Sierra Cables’ Outstanding Triumph at the Sri Lanka National Quality Awards
Sierra Cables PLC received the prestigious Merit award at the recently concluded Sri Lanka National Quality Awards (SLNQA) Ceremony. The prominent event is organised by the Sri Lanka Standards Institution (SLSI) and recognises the Sri Lankan Organizations that excel in quality management and quality achievement. SLSI evaluates applicants through seven criteria, which include leadership, strategic planning, customer focus, measurement, analysis and knowledge management, workforce focus, operations focus and results.
Speaking of the company’s performance at the award ceremony, Mr. Harsha Jayatunga, Chief Executive Officer, Sierra Cables, said, “Cultivating a culture of unwavering commitment to quality, has been our guiding principle at Sierra Cables. Quality is the key foundation upon which every aspect of our operations is built. In staying ahead of the competition, we believe that our core strategy lies in relentless attention to quality in everything we do. It is this enhanced quality consciousness that propels us towards excellence, and the success of Sierra Cables is a testament to our enduring commitment to delivering unparalleled quality across all pursuits. We are consistently striving for excellence in every undertaking, and this dedication is evident in the achievements of Sierra Cables”.
The company’s commitment to product quality, system quality, innovation and overall performance achievement are key elements that enable Sierra Cables PLC to perform and achieve outstanding honours and industry recognition at a national level. The company has made significant contributions to the domestic economy, making strides to improve and uplift the electrical and electronic manufacturing segment even during periods of economic downturns. In addition, as the largest and the most outstanding cable manufacturer on the island, Sierra Cables has consistently demonstrated its dedication to offering high-quality products.
Established in 2000, Sierra Cables PLC has carved its niche as a leading innovator in the manufacturing, marketing and distributing of copper and aluminium power cables for the energy, industrial, and communication sectors in Sri Lanka. It has also expanded its reach to international markets.
Due in large part to their focus on maintaining and improving quality standards and processes, manufacturing practices and safety standards, Sierra Cables PLC has previously received several awards and recognitions over the years. Foremost among them are the SLS 733, SLS 412, SLS 1504 – 211, 1504 – 2 – 31, SLS 1186, SLS 750, and SLS 1542 certifications, awarded for seven different product categories. The ISO-9001 and ISO-14001 certifications are testaments of the company’s commitment to maintaining a healthy working environment throughout its manufacturing process. The company has also received the ISO-45001 certification for occupational health and safety. Meanwhile. TUV, Singapore recognised the company for its fire resistance cables.
The company has recently received prestigious accolades, including the Gold Award for Export Performance at the Export Awards hosted by the National Chamber of Exporters of Sri Lanka (NCE).
Additionally, it attained the Gold Award in the large-scale category at the National Industry Excellence Awards by Industrial Development Board, followed by the honour of receiving the Best Manufacturer award at the South Asian Business Excellence Awards.
The company consistently provides training programmes for its employees, educating and updating them on quality processes. It also incorporates the latest technology and machinery to improve and streamline the manufacturing processes. Sierra Cables also introduces and implements continuous concepts such as the Kizan improvement activity and quality circles, in an effort to maintain its quality standards.
The state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Kaduwela, as well as the overseas manufacturing plant located in Fiji, have propelled Sierra Cables to capture new marketing segments, all of which follow different product standards. For instance, America and Canada follow the UL standards, while Europe requires the IEC Standard and Australia stipulates the
AUS/NZ standards be maintained. Meanwhile, the South Asian region looks for different accredited certificates. The company complies with these disparate product standards in exports and nevertheless contributes significantly to Sri Lanka’s export sector.
As an exporter and a local distributor of electrical and electronic products, Sierra Cables has perfected its distribution and logistics, sales and service. Its brand recognition and operating efficiency are other competitive strengths that allow the company to successfully operate in both the local and international markets. The company has a competitive edge in the international market due to its product quality and lower lead time, impressing its international customers with both its tangible and intangible services.
Sierra Cables PLC gives priority to maintaining its quality standards as a partner for saving life and property of the products. The company views providing electrical wires and cables with the correct safety standards to both local and international markets as its corporate responsibility.
In such a light, award ceremonies such as the SLNQA and the recognition from governing bodies including the SLSI are vital for the industry, as they boost a company’s reputation. The prestige can also elevate the company’s brand image among consumers, leading them to place their trust in the brand. Being recognised for the excellence of the products and quality standards is sure to raise consumers’ confidence in a brand.
Nevertheless, the lack of an internationally accredited testing facility in Sri Lanka poses a significant obstacle to the industry. Substantial challenges, such as inadequate infrastructure development and a loss of technical expertise, further impact the manufacturing sector.
Despite the market and economic conditions as well as the unique industry-specific challenges, Sierra Cables PLC plans to further expand its international customer base and establish itself as a globally-recognised manufacturing body in the electrical wire and cable industry.