Aberdeen Holdings Honours Top-Performing Companies and Leaders at the Prestigious Chairman’s Awards

Aberdeen Holdings, a diversified Sri Lankan conglomerate, celebrated exceptional business performance, innovation and leadership at the Aberdeen Chairman’s Awards 2026, held on 20 October 2026, at the Shangri-La Ballroom, Colombo.

The ceremony brought together leadership and teams from across the Group to honour the companies and people whose commitment continues to shape Aberdeen’s journey. Marking a milestone in the Group’s 30-year history, the evening celebrated achievement, ambition and the collective effort behind lasting success.

The evening’s highest corporate honour, the Chairman’s Award for Best Company, was presented to Expo Commodities Global (ECG). The award recognises outstanding performance across financial strength, operations, market development, innovation, sustainability, governance and people engagement. As a growing multinational agri-commodities business spanning over 12 origins, ECG has continued to expand its global presence in spices, essential oils and coconut products. This recognition celebrates its remarkable growth, contribution to Aberdeen Holdings and continued commitment to excellence.

The Chairman’s Award for Best Emerging Entity was presented to Damn Fine Coffee, with Ruhunu Farms named First Runner-Up. The award recognises businesses demonstrating strong progress, sound management and potential for sustained success. With its ambition to elevate Sri Lanka’s coffee culture through premium coffee and innovative solutions, Damn Fine Coffee has continued to establish its presence in the industry. Meanwhile, Ruhunu Farms has strengthened its position in the poultry sector through expanded operations and a commitment to quality and responsible farming. Both achievements reflect the entrepreneurial spirit, determination and growth potential of businesses within Aberdeen’s evolving portfolio.

The Chairman’s Visionary Award was presented to Fazil Fowzi, Chief Executive Officer of Expo Commodities Global, in recognition of his forward-thinking leadership and strategic contribution to the business. The award honours leaders who identify possibilities, inspire confidence and translate vision into meaningful results for their companies and the wider Group.

Reflecting on the evening, Sattar Kassim, Chairman of Aberdeen Holdings, said:

“The Aberdeen Chairman’s Awards mark an important moment in our 30-year journey. They recognise the commitment, courage and ambition that drive our businesses forward every day. While we celebrate this year’s achievements, we are also looking ahead — to higher standards, new opportunities and the success we will create together.”

The evening also recognised the people whose dedication gives Aberdeen its strength: individuals who lead by example, support their colleagues and bring the Group’s values to life through their everyday actions.

Recognition was presented in the Spirit of Aberdeen and Aberdeen Leadership Excellence categories, celebrating individuals whose commitment, teamwork, initiative and leadership continue to make a meaningful difference across the Group.

Awards were also presented across nine performance categories: Production Excellence, Service Delivery Excellence, People Architect, Brand Catalyst Recognition, Business Development & Sales Excellence, Innovation, Sustainability & Social Impact, Digitalisation & Transformation, and Financial Excellence. These awards recognised the teams and individuals advancing operational standards, commercial growth, innovation and long-term value creation across Aberdeen Holdings.

A special Decades of Dedication segment also paid tribute to long-serving team members whose loyalty, commitment and contribution have helped shape the Group’s journey over the years.

Guided by an independent jury comprising professionals from diverse backgrounds, the Aberdeen Chairman’s Awards reflected Aberdeen Holdings’ commitment to recognising excellence with credibility and purpose. As the Group continues to grow across its diverse portfolio, it remains focused on strengthening high-performing businesses, supporting promising new ventures and creating sustainable value for the future.