International Distillers Limited (IDL) has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing Sri Lanka’s hospitality industry by serving as the official industry partner of the 31st National Bartenders Competition (NBC) 2026 Grand Finale, held on 26 June 2026 at Cinnamon Grand Colombo.

Organised by the Sri Lanka Hospitality Graduates Association (SLHGA) in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Institute of Tourism & Hotel Management (SLITHM), the competition brought together leading hospitality professionals, emerging bartending talent, and industry stakeholders from across the country.

IDL partnered with the competition for the fourth consecutive year, supporting a national platform focused on enhancing professional skills, encouraging creativity, and promoting responsible service standards within Sri Lanka’s bartending sector.

The NBC 2026 journey began with training and awareness sessions conducted across six regions, followed by regional competitions, an exclusive Master Class, National Semi-Finals, and the Grand Finale. Participants represented leading hotels, resorts, restaurants, bars, and hospitality education institutions from major tourism destinations across Sri Lanka.

Commenting on IDL’s involvement, Ms. Indhu Selvaratnam, Deputy Chairperson of IDL, said: “The National Bartenders Competition continues to play an important role in elevating Sri Lanka’s bartending profession. Each year, we see stronger technical ability, greater creativity, and more confidence among participants. IDL is proud to support an initiative that gives young professionals a national platform to learn, compete, and be recognised. We are also pleased to see greater female participation this year, which is an important step towards building a more inclusive hospitality industry.”

The Grand Finale was evaluated by a panel comprising international judges and leading Sri Lankan hospitality experts, while the final results were independently calculated and verified by Ernst & Young, ensuring transparency and credibility throughout the competition.

Through its continued partnership with NBC, IDL remains dedicated to nurturing hospitality talent, encouraging professional growth, and supporting the development of a skilled workforce capable of strengthening Sri Lanka’s tourism and hospitality sector.
The Pink Auto Shop Named ‘Most Famous Detailing Shop of the Year’ at BWIO Awards 2026
The Pink Auto Shop (Pvt) Ltd, one of Sri Lanka’s leading automotive detailing and vehicle protection companies, has been recognised with the prestigious “Most Famous Detailing Shop of the Year” award at the Business World International Organization (BWIO) Awards 2026.

The accolade recognises the company’s significant contribution to raising standards within Sri Lanka’s automotive care industry while highlighting its commitment to excellence, innovation, and leadership. The BWIO Awards honour businesses and entrepreneurs that demonstrate outstanding performance and impact across various sectors, with The Pink Auto Shop’s recognition reflecting its continued efforts to deliver world-class detailing and vehicle protection solutions.

Established in 2018, The Pink Auto Shop has grown into a specialised automotive detailing and protection brand, providing a comprehensive range of premium services including Ceramic Coating, Paint Protection Film (PPF), Window Tinting, Paint Correction, and advanced vehicle protection solutions.

Driven by a commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction, the company has earned the confidence of vehicle owners across Sri Lanka. With vehicle imports gradually resuming, the demand for professional automotive protection services has increased, positioning The Pink Auto Shop as a preferred choice among new vehicle owners seeking reliable solutions to maintain the appearance, value, and durability of their vehicles.

As an ISO-certified company, The Pink Auto Shop operates according to internationally recognised quality standards and has strengthened its industry presence through strategic collaborations with globally respected brands including RUPES, Gtechniq, STEK, JAX WAX, and SGCB.

The company has also played a pioneering role in advancing Sri Lanka’s detailing industry through the establishment of the BigFoot Detailing Center in 2019, introducing global detailing technologies, techniques, and best practices to the local market.

Further strengthening its contribution to industry development, The Pink Auto Shop established The Pink Academy, Sri Lanka’s first and only Government-approved and TVEC-registered detailing education institution, creating opportunities to develop skilled professionals and promote international standards within the automotive detailing sector.

Through continuous innovation, professional expertise, and a focus on customer excellence, The Pink Auto Shop continues to set new benchmarks in Sri Lanka’s automotive care industry while expanding the future of vehicle protection and detailing.
DL Strengthens Commitment to Hospitality Talent Development Through 31st National Bartenders Competition