BBDO and Swara (Pvt) Ltd join forces to create world class advertising agency in Sri Lanka

LANDMARK: November 1, 2006, a landmark event took place in the advertising industry of Sri Lanka, when the BBDO Worldwide network aligned with local agency, Swara.

BBDO is the world's fourth largest advertising agency and is regarded as the most creative network in the world.

BBDO recently came top in the worldwide creative rankings - The Gunn Report - and is the only network to have won this accolade four times.

Swara (Pvt) Ltd - previously a sister concern of Thompson Associates (Pvt) Ltd (TAL) - is a relatively new entity in the industry with plans to bring on board the very best of talent in Sri Lanka.

The BBDO-Swara partnership is the culmination of a 10-year relationship where the agency has co-operated on accounts such as ICI and Visa.

The agency's first priority is to build a dedicated team focused on the recently won Fonterra account. Fonterra owns a number of key brands including Anlene, Anmum and Anchor.

Chris Thomas, Chairman and CEO, BBDO Asia Pacific said: "Across Asia we have built a lot of momentum in 2006.

We are delighted to be strengthening our partnership in Sri Lanka with the launch of BBDO Swara. BBDO has always sought to attract and retain the very best creative and strategic talent in every market that we have entered. That is precisely what we are doing in Sri Lanka".

The operation will be headed by the former Jt. Managing Director of TAL, Keith Wijesuriya as CEO, BBDO Swara while the other key roles are filled by Upali Herath as Executive Creative Director and Kunal Roy as Strategic Planning & Creative Director.

Keith Wijesuriya CEO of BBDO Swara commented: "This is a defining moment in the development of our business. We will have an unwavering commitment to the quality of our creative ideas across all communication channels.

Our aim is to create work that is rich in local insight, strategically strong and highly contemporary. Our creative benchmark will be the international scene, be it AdFest, Clio or even Cannes, with our very own "Chillies" being a hot testing ground.

Our philosophy is the same as it is in BBDO anywhere in the world - a relentless focus on - The Work. The Work. The Work".

Wijesuriya has spent all of his 20 years at TAL. In 2004 he, along with his partner, Renuka Marshall, took over the reins of TAL and has nearly doubled the size of the agency in two years.

While heading the media team he paved the way for many innovations like the first commercial as an interval during news, the first Sinhala jingle on English Radio and the first 'no interruption' teledrama.

His FMCG experience is one to be envied - from Unilever's Signal Toothpaste and Sunlight Washing Soap to Munchee Biscuits, from Keells Processed Meats to Farley's Rusk, from Haliborange to Rich Life Milk and from Captain Canned Fish to Cheers Fruit Drinks to PRIMA Bread and Noodles.

Wijesuriya has been on the faculty of CAM as lecturer on Direct Marketing and Sales Promotion and has been on the 4A's Board for the last four years, currently as Vice President. Head of Creative, Upali Herath, needs to introduction in the local advertising circle, having won and judged almost every award the country has to offer.

In his career spanning more than 25 years, he has worked on the biggest brands at some of the bigger agencies - JWT, Grant McCann, Leo Burnett, Bates and Phoenix Ogilvy, to name a few.

He adds, "In Upali, we have someone who understands and has studied the local idiom, someone who can inspire great work and get down and dirty doing it himself and someone who can build a worldclass creative resource."

Head of Planning, Kunal Roy has been working with Keith at TAL and has to some good extent helped in its resurgence. "Kunal is an unusual talent.

Apart from being highly strategic he also brings a rich sense of creativity to his thinking. His passion for advertising is compelling and he produces work that is consistently both creative and effective" says Wijesuriya .

Before Sri Lanka, Roy has worked with MAA Bozell and Grey Worldwide in Bangalore, India among other agencies and has also had a short stint in Brand Consultancy.

He has worked on category leading brands across industries. Hero Honda, TATA Motors, Apollo Clinic, Britannia, AMD Athlon, Dell, ING Vysya Bank, Aviva Eagle Insurance, Standard Chartered Bank and Prima are some of them.

The new agency, in addition to local training has plans to develop talent through BBDO's regionally and globally organized workshops and conferences.

The members of the agency will not only get to work on big international brands but will also be exposed to the bank of BBDO's knowledge, expertise and resource.

Initially, BBDO Swara will handle all brands of Fonterra. In addition, the agency will continue to handle the Visa International brand, building on a successful three year relationship. A great foundation to build from.

About BBDO

BBDO Asia Pacific (www.bbdoasia.com), part of BBDO Worldwide and a member of Omnicom Group Inc., is a leading global advertising, marketing and corporate communications company.

BBDO Asia Pacific's creative agencies provide award-winning advertising and brand communications solutions in more than 14 countries throughout Asia or clients such as FedEx, Visa, Pepsi, Fonterra, KFC, ICI, DaimlerChrysler, and Masterfoods.

BBDO is one of the most recognized global networks and the world's most awarded creative agency over the last six years. BBDO Asia Pacific has been Campaign Brief Agency of the year for the last three years and was the most awarded agency for print and TV at Adfest this year.

Omnicom

Omnicom Group Inc. (NYSE-OMC) www.omnicomgroup.com) is a leading global advertising, marketing and corporate communications company.

Omnicom's branded networks and numerous specialty firms provide advertising, strategic media planning and buying, direct and promotional marketing, public relations and other specialty communications services to over 5,000 clients in more than 100 countries.

CEAT to ride into motorcycle tyre market

TYRES: CEAT Sri Lanka has commenced distribution of its locally manufactured, high quality motorcycle tyres in Sri Lanka, following their formal launch at the Waters Edge recently.

Coming hot on the heels of the company's new investment to manufacture hi-tech radial tyres for the first time in Sri Lanka, this initiative will see Sri Lanka's top tyre manufacturer supplying state-of-the-art motorcycle tyres for a market with an estimated demand of more than 80,000 tyres a month.

For CEAT Sri Lanka this reflects a further diversification of its product portfolio and a second major initiative to cater to the 'consumer' segment of the tyre industry.

CEAT's entry into this market will provide motorcycle users with greater choice, superior tyres and better value for money, CEAT Sri Lanka Managing Director Oscar Braganza said.

"This is an important market segment for CEAT in view of our plans to serve a wider range of customers. This is a market in which style, safety, price and availability are of significance to customers. The new motorcycle tyres will also carry CEAT's no-questions-asked warranty," he said.

The manufacturing plant, at the AMW tyre manufacturing complex in Kalutara, is equipped with the latest high-tech machinery and is built according to the stringent specifications of CEAT Sri Lanka.

"The plant is fitted with a state-of-the-art wobble testing machine, the first such machine in the country," CEAT's General Manager - Sales and Marketing K. Ravi Shankar said.

The factory has an initial manufacturing capacity of 9,500 tyres a month but the company will subsequently increase its production to 14,000 tyres a month and later to 20,000 tyres a month.

Branded 'Secura,' The tyres currently being produced are 300/18 6PR sport, 275/17 4PR zoom front and 300/17 6PR secura zoom. The company plans to increase its range to eight tyres, five for the rear and three for the front, by February 2007.

The company also said that it has a competitive advantage in selling tyres to this market because many of the bikes in Sri Lanka already have CEAT tyres. "Most bikes in Sri Lanka are imported from India, and already have CEAT India tyres.

"We also have the advantage of selling the same tyre patterns that are manufactured and sold in India," Ravi Shankar said.

In its existing markets, which are commercial and agricultural, CEAT is the market leader with market shares in excess of 55 per cent in the supply of tyres for trucks, light trucks, farm vehicles and three wheelers.

An ISO 9001:2000 certified company, CEAT Sri Lanka manufactures an extensive range of tyres at plants at Kalutara and Kelaniya.

The company's product portfolio includes radial tyres for cars and vans, tyres for light trucks, trucks, buses, forklifts and heavy vehicles such as pay loaders, graders and backhoe loaders.

The company has exported over 2200 container loads of tyres to date to India, Duabi, Singapore, Philippines, Egypt, Africa and countries in the SAARC region.

Multilac wins top awards at National Business Excellence Awards 2006

AWARDS: Multilac Paints clinched two Golds and a Silver at the recently concluded National Business Excellence Awards conducted by the National Chamber of Commerce of Sri Lanka.

Participating in the NBE Awards since its inception three years ago, Multilac Pains won Golds in the medium sector and manufacturing sector, with a Silver for overall winner.

Deputy Chairman of Macksons Paint Industries, manufacturers of Multilac Paints, Mohamed Milfer said that this was yet another endorsement of the Company's commitment to quality and efficiency.

"The company is the flag bearer in the Colourbank concept in Sri Lanka has accrued the technology to widen the colour spectrum from 10,000 colours to an unlimited array now," he added.

The NBE Awards are designed to recognise business organisations making a significant contribution to the socio-economic development of the country through exemplary business practices.

Multilac Paints, which recently celebrated its 25th anniversary, is ISO 9001:2000 and has revolutionised the Sri Lankan paint industry with many achievements in technology and innovation. It now enjoys top slot as the country's largest exporter of paints.

During its 25 year history, Multilac Paints has won an impressive array of awards from the Ceylon National Chamber of Industries, the National Chamber of Exporters and The National Chamber of Commerce.

Customer rewards from Janashakthi Full Option

Motor car on offer every six months:

WINNER: E.A. Silva of Nittambuwa is the latest winner of the brand new car offered bi-annually by Janashakthi Full Option as part of its ongoing consumer promotion for Janashakthi Full Option policy holders.

Managing Director of Janashakthi Insurance Company Ltd Prakash Schaffter handed over the keys of the vehicle to the lucky winner at a simple ceremony recently.

Apart from the brand new car on offer every six months, Janashakthi Full Option, the revolutionary trend setter in the Sri Lankan motor insurance industry, also offers airline tickets to Bangkok and ten gift vouchers every month, thus enabling its policyholders more chances of winning prizes.

"We at Janashakthi consider every customer as a key stakeholder in the Company's path to success. Hence our continuous recognition of the trust and confidence they have placed in the Company. Janashakthi Full Option is the only insurer that gives its policyholders the opportunity to win while enjoying secure protection. With Janashakthi Full Option you are always a winner", Schaffter said. "Janashakthi Insurance has one of the largest branch distribution networks' counting more than hundred branches. Our branch distribution revenue has grown by over 30%", he added.

Crowned the 'Most Innovative Service Brand of the Year' at the recent SLIM Brand Excellence Awards, Janashakthi Full Option's success is attributed to constant deliberations on consumer insights, a highly professional management team and above all, the passion for achievement and the courage to challenge the leading brands.

Janashakthi Full Option is the leading innovator and most comprehensive motor insurance solution provider in the Sri Lankan motor insurance industry providing the best value to Sri Lankan motorists with a vast array of unique benefits.

Among its many ground-breaking new dimensions in the industry are Zero Interest Monthly Instalment Plan, highest ever No Claim Bonus of 75%, 15 days grace period after policy expiry, highest discount on multiple vehicles, and income support for buses and three-wheelers.

All these are in addition to an islandwide on-site damage inspection (with no police reports required), and a claim settlement process.

This claim process is very well supported by a 24-hour and 365-day operational Full Option Call Centre, which assists motor policyholders by arranging for immediate inspection of vehicle damage and authorising repairs.

The company also operates a state-of-the-art technologically advanced Vehicle Collision Repair Centre which carries our repairs to its motor policyholders' vehicles. Janashakthi Full Option was also the first to offer personal accident protection and hospitalisation benefits to the occupants of the vehicle.

Other benefits include free 'natural perils' protection with flood cover and the Janashakthi Pedestrian No Fault Scheme, which compensates the next of kin in the event of a fatal pedestrian accident.

Lanka Bell, People's Bank tie up for customer convenience

AGREEMENT: Lanka Bell and the People's Bank recently entered into an agreement whereby all Lanka Bell bills can be paid at any of the People's Bank 650 branches (including service centres) located islandwide. Both account holders as well as non-account holders can now make use of this bill payment facility.

Lanka Bell customers who pay their bills at these branches will get their accounts updated immediately, while payments made at branches not currently on line, will be credited to Lanka Bell accounts on the next working day.

Managing Director of Lanka Bell Suren Goonewardene said, "As the only fully Sri Lankan owned company in the telecom industry, we are happy to team up with the People's Bank to extend this bill payment facility for the convenience of our rapidly expanding customer base across the country".

"This tie-up with the People's Bank the largest commercial bank in the country, is a win-win situation for both parties. It 650 plus branches spread across the island have direct access to an ever increasing customer base representing a large cross section of social levels. We're thus happy to merge our individual strengths for the ultimate benefit of our customers", Goonewardene added.

Lanka Bell pioneered the launch of cutting edge CDMA technology to Sri Lanka in May 2005 and changed the country's telecommunication landscape by connecting the remotest of villages in record time.

This forms part of its long-term commitment to extend its fixed wireless telecommunications network and share the benefits of modern telephony with the rural masses.

The company has since then revolutionised the telecommunication landscape of the country and enjoys growing market penetration both at urban and rural level.

F&G RECL branch office in Galle

NEW BRANCH:F&G Real Estate Company Limited (RECL), a cluster company of F&G Group and a member of Ceylinco consolidated will open its third branch office at Galle on November 23.

Mervyn Jayasinghe, Deputy Chairman F&G Group said that F and G RECL had been recording rapid growth in the past few years with several successful projects to its credit.

The Company has embarked on an expansion drive to take its products and services to people in various cities outside Colombo. The Galle branch office is a follow up to the Company's branch offices being established at Welisara and the Kapruka Shopping Complex at Nittambuwa.

Mohan Perera, Executive Director of F and G Group said that the company is now a fully fledged real estate company offering total solutions to its clientele in the real estate and property development business.

It is engaged in catering to the needs of different market segments with a portfolio of products and services including lands, construction of houses on own property, housing projects, luxury housing, apartments, provision of housing loans and opportunities to earn high returns by investing in their projects.

Leos commissioned by CIC to promote child abuse awareness

CHILD ABUSE: CIC Paints sponsored Dulux Child Protection Trust Fund (DPCTF) furthering their cause 'prevention through awareness campaigns' is giving financial assistance to the Leo Club of Colombo to help stop child abuse by conducting workshops and seminars for target groups.

Themed "Stop Child Abuse", the first in this series was held last week for children of the Sri Lankadara Orphanage in Wellawatte. Lankadara Society runs the orphanage providing shelter for 50 girls.

Nadeeka Daluwatte senior lecturer and counsellor conducted the session with Leos from the host club assisting in the organisation in the presence of representatives from CIC.

It was an atmosphere of fun and learning where the children were engaged in creative activities. Aimed at earning and building trust the exercise achieved the objective through song, dance, impromptu drama and creative drawing.

A good relationship built on trust was the aim of the facilitator and counsellor before processing to the serious issue of abuse.

The children opened up to enjoy themselves. The foundation to address the sombre and serious built on friendship and trust between on the counsellor and the girls was the first step.

Beginning with the Lankadara Home, the Dulux Child Protection Trust Fund, through Leo Club Colombo, has targeted 33 orphanages in the Colombo district.

In their unwavering commitment to arrest child abuse through awareness, the DCPTF will in this venture be addressing the high risk group through professionals geared to handle children's issues.

Nadeeka Daluwatte's approach of building trust through child friendly activity will continue at the next workshop at Sanhinda Boys Home at Kollupitiya.

The Dulux Child Protection Trust Fund, begun in 2002, has been the recipient of international sustainability awards for their commitment to the cause of children in Sri Lanka.

At the ICI Global Leadership Awards 2005 - CIC Paints Sri Lanka's work in child protection earned them the top award for Community Involvement. Spurred on by recognition, CIC Paints furthered their child protection work through a unique participatory public awareness campaign the "Banner of Hope."

"From April this year the 'Banner of Hope' has made quite a public impact and now we feel we must do something which is both educational and informative. This project with the orphanages will achieve just that," said Nalin Karunaratne of CIC Paints (pvt) Ltd commenting on the decision to move from creating public awareness to educating the high risk group.

Land Rover pairs with Maria Sharapova

RELATIONSHIP: Land Rover have announced a multi-year relationship with Wimbledon Champion and one of the world's most talented female athletes - Maria Sharapova.

The internationally regarded 18-year-old will formally assume a new role as an ambassador for the Land Rover brand at an exclusive Land Rover VIP event in New York. The multi-year relationship includes her use of Land Rover vehicles, and her participation in retail promotions and events.

Sharapova joins the Land Rover team with a multitude of accomplishments including winning Wimbledon in 2004 and being named among the "50 Most Beautiful People" by People Magazine in 2005.

Her global personality and strong performance in international tennis is the perfect match for Land Rover, a brand that offers a modern line-up of powerful and award-winning Sport Utility Vehicles.

"Her drive to win on the court combined with her need for the latest technology to keep her on the road to success means this new relationship is a winning combination and a natural fit," said Mike O'Driscoll, President, Aston Martin Jaguar Land Rover North America.

"In many ways, she reflects the same sense of adventure and extraordinary abilities that our vehicles represent. Maria's determination and inspirational success combine to make her a global icon and we are delighted that she will be associated with Land Rover."

Having introduced three new models - the Land Rover LR3, Range Rover Sport and the 2006 Range Rover - in the last 18 months, Land Rover has established an award-winning portfolio of SUVs.

"Having the right transportation is very important to me as it takes me to practice, to the game and to all my personal appearances," said Maria Sharapova.

"When I won Wimbledon, I told myself, 'now I can have a Land Rover.' Now that I am driving myself I love the protection and style that this adds to my daily commute."

In Sri Lanka Land Rover is distributed by Frontier Automotive. CEO Frontier Automotive, Sheran Fernando said that apart from its sporty and off road capabilities, Land Rover is increasingly becoming the choice of the connoisseur". Maria Sharapova personifies Land Rover's success in achieving a breadth of capability that is seen in the entire product range".

Maria Sharapova is currently the fourth-ranked singles tennis player in the Women's Tennis Association (WTA), and one of the youngest champions to win at Wimbledon. She has been hailed as a national icon and partners with Colgate-Palmolive, Nike, Prince, Motorola, Canon, Tag Heuer and many more.

Orange electric Mission of Light awareness campaign for White Cane day

CAMPAIGN: As a part of Orange Electric ongoing commitment to the Federation of the Visually Handicapped, through their CSR project "Light for you Sight for me" an activity based event was held at Parliament grounds on White Cane Day 2006.

The main focus of the afternoons activities revolved around the "Mission of Light", campaign that sought to raise public awareness of the disadvantages faced by the visually handicapped and the need to replace sympathy with empathy while drawing the attention of the public to appreciate the talents of this special group of people and their need to be included and not be marginalised on account of their handicap.

The highlight of the activities was the unfurling of black banners, on which persons with sight were called to sign in white whilst being blindfolded.

The significance being to gain, experience for a moment of what it was to be in total darkness and how difficult it was to do something as simple as place one's signature on a large surface.

"It was frightening and also a humbling experience," said Kumara a visitor participating in the activities of the afternoon. "It was really frightening that I could not do the simple task of placing my signature without assistance."

He added: "previously I had only sympathy for the blind now I am humbled by their determination to master survival in a world geared for people like myself who take good eye sight for granted."

A band from the Federation for the Visually Handicapped was on stage rendering old time favourites showcasing their talent.

The blinds sensitivity to sound and their aptitude in music is well known, what astounded most was how they manoeuvred their way up the steep steps of the temporary stage and found their places with little guidance.

It was a conscience jerking day when the importance of making the visually handicapped an integral part of our society and a making a place for them was the underlying theme that afternoon at Parliament grounds.

Wickrema Weerasooriya, Advisor to the Federation for the Visually Handicapped together with committee members of the blind federation and Ananda Rajapakse CEO, Orange Electric and many staff members from the Orange Electric were amongst those who committed a Sunday afternoon to empathise with the needs of the blind at a milestone event that initiated independence and dignity for the visually handicapped.

Orange Electric "Light for you sight for Me" is a campaign that is committed to raising funds for the Federation of the Visually Handicapped.

This premier manufacturer of bulbs and electrical fittings, has committed a percentage of sales, from every light bulbs sold to this fund.

Initially monies from the fund facilitate the conduct of regular 'eye camps' to identify early problems connected with vision loss.

The fund also provides cataract lenses and ongoing medication for the visually impaired in a bid to prevent total vision loss.

It has been found that, many conditions connected with vision loss could now be prevented with early intervention.

The main aim of 'Light for you sight for me' is to provide facilities for the work of the Federation for the Visually Handicapped in their work in prevention of blindness.

Be First to Fly on the Singapore Airlines A380

"First to Fly the A380 quiz-and draw" was held from August 1 to October 2, 2006.

Many people from all over the world took part in this quiz. Tickets for two on the world's first commercial A380 flight from Singapore to Sydney on Singapore Airlines, two nights in Plaza view suite, at the 5-star 'Raffles The Plaza" Singapore prior to the flight was offered, Followed by four nights in the Swiss Business Executive Club, at the 5 star Swissotel Sydney on market street upon arrival.

In addition, to that also 1100 A380 aircraft models were given to the winners. There were 03 rounds in this draw, we have winners from many countries like Japan,USA, Singapore, UK, France, Australia, India, Macau, Switzerland and Sri Lanka.

The Grand prize winner is Iwan Christopher from Indonesia. Sachindra Amaratunge from Sri Lanka, the winner of the "First To Fly The A380 Quiz -and draw", with Singapore Airlines, receiving the A380 model air craft fromSer Yi Lee General Manager Singapore Airlines.

GFH appoints new director sales and marketing

APPOINTMENT: Galle Face Hotel Management Company Ltd recently announced the appointment of Anushka Lovell as the Director of Sales & Marketing.

Under her purview, Anushka will be responsible for Galle Face Management Company's properties namely Suisse and Queens in Kandy and Lihiniya Surf, Bentota.

Additionally, she will direct and implement all marketing initiatives for Ceylon Hotels Corporation's wide portfolio of resorts, guest houses, hotels and restaurants located throughout Sri Lanka, in some of the most picturesque locations - Polonnaruwa, Tissa, Belihul Oya, Sigiriya, Kitulgala, Ella, and Kotmale, to name but a few.

Anushka joins Galle Face Hotel Management Company Limited with extensive strategic sales & marketing experience having spent the past three years as General Manager - Sales & Marketing for Confifi Group Hotels, where she was responsible for the entire local and international marketing of 04 beach resorts on the south west coast of Sri Lanka, in the town of Beruwela.

Prior to her stint with Confifi Group Hotels, she spent over 06 year overseas with world renowned chains such as Hyatt Hotels & Resorts and Marriott International in the role of Business Development Manager and Director of Sales & Marketing.

Oberoi Hotels Sri Lanka (then Lanka Oberoi) was her stepping stone into the hospitality industry, where she successfully progressed in her career over a period of eight years to accomplish the position of Sales Manager, having started as a trainee Receptionist.

Anushka's decision to relocate to Sri Lanka in 2003 is attributable to her aspiration to share her wealth of knowledge and experience with the Tourism Industry of Sri Lanka.

Seylan Visa Card members get their shopping bills paid by the Bank

VISA CARD: Seylan Visa Credit and Debit Card members who shop this season from November 24 to December 31 will have their respective shopping bills totally funded.

This offer is open to all Seylan Visa Credit and Debit Card members with five weekly draws held, from which 10 winners will be picked each week. All card members will stand equal chances of winning, irrespective of the amount spent.

The grand prize is a Rs. 500,000 cash prize, which is open to card members who shop every week for five consecutive weeks during this period.

All local and international transactions will be considered for the draw.

In addition, card members are entitled to many value additions and schemes, such as; zero interest instalment schemes through which card members can make purchases from a range of merchant outlets and repay in equal monthly instalments, the VSA Grants scheme which enables card members to claim a certain percentage on surgical bills, reimbursement of wedding reception bills and school fees, while a new born child of the card member is entitled to a free 'Tikiri' minor savings account.

Further card members could earn points each time they spend through the Seylan Visa Points Fiesta.

Seylan Bank is the largest visa card issuer in Sri Lanka, Seylan Visa Credit Cardholder are free of stamp duty whilst Seylan Visa Debit Cardholder are exempted form Debit tax for purchases.

Sri Lanka's Wild Drift launches training in Goa

TEAMBUILDING : Wild Drift, Sri Lanka's adventure based trainer for corporate customers, has stretched its wings overseas to conduct teambuilding programmes for global, regional and local companies.

Astrazeneca Saudi Arabia, a member of the global pharmaceutical giant Astrazeneca, recently contracted Wild Drift to carry out a comprehensive programme for 80 participants in the Indian resort of Goa during the Annual Marketing Conference of its Middle East Region.

"Wild Drift now has the capability to conduct team building adventure activities in Goa, which are tailor-made to suit the requirements of any type of company or organization," said Anuruddha Bandara, Joint Managing Director of Wild Drift.

Wild Drift, which was set up in 2001 as a team venture between Rukmal de Silva and Anuruddha Bandara, provides total team related training solutions for all types of organizations at 24 sites throughout Sri Lanka.

Its corporate client base of nearly 100 companies includes SriLankan Airlines, MAS Group, John Keells Group, Shell, Glaxo, Hayleys Group, Richard Peiris Group, Hirdaramani Group, and Deutsche Bank AG.

One of Wild Drift's major strengths is its network of 24 adventure training locations throughout Sri Lanka, from camps to tree houses, jungle lodges, and star class hotels. The company has programmes to fit any of these locations, or any other location chosen by a client.

More information on Wild Drift's extensive range of training interventions can be found at www.wilddrift.com

It's Dwellings for Christmas

We all know how hectic shopping can be during the Christmas season. Especially if you want to get the ideal gift that has both quality and affordability. So here's a little hint... Dwellings has decided to ease your shopping tension this year by introducing a four week promotion of the perfect Christmas gifts and accessories that is a "must have" during this season. The first week kicks off from -

December 01-December 07 - Christmas Accessories

You can get Christmas Accessories like tree ornaments, decorations, bonbons, candles, table mats, cards, Christmas booties, cakes, banners and much more.

Why stick to the same theme every year, try something different like the eco friendly items that have been put out. Dwellings is also promoting some items made by ESCAT (Galle community center) and Work for Windows Organization.

December 8-14 - Mosaic

Mosaic products will be the highlight of this week. You can buy gifts for others or just treat yourself. There are clocks, picture frames, candle stands, place mats, trays, coasters, mirrors (large and small) and much more. All artistically and colourfully designed to suit anyone's tastes.

December 15 -21- Patch Work

Most people think Patchwork is out dated well that's where they're wrong. Dwellings is giving patchwork a touch of a more modern and contemporary design.

They are products made by housewives and small scale entrepreneurs. These patchwork designs come in quilts, table runners, place mats, wall hanging etc.

December 22 -28 - Bamboo Blitz

The final week promotes a new line of products that are called "Bamboo Blitz". Now for those of you who are curiously interested in the name read on... "Bamboo Blitz" is a new line of household items introduced by dwellings.

They are personally selected and brought down from Vietnam. These items are made from bamboo and come as trays, lamps and much more. If you are looking for something unique, Bamboo Blitz is for you.

So why not be different this year and avoid the last minute mad dash from one shop to another. Make this years Christmas shopping enjoyable, since you have four perfect weeks to buy all your gifts under one roof.

DSI Sithuvili Sri Lanka giving shape and life to young thoughts through art

COMPETITION: The world of children is a special place, a paradise of its own for its beauty and innocence. They see things around in a completely different perspective.

Everything is larger than reality and they often stagger at the magnificence of life, unable to comprehend the magnanimity of things. "DSI Sithuvili Sri Lanka" the largest art competition in Sri Lanka gives shape and voice to the expression of children.

"Sithuvili Sri Lanka" sponsored by DSI - Sri Lanka's No.1 footwear, ventures yet again to launch its 7th alternate competition since 1992. Now, opportunity knocks once more to all children interested in art to participate and make the competition a success this time too.

It is with pleasure we announce that a record 118,000 entries reached us last time and we no doubt, expect a larger response this time as well.

All those interested, please note that entries close on December 10, 2006. Entries should comply with the topic given to each category and should be to the specifications indicated in the entry form.

After having been selected by a distinguished panel of judges the best 1000 entries will be exhibited in BMICH and opened to the public.

Many celebrity guests would be present to commemorate this special event.

Cash prizes totalling Rs. 1,000,000/- awaits to be shared among the outstanding participants, in addition 5 schools will be awarded Rs. 50,000 each. No entry fee or proof of purchase required.

This is the opportunity to stage your talent. Any material can be used in creatives, be it crayon, water colours, oils, charcoal, lead or any other medium children wish to express themselves with.

Application forms for "DSI Sithuvili Sri Lanka 2006" are now available at all DSI showrooms islandwide.