Business
Browns Introduces Exide Matrix – The Battery that Powers the Future
Exide unveils its latest revolutionary battery range ‘Exide Matrix’, exclusively designed for cars and SUVs. Exide Matrix boasts technological superiority and represents a paradigm shift in the Sri Lankan automotive battery industry. Exide Matrix is a groundbreaking technological collaboration among Furukawa-Japan, East Penn-USA and Moura-Brazil, which enables the battery to be upgraded with all latest and cutting-edge technologies such as Punched Grid, Roche and EFB (Enhanced Flooded Battery).
A forward-thinking enterprise, Browns joined hands with Associated Battery Manufacturers Ceylon Limited (ABM) to launch Exide Matrix. Together with Exide Industries who has mastered the art of thriving amidst challenging environments, evolving customer demands and dynamic competitive landscapes, Browns and ABM introduced the new Exide Matrix battery range to Sri Lanka. Battery technology is the cornerstone of energy transition and Browns firmly believes that better automotive batteries could revolutionise the automotive world. The ceremonial product launch — a one-of-a-kind immersive experience — was recently held at Shangri-La Colombo, in line with strict health and safety guidelines. The ceremony was graced by the presence of Ishara Nanayakkara, Deputy Chairman, LOLC Holdings PLC; Kapila Jayawardena, Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, LOLC Holdings PLC; General Daya Rathnayaka, Secretary to the Ministry of Industries and other distinguished guests. The event was organised by Browns Batteries together with ABM to unveil the product line to their business partners and other stakeholders.
Exide Matrix redefines battery technology with a host of innovative features, including a patented cover with a special omega lid design that supports less evaporation and avoids the battery getting dried up. The special plate chemistry, higher CCA and super charge acceptance of Exide Matrix perfectly meet the advanced auto electrical needs of modern cars and SUVs. The battery is engineered to cater to a wide range of requirements under different standards, technological advancements and layouts, including ISS, JIS and EFB. Moreover, the use of “silver alloy metal” ensures increased resistance to corrosion and high temperature, while promising a longer shelf life. The special plate formulation for positive and negative plates ensures higher life expectancy and superior charge acceptance. The double-clad polyethylene and glass mat separators make Exide Matrix highly reliable. Furthermore, Exide Matrix is spill resistant and ensures little or no water loss compared to conventional automotive batteries.
Exide Industries Ltd. is South Asia’s largest manufacturer of lead acid storage batteries and power storage solutions provider. With seven international standard factories spread across India, the company offers a wide array of batteries for every conceivable application in automotive as well as industrial segments. In order to streamline the entire value chain, the company has established three lead smelting units and two UPS manufacturing facilities. Exide also has manufacturing facilities in Sri Lanka—ABM—which is a joint venture with Browns. Exide conducts business globally through its subsidiaries and international affiliates, and the products are sold across the world, particularly in developed markets such as Australia, Japan and Western Europe, under its own brand names. Exide’s vast product range represents both conventional and non-conventional energy sectors.
Commenting on the launch of Exide Matrix, Ajith De Silva, Cluster Chief Operating Officer, Automotive and Hardware Cluster, Browns said, “The launch of Exide Matrix unveils a whole new chapter of the Sri Lankan automotive industry. Exide Matrix challenges global standards and sets itself apart from all other automotive batteries in the local market. Manufactured in line with the latest technology, Exide Matrix is ideal for both European and Japanese cars and SUVs. We are elated to introduce this revolutionary battery to the market as a technology-driven company where innovation and agility are hallmarks of existence. Our future-oriented mind-set is the powerful tool that drives innovation throughout every aspect of our business—today and tomorrow.”
Operating in the market for over nine decades, Browns dominates the automotive battery market with a significant market share over 80%. Browns is the sole distributor for Exide automotive batteries in Sri Lanka. Fuelled by a passion and commitment to drive innovation beyond the frontiers of excellence, Browns Exide, the best SLS certified battery in Sri Lanka, has been able to position itself as a product of global acclaim and strength, and to stay in the local market as the market leader.
Established in 1875, Browns has flourished over the years to grow into a household name with a reputation as strong as its years are long. Today, the prestigious Browns Group is one of Sri Lanka’s largest diversified conglomerates, which manages a fast growing and valuable portfolio of brands across several key industry sectors, such as automotive; power generation; agriculture and plantation; pharmaceuticals; investments; marine and manufacturing as well as leisure.
Business
AHK Sri Lanka champions first-ever Sri Lankan delegation at Drupa 2024
The Delegation of German Industry and Commerce in Sri Lanka (AHK Sri Lanka) proudly facilitated the first-ever Sri Lankan delegation’s participation at Drupa 2024, the world’s largest trade fair for the printing industry and technology. Held after an eight-year hiatus, Drupa 2024 was a landmark event, marking significant advancements and opportunities in the global printing industry.
AHK Sri Lanka played a pivotal role in organising and supporting the delegation, which comprised 17 members from the Sri Lanka Association for Printers (SLAP), representing eight companies from the commercial, newspaper, stationery printing, and packaging industries. This pioneering effort by AHK Sri Lanka not only showcased the diverse capabilities of Sri Lanka’s printing sector but also facilitated vital bilateral discussions with key stakeholders from the German printing industry.
Business
Unveiling Ayugiri: Browns Hotels & Resorts sets the stage for a new era in luxury Ayurveda Wellness
In a captivating reimagining of luxury wellness tourism, Browns Hotels & Resorts proudly unveiled the exquisite Ayugiri Ayurveda Wellness Resort Sigiriya. This momentous occasion, celebrated amidst a vibrant and serene grand opening on the 6th of June, heralds a new chapter in the Ayurveda wellness tourism landscape in Sri Lanka. Nestled amidst 54 acres of unspoiled natural splendour, Ayugiri features 22 exclusive suites and stands out as the only luxury Ayurveda wellness resort in the country offering plunge pools in every room, rendering it truly one-of-a-kind.
The grand opening of Ayugiri Ayurveda Wellness Resort was an enchanting event, where guests were captivated by the melodies of flutists and violinists resonating through Sigiriya’s lush landscapes. As traditional drummers and dancers infused the air with vibrant energy, Browns Hotels & Resorts’ CEO, Eksath Wijeratne, Kotaro Katsuki, Acting Ambassador for the Embassy of Japan and General Manager, Buwaneka Bandara, unveiled the resort’s new logo, marking a significant moment witnessed by distinguished guests from the French Embassy, Ayurveda and wellness enthusiasts along with officials from the Sigiriya area, LOLC Holdings and Browns Group.
“Our strategic expansion into wellness tourism with Ayugiri Ayurveda Wellness Resort Sigiriya symbolises a significant milestone for Browns Hotels & Resorts. Wellness tourism has consistently outperformed the overall tourism industry for over a decade, reflecting a growing global interest in travel that goes beyond leisure to offer rejuvenation and holistic well-being. By integrating the timeless wisdom of Ayurveda with modern luxury, we aim to set a new standard in luxury wellness tourism in Sri Lanka. Whether your goal is prevention, healing, or a deeper connection to inner harmony, Ayugiri offers a sanctuary for holistic well-being” stated Eksath Wijeratne.
Ayugiri encapsulates the essence of life, inspired by the lotus flower held by the graceful queens of the infamous Sigiriya frescoes. Just as the lotus emerges from the murky depths, untainted and serene,
Ayugiri invites guests on a journey of purity and rejuvenation, harmonised with a balance of mind, body and spirit, the essence of nature, echoes of culture and the wisdom of ancient Ayurvedic healing.
Business
HNB General Insurance recognized as Best General Bancassurance Provider in Sri Lanka 2024
HNB General Insurance, one of Sri Lanka’s leading general insurance providers, has been honored as the Best General Bancassurance Provider in Sri Lanka 2024 by the prestigious Global Banking and Finance Review – UK.
The esteemed accolade underscores HNB General Insurance’s unwavering commitment to excellence and its outstanding performance in the field of bancassurance. Through dedication and hard work, the HNB General Insurance team has continuously endeavored to deliver innovative insurance solutions, cultivate strong relationships with banking partners, and provide unparalleled service to customers nationwide. This recognition is a testament to the team’s dedication and relentless pursuit of excellence in the bancassurance business.
“We are honored to receive this prestigious award, which reflects our team’s tireless efforts and dedication to delivering value-added insurance solutions and exceptional service through our bancassurance partnerships,” said Sithumina Jayasundara, CEO of HNB General Insurance. “This recognition reaffirms our position as a trusted insurance provider in Sri Lanka and motivates us to continue striving for excellence in serving our customers and communities.”


