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Dankotuwa launches ‘Summer Collection’

Colour is in vogue now. Even traditional European and UK markets which were well-known for sober tastes and simple surface designs on their porcelain are now going for vivid colours. Taking a cue from this, Dankotuwa has launched a new series of colourful surface designs. These designs are expected to appeal to the younger generation and those who want a change for their daily use.

These designs are without gold and platinum lines and decorations and are therefore less costly than the more formal and rich designs.

The new range is micro-wave safe and dish washer safe. It is now available exclusively from the Colombo and Kirulapone showrooms. They will be available at other showrooms shortly.

Export earnings increase:

Stone ‘N’ String to tap overseas markets

Charumini de Silva

There is a commendable demand for high end fashion jewellery from both local and international customers.

Speaking to Daily News Business Stone ‘N’ String (Pvt) Ltd., Showroom Manager Izwer Sadikeen said the export market of the company has expanded and is performing significantly.

The company’s export market earnings last year was over US $ 500,000 and the company is expecting an earning of around US$ 700,000 for this year. The company recorded a 50 percent growth last year compared to 2009.

Stone ‘N’ String is exporting high end jewellery bulk orders to Middle East countries, Cayman Islands, Caribbean Islands, Australia and EU countries. The company is expecting to tap markets such as India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Russia and Singapore as there is a high demand and the purchasing power of these countries are comparatively high, he said.

At present the trend is for attitude bead jewellery, semi precious jewellery and crystal and silver jewellery. The company is manufacturing 3,000 to 4,000 pieces per month depending on the design.

The company manufactures over 10,000 designs at the workshops with 70 designers and a total of 150 employees.

“This market tends to evolve rapidly and it is vital to keeping in line with the international high end fashion jewellery trends and we have catered jewelleries for all seasonal and cultural events,” Sadikeen said.

Serene Pavilions to expand

Charumini de Silva

Serene Pavilions, awarded the best boutique hotel for the year is now planning on expanding its brand to several exotic locations in the country including the East Coast.

Serene Pavilions Deputy Chairman and Chief Executive Anura Lokuhetti said within a short period of one year the hotel received much awards and recognition both locally and internationally.

“Hence, we thought of bringing the Serene brand into a few other places in the country catering to up market tourists”, he said.

Within a seven acre coconut grove are just 12 lavishly appointed individual pavilions, eight of which are magnificently set directly facing the ocean waves, while four garden pavilions guarantee a lasting sensory treat.

Each pavilion consists its own private pool surrounded by a large furnished deck area, emphasis truly is on escapism and pure indulgence.

“Providing one-to-one service allows us to invite the executive chef to privately cook his signature dishes in the pavilions and with 24 hour personal butlers on hand, guests experience an exceptional levels of discreet and caring attention,” Lokuhetti said.

The Pavilion’s Restaurant and Amritha Bar provides a quirky mix of fusion cuisine from around the globe complemented by an extensive wine selection and is the epitome of good taste while providing an innovative and inspiring fine dining experience.

The other facilities include an ayurveda spa, a large central pool with unique submerged jacuzzi beds, a library, tennis court and modern gym.

“Sri Lanka should focus more on the niche market as the country is enriched with abundance of natural and cultural resources, while enjoying high yields. Developing more niche markets such as up market boutique hotels are timely to uplift the tourism industry in the country.

Catering to up market tourists is much cost effective as their expenditure is higher than a normal traveller.

Having an emerging economy and catering to the up market travellers will benefit Sri Lankan tourism industry to enjoy a faster and a sustained growth,” he said.

The hotel is committed to continue enhancing and improving more on its products and services. Serene Pavilions sets new standards in levels of privacy, comfort, and elegant luxury,” Lokuhetti said.