EBM Wins Blue Dragon at Dragons of Asia 2025

English Biscuit Manufacturers (EBM) has won the coveted Blue Dragon at the Dragons of Asia 2025 Awards, along with four other awards, in recognition of its purpose-driven and impactful communication, as per a press release.

EBM’s Anthem for Education campaign earned the Blue Dragon for Best Campaign in Pakistan, and a Gold Dragon in the Public Relations category, reflecting the company’s mission to advocate for Pakistan’s 26 million out-of-school children, and to spotlight education as a fundamental right. The campaign also earned a nomination for the Best Campaign in Asia category.

Speaking on the achievement, Shahzain Munir, Executive Director at EBM, said, “These awards are a testament to our belief that innovation-backed creativity grounded in purpose can drive real impact. At EBM, every campaign begins with care, for our people, our communities, and our shared future.”

These latest accolades underscore EBM’s commitment to using meaningful storytelling as a force for good, inspiring change, uplifting communities, and driving important conversations nationwide.

PSO reports Rs20.9bn profit

Pakistan State Oil (PSO) has reported a profit after tax of Rs20.9 billion and declared a dividend of Rs10 per share, representing a 22.5 per cent payout ratio for FY25, according to a press release.

The management informed shareholders that PSO continued to expand its footprint with a robust network of 3,649 retail outlets across the country. The company made significant progress on the White Oil Pipeline project, enhancing fuel transportation efficiency and reliability. Operational excellence remained a key focus, with advancements in automation and digitisation, including the Faisalabad Terminal Automation System. PSO also expanded its Shop Stop convenience network, adding 99 new stores to reach a total of 310 nationwide, and introduced six VIBE Stores to offer enhanced convenience and a superior customer experience.

The management addressed shareholders’ queries, reaffirming PSO’s strategic vision and commitment to ensuring Pakistan’s energy security. Shareholders commended the management for its strong performance, leadership, and the trust it continues to inspire.

Emirates 40 years of operations in Karachi

Forty years ago, Emirates launched its first flight, EK600, on the route to Karachi. To commemorate the milestone Emirates recently showcased its retrofitted B777, featuring Premium Economy cabins, at Jinnah International Airport, as per a press release. The special preview, held on the eve of the airline’s 40th anniversary, provided VIPs and stakeholders from the aviation and travel industry, and members of the media a walkthrough tour of Emirates’ reconfigured and refreshed four-class aircraft, sporting its latest features.

The special flight arrived in Karachi at 10:45am for guests to preview Premium Economy cabins which is available on a growing number of routes in its global network. In attendance at the event were Consul General UAE, H.E. Bakheet Ateeq Al-Rumaithi and other local dignitaries from the civil aviation and airport authorities, hosted by Emirates’ Vice President for Pakistan, Mohammed Alhashmi.

On the occasion, Mohammed Alhashmi said, “Looking ahead, we continue to enhance the customer experience in line with the ever-changing travel trends, and we hope to introduce our award-winning Premium Economy cabins to Karachi in future. We look forward to continuing its gradual roll out to key destinations in our network for customers to enjoy an elevated travel experience and a superior value for money proposition.”

Olive Summit 2.0 by Al Baraka Bank

Al Baraka Bank (Pakistan) Ltd in collaboration with the National Alliance for Safe Food hosted the “Al Baraka Pakistan Olive Summit 2.0” in Islamabad last week, according to a press release.

The event brought together key experts and stakeholders of the olive sector in Pakistan and was attended by Muhammad Atif Hanif, CEO of Al Baraka Bank (Pakistan) Limited, federal ministers and ambassadors of Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Italy, Bahrain, Spain, Indonesia and Malaysia.

The olive sector holds immense promise for economic growth, environmental sustainability, and rural empowerment. Al Baraka Bank aims to support a sustainable olive future in Pakistan, by providing access to finance and facilitating partnerships with global buyers and distributors to strengthen local value chains and boost the economy through exports.

Published in Dawn, The Business and Finance Weekly, October 27th, 2025