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.