UTE hosts Caterpillar Far East Dealer Association Conference

United Tractor & Equipment Limited (UTE), as the sole authorised dealer in Sri Lanka for Caterpillar heavy machinery and equipment, achieved another milestone in its proud history when it hosted the annual Caterpillar Far East Dealers Association Conference (CFEDA) recently, welcoming over 50 overseas representatives.

Held over a period of three days, the CFEDA conference included strategic planning sessions and social events with the participation of delegates from Caterpillar and their South-East Asian dealers, including India and China.

CFEDA was formed in 1972, and the association promotes and develops mutually beneficial business objectives for Caterpillar through close cooperation among members, with dealers sharing business ideas and working together.

“The Caterpillar Far East Dealer Association helps foster greater understanding and cooperation amongst dealers and Caterpillar with brainstorming sessions which help shape strategic plans for the ensuing year. With participants from booming Asian nations, especially China, Caterpillar principals can together meet customer demand and add value to their business,” said UTE Chairman Prasan Fernando.

Importantly, UTE previously hosted the CFEDA conference in Sri Lanka twenty-five years ago in 1992. Hosting it this year provided UTE an unparalleled opportunity to showcase its impressive growth despite being a relatively small dealer within the region. 

Sri Lanka hosting an international conference of such importance demonstrated the nation’s remarkable growth and importance as a business and tourism hub, with delegates recognising the natural beauty, diversity, and visibly vibrant economic development seen in the island.

Additionally, Caterpillar recognised that UTE is one of the oldest amongst Caterpillar Dealers to have passed on 4 generations of ownership in direct lineage within one family. UTE was also commended for its leadership in the market for CAT Construction equipment and power generators in the country, proving that delivering quality products coupled with outstanding service is an undeniable factor for success. UTE’s Engineering Services has established itself as a proven partner contributing to significant development projects in the country since 1947.

Apart from engaging in business discussions, attendees also experienced Sri Lanka’s colourful traditions, culture and hospitality through numerous cultural shows and other entertainment acts. “There was a great team building exercise and built bridges between many people and cultures,” remarked a participant. Visitors were also afforded the opportunity to travel around the country and experience popular tourist attractions. A social program for spouses of participants, including shopping, was also organised.