SLRA to launch ‘Retail Academy’ this year to build Sri Lanka’s retail capacity

Recognising the needs of the industry, Sri Lanka Retailers’ Association (SLRA) is planning to launch a retail institute which will create widespread opportunity for youth to enter the vibrant retail industry with professional qualifications. The SLRA is currently in the process of seeking out-state/non-state accredited institutes to partner this initiative and further formalise training models. 

The Retail Academy has been in operation since 2017, conducting training courses and workshops during its operation thus far. This year, along with the envisaged inauguration of the institute, SLRA will have an official launch of its Retail Academy. The Retail Academy will seek to fulfil the industry’s labour shortage, by creating an image of retail as a preferred industry for employment. 

“Not only will it increase labour supply, the goal of the Retail Academy is to make professionals the norm and not the exception in our trade,” Sidath Kodikara, Executive Director at Cargills (Ceylon) PLC and President of the SLRA said.

With Sri Lankan retail evolving into a technology-based industry, upskilling of labour is seen as vital to implement this transformation. Moreover, the value addition in labour is likely to attract more young professionals to join a lucrative career in retail. 

This year’s outlook for retail will see many facets of change which will play an important role in the development of the country. Organised retail will slowly increase its presence and penetration. Appearance of more retail global brands will also continue with the rise of higher end malls. There is increased potential for mobile-centric e-commerce strategies to engage with consumers, and advancement in automation, data analytics and e-commerce is set to further improve and enhance consumer experience. In this back drop of change, growth and challenges, the SLRA aims to play an influential role in synergising the efforts of all retailers and partners to develop this industry in an inclusive manner. 

SLRA’s membership currently comprises 30+ local retail giants across nine retail sectors consisting of FMCG; Clothing, Fashion and Jewellery; Shelter and Housing; Household and Consumer Durables; Footwear and Accessories; E-Commerce; Mobility; Entertainment, Restaurants and QSR; and Healthcare and Wellness, with hopes of seeing its membership increase further this year. The purpose of this organised body for retail is to tap into one of Sri Lanka’s highest contributing industries to economic and social development, by providing a forum where retailers can work together to improve standards of retailing in an inclusive manner, improve consumer experience and service in all facets of retailing, and aim to facilitate the growth of the retail industry through innovation and sharing of global best practices. Corporates of the retail industry are invited to join the membership of SLRA. For further information, contact Leonard Perera 0777-916833 [email protected] or Shehara De Silva 0115588800 [email protected]