Sri Lanka Retail Forum 2025 concludes with resounding success

• Key speakers put spotlight on AI’s transformative power in retail

The Sri Lanka Retail Forum 2025, hosted by the Sri Lanka Retailers’ Association (SLRA), concluded successfully at the Shangri-La Colombo, bringing together over 500 retail leaders, innovators, and professionals to chart the future of Sri Lanka’s retail landscape.

With the theme “Retail Reimagined – Where AI Meets the Human Edge,” the forum explored how artificial intelligence (AI) and human creativity can converge to revolutionize customer experiences, operational efficiency, and leadership in the retail sector.

Graced by Chief Advisor to the President on Digital Economy Dr. Hans Wijesuriya, the event set the stage for forward-looking discussions on digital transformation, policy frameworks, and public-private collaboration to accelerate the nation’s retail modernization journey. Delivering the keynote address, Satyendra Khare, Head of Strategic and Emerging Partnerships and Distribution Ecosystem (India and SAARC) at Google India, spoke on “Inf ‘AI’nite Possibilities,” emphasizing how AI can unlock next-level personalization, streamline supply chains, and transform retail decision-making.

In his welcome address, SLRA President Infiyaz Ali said: “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.”

The day’s speaker sessions featured a lineup of thought leaders and industry experts who shared valuable insights across diverse themes. 

Advocata Institute Chairman Murtaza Jafferjee spoke on “From Stability to Sustainability: Driving Growth Through Structural Transformation,” exploring how structural reforms can create a stable foundation for retail growth. 

Surge Global Founder and CEO Bhanuka Harischandra discussed “Data and Retail,” highlighting the importance of leveraging consumer insights for competitive advantage. 

Beyond: Putting Data to Work CEO Paul Alexandar presented “Beyond the Hype: Building Retail’s Data Foundations for AI Success,” focusing on the role of robust data ecosystems in achieving AI-driven transformation. 

Breakthrough Business Intelligence Chief Research Officer Dilini Jayasuriya, delivered an engaging session titled “Winning the Human Mind in the Age of AI,” while Dialog Group Chief Analytics and AI Officer Dr. Romesh Ranawana, presented “AI That Sells – Price. Personalize. Perform.” offering actionable strategies for implementing AI in retail.

A key highlight of the event was the panel discussion titled “Where AI Meets the Human Edge: Future of Retail Leadership.” 

Moderated by Pepper Cube Consultants Chief Insights Officer Crystal Nathan, the session featured Clootrack – Sri Lanka, Maldives, and Pakistan President Dr. Rohantha Athukorala; Hemas Consumer Cluster Managing Director Sabrina Esufally and Futureworks at Twinery – Innovations by MAS Director Ahmed Irfan. Together, they explored the evolving role of leadership in an era where AI, innovation, and human creativity redefine customer experiences and operational excellence.

The forum also featured two insightful TechTalk sessions. OMAK Technologies presented “AI Applications in Retail Technology,” while NCINGA showcased “The Age of Agents: How Agentic AI is Revolutionising the Industry,” both highlighting the practical applications of AI in modern retail environments.

The event concluded with a Vote of Thanks delivered by SLRA Vice President Kumar de Silva, followed by a Networking High Tea that provided an engaging platform for participants to connect, collaborate, and exchange ideas.

The Sri Lanka Retail Forum 2025 was supported by a strong lineup of 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; and Ticketing Partner Oneticket.lk.

The Sri Lanka Retailers’ Association invites retailers, entrepreneurs, and professionals to join its growing network and contribute to shaping the future of retail in Sri Lanka.