International Distillers Limited (IDL) is proud to announce that it has received the coveted ‘Great Place to Work’ certification, a recognition that acknowledges the company’s commitment to providing an exceptional workplace culture. As one of Sri Lanka’s leading corporates, and a manufacturer and importer of quality spirits, this certification further solidifies IDL’s position as an employer of choice in the country.
Formed in 1980 as Gilbeys Lanka Ltd, IDL has since rebranded itself as International Distillers Ltd in 2014 and has grown to become the largest manufacturer of locally produced foreign liquor and the second largest manufacturer in the local spirits industry. IDL’s recent recognition as a ‘Great Place to Work’ comes as no surprise, given the company’s unwavering focus on providing a supportive and engaging work environment for its employees.
The ‘Great Place to Work’ certification is recognised globally and is considered the gold standard in identifying and recognising the best workplace cultures. The GPTW program was initiated three years ago, and IDL has since implemented several initiatives to ensure the certification was acquired. The company’s people-centric approach to business has been the driving force behind these initiatives, which include training and development programs, fun activities, leadership development, and other value addition activities that ensure and maintain a happy working environment.
Dr. Kemal de Soysa, Director and Chief Executive Officer of International Distillers Limited shared his thoughts on the certification: “The certification of ‘Great Place to Work’ serves as evidence that IDL is highly focused on its people and reflects the measures we have implemented over the years to provide an outstanding working environment and culture for our staff. Our brand purpose has always been to ‘Enrich Lives’ and to enhance every critical moment. As a company, we remain committed to this objective and will continue to do so in the future.”
IDL’s focus on employee well-being, coupled with its unwavering commitment to ethical business practices and good corporate governance, is reflected in the company’s 4th ISO certifications for quality management, food safety management, occupational health and safety management, and environmental management systems certified by SGS. This certification further solidifies IDL’s position as a leader in the industry and showcases its traditional core values.
Anuradha Wickramasinghe, Chief People Officer of International Distillers Limited, also shared her thoughts “We are honored to be recognized by our employees as a great place to work. The Great Place to Work Certification isn’t something that comes easily – it takes ongoing dedication to the employee experience. The award is a testament to IDL’s commitment to putting employees first. IDL strives to build an organization that emphasizes culture, engagement, and growth. This certification is a true indicator of our efforts, and we will continue to make a positive employee experience a top priority. IDL cares about and supports its employees while also challenging them to grow with the company, where management and employees trust and respect each other and have a shared commitment to both individual and company success. We try to meet our employees’ financial, mental, physical, and emotional needs. As a result, employees are often more productive, satisfied, and willing to stay at the company long-term”.
In conclusion, IDL’s recognition as a ‘Great Place to Work’ is a testament to the company’s commitment to providing an exceptional workplace culture for its employees. As a leader in the industry, IDL is committed to maintaining its position as an employer of choice and will continue to implement initiatives that focus on the well-being and career growth of its employees.
IDL’s ‘Great Place to Work’ certification further underscores its commitment to ethical business practices and good corporate governance. With this recognition, IDL looks forward to continuing its growth trajectory and making further contributions to the industry and the country.