Colombo, June 25, 2025 — The Sri Lanka Retailers’ Association (SLRA) successfully held its 8th Annual General Meeting at Hilton Colombo Residencies, bringing together key voices from across the retail sector to reflect on the Association’s achievements and chart the path forward.

As one of the largest contributors to Sri Lanka’s economy, the retail industry accounts for nearly 15% of GDP, employs over 1 million individuals, and spans 300,000+ retail locations nationwide. With a market size of USD 31 billion and a CAGR of 6.6%, Sri Lanka was recently ranked 12th in retail attractiveness across the Asia-Pacific region. As the formal sector’s unifying body, SLRA remains committed to driving innovation, advocacy, and collaboration among its members.

A Year of Progress and Transition

During the AGM, Mr. Charitha Subasinghe, outgoing President, officially handed over leadership to Mr. Infiyaz Ali, CEO of Healthguard Pharmacy Ltd., who will serve as President for the 2025–2026 term.

Reflecting on a dynamic year, Mr. Subasinghe stated:

“This past year has been one of meaningful progress for SLRA. Hosting the 21st Asia Pacific Retailers’ Convention & Exhibition (APRCE) in Colombo was a landmark achievement, with participation from 18 countries. We expanded the SLRA Academy, launched new sector committees, onboarded new members, and unveiled our updated website to better serve the retail community. We also took bold steps in policy advocacy, engaging with the government to represent our industry’s voice in national economic discussions.”

He concluded with confidence in the Association’s future:

“I leave with optimism, knowing that Mr. Infiyaz Ali will lead SLRA into a transformative era.”

Vision for the Future

Incoming President Mr. Infiyaz Ali expressed his appreciation and forward outlook:

“Retail is more than a sector—it’s a pillar of national progress. I am honored to take on this role and look forward to fostering transformation, sustainability, and inclusive growth through close collaboration with our members.”

Executive Council 2025–2026

• President: Infiyaz Ali – CEO, Healthguard Pharmacy Ltd

• Senior Vice President: Mahesh Wijewardena – Managing Director, Singer Sri Lanka

• Vice President: Kumar De Silva – CEO, SPAR SL Pvt Ltd

• FAPRA Chairman: Murali Prakash – Chairman, FAPRA

• General Secretary: Harsha Maduranga – GM Marketing, Vision Care

• Additional Secretary: Avanthie de Soyza – AGM, Overseas Realty Pvt Ltd

• Treasurer: Dr. Chathura Jayawardana – CMO, Abans PLC

• Assistant Treasurer: Asanka Rajapaksha – Director, D. Samson & Sons

• Council Members:
  • Ruvini Kariyawasam – Director, Perera & Sons
  • Janik Jayasuriya – Managing Director, Celeste Daily
  • Asmah Hussain – Hameedia Group
  • Imran Iqbal – Business Development Manager, Cool Planet

• Past President: Charitha Subasinghe – President, Retail Sector, John Keells Holdings PLC

• Founder President: Hussain Sadique – Deputy Managing Director, Hameedia

Looking Ahead: Sri Lanka Retail Forum 2025

As part of its strategic roadmap, SLRA is set to host the Sri Lanka Retail Forum 2025 later this year under the theme:
“Retail Reimagined – Where AI Meets the Human Edge.”

This timely event will spotlight:

• Keynote addresses on artificial intelligence, digital innovation, and consumer engagement

• Strategic panels with industry leaders, technologists, and policy influencers

• Networking and learning opportunities tailored for retailers embracing digital transformation

With a focus on balancing technological advancement and the human touch, the Forum will reinforce Sri Lanka’s role in shaping the future of retail in the region.