Global food retailer SPAR International has forayed into the Sri Lankan retail market. SPAR Sri Lanka (Pvt) Ltd, a partnership between SPAR South Africa and Ceylon Biscuits Limited, has announced ambitious plans to open 50 new SPAR stores in Sri Lanka by 2023 primarily by developing independent SPAR retailers.
With the opening of SPAR in Sri Lanka, SPAR International celebrates the launch of the brand in six countries across Asia and the 48th country worldwide.
The partnership was launched at an official opening of the first SPAR Supermarket in Colombo last week. The 10,764-sqft SPAR supermarket offers customers a great shopping experience with its emphasis on fresh foods, including a wide range of fruits and vegetables, fresh meat and an in-store bakery. The development of the first SPAR neighborhood supermarket has been built on tried and tested international SPAR best practice setting the benchmark for future growth of the SPAR brand in Sri Lanka.
SPAR Sri Lanka will also be offering shoppers an extensive range of exclusive SPAR Own Brand products sourced both internationally and locally. SPAR Sri Lanka has been able to utilise the global expertise of SPAR International and SPAR South Africa to support the extensive training of the new store colleagues over the past two months.
“We are delighted to partner with Ceylon Biscuits Ltd. and to bring the SPAR Brand to this dynamic market. The distinct global but local SPAR approach will create excellent growth opportunities for Sri Lankan SPAR independent retailers. The opening of the first SPAR supermarket marks the beginning of a new, world-class retail experience for consumers in Sri Lanka,” says Tobias Wasmuht, managing director of SPAR International.
“This is a very exciting period in the ever-changing food retail environment. Our mission is to develop and grow local, independent retailers, supporting them through the implementation of efficient supply chain management, stock procurement, promotional and marketing support, IT and retail leadership,” adds Wayne Hodson, CEO of SPAR Sri Lanka.