SPAR expands to Kandy and Kurunegala, marking a strategic move that brings Sri Lanka’s premier ‘glocal’ supermarket chain beyond the Western Province and setting new benchmarks in convenience, quality, and accessibility for regional shoppers.
SPAR expands to Kandy and Kurunegala, creating 200 jobs and modern retail access
The openings of flagship outlets in Kandy and Kurunegala increase SPAR Sri Lanka’s footprint to 13 stores nationwide, reflecting the company’s commitment to delivering international retail standards to new markets. The Kandy branch has already launched, with Kurunegala set to open in April, timed to coincide with the Sinhala and Tamil New Year festive season, supporting increased shopping demand during this peak period.
SPAR Sri Lanka operates as a joint venture between Ceylon Biscuits Ltd. (CBL) and SPAR South Africa, combining global expertise with a deep understanding of local consumer needs. The chain’s expansion into central and northwestern regions is aligned with its long-term strategy to modernise the retail sector and offer premium experiences beyond Colombo.
General Manager Oliver Sabatino, drawing from his international experience with SPAR in South Africa and Poland, oversees branch operations, staff training, and the central kitchen where product innovation occurs. The stores offer over 1,000 international products alongside local favourites, maintaining SPAR’s philosophy of blending global quality with local relevance.
CEO Kumar De Silva explained that the ‘glocal’ approach integrates global standards in hygiene, layout, and organisation while supporting local suppliers and sourcing. “Fresh food remains central to our offering, with dedicated sections for produce, bakery, meat, and ready-to-eat meals, ensuring customers experience both quality and convenience,” De Silva said.
The new outlets also introduce the SPAR Rewards App, providing customers with exclusive discounts and promotions, and enhancing the overall shopping experience through digital engagement. Commercial Director Daham Gunasena highlighted that each outlet will generate approximately 100 jobs, creating employment opportunities for 200 youth across Kandy and Kurunegala. Staff receive specialised training in areas such as butchery, bakery, and coffee operations, equipping them for long-term careers in professional retail.
SPAR’s expansion strategy actively involves local suppliers, with over 50 small and medium enterprises benefiting from direct access to national and international markets. The outlets feature dedicated sections for international products, wellness items, snacks, and pet care, including accessories for dogs and cats, catering to diverse consumer needs.
To mark the new store openings, SPAR introduced discounts on nearly 500 products, with a private label range of over 150 items priced 10–15% lower than comparable brands, combining affordability with international quality standards.
Responding to rising online shopping demand, SPAR has enhanced its e-commerce operations through in-house delivery teams and third-party partners, ensuring reliable fulfilment typically within the same day or the next, even during transport disruptions.
The Kandy and Kurunegala openings reinforce SPAR Sri Lanka’s position as a leader in modern retail, demonstrating the chain’s commitment to quality, local engagement, and employment creation. The expansion is expected to influence regional shopping trends, introducing urban-style supermarket experiences while supporting economic development in central and northwestern Sri Lanka.
SPAR’s growth trajectory underscores the evolving retail landscape, highlighting how modern supermarkets can combine convenience, affordability, and global standards with a strong focus on local markets, creating value for both consumers and the wider community.