UK Trade Envoy Sri Lanka engagement received a further boost as UK Trade Envoy to Sri Lanka Lord Hannett of Everton visited The Body Shop store at One Galle Face Mall in Colombo, highlighting the importance of ethical business practices and strengthening bilateral trade relations between the United Kingdom and Sri Lanka.
UK Trade Envoy Sri Lanka highlights ethical trade and stronger bilateral business ties
The visit formed part of Lord Hannett’s official mission to Sri Lanka from 17 to 19 June, aimed at reinforcing commercial partnerships, promoting investment opportunities and supporting stronger economic cooperation between the two countries.
Lord Hannett was accompanied by UK Deputy Trade Commissioner for South Asia Jaya Choraria and British High Commission Colombo Head of Trade and Investment Asanthi Fernando. The delegation was welcomed by The Body Shop Sri Lanka Director Kosala Wickramanayake and the store team, who introduced the visitors to the brand’s ethical retail philosophy and sustainability initiatives.
The delegation received The Body Shop’s signature “Happy Dance” welcome before touring the store, where they explored the company’s extensive range of skincare, bodycare and haircare products. The visit showcased the brand’s longstanding commitment to cruelty-free products, responsibly sourced ingredients and environmentally conscious business practices.
A key highlight of the visit was the in-store recycling hub, where Lord Hannett was introduced to The Body Shop’s global Return, Recycle, Repeat (RRR) programme. The initiative encourages customers to return empty product packaging for responsible recycling, helping reduce waste while supporting circular economy principles.
The recycling initiative reflects the company’s broader commitment to ethical trade and sustainable business practices, which have remained central to The Body Shop’s global identity since its establishment. By promoting responsible consumption and recycling, the programme also supports growing consumer awareness of environmental protection and waste reduction.
Commenting on the visit, Kosala Wickramanayake said it was an honour to welcome Lord Hannett and his delegation, describing the occasion as another demonstration of the strong relationship between the United Kingdom and Sri Lanka.
He noted that The Body Shop Sri Lanka has served local consumers for more than a decade by offering products that combine quality, effectiveness and sustainability. Wickramanayake said the company’s continued focus on cruelty-free beauty, ethically sourced ingredients and environmental responsibility reflects its long-term commitment to creating a more sustainable future while contributing to Sri Lanka’s economy and local communities.
Lord Hannett’s visit to the store complemented a broader programme of engagements with government representatives and business leaders. During his visit, discussions focused on improving market access, advancing business climate reforms and expanding bilateral export opportunities under the United Kingdom’s Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS).
The DCTS offers preferential market access for eligible developing countries, creating new opportunities for Sri Lankan exporters seeking to strengthen their presence in the UK market. The initiative is expected to further support bilateral trade while encouraging investment and private sector collaboration.
The visit to The Body Shop Sri Lanka also highlighted the broader contribution of British companies operating in Sri Lanka. As one of the United Kingdom’s most recognised ethical beauty brands, The Body Shop continues to demonstrate how international businesses can successfully operate in Sri Lanka while maintaining high standards of sustainability, responsible sourcing and social responsibility.
Founded by the late Dame Anita Roddick, The Body Shop has built a global reputation for challenging conventional business models through its commitment to human rights, environmental protection and fair trade. These principles continue to shape the company’s operations worldwide, including its presence in Sri Lanka.
The visit also reinforced the importance of private sector partnerships in strengthening economic relations between the UK and Sri Lanka. British brands operating in the country not only contribute to employment and consumer choice but also introduce international best practices in sustainability, innovation and corporate responsibility.
As UK Trade Envoy Sri Lanka initiatives continue to expand, visits such as this demonstrate the shared commitment of both countries to promoting responsible investment, supporting ethical business and creating new opportunities for trade and long-term economic cooperation. The engagement further reflects the growing role of British businesses in Sri Lanka’s evolving commercial landscape while reinforcing the enduring partnership between the two nations.