More than 500 retail leaders, entrepreneurs, technology experts, policymakers and investors met in Colombo to discuss the future of retail.
Artificial intelligence, data, digital commerce and productivity were key topics at the Sri Lanka Retail Forum 2026.
The Sri Lanka Retailers’ Association (SLRA) organised the forum at Cinnamon Life, Colombo. The event was held under the theme “Retail Without Boundaries: Building the Next Growth Engine.”
The discussions focused on the changes affecting retailers and their customers.
Retailers face a changing market
The forum covered retail growth, productivity, customer service, digital commerce, artificial intelligence, data and automation.
These areas are changing how retailers run their businesses. They are also changing how customers find, compare and buy products.
At the same time, retailers are looking for ways to improve customer service and build stronger customer relationships.
AI and data take a bigger role
AI and data were also key parts of the forum.
Speakers discussed how retailers can use these tools in areas such as customer service and daily business operations.
A panel titled “Technology and Future Retail” looked at the growing role of AI and big data.
It also examined how retailers can connect physical stores with digital channels.
Crystal Nathan, Chief Insights Officer and Executive Director of PepperCube Consultants, moderated the panel.
The panel included Avanthie De Zoysa, General Manager, Marketing & Leasing at Havelock City Mall; Nalin Karunaratne, Director and Chief Executive Officer of Ceylon Biscuits Limited; and Priantha Fernando, Chief Executive Officer of The Hotels Association of Sri Lanka.
The speakers discussed changes to retail models, supply chains and customer interactions.
Productivity remains important
Productivity and business performance were another major focus.
Soumya Dwibedi, Partner at Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu India LLP, delivered the keynote address titled “Retail as a Growth Engine.”
She discussed changes in regional and global sales strategies. She also looked at the changes needed for retail businesses to grow.
Other sessions covered customer experience, customer loyalty, retail change, brands, growth strategies and speciality coffee.
Speakers included Dr. Roshan Perera, Consultant at the Centre for Poverty Analysis; Dr. Asanga Ranasinghe, Director at the Postgraduate Institute of Management, University of Sri Jayewardenepura; Hansa Wongsiripitack, Senior Vice President at The 1 Central Group; Clehan Pulle, Group Director, Group CEO and Co-Founder of Finetech Consultancy; Mahesh Wijewardene, Group Managing Director of Singer (Sri Lanka) PLC; and Dilupa Pathirana, Chief Executive Officer of Barista Coffee Lanka.
Focus on the wider economy
Krishan Balendra, Chairperson of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, attended the forum as Chief Guest.
He shared views on the economic outlook and policy direction for trade, commerce and retail.
The forum also brought together companies from different parts of the retail sector.
As a result, retailers had a chance to discuss the changes affecting their businesses.
For the retail sector, the focus on AI, data, digital commerce and productivity shows where many businesses are putting their attention.
These areas are likely to remain important as retailers respond to changing customer needs and new technology.
The Sri Lanka Retailers’ Association organised the forum with support from companies across retail, technology, finance, consumer goods and services.
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Last modified: September 15, 2026
