The Sri Lanka Retail Association (SLRA) strongly condemned the Easter Sunday attacks which claimed the lives of many people, injured hundreds more, causing substantial damage to the economy.
President of SLRA, Sidath Kodikara said, “As an Association that comprises members operating across the country, on behalf of all its members, SLRA pledges to extend its commitment and assistance to the Government and Security Forces, enabling them to restore the economy.”
SLRA was set up with the intention being the apex body for organised retailing in the country with an ambitious vision of achieving ‘Retail Excellence’ by being the ‘voice of the Retail industry in Sri Lanka’ and inclusive in its approach. The Association represents over 42 leading corporates including members from diverse retail sectors such as FMCG, clothing, fashion and jewellery, household and consumer durables, footwear and accessories, E-commerce, entertainment and QSR and healthcare and wellness.
Vice President, SLRA, Murali Prakash said, “Adversities need greater commitment and courage to build bridges of trust and goodwill. Extremism is beyond any particular religion, race, caste, creed or any other group and the light of friendship and understanding will enable us to defeat evil and propel the country to be a safe destination that it was in the past.”
Sri Lanka’s Retail sector accounts for approx. 34% of the country’s GDP, 14% of employment and over 250 mn. footfalls per annum, thus contributing positively towards the national economy.
In 2016 and 2017, Sri Lanka was ranked 12th in the Global Retail Development Index (GDRI) among 30 countries for its potential in retail investment and growth.
“In Sri Lanka, we have always found unity in diversity,” said Hussain Sadiq, Founder President, SLRA. “It is this unity and diversity that has enabled us to overcome adversity, spread peace and bring prosperity to this little nation. As members of SLRA, we will continue in our quest to restore normalcy in the country, by continuing to contribute positively towards the economy ensuring Sri Lanka regains its lost glory and is put back on the world map for the right reasons”. The Sri Lanka Retailers’ Association (SLRA) was set up in 2015.
It was incorporated in June 2016 as a Company Limited by Guarantee registered under the provisions of the Companies Act No 7 of 2007 under the auspices of the Ministry of Industry and Commerce.