Five decades of advancing vision and hearing healthcare in Sri Lanka
COLOMBO Wickramarachchi Opticians and Hearing Care, one of Sri Lanka’s most respected names in eye and hearing healthcare, proudly celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, marking five decades of trusted service, innovation and unwavering commitment to improving the quality of life for generations of Sri Lankans.
Founded in 1976 by Dr. Mihira Wickramarachchi with a vision to make quality optical care more accessible, Wickramarachchi Opticians and Hearing Care has grown into a nationally recognised healthcare institution, setting industry benchmarks in professionalism, technology and patient-centred service. Over the past half century, the organisation has evolved from a single practice into an extensive network serving communities across the island, while remaining firmly guided by its founding values of trust, integrity and excellence.
During its five-decade journey, Wickramarachchi Opticians and Hearing Care has played a pioneering role in advancing hearing healthcare in Sri Lanka. The company became the first authorised distributor of Denmark’s Danavox hearing aids in the Asia Pacific region in 1977 and later facilitated the country’s first cochlear implant surgery in 2004. Since then, the programme has facilitated and supported more than 1,100 cochlear implant procedures, helping transform the lives of thousands of individuals and families affected by hearing loss.
The golden jubilee milestone reflects not only the company’s longevity, but also its enduring role in transforming the way Sri Lankans access vision correction, eye examinations and hearing solutions. Through continuous investment in modern diagnostic technology, internationally recognised brands and technologies, and highly trained professionals, Wickramarachchi Opticians and Hearing Care has consistently delivered world-class care tailored to local needs.
Over the years, the company has been instrumental in introducing advanced optical products, precision lens technologies and professional audiology services to the Sri Lankan market. Its expansion into hearing care further strengthened its position as a comprehensive healthcare provider, recognising the close relationship between sensory health, wellbeing and independence.
As consumer expectations and healthcare needs evolved, Wickramarachchi Opticians and Hearing Care responded by modernising its retail and clinical spaces, expanding islandwide access, enhancing customer convenience and embracing global best practices in patient care. Today, the company is recognised not only for premium eyewear and advanced hearing devices, but also for the expertise and personalised attention that have become hallmarks of the brand.
The company now operates more than 50 branches nationwide across four specialised divisions encompassing optical care, hearing care, speech-language pathology and biomedical equipment solutions. This extensive network reflects the organisation’s continued commitment to making quality vision and hearing healthcare accessible to communities across Sri Lanka.
Speaking on the occasion, Director Mihira Wickramarachchi said, “Celebrating 50 years is both a proud and humbling moment for our family and our organisation. What began as a vision to provide dependable optical care has grown into a trusted healthcare brand because of the confidence placed in us by generations of Sri Lankan families. This milestone belongs to our loyal customers, dedicated employees, partners and communities who have been part of our journey.”
He added, “Our success has always been built on a willingness to innovate while staying true to our core purpose of helping people see better, hear better and live better. As we look ahead, we remain committed to investing in technology, talent and accessibility so that we continue to raise standards in healthcare delivery across Sri Lanka.”
Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Liza Wickramarachchi noted that the 50th anniversary was also a time to reflect on the human impact behind the company’s growth. “For five decades, we have had the privilege of being part of countless personal milestones: a child receiving their first pair of spectacles, a professional gaining renewed confidence through clearer vision, or a senior reconnecting with loved ones through better hearing. These moments are at the heart of everything we do.”
She further stated, “Our golden jubilee is not simply a celebration of years in business. It is a celebration of lives touched, relationships built and trust earned over time. We are deeply grateful to our customers and our teams across the country whose dedication continues to shape our future.”
Throughout its 50-year journey, Wickramarachchi Opticians and Hearing Care has remained committed to responsible growth, professional development and community wellbeing. By combining heritage with innovation, the company has strengthened its reputation as a dependable healthcare partner for families seeking quality eye and hearing solutions.
The milestone year also marks a new chapter in leadership, with Liza Wickramarachchi serving as Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, while Founder Dr. Mihira Wickramarachchi continues to guide the organisation as Chairman.
As Wickramarachchi Opticians and Hearing Care enters its next chapter, the company remains focused on advancing innovation, accessibility and clinical excellence, ensuring more Sri Lankans can benefit from quality vision and hearing healthcare for generations to come.
