HNB retains Best Retail Bank title in Sri Lanka for 15th year

HNB Assistant General Manager Network Business Supun Dias, HNB Assistant General Manager/Head of Retail Banking Kanchana Karunagama and HNB Chief Manager SME Credit Underwriting S. Narenthiran receive Best Retail Bank award from TAB Global representatives

Hatton National Bank PLC (HNB) was named as Sri Lanka’s Best Retail Bank for the 15th time, at TAB Global Excellence in Retail Financial Services Awards 2025, held in Tokyo, Japan.

The recognition highlights HNB’s focus on innovation, financial inclusion and customer-centric banking, the bank said in a statement.

“For over a century, HNB has stood firm in our mission to serve as a partner in progress to all Sri Lankans. Throughout our history, we have evolved, integrating cutting-edge technology and global best practices into a deeply customer-centric business model,” said HNB Managing Director/CEO Damith Pallewatte.

HNB retail banking innovations have redefined customer convenience and financial inclusivity. At the forefront of the bank’s most recent initiatives has been the launch of a trilingual mobile banking application, which empowers the customers to interact with banking services in Sinhala, Tamil or English. 

This tailored approach not only enhances accessibility but also drives personalised customer experiences, streamlining digital transactions and boosting net fee and commission income. These digital solutions underscore HNB’s commitment to integrating cutting-edge technology with a deep understanding of customer needs. In addition, HNB’s strategic focus on transforming its retail banking operations has resulted in a suite of initiatives designed to enhance product offerings and customer engagement. From specialised retail products—such as savings schemes aimed at nurturing a healthy savings habit among students—to efficient digital processes that reduce turnaround times, every innovation reinforces the bank’s leadership in the retail segment. 

“Our ability to adapt and lead in an ever-changing financial landscape is what differentiates HNB. We continue to invest in technology and customer-centric solutions to create seamless banking experiences. This achievement is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team,” noted HNB Chief Operating Officer Sanjay Wijemanne.

HNB’s dedication to enhancing customer convenience was also recognised with multiple accolades at LankaPay Technnovation Awards 2024, where the bank secured the Bank of the Year for Excellence in Customer Convenience award. This honour reflects HNB’s efforts in pioneering digital payment solutions and its ethos of prioritising customer needs.