Major shake-up for local retail as Hayleys enters supermarket race

23 October 2025 12:25 am Views - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}} 4 Bookmark

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Hayleys PLC announces fresh plans to foray into large-scale supermarket segment
Aims to open 100 outlets in Phase 1
Says move underscores group’s strategic thrust towards bringing quality, reliability and service excellence closer to every day Sri Lankan consumers

Hayleys PLC Co-Chairman and Non-Executive Director Dhammika Perera

Hayleys PLC Chairman and Chief Executive Mohan Pandithage

Sri Lanka’s retail sector is in for some major competition as business tycoon Dhammika Perera-controlled Hayleys PLC yesterday announced fresh plans to foray into the large-scale supermarket segment.

A brief statement issued last evening confirmed the diversified conglomerate aims to open 100 outlets in Phase 1.

According to the entity, the strategic entry into the large-scale supermarket sector represents a bold step forward that marks the beginning of a new chapter in its 148-year legacy of diversification and value creation.

“This move underscores the group’s strategic thrust towards bringing quality, reliability and service excellence closer to every day Sri Lankan consumers, redefining the modern retail experience,” Hayleys said.

The entity asserted that it is “uniquely positioned” to build a value-driven retail ecosystem across the island, leveraging its unparalleled reach across value chains, brand strength, dynamic leadership team and commitment to sustainable business.

However, the brand name for the new supermarket chain was not revealed.

The entry of Hayley into this space will directly challenge the existing chains, including Cargills Food City, Keells Super, Arpico Supercentre and Laugfs Supermarkets, all of which have established networks in urban and suburban Sri Lanka.

Hayleys pointed out that its competitive advantage lies in its deep logistics expertise, vertically integrated manufacturing capabilities, brand strength and strong financial backing, positioning it to offer quality, choice and accessibility to consumers.

The nationwide rollout of the upcoming large-scale supermarket would likely reshape the competitive dynamics in the segment, as it would push the established players to revisit pricing, service quality and expansion strategies. This in-turn would benefit the consumers through improved choice and accessibility. (SAA)

Comments - 4

Bernard Jayatilake Thursday, 23 October 2025 07:58 AM

The key to challenge the existing major super markets is to obtain liquor license also to penetrate a certain super market chain operated by the Softlogic Group in Colombo and its suburbs or lag behind.

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Adwani Thursday, 23 October 2025 12:53 PM

Before Haleys enters supermarket race, Harleys should engage in intensive search for feasibility. As major supermarkets' certain branches are struggling even to maintain the proper level of Manpower. Sales at certain locations is also very low. Rate of pilferage is high at certain places. Supermarket in charge should be an active, matured person, irrespective of his/her age. Usage of phones by staff should not be allowed, as some goes out and keep talking for hours. Hayleys might come across lots of obstacles in managing branches, unless team oriented persons are appointed to make the branch a success.

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Paul Cole Thursday, 23 October 2025 04:55 PM

will be called "hayleys super" or "hayleys hypermart"

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Shiiraan Nooramith Thursday, 23 October 2025 07:56 PM

Hayleys entry to the Supermarket sector is most welcome. You can capture the market with freely available consumer products , competitive pricing and a very good friendly customer service . Good luck !

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