DIMO, the Nation’s Perfect Mobility Partner, recently announced a strategic partnership with Nations Trust Bank (NTB), to further expand its tailored advisory service for pre-owned luxury vehicle buyers and sellers titled, CARPITAL by DIMO CERTIFIED.

CARPITAL Advisory Services by DIMO CERTIFIED offers tailored consultations focused on Expert Advice, Real Market Value Assessment, Peace of Mind Transactions, and Re-Investment Options for customers who wish to sell or buy a luxury pre-owned vehicle.

The collaboration with NTB will further add value to the re-investment and financing options for customers seeking CARPITAL’s services by offering an array of financial solutions tailored to their luxury vehicle ownership journey.

Through this partnership, NTB will offer customers, who wish to upgrade, switch, or downgrade their luxury vehicles, a comprehensive suite of financial solutions including competitive lease rentals with expedited processing times. This also includes personalised financing facilities for the next vehicle with a residual value of up to 50% at the last rental, preferential rebates even at the point of early termination, and structured tailor-made payment plans based on the client’s cash flow.

NTB will provide bespoke insurance solutions for motor and life insurance through an array of insurance service providers, as well as credit cards with special offers for customers and their families who transact with CARPITAL Advisory Services. Another unique feature is that DIMO together with NTB will also provide wealth management solutions to customers exploring investment opportunities with unlocked capital gains as a result of CARPITAL Advisory Services.

DIMO, in turn, will provide NTB’s private banking clientele with a dedicated CARPITAL Adviser to manage and guide NTB-referred customers, streamlining their luxury vehicle buying and selling process with peace of mind. This includes providing complimentary expert advice for NTB private banking clients, with comprehensive valuations conducted by DIMO’s trained Automobile Experts, ensuring the highest market value for their existing luxury vehicle and timely guidance. A one-year warranty on the engine and gearbox and complimentary access to island-wide 24×7 roadside assistance are some of the value-added benefits NTB customers could enjoy through this partnership.

DIMO Executive Director, Rajeev Pandithagecommented on this partnership, “This strategic alliance with NTB significantly strengthens the CARPITAL Advisory Services offering. By combining DIMO’s expertise in carving the nation’s mobility eco-system in terms of luxury vehicle sales and after-sales services with NTB’s diverse financial solutions, we can provide our customers with an unparalleled level of assistance throughout their luxury vehicle ownership journey.”

Nations Trust Bank’s Executive Vice President of Corporate Banking Senal Seneviratnesaid, “Nation Trust Bank is pleased to partner with DIMO to offer our private banking clients a unique and comprehensive value proposition for their luxury vehicle investment needs. This collaboration aligns perfectly with our commitment to providing our clients with innovative financial solutions and exceptional service.”

CARPITAL Advisory Service by DIMO CERTIFIED is also geared to share knowledge and advise valued customers on future luxury vehicle investment decisions, such as switching from a fuel-powered luxury vehicle to a luxury EV such as Mercedes-Benz EQ.

CARPITAL Advisory Services by DIMO CERTIEID facilitates buyers and sellers with the right direction to capitalize on the financial gain hidden in their appreciated vehicle asset or to make correct investment decisions in the volatile pre-owned luxury vehicle market amidst import restrictions and rising market values. With access to a database of genuine buyers transacting with DIMO for years, CARPITAL ensures risk-free, 100% transparent transactions with absolute peace of mind for their clientele with handpicked vehicles & no third-party involvement.

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Photo Caption: Mr Senal Seneviratne Executive Vice President – Corporate Banking of Nation Trust Bank and Mr GahanathPandithage Group Managing Director/ CEO of DIMO with NTB and DIMO officials at the signing ceremony.

The Fabric and Apparel Accessory Manufacturer’s Association (FAAMA), a subsidiary association of the Joint Apparel Association Forum of Sri Lanka (JAAF), hosted its 17^thAnnual General Meeting (AGM) 2024, at Jetwing Colombo Seven on the 29^th of the October 2024. The event was attended by Chief Guest, Mr. Doug Sonnek, the Deputy Chief of Mission, U.S. Embassy in Sri Lanka, and Guest of Honour Mr. Saif Jafferjee, Chairman of the JAAF Sri Lanka.

The AGM also wasattended by representatives of JAAF member associations including Mr.Yohan Lawrence, JAAFSL Secretary General, and other distinguished guests such as Mrs.Renuka M. Weerakoon, Director General of the Board of Investment (BOI) of Sri Lanka and P.B Hemantha Jayasinghe, Director General of Central Environmental Authority (CEA).

Mr. Pubudu De Silva, the outgoing Chairman of FAAMA, addressed the attendees, highlighting the association’s progress over the past financial year ending 31^st March 2024. He highlighted several challenges faced by the textile and apparel industry due to uncertain global demand, brought about by geopolitical tensions and economic fluctuation. He explained that these challenges greatly impacted supply chains and costs of raw material. He went on to highlight that despite these challenges, Sri Lanka’s apparel sector was able to remain the largest contributor of the local economy.

Mr. De Silva also addressed FAAMA’s pivotal role in the apparel industry, emphasising the fact that the association is working closely with stakeholders and government to implement favourable policies for the apparel industry. He further highlighted that the association would continue its focus on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives such as beach clean ups and ocean strainers. He mentioned that FAAMA hopes to strengthen its partnership with JAAFand further expand global demand for Sri Lankan apparel.

Thereafter, Guest of Honour, Mr. Saif Jafferjee, Chairman of JAAF, addressed the attendees. During his address, Mr. Jafferjee stated that the JAAF, in spite of the challenges, will continue to collaborate with FAAMA to strengthen the apparel industry.  He said the intention is to turn Sri Lanka’s apparel industry into an USD $8 Billion industry over the next two years.

Following this address, Chief Guest, Mr. Doug Sonnek, Deputy Chief of Mission, U.S. Embassy in Sri Lanka addressed the gathering, “ The United States is proud to be Sri Lanka’s top export market, with $2.8 billion in goods exported to the U.S. in 2023. Organizations like FAAMA playa critical role instrengtheningour bilateral economic relationship. By promoting good governance, supporting workers’ rights, and advancing environmental sustainability, FAAMA is not only driving the apparel industry forward but also contributing to Sri Lanka’s long-term economic resilience and growth. The United States looks forward to continuing our partnership to create opportunities and prosperity for both our nations.”

Mr. Samal Dissanaikewas appointed as the new Chairman of FAAMA for 2024/2025. The new Board of Directors was also announced that evening. The following members were appointed to the Executive Committee,

FAAMA’s 17^th Annual General Meeting came to a successful conclusion with the associations newly appointed Chairman of FAAMA, Mr. Samal Dissanayake delivering the vote of thanks to all attendees, the new Board of Directors, and Executive Committee. This was followed by an evening of cocktails and fellowship.

Image 01- Top Row Left to right- EXCO MemberShehan Olegarasam, EXCO Member Jonah Goh, EXCO Member Sanjaya Weerasinghe, EXCO Member Husni Salieh, EXCO Member Chamila Bakmeewewa, EXCO Member Beauno Fernando, EXCO Member Harin Gabriel

Botton Row Left to right – Vice Chair 1 Niroshan Samarasinghe, Secretary Shahid Sangani, Chairman Samal Dissanaike, Treasurer Suranga Gallage, Vice Chair 2 Vasu Wijegoonawardena

Associated Motorways (Private) Limited., a leader in Sri Lanka automotive industry celebrates ten successful years of partnership with New Holland Tractors as its sole distributor in Sri Lanka. Since the inception of the partnership, AMW has been deeply committed to supporting the agricultural sector by providing reliable equipment and unparalleled service to farmers across Sri Lanka. In celebration of the partnership, and in lieu of the current ‘MAHA’ season, AMW conducted a series of free inspections for loyal customers around the country.

Throughout the month of October, AMW’s service teams conducted free inspections in key agricultural locations including Mullaitivu, Horowpothana, Batticaloa and Sammanthrai. The objective of the inspection campaign was to support local farmers by ensuring that their New Holland tractors were in optimal condition for the upcoming season. Over 100 inspections were conducted during the campaign, underscoring the company’s dedication to supporting farmers and helping them maintain their equipment, which is essential for their livelihoods.

Additionally, AMW also offered a variety of other benefits to participating farmers, such as expert technical advice from CNH trained technicians, who provided valuable insights on tractor maintenance. The company also offered special discounts on genuine spare parts, giving farmers an opportunity to access high-quality components at affordable prices. The AMW team also immediately addressed any urgent repairs on the spot, allowing farmers to resume their activities with minimal disruption.

AMW is proud to support their loyal customers, recognising the pivotal role that farmers play in lives communities and the national economy. As forerunner in Sri Lanka’s automotive industry, AMW remains dedicated to providing exceptional service and support agricultural sector, and empowering farmers the necessary tools and resources they require for their livelihoods to thrive. 

he Sri Lanka Institute of Directors (SLID) recently concluded Sri Lanka’s first ever International Director Conference. The event was held under the theme ‘The Courage To be Bold’ and was designed to inspire leaders to take on challenges in the ever-evolving corporate landscape and provide them with essential tools to charge their growth trajectories upward.

The groundbreaking event offered participants an opportunity to gain insightful knowledge and take in incredible success stories of over 25 experts from various industries, whose boldness, resilience and innovativeness helped them excel in a challenging and constantly evolving local and global landscape.

Mr. Hanif Yoosuf, Co- Founder of Expo Lanka Holdings and the Governor of the Western Province was the keynote speaker at the conference. Mr. Yoosuf delivered an unscripted address giving a rare treat to the audience of personal anecdotes including advice bestowed upon him by his mother when he was quite young. He went on to say, “The courage to be bold, is the courage to stand up and move forward.”

The conference consisted of four in-depth and highly focussed technical sessions which covered key areas including business growth, digital transformation, sustainability, and governance. Each session was highly engaging and provided attendees with valuable insights and knowledge.

The first session of the event focussed on the topic, Business Growth: Thriving in the Global Market. This session allowed attendees to explore and understand a variety of strategies for navigating complex global markets and how to maximize opportunities for global and regional growth. The session focused on the future economic landscape and highlighted the relationship between economic growth, trade and geopolitical challenges.

The second session covered was titled “Digital Horizons: Venturing into New Frontiers”. This provided Directors with invaluable knowledge on the integration of digital strategies into operations to help ensure long-term sustainability. The session showcased how digital transformation is currently reshaping businesses and highlighted many ways that companies can leverage technology such as data analytics and automation.

The third session featured the topic “Sustaining Success: Green Strategies for the Future”. The session covered the utilisation of green strategies in businesses to meet market demands, regulatory standards and drive innovation for a sustainable future. It highlighted the importance of sustainability in modern business practices.

The fourth and final session was an engaging fireside discussion that covered the topic “Ethics & Leadership: A Fireside Chat on Strategic Governance”. The session featured a panel of business leaders from a variety of fields who discussed how ethical considerations can help drive long-term success, improve risk management and align with the increasing demands of corporate transparency.

Mr. Chanitha Rathnayake, Director of a reputed company in the construction industry, who participated in the conference stated, “I wish to express my sincere appreciation for the successful organization of the conference. All four sessions were informative and engaging. The diverse composition of the panels, comprised of experts from various backgrounds, was an excellent approach. I was particularly impressed by the first session on navigating and growing in the global market amidst the economic crisis. The insights shared were invaluable, especially in today’s challenging economic climate. Additionally, the last session on ethics provided a refreshing perspective, particularly for someone from the construction industry. Thank you once again for organizing such a well-planned and insightful conference.”

This landmark event offered Directors and leaders an unparalleled opportunity to learn and gain inspiring and actionable knowledge from industry pioneers helping them lead their organizations boldly into the world, into the future.

The Sri Lanka Institute of Directors (SLID) is an organization focused on empowering today’s Directors with insights and skills to take on their roles with confidence while preparing a new generation of Boardroom Leaders for the challenges of tomorrow. In existence for over 25 years, SLID is at the forefront of corporate governance, elevating boardroom excellence through its 1000 strong membership of business leaders representing private and public sector organizations.