THE REPUTATION EDGE
The 22nd annual edition of the Most Respected ranks the nation’s most admired organisations
Earlier this year, Sri Lanka experienced unsettling echoes of 2022 as the escalating crisis between the US and Iran prompted fresh concerns about the country’s economic vulnerabilities.
The resulting uncertainty across the region, together with its wider repercussions for Sri Lanka, revived fears of fuel shortages, pressure on the currency, scarcity of essential goods and rapidly rising prices.
These external shocks were compounded by domestic pressures including IMF mandated electricity tariff increases, a mounting tax burden and the escalating cost of living. For businesses already operating in a fragile environment, the challenges were both extensive and relentless.
And as we know, such disruptions rarely remain confined within national borders. Their effects spread across economies, supply chains and markets, testing the resilience, integrity and preparedness of organisations around the world – including those in Sri Lanka.
This year too has proved pivotal as corporate leaders continue to navigate a volatile and rapidly evolving landscape. Yet, many have risen to the occasion, steering their organisations with measured confidence, leadership and long-term visions grounded in purpose.
It follows that the Most Respected rankings reflect far more than bottom lines, balance sheets or market share.
John Keells Holdings (JKH) once again heads the Most Respected rankings, securing the No. 1 position for a record 21st time in 2026. This also marks the 17th consecutive year in which the highly diversified conglomerate has stood at the pinnacle of the rankings.
Hayleys retains second place for the third successive year, marking the seventh occasion on which it has occupied this position since the rankings began.
MAS Holdings advances one place to secure third position while Unilever Sri Lanka records one of the most notable gains within the leading group, climbing five places to rank fourth this year.
Commercial Bank of Ceylon (ComBank) moves down two positions to fifth but maintains its longstanding presence among the country’s five most respected organisations.
This year’s rankings come at a time when geopolitical tensions are rife and the ripple effects are being felt by the wider world. Although the economic environment has emerged from the depths of the 2022 crisis, the path towards durable growth remains far from assured. Global instability, geopolitical conflicts, and shifts in trade and investment continue to pose risks to what has been a fragile recovery.
The LMD-PEPPERCUBE Business Confidence Index (BCI) has also reflected this shift with uneven fluctuations holding sway. The BCI has recorded notable highs and lows in the first half of 2026.
Although economic conditions have improved to some degree, the path towards durable growth remains far from assured. What remains evident however, is the resilience and adaptability of the country’s Most Respected entities.
– Tamara Rebeira
