Food retail chain SPAR International has announced yesterday its entry into the Sri Lankan retail market.
The food retail company said in a statement SPAR Sri Lanka (Pvt) Ltd, a partnership between SPAR South Africa and Ceylon Biscuits Limited revealed its ambitious plans to open 50 new SPAR stores in the country by 2023 primarily by developing independent SPAR retailers.
“We are delighted to partner with Ceylon Biscuits Ltd. and to bring theSPAR 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,” said Tobias Wasmuht, managing director of SPAR International.
With the opening of SPAR in Sri Lanka, SPAR International celebrated the launch six countries across Asia and the 48th country worldwide. The newly established grocery store benefits from the SPAR Brand, providing shoppers with an international shopping experience adapted to local needs.
“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,” said Wayne Hodson, CEO of SPAR Sri Lanka.
SPAR said the partnership was launched at an official opening of the first SPAR Supermarket in Colombo. The 1,000m2 grocery offers customers a great shopping experience with its emphasis on fresh foods, including a wide range of fruits and vegetables, fresh meat and an instore bakery. The development of the first neighborhood supermarket has been built on tried and tested international best practice setting the benchmark for future growth of the brand in Sri Lanka.
The supermarket stores currently being developed will offer great value and a wide range of choice, with an emphasis on freshness and service. 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.
