NAVIGATING CHALLENGES, FOSTERING GROWTH AND TRANSFORMING LIVES

In an exclusive interview with Nalin Amarasena – CEO of Ritz Clothing Group – we delve into the inspiring journey of the group, from its inception in 2012 to becoming a global player in the apparel industry.

Ritz Clothing’s roots trace back to 2012 when it established its first plant in Nikaweratiya with only 60 machine operators. Amarasena reflects on the early days and reveals the pivotal role played by Chandrasena Kodikara, Chairman of Ritz Clothing Group and a close associate of former president Ranasinghe Premadasa, in supporting the project to establish 200 apparel factories in Sri Lanka.

Hiccups in the 200 apparel project and Ritz Clothing’s resilience

The narrative took a turn as TriStar, a significant contributor to the 200 apparel project, faced challenges leading to shutdowns. Chandrasena Kodikara acquired factories that were on the verge of winding up and they became a part of Ritz’s commitment to continue the legacy envisioned by former president Premadasa.

Amarasena shares the group’s dedication to contributing to the community – especially in areas where it operates.

Community-centric approach and ethical operations

Addressing concerns about industrial zones, Amarasena emphasises Ritz Clothing’s deliberate choice to set up factories in nonindustrial zones, focussing on villages and communities. The group’s approach includes actively recruiting from the local community, providing employment opportunities and engaging in various CSR projects to uplift the community.

The COVID-19 challenge and growth journey

Amidst the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Ritz Clothing embarked on a remarkable initiative and is now poised for expansion. With six factories, over 4,500 direct and indirect employees, and a monthly production capacity of more than 3.5 million pieces, the group caters to major markets such as the UK, the US and Europe.

The CEO sheds light on the group’s resilience and adaptability during these testing times: “At Ritz Clothing, we see challenges not as obstacles but as opportunities for growth. Our strategic vision involves continuous investment in Sri Lanka, championing competitiveness on a global scale and adopting innovative strategies for employee retention. As we expand into diverse sectors like printing, embroidery and fabric production, we are not simply shaping apparel – we are shaping a legacy of innovation, sustainability and success.”

Continuous investment in Sri Lanka

The interview unfolds the group’s strategic vision for expansion. The group renovated and expanded its plant in Yapahuwa in 2021 to accommodate 800 machines with an investment of US$ 6.5 million. Furthermore, the plant in Nikaweratiya was also expanded and renovated with an investment of 4.5 million dollars in November 2023 to house 550 machines.

Amarasena mentions the management’s intention to build a new state-of-the-art apparel manufacturing factory to accommodate 1,000 machines this year. He also states that the management plans to create a sizeable enterprise within the country before expanding overseas.

Championing Sri Lanka’s competitiveness

Addressing concerns about the brain drain and global giants moving out of Sri Lanka, he outlines Ritz Clothing’s competitive edge. The group adopts a lean structure, invests in cutting-edge technology and focusses on automation to enhance global competitiveness. Ritz aims to be a front-runner in capturing business diversification from countries like Bangladesh, China and India.

Innovative strategies for employee retention

In response to the challenge of retaining skilled staff in a competitive landscape, Amarasena underscores Ritz Clothing’s commitment to paying above market rates. The group also invests heavily in new technology and automation, fostering an environment that encourages growth and innovation.

The interview concludes with a glimpse into Ritz Clothing’s plans. The group is not stopping at apparel production – it envisions venturing into printing, embroidery, corrugated carton manufacturing and fabric production. Nalin Amarasena hints at a grand vision to become a vertical manufacturer, emphasising Ritz Clothing’s commitment to innovation and growth.

Ritz Clothing’s story is one of resilience, community engagement and forward-thinking strategies that position it as a beacon of success in the global apparel industry.

– Compiled by Dona Senara
COMPANY DETAILS

Telephone: 011 7596818 | Email: info@ritzclothing.lk | Website: www.ritzclothing.lk