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From left: Managing Director Chaminda Perera, Chief Financial Officer Nuwan Karunarathne, Vice President Teesha Halamba, Chairman and CEO Shan Halamba, and Manager Planning Namala Prasanna
Riococo, a leader in sustainable coir-based horticulture solutions, celebrated a major milestone at the 21st annual International Business Awards, also known as the Stevie Awards, held on 11 October, at the InterContinental Hotel in Istanbul, Turkey.
Riococo significantly contributes to strengthening Sri Lanka’s foreign exchange reserves and secured six prestigious Stevie Awards, reaffirming its global leadership in innovation, sustainability, and excellence. This achievement enhances Sri Lanka’s position on the global stage, showcasing the nation’s capability in sustainable business practices.
This was the first time a Sri Lankan-origin company in the sustainable horticulture and agriculture industries was recognised and awarded multiple awards in the International Arena. Riococ’s parent company, Ceyhinz Link International Inc., saw its Chief Executive Officer Shan Halamba, receive the Silver Stevie Award for Executive of the Year in Manufacturing. Under his leadership over the past 20 years, Riococo has expanded its global footprint, now serving 65 countries.
In addition, Riococo’s exceptional commitment to sustainability and product development was acknowledged with a series of accolades across multiple regions. The company won two Gold Stevie Awards for Sustainability Leadership in both Canada and the USA, as well as in Asia, Australia, and New Zealand. In Europe, Riococo earned the Silver Stevie Award for Sustainability Leadership, and in the Middle East and Africa, the company was awarded the Bronze Stevie Award for the same category. Riococo’s Product Development Team received the Gold Stevie Award for Product Development/Management Department of the Year, recognising their continuous efforts to bring innovative, sustainable solutions to market.
Dubbed the ‘Oscars of the business world,’ The Stevie Awards are regarded as the highest honours in the international business community. Created in 2002 to recognise the achievements and contributions of organisations and professionals globally, the awards are highly coveted by businesses across all industries. With over 12,000 nominations annually, the Stevie Awards recognise outstanding business performance under nine programs. Stevie Award judges include many of the world’s most respected executives, entrepreneurs, innovators, and business educators.
“We are incredibly honoured to be recognised by the International Business Awards. These awards reflect the dedication of our entire team in the USA and Sri Lanka. Our mission has always been to lead with innovation and sustainability at the forefront, and we are proud to see this acknowledged on an international scale,” said CEO Shan Halamba.
