Healthguard Distribution continues to play a critical role in strengthening Sri Lanka’s ‘port-to-pharmacy’ supply chain, ensuring the safe and efficient delivery of medicines across the country.

A recent media tour of the company’s Regional Distribution Centre (RDC) in Mattakkuliya showcased the scale and sophistication of its operations. The facility reflects the growing demand for reliable pharmaceutical logistics, alongside increased private-sector investment in compliant healthcare infrastructure.

The distribution process begins at key entry points, where dedicated teams facilitate the rapid clearance of pharmaceutical consignments at the airport to minimise delays. Demand planning systems are then utilised to forecast market requirements, enabling timely procurement and maintaining a consistent nationwide supply of medicines.

Chief Executive Officer Shantha Bandara highlighted the importance of precision in healthcare logistics, noting that every stage—from shipment arrival to final delivery—must be meticulously managed. Even minor errors, he emphasised, can directly impact patient safety, underscoring the complexity of processes that take place before medicines reach pharmacies.

Upon arrival at the RDC, all shipments undergo stringent quality checks prior to storage. Advanced digital tracking systems provide real-time visibility of inventory and ensure full traceability, safeguarding the integrity of pharmaceutical products throughout the supply chain. Temperature-sensitive medicines are handled under carefully controlled conditions to maintain their efficacy.

Healthguard Distribution operates a network of seven delivery points supported by a fleet of 55 vehicles, enabling islandwide distribution within 24 hours. The company also manages reverse logistics, including the collection and safe disposal of expired medicines in compliance with regulations set by the National Medicines Regulatory Authority.

Technology remains central to the company’s operations, with automation tools and data-driven systems enhancing both efficiency and decision-making. Healthguard Distribution is certified under ISO 9001:2015 and Good Distribution Practices by Bureau Veritas, reflecting its adherence to internationally recognised quality and safety standards.
Ogilvy talent shines at Young Lions Sri Lanka, sets sights on Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity
Ogilvy Group Sri Lanka delivered a commanding performance at the Young Lions Sri Lanka Competition 2026 held in Colombo recently, with its talent securing wins in three of the four categories awarded.

Sweeping top honours in the Media, PR and TV Categories, the agency’s winning teams will now prepare to represent Sri Lanka at the global Young Lions Competition in Cannes, France, this June.

In a strong showcasing of the breadth and strength of talent across the agency, the Media category was won by Sachintha Gunawardena and Hasith Dilakshana of Ogilvy Media, the PR category was topped by Azraa Saldin and Nirmala Premachandra of Ogilvy PR and the TV category was won byAfridi Hussain and Maveena Manickam of Phoenix Ogilvy.

Organised by Metal Factor, the Sri Lankan representative of the Cannes Lions programmes, the 2026 the Young Lions Sri Lankan edition opened entries across six categories, namely Media, PR, TV, Print, Design and Cyber (Digital), inviting under-30 talent from communication agencies across the country.

The competition required teams to deliver sharp, insight-led, real-world solutions under intense time pressure. A national win here is the only pathway to the Young Lions global stage in Cannes.

This year, out of the six categories in the competition, only four saw wins,with Design and Cyber (Digital) not awarded, underlining the stringent judging standards of the programme.

The three winning Ogilvy teams will now compete at the Young Lions Competition in Cannes, widely regarded as one of the most demanding and respected global platforms for emerging industry talent. The competition will be held alongside the coveted Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity 2026.
Healthguard strengthens ‘port-to-pharmacy’ supply chain network