The Sri Lanka Retail Forum 2025, hosted by the Sri Lanka Retailers’ Association (SLRA), concluded with resounding success at the Shangri-La Colombo, uniting over 500 retail leaders, innovators, and professionals to lay the foundation for the next era of Sri Lanka’s retail landscape.
The forum’s compelling theme, “Retail Reimagined – Where AI Meets the Human Edge,” anchored a day of vibrant discussions on how the synergy between artificial intelligence (AI) and human creativity can revolutionize customer experiences, enhance operational efficiency, and redefine leadership in the retail sector.
High-Level Inauguration and Keynote
The event was graced by Dr. Hans Wijesuriya, Chief Advisor to the President on Digital Economy, underscoring the government’s focus on digital transformation. This set a forward-looking tone for discussions on policy frameworks and public-private collaboration essential for national retail modernization.
Delivering the keynote address on “Inf ‘AI’nite Possibilities,” Satyendra Khare, Head of Strategic and Emerging Partnerships and Distribution Ecosystem (India and SAARC) at Google India, highlighted AI’s transformative potential. He emphasized its role in unlocking next-level personalization, streamlining supply chains, and radically transforming retail decision-making.
SLRA President Infiyaz Ali welcomed the attendees, declaring, “The insights gained today will serve as a blueprint for the next era of retail growth in Sri Lanka, proving that the synergy between AI and human talent is the key to unlocking infinite possibilities.”
Sessions: From Stability to AI-Driven Performance
The day featured a lineup of thought leaders who offered valuable, actionable insights:
Murtaza Jafferjee (Advocata Institute Chairman) spoke on “From Stability to Sustainability: Driving Growth Through Structural Transformation,” exploring the necessary structural reforms to create a stable foundation for retail growth.
Bhanuka Harischandra (Surge Global Founder and CEO) tackled “Data and Retail,” stressing the importance of leveraging deep consumer insights for a competitive edge.
Paul Alexandar (Beyond: Putting Data to Work CEO) presented “Beyond the Hype: Building Retail’s Data Foundations for AI Success,” focusing on the critical role of robust data ecosystems in enabling effective AI-driven transformation.
Dilini Jayasuriya (Breakthrough Business Intelligence Chief Research Officer) delivered an engaging session: “Winning the Human Mind in the Age of AI.”
Dr. Romesh Ranawana (Dialog Group Chief Analytics and AI Officer) presented “AI That Sells – Price. Personalize. Perform.” offering actionable strategies for implementing AI across pricing and personalization.
Panel: Where AI Meets the Human Edge
A key highlight was the panel discussion, “Where AI Meets the Human Edge: Future of Retail Leadership.” Moderated by Crystal Nathan (Pepper Cube Consultants Chief Insights Officer), the panel featured:
Dr. Rohantha Athukorala (Clootrack – Sri Lanka, Maldives, and Pakistan President)
Sabrina Esufally (Hemas Consumer Cluster Managing Director)
Ahmed Irfan (Futureworks at Twinery – Innovations by MAS Director)
They engaged in a spirited discussion on the evolving role of leadership and how to harness AI, innovation, and human creativity to redefine customer experiences and operational excellence.
TechTalks: Practical AI in Action
Two insightful TechTalk sessions provided practical applications for the latest technologies:
OMAK Technologies presented “AI Applications in Retail Technology.”
NCINGA showcased “The Age of Agents: How Agentic AI is Revolutionising the Industry,” highlighting how autonomous AI agents are transforming modern retail environments.
Conclusion and Networking
The forum concluded with a Vote of Thanks delivered by SLRA Vice President Kumar de Silva, followed by a vibrant Networking High Tea. This provided an invaluable platform for participants to connect, collaborate, and exchange ideas, cementing the partnerships that will drive the sector forward.
A Special Thanks to Our Sponsors and Partners
The success of the Sri Lanka Retail Forum 2025 was made possible by the generous support of our sponsors and partners:
Platinum Sponsors: John Keells CG Auto Ltd., and Jaykay Marketing Services Ltd.
Silver Sponsors: Abans PLC, Healthguard Pharmacy Ltd., Singer (Sri Lanka) PLC, Samsung Sri Lanka, and Unilever Sri Lanka Ltd.
Associate Sponsors: Vision Care, Perera and Sons Bakers Ltd., DSI, SPAR Supermarkets, Havelock City Mall, Cool Planet Ltd, and Nestlé Sri Lanka.
Tech Talk Sponsors: OMAK Technologies Ltd., and NCINGA.
Exhibition Sponsors: Itechro Ltd., Effectz AI Ltd., Essilor Lanka Ltd., and Celeste.
Digital Sponsor: Azbow Ltd.
Logistics Sponsor: Diesel and Motor Engineering PLC.
Event Partner: Ceylon Chamber of Commerce.
PR Partner: Impressions Public Relations.
Ticketing Partner: Oneticket.lk.
The Sri Lanka Retailers’ Association invites all retailers, entrepreneurs, and professionals to join our growing network as we collectively contribute to shaping the future of retail in Sri Lanka.
