The Sri Lanka Brand Conclave 2026 concluded on 28 July at Cinnamon Grand, Colombo. The event brought together global marketing experts, business leaders, brand strategists, entrepreneurs and marketing professionals for a day of discussions on the future of branding.
The conclave, recognised as one of the country’s leading platforms for brand leadership and innovation, explored the changing role of brands in an increasingly digital, purpose-driven and AI-powered business environment. Throughout the day, delegates gained insights into global branding trends, leadership strategies, consumer behaviour, creativity and technological transformation.
Global experts share branding insights
The event featured internationally recognised speakers, including Dr. Prem Shamdasani, Associate Professor of Marketing and Academic Director of the Executive MBA at the National University of Singapore (NUS) Business School. Speakers also included Thomas Barta, CEO and Founder of the Marketing Leadership Institute and The Marketing Leadership Masterclass; Tay Guan Hin, APAC Regional Director of The One Club for Creativity and former Creative Chairman of BBDO Singapore; and Md. Ehsanul Hoque, Country Director for Sri Lanka and Bangladesh at Aleph Group.
Dr. Prem Shamdasani highlighted the growing importance of purpose-driven brands. He said organisations need to build authentic and long-term relationships with consumers.
Thomas Barta encouraged marketers to expand their influence beyond brand management. He urged them to become strategic business leaders who can drive sustainable organisational growth.
Meanwhile, Tay Guan Hin explained how creativity continues to provide businesses with a competitive advantage. He showed how distinctive and memorable brands can stand out in an increasingly competitive marketplace.
Industry leaders discuss changing marketing landscape
The conclave also featured several panel discussions with leading corporate representatives. These sessions explored practical approaches to branding, customer engagement and business growth.
Representatives from Prima and Spa Ceylon joined the session titled “Disrupt to Win – Creating Brands People Love and Advocate For.” They shared practical insights into customer loyalty and brand advocacy.
Senior marketing leaders from Singer Sri Lanka and Dialog Axiata also took part in the CMO Dialogue. They discussed how organisations are adapting to the rapidly changing digital landscape while preparing marketing teams with future-ready skills.
Another highlight was the Strategy to Action session. Industry leaders from CBL and Fotera discussed how organisations can turn brand strategy into measurable business outcomes through effective execution, innovation and long-term value creation.
In addition to the keynote presentations and panel discussions, delegates explored practical frameworks and global and local case studies. They also gained insights into changing consumer behaviour, including emerging Gen Z trends.
The programme further examined artificial intelligence, creativity, purpose-driven branding and community-led brand growth. As a result, participants left with practical strategies to strengthen brand performance and respond to changing market conditions.
Commenting on the event, Sri Lanka Brand Forum Founder and Chairman Shariful Islam said:
“The role of brands has transformed significantly. Today, businesses must understand not only how to communicate with consumers, but also how to build relevance, trust, and lasting value in a continuously changing environment. The Sri Lanka Brand Conclave was designed to connect our marketing community with global thinking while creating meaningful discussions around the realities and opportunities within our own market. Our vision is to build a platform where leaders can learn, exchange ideas, and shape the future of branding in Sri Lanka.”
The Sri Lanka Brand Conclave 2026 brought together global expertise and local perspectives to encourage knowledge sharing across the marketing community. It also reinforced the value of collaboration, innovation and strategic leadership as organisations continue to build resilient brands for the future.
Last modified: August 2, 2026
