Perched on a narrow strip of land where the calm waters of the Bentota River meet the rolling waves of the Indian Ocean, NH Bentota Ceysands Resort has long enjoyed one of the most remarkable locations in Sri Lanka’s tourism landscape. Today, under the leadership of General Manager Anil Chavan, the resort is building on that natural advantage, positioning itself as a destination where comfort, adventure, family experiences and authentic Sri Lankan hospitality converge.

For many visitors, the journey begins with an experience unlike that offered by most coastal resorts. Rather than arriving directly by road, guests are ferried across the Bentota River, creating a memorable first impression that immediately sets the tone for a holiday centred on nature, tranquillity and discovery. The short crossing serves as an introduction to the resort’s defining characteristic – its unique relationship with both river and sea.

Situated in the popular resort town of Bentota, one of Sri Lanka’s most celebrated coastal destinations, NH Bentota Ceysands enjoys a setting that appeals to a wide range of travellers. Beach lovers can enjoy the golden shoreline of the Indian Ocean, while adventure seekers are drawn to the river’s water-based activities. Families, couples, business travellers and event organisers all find something distinctive in a property that successfully blends leisure with versatility.

At the helm of the resort is Anil Chavan, a hospitality professional whose career spans more than two decades across India and the Middle East. With over 22 years of experience covering sales, hotel operations, commercial management and leadership, Chavan brings a broad perspective to one of Sri Lanka’s most distinctive resorts.

His professional journey began in hospitality sales, where he developed expertise in business development and corporate relationships. Over the years, he worked with some of the industry’s most recognised brands in Mumbai and Dubai, including Marriott Hotels, Habtoor Grand Jumeirah Beach and Oakwood. These experiences helped shape his understanding of international hospitality trends, customer expectations and market expansion strategies.

Now leading NH Bentota Ceysands, Chavan sees significant opportunities for growth in a destination that continues to attract travellers seeking authentic experiences.

“Bentota is a truly unique destination, offering an exceptional blend of coastal beauty, authentic experiences, and warm hospitality. I look forward to working closely with the team to further strengthen the resort’s positioning, enhance guest experiences, and build meaningful partnerships across key markets,” he said.

His appointment comes at a time when Sri Lanka’s tourism sector is steadily strengthening its international appeal. Travellers are increasingly seeking destinations that offer more than traditional beach holidays, favouring locations that combine local culture, nature, adventure and personalised service. NH Bentota Ceysands is well positioned to respond to these evolving preferences.

The resort’s accommodation portfolio reflects its emphasis on comfort and connection with the surrounding environment. Its 165 rooms and suites have been designed to maximise views of the tropical landscape, river and ocean. Private balconies and terraces provide guests with personal spaces from which to enjoy the coastal atmosphere, whether watching fishing boats glide along the river at sunrise or listening to the sound of waves after sunset.

Accommodation, however, is only one part of the guest experience. Food has become an increasingly important element of modern travel, and NH Bentota Ceysands has invested in creating a culinary offering that celebrates both local traditions and international tastes.

At Café Bem, guests can enjoy all-day dining featuring a broad selection of Sri Lankan and international dishes. The restaurant serves as a gathering place where travellers can sample local flavours while also enjoying familiar favourites. For seafood enthusiasts, 360 Seafood Restaurant showcases the rich bounty of Sri Lanka’s coastal waters, offering freshly prepared specialities in a relaxed setting that reflects the resort’s seaside character.

Meanwhile, Siam Pearl introduces diners to an Asian fusion experience that draws inspiration from culinary traditions across the region. Together, the three venues create a diverse dining landscape that caters to different tastes while maintaining a focus on quality ingredients and attentive service.

The culinary programme also reflects a broader trend within the hospitality industry, where dining is increasingly viewed as an integral part of the travel experience rather than simply a supporting service. Guests are looking for memorable meals that connect them with local culture and regional flavours, and resorts that can successfully deliver such experiences often enjoy stronger guest satisfaction and repeat visitation.

Adventure forms another key pillar of the NH Bentota Ceysands experience. The resort’s dedicated water sports centre takes full advantage of its unusual location between river and ocean, offering guests opportunities to explore both environments. Activities on the river provide a different perspective on Bentota’s natural beauty, while ocean-based excursions deliver the excitement associated with Sri Lanka’s vibrant coastal tourism scene.

For families, the resort offers a particularly attractive proposition. Modern family travel increasingly demands facilities that cater to multiple generations, and NH Bentota Ceysands has responded by developing dedicated spaces and programmes for younger visitors. Maxies Kids Club provides activities designed to keep children engaged and entertained, while baby care facilities help ensure that parents can relax and enjoy their holiday with greater peace of mind.

This focus on family-friendly experiences reflects a broader shift within global tourism, where multigenerational travel continues to gain popularity. Resorts capable of providing meaningful experiences for children while maintaining comfort and sophistication for adults are increasingly viewed as preferred destinations.

Beyond leisure travel, NH Bentota Ceysands has also established itself as a venue for celebrations, weddings and corporate gatherings. Its combination of beach and riverfront scenery provides a dramatic backdrop for special occasions, while personalised service and dining options allow organisers to create memorable events tailored to their specific requirements.

The growing demand for destination weddings and experiential events has created new opportunities for resorts across South Asia. Properties that can offer distinctive settings, strong service standards and flexible event facilities are attracting interest from both domestic and international markets. NH Bentota Ceysands is among those benefiting from this trend.

Accessibility further enhances the resort’s appeal. Located approximately 90 minutes from Bandaranaike International Airport, it offers convenient access for international travellers while still providing a sense of escape from urban life. This balance between accessibility and seclusion has become increasingly important as travellers seek destinations that feel remote and relaxing without requiring lengthy transfers.

As Sri Lanka continues to strengthen its position on the global tourism map, destinations such as Bentota play a vital role in showcasing the country’s diverse attractions. The area combines beaches, waterways, cultural experiences and hospitality infrastructure, creating a compelling package for visitors from around the world.

For NH Bentota Ceysands, the future appears closely tied to its ability to build upon these natural and strategic advantages. Under Anil Chavan’s leadership, the resort is focused on enhancing guest experiences, strengthening partnerships and reinforcing its reputation within the competitive leisure hospitality market.

Its unique arrival by ferry, dual river-and-ocean setting, diverse dining options, adventure activities and family-oriented facilities combine to create an experience that is difficult to replicate elsewhere. In an era when travellers increasingly seek destinations that offer authenticity, variety and memorable moments, NH Bentota Ceysands stands as a compelling example of how location, service and vision can come together to create a distinctive hospitality experience.

As guests step off the ferry and into a world framed by tropical greenery, gentle river currents and the endless horizon of the Indian Ocean, they encounter more than a resort. They discover a destination where two waterways meet, where adventure and relaxation coexist, and where Sri Lankan hospitality continues to evolve while remaining rooted in warmth and welcome.

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Liqvd.Asia has taken another significant step in its journey of brand partnerships by welcoming Woodland into its expanding portfolio. The collaboration marks a new chapter for the outdoor lifestyle brand, which has long been synonymous with rugged footwear, adventure-ready apparel, and a spirit of exploration. By joining hands with Liqvd.Asia, Woodland is set to strengthen its digital presence and engage audiences in fresh, innovative ways.  

For decades, Woodland has carved a niche for itself as a brand that embodies resilience, durability, and a love for the outdoors. Its products have become staples for those who seek adventure, whether trekking through mountains or navigating urban landscapes. Yet, in today’s fast-evolving digital ecosystem, even legacy brands must adapt to new modes of communication. The partnership with Liqvd.Asia reflects Woodland’s commitment to staying relevant and resonant with younger, digitally savvy consumers.  

Liqvd.Asia, known for its expertise in digital storytelling and brand amplification, is poised to bring Woodland’s narrative to life across platforms. The agency has consistently demonstrated its ability to craft campaigns that blend creativity with impact, ensuring that brands not only reach audiences but also connect with them meaningfully. By leveraging data-driven insights, cultural trends, and innovative formats, Liqvd.Asia aims to amplify Woodland’s voice in ways that reflect both its heritage and its forward-looking vision.  

The collaboration is expected to focus on building immersive digital experiences that highlight Woodland’s ethos of adventure and sustainability. In recent years, consumers have increasingly sought brands that align with their values, particularly around environmental responsibility. Woodland, with its emphasis on eco-friendly practices and durable products, is well-positioned to resonate with this shift. Liqvd.Asia’s role will be to translate these values into compelling digital narratives that inspire engagement and loyalty.  

Speaking about the partnership, Liqvd.Asia expressed excitement at the opportunity to work with a brand that carries such strong legacy and recognition. The agency underscored its commitment to crafting impactful digital communications that not only showcase Woodland’s products but also celebrate its identity as a brand built for explorers and dreamers. The collaboration is not just about marketing; it is about storytelling that captures imagination and builds enduring connections.  

For Woodland, the partnership represents a strategic move to deepen its digital footprint at a time when consumer journeys are increasingly shaped online. From social media engagement to interactive campaigns, the brand will benefit from Liqvd.Asia’s expertise in creating content that cuts through the clutter and speaks directly to audiences. The goal is to ensure that Woodland’s message of adventure, resilience, and sustainability reaches both loyal customers and new generations discovering the brand for the first time.  

As Liqvd.Asia continues to expand its portfolio, the addition of Woodland reinforces its position as a trusted partner for brands seeking to navigate the complexities of digital communication. Together, the two entities are set to embark on a journey that blends heritage with innovation, ensuring that Woodland’s story continues to inspire in the digital age.

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Gran Centenario, widely recognised as Mexico’s number one tequila brand, has appointed culture-first creative agency MEL and communications specialist BODEN Agency as its new agencies of record in the United States, marking a strategic effort to strengthen connections with Mexican American consumers and the broader Hispanic market.

Founded in 1857 in Jalisco, Mexico, by the world’s first Maestro Tequilero, Gran Centenario has built a reputation on more than 150 years of craftsmanship and heritage. The family-owned brand has long held a cherished place among generations of Mexican tequila drinkers, and it now aims to extend that legacy to a wider audience across the U.S. while maintaining its authentic cultural roots.

Under the new arrangement, MEL will lead integrated creative responsibilities, including insights-driven strategy, campaign development and social content. The agency is headed by chief creative officer Luis Miguel Messianu, a multiple Cannes Lions winner, and supported by a team that collectively holds more than 500 major creative and strategic awards. MEL’s role will focus on bringing a culturally nuanced perspective to brand storytelling and positioning the tequila label in ways that resonate with contemporary Hispanic audiences.

Meanwhile, BODEN Agency will oversee public relations, earned media and influencer engagement, while managing community interactions and shaping the brand’s long-term communications strategy. Recently recognised as “Agency of the Year” by industry titles PR Week and AdWeek, BODEN will focus on building strong brand affinity within the Hispanic community before expanding that momentum to mainstream consumers.

The partnership launches with a major creative push timed around the summer’s football calendar, featuring a new campaign built around social-led storytelling and influencer collaborations. The initiative aims to engage fans throughout the season while celebrating the cultural pride and influence of Hispanic communities in the United States.

According to the Pew Research Center, there are approximately 68 million Hispanic adults in the U.S., making the demographic one of the fastest-growing segments in the country. Gran Centenario’s new marketing direction seeks to tap into that cultural momentum while reinforcing the brand’s deep connection to Mexican heritage.

Football remains central to the strategy. Gran Centenario currently serves as the Official Tequila of the Mexico national football team and the Leagues Cup tournament, giving the brand a strong presence among fans of the sport. However, the campaign’s ambitions stretch beyond stadiums, highlighting the wider cultural impact of Hispanic communities across food, music, sport and everyday life.

Lander Otegui, Executive Vice President of Marketing and Innovation at Proximo Spirits, said Hispanic culture has long shaped many aspects of life in the United States. He noted that Gran Centenario’s heritage as a family-owned brand rooted in traditional tequila craftsmanship makes the moment particularly fitting to deepen engagement with this audience.

Messianu described the partnership as an opportunity to celebrate a historic Mexican brand while elevating the cultural contributions and passions of its core consumer base. Natalie Boden, founder and CEO of BODEN Agency, added that the firm looked forward to applying its expertise in football culture, earned media and influencer marketing to bring new fans closer to the tequila’s story.

For Gran Centenario, the collaboration represents a pivotal stage in the brand’s evolution—one that balances the preservation of its Mexican legacy with a modern marketing approach aimed at one of the most dynamic consumer groups in the United States.

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Getty Images has renewed its long-standing partnership with NASCAR, extending its tenure as the motorsport organisation’s Official Photography Partner, a role it has held since 2006. The renewed multi-year agreement reinforces a relationship that has played a significant role in shaping how the sport is visually documented and shared with audiences around the world.

Under the renewed deal, Getty Images’ specialised motorsport photographers will continue to provide comprehensive coverage across NASCAR’s racing calendar. This includes the premier NASCAR Cup Series, the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, and the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series. Through exclusive behind-the-scenes access and trackside presence at race weekends, the photography team will capture high-quality images delivered in near real time.

The partnership ensures that NASCAR and its wide network of broadcasters, sponsors, teams, and media outlets have immediate access to rights-cleared imagery suitable for editorial, digital, commercial, and broadcast purposes. By delivering visual content almost instantly through its global distribution infrastructure, Getty Images enables the sport’s stakeholders to amplify storytelling around races, drivers, and the broader culture of stock-car racing.

Beyond the drama unfolding on the track, the agreement also includes the production of creative editorial assets that extend NASCAR’s visual narrative. Getty Images will create official driver portraits and capture imagery from the organisation’s wider schedule of events and activities. These assets will provide a deeper, more personal perspective on the personalities and communities that shape the sport, from drivers and teams to fans and industry partners.

All imagery produced under the partnership will be distributed exclusively through Getty Images’ platform, gettyimages.com, positioning it as the central and authoritative source for NASCAR photography. This streamlined distribution model allows partners across the sport to access consistent, high-quality visual content while maintaining clarity around rights and licensing.

For Getty Images, the renewed agreement highlights the enduring importance of motorsport photography within its global sports portfolio. The company’s archive already contains an extensive catalogue of NASCAR imagery, reflecting decades of racing history and cultural moments.

According to Getty Images, its motorsport collection includes around 190,000 NASCAR-owned assets alongside approximately 1.2 million NASCAR photographs captured by its sports photographers over the years. These images form one of the most comprehensive visual records of the sport’s development, from its early days to its modern era.

The archive also incorporates historically significant collections such as the ISC Archives, Racing One, and the Dozier Mobley collection. Together, these repositories provide a detailed chronicle of NASCAR’s evolution, preserving iconic race moments, legendary drivers, and the shifting landscape of American motorsport culture.

Michael Heiman, Vice President of Global Sport at Getty Images, said the renewed collaboration underscores the company’s commitment to helping sports organisations connect with audiences through powerful visual storytelling.

“For nearly two decades, Getty Images has played a central role in how NASCAR is documented, remembered, and shared,” he said. “As NASCAR continues its investment in elevating the fan experience, we are proud to support those ambitions by delivering industry-leading imaging solutions that bring every moment on and off the track to life.”

Heiman added that the company’s ability to deliver world-class visual content in near real time through its global distribution platform allows NASCAR and its partners to strengthen engagement with fans and stakeholders while supporting the sport’s broader strategic growth.

As NASCAR continues to expand its reach through digital platforms, broadcast partnerships, and international audiences, the role of high-quality visual storytelling remains increasingly critical. The renewed partnership with Getty Images ensures that the sport’s most dramatic moments — from last-lap victories to candid behind-the-scenes scenes — will continue to be captured, preserved, and shared with fans worldwide.

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Omnicom’s first earnings announcement since acquiring Interpublic Group delivered a striking contrast between growth and cost pressures, as the advertising giant reported a sharp rise in revenue alongside a substantial net loss tied to acquisition-related restructuring.

The company posted a 28 per cent jump in revenue to $5.5 billion, signalling early momentum from the integration of Interpublic Group’s assets and operations. However, the quarter also recorded a net loss of $941.1 million, largely attributed to acquisition expenses and an extensive restructuring programme that included more than 4,000 redundancies.

The results underline the scale of transformation currently underway within the global marketing and communications network as it absorbs its new acquisition and reshapes operations to improve efficiency and align capabilities across agencies. While integration costs weighed heavily on profitability, underlying business performance showed resilience across key segments.

Media and advertising services remained the largest contributor to revenue, accounting for around 60 per cent of Omnicom’s overall income. The segment grew 16 per cent year-on-year, reflecting sustained demand for large-scale media planning, creative advertising and integrated marketing campaigns from global brands navigating an increasingly fragmented media landscape.

Precision marketing services, which include data-driven targeting, digital performance marketing and advanced analytics, followed closely behind in terms of revenue contribution. Growth in this area highlights the industry’s accelerating shift toward measurable, technology-led marketing solutions that combine creativity with data insights.

The company’s leadership has positioned the acquisition as a long-term strategic move designed to expand scale, deepen technological capabilities and enhance its competitive position against other global holding groups. However, the transition period has inevitably brought short-term financial strain as integration and restructuring costs accumulate.

Analysts are closely watching how effectively Omnicom can realise efficiencies from the merger while maintaining growth in its core business segments. Workforce reductions, although significant, are part of broader efforts to streamline operations and eliminate overlaps created by the combination of the two networks.

Further clarity on the company’s strategy and financial outlook is expected soon. Omnicom has scheduled an Investor Day on 12 March, where executives are anticipated to provide a deeper explanation of the acquisition’s impact, outline integration progress and present the broader vision for the newly expanded organisation.

For now, the first post-acquisition earnings report reflects both the scale of opportunity created by the deal and the substantial costs involved in reshaping one of the world’s largest advertising and marketing services groups.

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For Sling & Stone, the announcement marks both the end of a defining era and the beginning of a new chapter. Sian Church, who joined the agency with a clear mission to establish a top-tier communications partner in New Zealand, has overseen its transformation into one of the country’s most respected names in the sector. Over her tenure, Church curated a client portfolio that reflects the dynamism of New Zealand’s business landscape, ranging from venture-backed startups and scaleups to global brands entering the market. Companies such as Tracksuit, Kami, LawVu, Stripe, Google Cloud, Krispy Kreme and Too Good To Go have all benefited from the agency’s expertise under her leadership.

Reflecting on her decision to step down, Church described her time at Sling & Stone as one of the most rewarding and inspiring periods of her career. She emphasised that the role had been more than just a professional position, calling it a defining part of her journey. “I came in with a mission to build a top tier comms agency with a strong culture and a reputation for doing impactful work, and I truly believe I achieved that,” she said. Her departure underscores the legacy she leaves behind: an agency known for its creativity, culture and impact.

Taking the reins is Dearra Naidoo, who has been promoted to Director NZ. Naidoo brings more than a decade of experience across fintech, SaaS and consumer lifestyle sectors, and has spent the past four years at Sling & Stone honing her expertise and deepening her understanding of what makes the agency distinctive. She has led campaigns for brands such as Lush Cosmetics, Pathfinder and Akahu, demonstrating her ability to deliver work that resonates with audiences and aligns with the agency’s ethos. Her promotion signals continuity as well as fresh energy, ensuring Sling & Stone remains positioned to scale and innovate in the New Zealand market.

Naidoo expressed her excitement about the opportunity to lead the agency into its next phase. “I’m thrilled to lead Sling & Stone into its next chapter and work with the team to shape the agency’s future and grow our presence in the market. We already have an incredible team, a culture of creativity and a client portfolio that is truly inspiring, and I can’t wait to build on our strong foundations to drive Sling & Stone even further,” she said. Her words reflect both confidence and ambition, qualities that will be vital as the agency continues to expand its capabilities and strengthen its presence.

The transition also highlights Sling & Stone’s commitment to nurturing talent from within. Naidoo’s rise to leadership after four years at the agency demonstrates the value of investing in people who understand its culture and vision. Her close collaboration with the global leadership team will ensure that New Zealand remains a key part of Sling & Stone’s international growth strategy, while also maintaining the local relevance that has been central to its success.

Church’s departure is not simply a change in leadership; it is a moment of reflection on how far Sling & Stone has come in New Zealand. From its early days of building credibility in a competitive market to becoming a trusted partner for high-growth companies, the agency has consistently delivered campaigns that combine creativity with impact. The client roster she helped build is testament to her ability to attract and retain brands that value innovation and storytelling. Her legacy is one of scale, culture and reputation, and it sets a strong foundation for Naidoo to build upon.

As the communications industry continues to evolve, Sling & Stone’s leadership transition positions it to adapt and thrive. With Naidoo at the helm, the agency is expected to deepen its expertise in sectors such as fintech and SaaS, while continuing to support consumer lifestyle brands. Her experience and vision will be crucial in navigating the challenges and opportunities ahead, ensuring that Sling & Stone remains at the forefront of communications in New Zealand.

The announcement is both a farewell and a welcome: a recognition of Church’s achievements and a celebration of Naidoo’s potential. Together, they represent the past and future of Sling & Stone in New Zealand, a story of growth, culture and ambition that continues to unfold.

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The MullenLowe Group Sri Lanka has once again affirmed its dominance in the country’s advertising landscape, retaining its position as Effie Agency of the Year for the third consecutive time at the Effie Awards held on 3 March 2026.

The latest triumph saw the agency secure an impressive 21 recognitions for campaigns developed in partnership with its clients. The haul included one Gold, three Silver, three Bronze and 14 Finalist positions, reflecting both the breadth and depth of its work across categories. 

The achievement further cements MullenLowe’s standing as a consistent leader in effectiveness-driven creativity.

This milestone carries particular significance. Since the global rebranding to MullenLowe, the Sri Lankan arm of the network has claimed eight of the past ten Effie Agency of the Year titles — a record that signals not only creative excellence but also sustained business impact. In an awards programme that prizes measurable results as highly as creative flair, such consistency is rare.

For the agency, the recognition extends beyond trophies. It represents what executives describe as a collective endeavour — the shared commitment of teams, clients, production houses, media partners and collaborators who work in lockstep to elevate ideas from concept to execution. The emphasis, they say, remains firmly on crafting work that resonates in culture while delivering tangible results in market performance.

Industry observers note that the Effies are widely regarded as a benchmark for effectiveness, judged through a rigorous process that assesses strategy, insight, creativity and demonstrable outcomes. Against that backdrop, MullenLowe Sri Lanka’s continued success signals an ability to marry bold creative thinking with disciplined strategic rigour.

The agency has also acknowledged the wider industry community, crediting peers and competitors alike for fostering a climate of healthy challenge and inspiration. In a fast-evolving communications landscape shaped by shifting consumer behaviours and media fragmentation, such competitive energy has become a catalyst for innovation.

As the celebrations settle, attention is already turning to the work ahead. For MullenLowe Sri Lanka, the third consecutive title is not framed as a culmination but as a benchmark to surpass. In an industry where past success offers no guarantees, the agency’s ambition appears fixed on raising the bar yet again — proving that effectiveness, when pursued relentlessly, can become a defining signature rather than a fleeting achievement.

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