The new platform started its journey at a discussion in Dhaka where senior marketing managers from over 40 companies were present.

Syed Saad Andalib, professor and programme chair of Marketing of Penn State University, was present as the chief resource person at the function.

Andalib apprised the audience of the overall perspective of services industry in Bangladesh.

IBA (Institute of Business Administration, Dhaka University) was the knowledge partner of the Marketers Meet while Grameenphone was the platinum sponsor.

Marketers Meet will take place quarterly.

Shariful Islam, convener of Bangladesh Brand Forum, said his organisation will organise 'Marketers Meet' on a regular basis.

One expert will give a keynote speech on a specific topic and participants from the corporate community will participate in a meeting to share their thoughts and ideas, Islam said.

Speaking on 'Building a model for service excellence', Prof Andaleeb said most countries have treated their customers properly and eventually achieved excellence.

Opportunities in services industries such as tourism, transportation, IT services, and hospitals remain untapped in Bangladesh, lamented Andaleeb.

He cited examples of Greece, Costa Rica, India, Singapore and Thailand where customers are being provided with maximum care.

"To build excellence in services in Bangladesh we need to build industry-academy partnership," he said.