For Keells, freshness has always extended beyond the products displayed on supermarket shelves. Over the past 35 years, it has represented a broader commitment to enhancing everyday experiences, supporting communities and creating opportunities for the people who form part of its journey.
As Keells surpasses the milestone of its 150th outlet, the brand continues to build on a purpose that has guided it since its beginnings: improving the quality of life for the nation through freshness, convenience, trust and care.
Since opening its first store at Liberty Plaza, Colombo, in 1991, Keells has evolved alongside changing consumer expectations. What began as a retail operation has grown into a connected ecosystem serving customers, farmers, suppliers, employees and communities across Sri Lanka.
Today, with 150 stores nationwide, the brand continues to develop its offering around the changing needs of Sri Lankan households.
Evolving the Everyday Customer Experience
For customers, Keells’ evolution is reflected in the range of products, services and experiences available across its growing network. From farm-fresh produce and prepared food offerings to new product categories, food experiences and digital innovations, the brand continues to adapt to changing lifestyles.
A key part of this evolution is the Keells Nexus App, which has grown into an omnichannel platform connecting 2.9 million members. The Nexus ecosystem provides customers with a more personalised experience through relevant promotions, tailored offers and exclusive rewards.
Strengthening Sri Lanka’s Farming Ecosystem
Keells’ commitment to freshness begins well before products reach its stores. The company continues to invest in strengthening the agricultural ecosystem and supporting farmers with knowledge and resources designed to improve productivity and sustainability.
More than 2,000 farmers, including female agripreneurs, have received training in areas such as financial literacy, climate-resilient agriculture, organic farming and sustainable cultivation. Model farms and the adoption of new agricultural technologies further support farmers in improving productivity while reducing losses.
Today, Keells works with more than 4,000 active farmers across 10 collection centres, creating a direct sourcing network that connects agricultural communities with consumers across the country.
Through initiatives such as Govi Diriya, farmers receive support in climate-resilient agriculture, sustainable cultivation and Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) certification. The programme also provides awareness and precautionary guidance to help farmers prepare for challenges such as El Niño.
Investing in People
With a workforce of more than 6,500 employees, Keells continues to focus on creating opportunities through training, career development and employee wellbeing initiatives.
Through partnerships such as NAITA certification, employees are supported in developing recognised skills that can contribute to career progression. This is complemented by programmes addressing different aspects of employees’ professional and personal lives.
The She Rises initiative supports women's leadership development and career growth, while Peace Pod provides access to mental and social wellbeing support. The Financial Wellbeing Programme offers employees practical guidance on managing personal finances and building greater financial awareness.
Uber Launches Uber Black in Sri Lanka, Bringing Premium Comfort to Every Ride
Uber has launched Uber Black in Sri Lanka, introducing its premium ride category to the market for the first time. Positioned as the “business class of back seats,” Uber Black combines premium vehicles with highly rated drivers for customers seeking enhanced comfort, quality and a more refined travel experience.
The launch comes amid growing demand in Sri Lanka for premium products and experiences, giving consumers greater choice within the on-demand mobility sector. Uber Black is designed for a range of occasions, including airport transfers, business meetings, special events or simply when riders prefer a more comfortable journey.
More Choices Across Different Travel Needs
With Uber Black now available, Uber offers a broader range of mobility options in Sri Lanka. Riders can select from more affordable services such as Uber Moto and Tuk, regular car journeys for everyday travel, and the premium Uber Black category—all through the same Uber app.
The new service will feature a selection of premium compact SUVs and SUVs, supported by a curated pool of highly rated drivers.
Uber Black also gives riders greater control over their journey. Before the trip begins, passengers can select their preferred in-car temperature, request help with luggage or choose a quiet ride if they would rather travel without conversation.
Expanding Premium Mobility in Sri Lanka
Kaushalya Gunaratne, Country Manager – Mobility, Uber Sri Lanka, said:
“For more than a decade, our focus in Sri Lanka has been on making reliable mobility available to more people, across more price points. As the market evolves, our next chapter is also about giving riders more differentiated experiences for different moments in their lives. With options spanning affordable two- and three-wheelers to cars and now a premium offering with Uber Black, we can better serve the diverse mobility needs of locals and tourists alike, while supporting the country’s growing tourism economy. Uber Black is an important step in that journey and reflects our ambition to keep raising the bar for on-demand mobility in Sri Lanka.”
The introduction of Uber Black expands Uber’s offering in Sri Lanka while providing riders with another option for occasions where comfort and a premium experience are a priority.
Keells Celebrates 35 Years of Freshness, Innovation and Serving Sri Lankan Consumers
