Sampath Bank makes Avurudu ‘Ganu Denu’ unforgettable this year

Sampath Bank usually rewards its customers during the Sinhala and Hindu New Year period and this year is no exception. However, there’s something extra special this year. Sampath Bank Deputy General Manager Marketing and Business Development Tharaka Ranwala explained this year’s New Year prizes and surprises in a recent interview.  Following are excerpts:

Q: Could you briefly explain the history of Sampath Bank’s Avurudu Ganu Genu?

A: Sampath Bank started rewarding its customers during Avurudu Ganu Denu eleven years ago.  Though certain Banks used to reward its customers on numerous occasions, even at that time there was a tremendous response for Sampath Ganu Denu.

Q: What reasons do you attribute for such a response?

A: The main reason is the recognition of Sampath Bank by the public. Sampath Bank was introduced as ‘Our Bank’ and the Bank’s ability to showcase Sri Lankan identity along with technological advancements, attracted customers.

Another reason would be the usefulness and quality of the New Year gifts. We don’t give items that are to be kept as ornaments. Our gifts are extremely useful for day-to-day life.

Q: Let’s talk about Sampath’s Ganu Denu this year.

A: This year, we thought of giving our valued customers special prizes that could be really felt and which would be unforgettable. So while Sampath customers engage in Avurudu Ganu Denu, they would stand a chance of winning a 55 inch Samsung Smart TV.  A person who deposits Rs. 50 000 in a Sampath Savings Account during the period 4 – 14 April, would get three chances to win this TV. Those who deposit Rs. 15 000 will get one winning chance. It’s simple as that.

Q: Smart TV technology is something new for us. What’s special in this TV?

A: The Samsung ES 7000 which is up for grabs, is one of the latest TVs in the world. These TVs are extremely  high-tech compared to the normal ones. It comes with facilities such as Motion Control, Voice Recognition and also has the ability to get connected with the internet. Furthermore, the Picture and Sound Quality are at the highest level.  I would like to add something more as well. We are providing this TV through Softlogic, so there’s a warranty included as well as after-sales services.

Q: How many TVs are to be given through this year’s Avurudu raffle draw?

A: There’s an opportunity to win ten TVs. The draw will be held on 18 April during the ‘Nuga Sevana’ telecast on national television. The winners will also be notified through letters officially.

Q: Sampath Bank branches are located island wide. Will customers from distant locations have to come to Colombo to collect the prize?

A: Softlogic too has an extensive branch and dealer network spread island wide. So, we have made arrangements for the winner to collect his or her prize from the nearest Softlogic outlet.

Q: Usually, every Sampath account holder engaged in Avurudu Ganu Denu receives a gift. But doesn’t the new system limit it for a few?

A: Not at all. Just as in the previous years, those who deposit Rs. 50 000 will receive a valuable wall clock, while a traveling bag will be given for Rs. 15 000 deposits.

I need to particularly elaborate on the special features of the wall clock that is specially manufactured and imported for Sampath Bank.

The clock contains a digital board that displays time, in addition to the normal time display. The date and temperature too are displayed. It also comes with the Wadsco warranty. The traveling bag given could be used as a beach pack for party purposes.

Q: What’s the message you wish to convey to customers this year?

A: This year too during 4 to 14 April, Sampath customers stand the chance of winning by depositing cash in savings accounts, including children’s saving accounts, at any of the Sampath Bank branches. All our branches will be opened on 14 April from 9 am to 12 noon for Avurudu Ganu Denu.