Business
Two prestigious Awards for Benchmark Innovation
Benchmark Innovation was in the spotlight at The Dragons of Asia Awards 2021 winning 2 prestigious GOLD and BLUE awards for their outstanding creative work. The Dragons of Asia is a marketing communication recognition program that recognizes and awards agencies and brands across the APAC region with over 21 years of experience. This year’s event saw Benchmark Innovation winning a Gold Award in the highly competitive ‘Best Use of Media category. Their winning streak continued securing the ‘Best Campaign in the country’ Blue Award and Benchmark received both the awards for the exceptional creative campaign they did for brand Multilac, the largest paint exporter brand of the country.
Benchmark is a homegrown agency experience working with many local and multinational brands. Over a decade, Benchmark has won many local and global awards and recognitions such as Gold, Silver, and Finalist awards at Effie Awards, SLT ZeroOne Awards, Topping Effie index and becoming No. 1 in the country and being listed as one of the top 20 independent advertising agencies in the APAC region. Benchmark is a sustainable brand driven agency with 360 days of ideas.
Benchmark offers uniquely crafted creative and sustainable approaches towards marketing and advertising strategy. Their dynamic digital campaigns in particular have been recognized at home and abroad and awarded multiple awards. Founder and the Creative Lead of Benchmark Innovation, Chamley Ariyachandra said, “when we have precise time to dig the brands’ space, then we are able to find the miracles by unleashing the potentiality of the brands. And having a close shoulder to shoulder working relationship with our clients allows us to build powerful sustainable brands in Sri Lanka and around the Globe”. As an icon with over 20 years of experience in the local and international marketing and communications industry Mr. Ariyachandra explained Benchmark’s vision- “During the past 10 years, our case studies are the evidence of many success stories which have gained effective results. We like to trigger a more fruitful conversation with our potential clients, and marketing enthusiasts as well as the students; those who are keen to experience the unconventional brand communication”.
Combining their passion for sustainability and creative strategy, Benchmark created an online platform that allows the public to gift unused or unwanted items for free. Benchmark launched www.unwanted.lk as their sustainable social initiative marking their 10th anniversary celebrations last year. Benchmark believes and stands by its values, which drives its vision to build sustainable brands and help make our world sustainable.
HNB Assurance Group (HNBA and HNBGI) has once again delivered impressive financial results for the year 2024, continuing its remarkable growth trajectory. The Group reported a 21% increase in Gross Written Premium (GWP), rising from Rs. 18.8 billion to Rs. 22.7 billion. Additionally, the Group recorded a consolidated Profit After Tax (PAT) exceeding Rs. 1.8 billion, marking a 7% growth compared to the previous year.
HNBA’s strong financial position was further highlighted by its upgraded Fitch rating, making it the only life insurer in Sri Lanka with an ‘A’ rating. HNBGI also earned an ‘A’ rating, positioning it among Sri Lanka’s leading general insurers.
Commenting on the achievements, Chairman Stuart Chapman expressed pride in the Group’s consistent growth, with a 22% average annual increase in GWP over the past four years. He also noted the 42% growth in share price by the end of 2024, reflecting market trust in HNBA’s stability.
CEO of HNBA, Lasitha Wimalaratne, highlighted significant milestones, including a 7.5% market share and a 27% growth in New Business Premiums. CEO of HNBGI, Sithumina Jayasundara, praised the company’s resilience, reporting a 59% increase in Profit After Tax and exceptional growth in non-motor insurance segments.
Overall, HNBA Group’s performance underscores its strong market presence and commitment to sustainable growth.
Chinese Dragon Café (CDC), Sri Lanka’s iconic Chinese restaurant chain, celebrates the first anniversary of its Dubai outlet. Established in 1942, CDC has become known for blending Sri Lankan spices with Chinese culinary techniques, creating a unique dining experience. The Dubai outlet, which opened in October 2023, is the first international expansion for the brand, representing Sri Lankan Chinese cuisine on the global stage.
CDC’s Managing Director, Udeshi, expressed pride in the warm reception the restaurant has received in Dubai, highlighting the universal appeal of its fusion dishes. The Hot Butter Cuttlefish, Nasi Goreng, and Seafood Fried Rice are some customer favorites. CDC’s Dubai outlet is also available on major delivery platforms, allowing diners to enjoy authentic Sri Lankan Chinese cuisine at home.
Yakaduru Yala, an eco-safari lodge nestled on the outskirts of Sri Lanka’s Yala National Park, has earned Booking.com’s prestigious 2025 Traveler Review Award with an impressive 9.6 rating. Since opening in 2022, the lodge has transformed former chena plantations into a sanctuary where ecological practices and traditional farming thrive together. Hosting over 30,000 guests, Yakaduru Yala has become one of Sri Lanka’s top eco-tourism destinations.
Committed to sustainability, the lodge uses solar power to eliminate its carbon footprint and engages in reforestation efforts with local wildlife and forest departments. Accommodations feature handcrafted mud cottages made from locally sourced materials, ensuring comfort while showcasing Sri Lankan craftsmanship.
Yakaduru offers guests immersive experiences, including guided wildlife safaris and walks exploring traditional agriculture and Sri Lankan rural life. Cultural performances and local cuisine further enhance the experience. Yakaduru’s success also benefits the local community by promoting chena farming and creating meaningful employment, making it a model of sustainable tourism.
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