Retails Reimagined – Sri Lanka Retail Forum 2025

About the Forum

The Sri Lanka Retailers’ Association (SLRA) presented the highly anticipated Retail Forum 2025, themed “Where AI Meets the Human Edge.” This flagship event took place on 23rd October 2025 at the Shangri-La Hotel, Colombo, and served as a premier gathering for industry leaders, innovators, and decision-makers in the retail sector. Building on the success of previous editions, that year’s forum explored the intersection of artificial intelligence, automation, and human creativity, which shaped the future of retail. In a rapidly evolving marketplace where technology and human insight converged, the event aimed to foster deep discussions, highlight transformative retail strategies, and empower attendees with cutting-edge solutions to navigate the future of retail. The forum featured global and local thought leaders, interactive panel discussions, and technology showcases that highlighted the latest AI-driven solutions for smarter operations and customer engagement. Attendees gained insights into seamless omni-channel strategies, AI-powered data analytics, and the role of human empathy in a tech-driven world. The event also presented an excellent opportunity to network with 350+ industry leaders and innovators, building valuable partnerships for a resilient retail future.

Retail Experts. Real Insights.

Meet the Speakers

Meet the thought leaders, trailblazers, and retail innovators who are shaping the future of the industry. Our lineup features a diverse group of professionals with deep experience across retail, finance, technology, and consumer behavior — ready to share strategies, spark dialogue, and inspire transformation.

Dr. Romesh Ranawana

Group Chief Analytics & AI Officer - Dialog

Bhanuka Harishchandra

Founder/CEO of Surge Global

Satyendra Khare

Head – Strategic & Emerging Partnerships and Distribution Ecosystem (India & SAARC), Google

Murtaza Jafferjee

Chairman – Advocata Institute

Paul Alexandar

Chief Executive Officer | Beyond : Putting Data to Work

Dilini Jayasuriya

Executive Director, Breakthrough BI

Key Sessions

Explore how AI is revolutionizing retail operations by enhancing efficiency and personalizing customer interactions. This session will delve into the role of AI in streamlining supply chains, optimizing inventory management, and creating seamless customer experiences. Discover how AI-driven insights are empowering retailers to engage customers in more meaningful and personalized ways.

As shopping habits evolve, integrating online and offline experiences is essential for a seamless customer journey. This session will focus on how retailers can blend digital and physical touchpoints to create a unified, customer-first approach. Learn about the tools and strategies to deliver a cohesive experience across multiple platforms.

In the face of economic uncertainty and market disruptions, retailers must be agile and resilient. This session will provide insights into strategies for adapting business models to survive and thrive in challenging times. Explore risk management, agility in decision-making, and how to build a robust retail business for the future.

Digital payment solutions and loyalty programs are key to enhancing customer retention and streamlining transactions. This session will explore the latest innovations in digital payments, loyalty systems, and fintech technologies that are transforming how retailers engage with their customers and drive growth.

While technology and AI shape the future, human creativity and trust remain central to customer loyalty. This session will discuss the balance between AI and human insight, emphasizing how creativity, empathy, and trust are essential in building lasting relationships with consumers in a technology-driven environment.

Forum Agenda – 23rd October 2025

09:00 AM - 09:30 AM

Welcome & Inaugural Session

09:30 AM - 10:20 AM

Session 01: Inf "ai"nite Possibilities

10:20 AM - 11:00 AM

Session 02: From Stability to Sustainability

11:30 AM - 12:00 PM

Session 03: Data & Retail

12:00 PM - 13:00 PM

Session 04: Beyond the Hype

14:00 PM - 15:00 PM

Session 05: Panel Discussion

15:00 PM - 15:40 PM

Session 06: Winning the Human Mind in the Age of AI

15:40 PM - 16:30 PM

Session 07: AI That Sells Price. Personalize. Perform.

16:30 PM - 17:00 PM

Networking & High Tea

Our Sponsors

Event Recourses

Explore insights and inspiration from Sri Lanka’s premier retail event.

Sponsorship Brochure

download the Sponsorship Brochure and explore exclusive partnership opportunities.

Event Brochure

All you need to know about the agenda, speakers, and strategic focus of the event.

Event Highlights

Relive the best moments from our recent events. From keynote addresses and panel discussions to networking sessions and award ceremonies, these snapshots capture the energy, insights, and connections that made each event truly impactful.

A look back at the game-changing moments, insights, and connections from the Retail Forum held on October 23rd, 2025. Browse our highlight gallery below to experience the energy of the day!

Thank You for Attending

SLRA extends its deepest appreciation to all participants, speakers, and partners who contributed to the success of Retail Forum 2025: “Where AI Meets the Human Edge.” Together, we have sparked transformative conversations and bridged the gap between technology and human creativity to chart a new course for Sri Lanka’s retail future.

For inquiries, contact:.
Niroshini: 011 558 8852 | Devni: 011 558 8892
events@chamber.lk