Business
Journey of Spring & Summer: From humble beginnings to seven trendy clothing outlets
by Sanath Nanayakkare
Spring & Summer, one of the leading apparel and fashion brands in Sri Lanka, recently announced its plans for an islandwide expansion, at the opening of its newest store in Negombo on December 02.
The announcement was made at the unveiling of the new store located at 367A, Main Street, Negombo which was attended by many well-wishers and invitees who wanted to be the first customers at the momentous occasion.
The boutique-style showroom located in the commercial hub of Negombo is designed as an exclusive space spread across one main floor. The store offers both locals and tourists access to its signature fashion collection as well as a range of aesthetically appealing products at affordable prices.
Co-Founder, Spring & Summer – Shyamalie Wijegunawardena speaking at the event said, “Negombo is a highly populated area and the opening of this store is another step towards our expansion drive islandwide. We are pleased to announce that your favourite clothing outlet has opened its doors in Negombo just in time for the season”.
“You will soon see our unique store-fronts in shopping, leisure and entertainment hubs across Sri Lanka. We will continue to meet high quality and best business practices as we drive ahead to capture a sizable market share in Sri Lanka’s growing Fashion & Apparel market. We will also give priority to sustainable environmental practices,” she said.
Spring & Summer was founded in 1995 by Daya & Shyamalie Wijegunawardena. After Daya’s passing away two and a half years ago, Shyamalie took the helm of the business, supported by her two sons and two daughters.
The clothing brand has seven outlets; in Wattala, Nugegoda, Maharagama, Panadura, Colpetty, Bambalapitiya, and now in Negombo. Their brand is also available via its online store, with delivery islandwide.
Shyamalie Wijegunawardena speaking at the launch said, “We founded this business in 1995 in Borella when we had literally no money, within a space of only 300 square feet. What we had at the time were only our business experience in the industry and the faith in ourselves which we had gained from making our creations and supplying our products to Salusala and a couple of other apparel stores. That was a huge impetus for us as my husband and I initiated Spring & Summer as a startup in 1995. Thanks to our humble beginnings, we were able to tap a dependable and supportive network of suppliers who supplied their raw materials and even finished products to us on a pay-later basis because they had faith in our commitments. Apart from that, many well-wishers and several banks also helped our family throughout this journey. This outlet in Negombo was supported by Sampath Bank, Maharagama branch,” she noted in her speech.
As one of Sri Lanka’s leading retail brands, Spring & Summer gets 85% of its products designed and manufactured locally. The family business has created 400 jobs for young Sri Lankans.
Business
Constituent Change in the S&P Sri Lanka 20 Index
The Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) announces the following change in S&P Sri Lanka 20 index constituents made by S&P Dow Jones Indices at the 2026 Mid-Year rebalance.
The exclusion and inclusion as announced by S&P Dow Jones Indices, effective from 22nd June 2026 (after the market close of 19th June 2026) are presented below.
The S&P SL 20 index includes the 20 largest companies, by total market capitalization, listed on the CSE that meet minimum size, liquidity and financial viability thresholds. The constituents are weighted by float-adjusted market capitalization, subject to a single stock cap of 15%, which is employed to reduce single stock concentration.
The S&P SL 20 index has been designed in accordance with international practices and standards. All stocks are classified according to the Global Industry Classification Standard (GICS®), which was co-developed by S&P Dow Jones Indices and MCSI and is widely used by market participants throughout the world.
To be eligible for inclusion, a stock must have a minimum float-adjusted market capitalization of 500 million Sri Lankan rupees (Rs), a six-month median daily value traded of Rs 0.25 million and have positive net income over the 12 months prior to the rebalancing reference date. For information, including the complete methodology, please visit: www.spindices.com
Effective from 22nd June 2026 the stocks in the S&P Sri Lanka 20 in alphabetical order are as above.
Business
Teejay Group navigates industry headwinds with financial strength and strategic focus
The Teejay Group recorded revenue of LKR 60.04 billion during the period, reflecting a 10% year-on-year decline, primarily due to continued softness in global textile demand. This performance was largely impacted by reciprocal tariffs imposed by the United States, intensified pricing pressures across key markets, and the resulting decline in volumes, all of which collectively weighed on topline growth.
Group Gross Profit declined by 36% year-on-year to LKR 5.02 billion, mainly attributable to lower production volumes, underutilization of plant capacity, sustained pricing pressures, and an unfavorable product mix. Together, these factors adversely affected margin performance amid a challenging operating environment.
The Group reported a Profit After Tax (PAT) of LKR 54.7 million, representing a 98% year-on-year decline. This was primarily driven by higher rupee-denominated costs and non-recurring items, provision for doubtful debts, and restructuring costs associated with right-sizing initiatives.
Ajit Gunewardene, Chairman of the Teejay Group said, “The year was marked by persistent global demand softness and pricing pressures, which impacted results. Despite this, we focused on operational efficiency, cost discipline, and strengthening our financial resilience. These actions position the Group to navigate ongoing uncertainty while remaining committed to long-term value creation for our shareholders.”
Despite these near-term challenges, the Teejay Group continues to maintain a strong financial position, supported by disciplined working capital management and a robust liquidity base. As at 31 March 2026, cash and cash equivalents stood at LKR 8.3 billion, while the Group’s net asset base increased by 3% year-on-year to LKR 32.4 billion, reinforcing the resilience of its balance sheet.
Business
Fairfirst celebrates 7 years of supporting the Sri Lanka Police K9 Unit
Fairfirst Insurance has once again partnered with the Sri Lanka Police K9 Unit, continuing its support for the seventh consecutive year. This partnership reflects the company’s long-standing commitment to giving back to the community.
Through this initiative, Fairfirst will provide comprehensive insurance coverage for the highly trained canines attached to the Sri Lanka Police K9 Unit. These dogs play a critical role in supporting police operations across the country, assisting with crime detection, narcotics investigations, search and rescue missions, and public safety efforts.
As a company that believes business should create a meaningful impact beyond insurance, Fairfirst remains committed to initiatives that support communities and recognise the vital contributions of those who help keep society safe. This shared commitment to protection and responsibility continues to drive the company’s long-standing partnership with the Sri Lanka Police K9 Unit.
Commenting on the continued partnership, Ravishankar Wickneswaran, CEO of Fairfirst Insurance, said, “It is a privilege for us to continue supporting the Sri Lanka Police K9 Unit for the seventh consecutive year. These dogs serve the country with incredible discipline and loyalty, often in challenging situations. Supporting their wellbeing is one small way for us to give back, and it reflects the FairfirstWay of standing by those who protect and serve our communities every day.”
Fairfirst looks forward to continuing this partnership and contributing to the wellbeing of the Sri Lanka Police K9 Unit in the years ahead.
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