International Distillers Ltd and SLHGA Collaborate to Elevate Sri Lanka’s Mixology Scene!

Looking to enrich Sri Lanka’s vibrant hospitality scene and add new flair, International Distillers Limited (IDL) – Sri Lanka’s market leader in Locally Manufactured Foreign Liquor (LMFL) – has joined forces with the Sri Lanka Hospitality Graduates Association (SLHGA) to host the highly-anticipated National Bartenders Competition 2024. This ground-breaking collaboration marks a pivotal moment for mixology in Sri Lanka, aiming to set new benchmarks of excellence while nurturing local talent.

The competition was officially announced and launched at a special press conference held on the 10^th of May 2024. At the event, representatives from IDL and SLHGA unveiled their shared vision for the competition, emphasizing its role in propelling Sri Lanka onto the global stage as a destination renowned for its exceptional beverages and hospitality experiences. Accordingly, the Grand Finale of the National Bartenders Competition 2024 will be held on the 16^th June at Cinnamon Grand, Colombo.

The National Bartenders Competition made a comeback in 2023 after a long hiatus, subsequent to the global pandemic and other challenges the country faced. The event provides a much-needed platform for talented mixologists to shine and build a name for themselves, whilst also serving to create excitement about Sri Lanka in the global tourism market. On the sidelines, the event will also provide extensive trainings, seminars, workshops, and other skills development opportunities. Through a series of regional training sessions and a prestigious competition comprising six regional contests, a semi-finals round, and a grand finale, bartenders from across the Island will have the opportunity to refine their skills and showcase their expertise to a wide audience. Mr. Dickson Kumara, the Chairman of the National Bartenders Competition Organizing Committee, leads the team, ensuring the successful execution of this prestigious event.

President of the SLHGA Mr. Patrick Pereira added “We truly believe that National Bartenders Competition will pave way for a new era in bartending in Sri Lanka with improved skills and novel approaches to mixology. The success of any event hinges on the dedication of its partners, and we are thrilled to have discovered a partner equally devoted to our cause in IDL. Their exceptional product, supported by a committed team, elevates the National Bartenders Competition to the pinnacle of Mixology competitions nationwide, making it the most sought-after event in the country.”

Commenting on the partnership, Dr. Kemal De Soysa – Director/CEO at IDL said, “We are passionate about fostering innovation and excellence in bartending. By teaming up with SLHGA, we are not only elevating the standards of mixology in Sri Lanka but also empowering bartenders to unleash their creativity and talent on a national platform. This will help to unleash new opportunities and experiences in the hospitality sector and ultimately elevate Sri Lanka’s tourism product.”

Chairman of the Sri Lanka Institute of Tourism & Hotel Management, Mr. Shirantha Peiris also commented saying, “SLITHM is delighted to continue to provide technical expertise and to have endorsed the national bartenders competition this year, too. SLITHM is grateful to IDL for their continuous support towards our students to be able to showcase their talents. I must also thank SLHGA for their continuous support and a pivotal role played in the national bartenders competition. I extend my best wishes to all competitors, and I'm sure we are in for a fantastic event and many surprises.”

As Sri Lanka emerges as a burgeoning hub for tourism and hospitality, initiatives like the National Bartenders Competition play a vital role in attracting visitors and enhancing the country’s reputation as a world-class destination. With IDL and SLHGA at the helm, the competition promises to be a catalyst for innovation, excellence, and growth in Sri Lanka’s mixology scene.

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 From left - Mr. B.H.R. Sariffodeen – Director General – SLTDA/ Mr. Shirantha Peiris – Chairman – SLITHM/ Mr. Dickson Kumara – Chairman, National Bartenders Competition Organizing Committee/ Mr. Patrick Pereira – President – SLHGA/ Mr. Sujeewa Jayamanne – Chief Marketing Officer – IDL/ Mr. Rajiv Dassanayake – Head of HoReCa – IDL/ Mr. Roy Khanna - Head of Marketing & Channel Development – IDL/  Mr. Rizme Jamaldeen – Marketing Manager - IDL