Ministry of Brands (MOB), Sri Lanka’s pioneering off-price retailer, has officially opened its doors to the public, ushering in a transformative era in the nation’s retail market.
The flagship store, spanning 10,000 square feet, is strategically located at 28/9 Vajira Road, R.A. De Mel Mawatha, Colombo 4. On February 15, 2026, it hosted an exclusive preview event, offering attendees a first glimpse at its vast collection of genuine global luxury and premium brands, available at discounts of up to 90% off the original retail prices.
Supported by Akbar Brothers, Ministry of Brands introduces the globally recognized off-price retail model to Sri Lanka and the broader South Asian region. This concept allows consumers to acquire authentic designer and brand-name products at significantly reduced prices. With new items arriving and being replenished daily, the store provides a dynamic “treasure-hunt” shopping experience with a perpetually changing assortment.
The off-price retail segment is one of the fastest-growing in the global retail industry, helping fashion houses manage surplus inventory while expanding access to premium products in a responsible manner.
The store offers over 2,000 international brands sourced from Europe and the United States, covering diverse categories such as womenswear, menswear, childrenswear, footwear, handbags, accessories, performance wear, and homeware. Notable global brands available at MOB include Valentino, Salvatore Ferragamo, DKNY, Michael Kors, Ralph Lauren, Farm Rio, Staud, Alice + Olivia, Burberry, Rag & Bone, Lacoste, Puma, UGG, HOKA, Brooks, and Air Jordan, among others.
Director Aamir Akbarally commented on the launch, stating, “We are thrilled to finally make authentic global luxury and premium brands more accessible and affordable to Sri Lankans. Ministry of Brands signifies the beginning of a new era in Sri Lanka’s retail sector. The response so far has been fantastic. As a family-owned business, we remain committed to delivering genuine value, transparency, and a world-class shopping experience grounded in our longstanding values of integrity, quality, and trust.”
Director Ramzey Hammoud added, “Off-price retail is globally acknowledged for its ability to merge value with sustainability. Our customers can now shop designer brands locally at the most competitive prices, while enjoying a constantly evolving selection of products that ensures every visit is unique.”
Following the launch of its Colombo flagship store, Ministry of Brands plans to open its second location at One Galle Face Mall in March 2026. The store operates daily from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm. For more information, please visit www.ministryofbrands.com.
In attendance at the ribbon-cutting ceremony were Director of MOB, Aamir Akbarally; Chairman of Akbar Brothers, Tyeab Akbarally; and Chairman of MOB, Hussain Akbarally.
Photo Caption: From left to right: Aamir Akbarally, Farida Akbarally, Ghazi Hammoud, Tyeab Akbarally, and Ramzey Hammoud at the official opening of Ministry of Brands.
