Fin in short

'Kithulaka Varuna' trade fair

Kithulaka Varuna, an exhibition and trade fair on kithul products organised by the Ministry of Rural Industries and Self Employment Promotion will be held at the Janakala Kendraya Battaramulla on April 1 to 3 from 9.00 a.m. to 9.00 p.m.

NCCSL seminar

The National Chamber of Commerce of Sri Lanka will conduct a seminar on ‘Bi-lateral Trade Opportunities’ in the People’s Republic of China on Thursday April 1, 2010 from 2.30 to 5.00 p.m at the Chamber Auditorium, Colombo 10. The objective is to improve and promote business relations, investment and trade opportunities between China and Sri Lanka. At these discussions the trade issues/problems the members have when dealing with their counterparts in China will also be addressed.

The Commercial Counsellor and other Trade officers from the Chinese Embassy will be participating at these discussions.

Participants would be able to directly interact with the officers from the Chinese Embassy and clarify any issues/problems faced when doing business with China.

Arpico Christmas Magic Millionaire

Arpico Supercentre recently awarded Rs. 1 million Christmas Magic grand prize to Ms. Anupa Perera of Dehiwala. Generating over 500,000 entries, the hypermarket giant’s Christmas Magic promotion ran from November 12, until January 3 creating an unprecedented level of customer interest.

In order to stand a chance to win the Rs. 1 million grand prize, Arpico shoppers only had to make a minimum purchase of Rs. 2,500, inclusive of two nominated brands. The Rs. 1 million grand prize was part of an Arpico promotion that also included incredible discounts and amazing giveaways. The store, renowned for offering its customers more for less, gave away 10,000 instant gift vouchers during the season, ranging in value from Rs. 250 to Rs. 10,000.

LOLC Micro Credit opens 25th centre

LOLC Micro Credit Ltd. (LOMC) the Microfinancing arm of the LOLC Group continued their drive to take microfinance to rural areas, opening their 25th service centre at the Ambalanthota post office recently. LOMC is the only microfinance provider with a strategic partnership with SL Post to deliver financial services through the postal network. During the past year the company has successfully expanded their reach through the partnership, reaching rural locations such as Horowpathana, Aralaganwila, Dehiattakandiya and Paalaviya. The staff manning the service centres are recruited from surrounding locations as well, generating employment to youth from the area. LOMC has also got involved in the welfare of the postal network, assisting SL Post through renovating and developing buildings and providing infrastructure at the locations.