Sampath Bank introduces cycling club, encouraging employees to ride to work

Sampath Bank has introduced ‘Cycle to Work,’ a programme promoting an eco-friendly, healthy and economical mode of transportation for all employees. The Cycle to Work initiative was launched with a ceremonial event at Diyatha Uyana last month. The enthusiastic participation of nearly 100 cyclists signaled an auspicious beginning to this programme, the bank said in a statement.

Sampath Bank employees--not just in Colombo, but at all 229 branches islandwide--are being encouraged and incentivised to adopt this alternative mode of transportation and ride to work. Riders who join will receive a complimentary cycling kit and will be provided with special training for safer riding on city streets. Safe parking spaces in security-patrolled areas are being provided, as are facilities for showering and changing. Bank employees who would like to invest in a bicycle can purchase one through a six-month 0% installment plan for those holding a Sampath Mastercard, Visa or American Express credit card. As an added incentive, the bank has authorised flexible working hours for all cyclists to avoid riding during peak traffic times.

“Our employees might even find themselves getting to work sooner. It’s easier to get from one place to another on a bicycle, and it’s arguably a far better use of your time than sitting helplessly in traffic jams,” pointed out Lalith Weragoda - Group Chief Human Resource Officer, Sampath Bank PLC. “And besides all the social and economic benefits of cycling to work, let’s not forget the enormous health advantages. Cycling is the ultimate aerobic exercise, causing less strain than most other forms of working out.”

Above: The Colombo team comprising of Tharaka Ranwala - Senior Deputy General Manager/Group Marketing, Deposit Mobilization and Digitalization, Sampath Bank PLC and Lalith Weragoda - Group Chief Human Resource Officer, Sampath Bank PLC setting off on the inaugural ‘Cycle to Work’ initiative.