Sri Lanka’s retail landscape will reach a major milestone with the launch of Ministry of Brands (MOB), the country’s first off-price retailer. The flagship store is set to open on 16 February 2026, introducing Sri Lankan consumers to authentic global luxury and premium brands at discounts of up to 90% off original retail prices.

Backed by Akbar Brothers, Ministry of Brands brings the globally established off-price model to South Asia for the first time. The concept allows customers to shop for genuine designer and brand-name products at significantly reduced prices while supporting more sustainable retail practices.

The 10,000 sq. ft. flagship store, located at 28/9, Vajira Road, R.A. De Mel Mawatha, Colombo 4, will feature an extensive range across apparel, footwear, handbags, accessories, homeware, and more. Ministry of Brands will carry over 2,000 international and designer brands spanning womenswear, menswear, childrenswear, home, and accessories, including names such as Gucci, Ferragamo, Valentino, Michael Kors, Ralph Lauren, Burberry, Rag & Bone, Lacoste, Puma, UGG, HOKA, Brooks, Air Jordan, and many more.

Off-price retail is one of the fastest-growing global retail segments, helping fashion houses responsibly manage excess inventory. With the UN Environment Programme estimating 92 million tonnes of textile waste generated annually, sustainable retail models such as off-price are increasingly important.

“Sri Lanka manufactures for many of the world’s leading designer labels, yet these products have often remained out of reach for local consumers,” said Director of Ministry of Brands, Aamir Akbarally. “Through off-price retail, we are proud to make genuine designer brands more accessible to our fellow Sri Lankans, offering premium fashion at affordable prices while delivering a world-class shopping experience built on Akbar Brothers’ longstanding values of integrity, quality, and trust.”

Ministry of Brands Director, Ramzey Hammoud added: “With decades of experience in off-price retail, we see this as an exciting new growth chapter for Sri Lanka’s retail landscape. Our goal is simple: to allow customers to shop global designer brands locally at the best prices, while rediscovering the thrill of the find through a constantly changing, treasure-hunt shopping experience.”

Following the Colombo flagship launch, Ministry of Brands will open a second location at the One Galle Face Mall, with plans to expand across South Asia and Australia.

For more information, visit www.ministryofbrands.com.