franchisee or area developer?
We look for partners who not only have strong operational and financial capabilities, but who deeply align with our brand values, purpose, and long-term strategic vision.
How long does it typically take to finalise an agreement once you find a qualified and capable master franchisee or area developer for a new market?
3-5 weeks with continuos negotiations.
Any advice you can share with parties who are interested in getting into franchising by acquiring rights for a local or international franchise?
My advice to aspiring franchise investors is to treat franchising as a long‑term partnership—not just a financial transaction.
Any additional information you would like to share about your brand and your international expansion plans?
Yes—what’s most important for partners and stakeholders to know is that our international expansion is not just about scaling outlets; it’s about scaling authenticity, purpose, and a truly differentiated tea experience.
To learn more about Dilmah Urban Estate , visit our profile on the WFA portal.
