My Events

A Heartfelt Thank You to Lisa Hughes

A Heartfelt Thank You to Lisa Hughes: The Heart of Our HBS Journey Some people don’t just manage a program; they touch lives and change them. Lisa Hughes is one of those rare souls. During my time at Harvard Business School, Lisa was the Portfolio Director for our PLD program. But to us, she was so much more than a director. She was the one who turned a classroom into a global family and a group of strangers into a lifelong support network. Under her guidance, we didn’t just gain knowledge; we found a home. What I will carry with me forever is her incredible humanity. Lisa has a unique way of reaching out and touching your heart. I feel deeply honored that she trusted me enough to share emotional, private stories about her father. Those moments, shared person-to-person, meant more to me than any textbook. They taught me about the strength found in vulnerability and the true meaning of resilience. Lisa, thank you for your selflessness and for being the bridge to our growth. You didn’t just lead a program; you shared your heart with us. You showed us that true leadership is built on kindness, integrity, and deep human connection. I am profoundly grateful for everything you’ve done for us. You are, and will always be, the soul of our HBS experience. With deepest gratitude and respect, Yavuz Altunçevir

While Everyone Watches the Ball, Can We See the Field?

While Everyone Watches the Ball, Can We See the Field? Business life is like a great playing field. Most of the time, we get swept up in the speed of operational processes and end up chasing only the “ball” (today’s problems, sudden crises, or current market share). But real leadership is not about breathlessly running after the ball—it is about reading the rhythm of the game. One of the most critical points I emphasize in my book is this: “On the field, everyone runs after the ball. But winners are the ones who sense where the ball will be seconds later.” So what does it mean to sense where the ball is going? Focusing on the Unseen: Reading trends beyond the existing data and recognizing customer needs that have not yet been voiced. Being Proactive, Not Reactive: Instead of producing solutions after a problem occurs, changing the ground on which that problem will form in advance. Strategic Patience: Mastering the game enough to wait for the ball to come to you—and being in the right position when it does. If you focus only on today’s “ball,” you will get tired. But if you focus on the “field” and the direction the ball is heading, you initiate exponential growth. How much of your time today do you spend chasing the ball, and how much do you spend analyzing where it will land?

Is Every Kind of Growth Healthy?

Is Every Kind of Growth Healthy? In the business world, every year we chase higher revenues, bigger offices, and more employees. Yet there is a critical question we must ask: Is this growth the outcome of development, or merely uncontrolled expansion? As I also emphasize in my book: “Growing for the sake of growth is the ideology of a cancerous cell. What we pursue is not numerical magnitude, but meaningful transformation.” If an organization; increases volume without creating value, expands its workforce without deepening its corporate culture, and most importantly, loses its enthusiasm for change and becomes trapped in numbers; then we cannot speak of healthy growth. True “Exponential Growth” carries meaning beyond numbers. It is the art of producing social and institutional benefit by multiplying yesterday’s experience with today’s innovation. We must not only expand the space, but also deepen our presence within it. Because growth that is not nourished by meaningful transformation is ultimately destined to collapse under its own weight. In your opinion, is the biggest mistake companies make expanding without deepening?

Seeing a seed you planted years ago turn into a deeply rooted tree is one of the greatest sources of pride for an educator and a businessperson

Seeing a seed you planted years ago turn into a deeply rooted tree is one of the greatest sources of pride for an educator and a businessperson. This kind message from the dear Pelin Sarp on the first day of the new year both moved me and reminded me once again of the social impact of what we do. Pelin was once a young person whose eyes sparkled with entrepreneurial excitement. Today, she is a successful businesswoman shaping the future with technology (AI Engineering), creating value for many institutions as a co-founder in her own venture. She has not forgotten what we told her when she was still very young: “A nation is represented not by medals, but by the value it produces.” Real growth is not only in numbers; it is in the impact created by the people you inspire, whose path you help open, and whose success you witness. Pelin’s success is proof that Turkey’s technology and entrepreneurship vision is in very capable hands. May your path be clear and your successes enduring, Pelin. For this beautiful example of loyalty, it is I who should thank you. Keep producing, creating value, and focusing not on medals, but on “leaving a mark”...

Our Greatest Obstacle: Ourselves

Our Greatest Obstacle: Ourselves The ideas we cling to in our youth can, over time, become not a safe harbor but chains that keep us fixed in place. When we fall in love with our habits, we lose our ability to see the truth. The first step of change is the courage to leave that old harbor. Are you becoming a prisoner of your ideas, or are you growing them?

Halic University

While Everyone Watches the Ball, Being Able to Focus on the Field... We came together once again with brilliant young people at Halic University. In our conversation about my book, “The Exponential Growth Strategy,” the intense interest in the room and those curious eyes full of energy refreshed my hope for tomorrow’s leaders. The most important point I emphasized while sharing with my young friends was this: Real growth is not in numbers, but in change. As I also stated in my book; “Growing for the sake of growth is the ideology of a cancerous cell. Of course, the secret here is change—change that comes with enthusiasm, with desire, and with effort at every level… And no one can stand in the way of this change.” In today’s business world, everyone is focused on the “ball.” Yet my advice to those who want to make a difference is always the same: “While everyone watches the ball, you should focus on the field, on the arena itself. While everyone is focused on the ball, you should look at where the ball is going. Focusing on the unseen is the first indispensable condition of change.” If we can break free from the invisible boxes in our minds, from the arrogance and discouragement brought by habits; if we can become free enough to think we have nothing—then we can truly begin change and innovation. For this valuable gathering, I sincerely thank our dear professor Mustafa Ozyeşil and all our students who inspired me with their energy. We will continue to change and grow exponentially together.

Our Istanbul Chamber of Commerce General Assembly Meeting

At our Istanbul Chamber of Commerce General Assembly Meeting, we approved the November 2025 trial balance, the 2026 business program, and our budget. I hope this important assembly session—where our members shared their views on strategies for the coming year—will be beneficial for the entire business community and for our country. Under the leadership of our ICC President, Şekib Avdagiç, we will continue with determination to create value for our members and for our city.

Commercialization Center of Knowledge (BTM) Board of Directors and General Assembly Meetings

Under the leadership of our Istanbul Chamber of Commerce President, Mr. Şekib Avdagiç, we successfully held our Board of Directors and General Assembly meetings of the Commercialization Center of Knowledge (BTM). I would like to extend my thanks to our President, our esteemed Board of Trustees, our General Manager Mr. Önder Kul for his visionary leadership, and the entire BTM team for this productive meeting in which we evaluated the steps we have taken to strengthen the entrepreneurship ecosystem and transform knowledge into value-added commerce. We will continue with determination to support the projects of the future and grow our ecosystem.

Halic University

For the second time, we will meet with Halic University students to discuss my book, “The Exponential Growth Strategy.” I look forward to speaking with everyone interested. I would like to thank our dear professor Mustafa Ozyeşil and our students very much for their invitation.

ICC Retail Committee

As the ICC Retail Committee, we held our 4th consultation meeting with over 400 producers and retailers to discuss how we can do our work better, how we can provide consumers with more reliable, higher-quality, and more affordable products, and to identify opportunities and areas for development. It was a very well-attended meeting full of in-depth analysis and genuine reconnection. I sincerely thank all our sector stakeholders for their interest. I would like to thank, one by one, the Istanbul Chamber of Industry President Erdal Bahçıvan, our Istanbul Chamber of Commerce Vice President Ahmet Özer, Head of the E-Export Department Hasan Önal, our MEGA President Kemal Altınkılıç, our esteemed Committee Members, our Provincial Directorates of Trade and Agriculture, our PERDER members, all our valuable suppliers and retailers. We also thank NielsenIQ Turan Konu, Duygu Keçelioğlu, and Emre Durdu for supporting us with their presentations.

Yemeksepeti

Today, we were guests of Yemeksepeti, the online ordering platform we work with. Their dedicated team presented a detailed review of this year and what we can do in the coming year. With sleep rooms, gaming areas, billiards, and a café atmosphere, the headquarters truly feels like a startup hub. I would like to thank all friends for their hospitality, congratulate everyone who contributed to the organization, and wish them continued success.

The 4th Consultation Program of the ICC Retail Committee

An Exciting Invitation: We are holding our 4th consultation program as the ICC Retail Committee. Dear sector stakeholders, As the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce (ICC) Retail Committee, we are organizing a strategic consultation meeting that will bring together the retail and supplier worlds. We would be honored to welcome our valuable retailer and supplier friends as we discuss the opportunities and solutions that will shape our sector’s future. Date and Time: Tuesday, December 23, 2025 / 10:00 - 14:00 (With Breakfast) Venue: Cemile Sultan Grove Meeting Hall In this special gathering, we will address the most critical topics of our sector from the perspective of mutual sustainability and a systems approach: Retailer’s View of the Supplier and Supplier’s View of the Retailer: Opportunity areas and interaction strategies in relationships. Global Vision: Comparing Turkey’s retail sector with the world and its competitive strength. Sector Dynamics: Current analyses on growth rates, store counts, and category performance in Turkey. Efficiency and the Future: Logistics efficiency and innovations in supply chain management. Restructuring: Digital transformation in the sector and the role of technology. Joint Solutions: Models for mutual, sustainable success in the sector. Our meeting is exclusively for retailers and suppliers and aims to provide a deep and productive consultation environment. We would be delighted to come together with you at this important event where we will strive to contribute to our country and our sector, grow stronger together, and shape the future. Sincerely, Yavuz Altun Chair of the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce (ICC) Retail Committee

The meeting on "Roadmap for Turkey–EU Relations and the Role of IKV"

Today we are attending the meeting titled "Roadmap for Turkey–EU Relations and the Role of IKV" organized by the Economic Development Foundation (IKV) to discuss the future of Turkey–EU relations. As a Member of the IKV Board of Directors, we are witnessing a productive day with presentations and panels by our Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and EU President, Ambassador Mehmet Kemal Bozay; our IKV President Ayhan Zeytinoğlu; and esteemed academics (Prof. Dr. Haluk Kabaalioğlu, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Çiğdem Nas, and others, reflecting 60 years of accumulated knowledge and experience). Critical topics such as overcoming bottlenecks in relations, the EU’s changing architecture, and the role of civil society are on the table.

​Reconstruction of Istanbul Commerce University’s Ahi Çelebi Campus

Today was a very meaningful day. Looking down at the street in Eminönü Tahtakale—where my childhood and youth passed—took me back to old times and moved me deeply. This was once the heart of trade in our country; now, it will become the heart of education in one of Istanbul’s most beautiful locations. I was honored to attend the ceremony marking the reopening of Istanbul Chamber of Commerce’s (ICC) historic building and our University’s first campus, the Ahi Çelebi Campus in Eminönü, after it was rebuilt in accordance with its original architecture. I extend my thanks to everyone who contributed to this special day, held with the participation of our ICC Assembly President Dr. Erhan Erken, our ICC Board Chairman Mr. Şekib Avdagiç, our Rector Necip Şimşek, our Board of Trustees Chairman İsrafil Kuralay, as well as our ICC Assembly Members and Committee Members. May it be beneficial for the Istanbul Commerce University family and our city, and I wish our students great success.

Yerelist 2025 Istanbul Local Markets Gathering and Fair

At the Yerelist 2025 Istanbul Local Markets Gathering and Fair, we met with our valued suppliers. Moderated by Celal Toprak from the Reliable Product Platform, we spoke about “The Sustainable Journey of Food from Farm to Table.” We shared our views with our stakeholders together with ICC Vice President Ahmet Özer, Özen Group Onur Markets Chairman Cemal Özen, Mopaş Markets General Manager Reşat Narman, and myself as the ICC Retail Committee Chair and CEO of Happy Center. We conveyed sustainable projects and ongoing efforts to prevent food waste—efforts that will contribute to the economy, the sector, and the environment. The “Stop Food Waste” Project, launched by our ICC Vice President Ahmet Özer and supported by Celal Toprak’s Reliable Product Platform as well as ourselves, continues to grow. With our efforts to reduce waste, we aim to contribute to the economy. We sincerely thank everyone who contributed to the organization—especially PERDER President Rahmi Kartal, organizer Hakan Adıgüzel, the entire PERDER team, and all suppliers who followed and participated.

BTM Stage XL Event

At the BTM Stage XL event, we came together with local and international investors and our young entrepreneurs. Held at BTM’s center in Beşiktaş Fulya, the event brought the entrepreneurship and investment ecosystem together, with our entrepreneurs giving presentations. Our ICC President Mr. Şekib Avdagiç delivered the opening speech.

TIM–TEB Entrepreneurship House Demo Day Event

We were guests at the TIM–TEB Entrepreneurship House Demo Day event; we met with young entrepreneurs and listened to presentations from many valuable ventures. I would like to thank TIM–TEB Büşra Kürümlü and all the colleagues who contributed to the organization for their invitation, and I wish our startups continued success on their journey.

December Stage XLarge Event

We look forward to welcoming all our stakeholders to our Stage XLarge event on December 9. Under the leadership of our Istanbul Chamber of Commerce (ICC) President, Şekib Avdagiç, and with the team of our General Manager Önder Kul, PhD, as well as our contributions as Board Members, the Commercialization Center of Knowledge (BTM) was selected by UBI Global in 2023 as the “World’s 3rd Best Startup Center” among more than 2,000 public and private startup centers worldwide, including universities—thanks to the efforts of our previous General Manager İbrahim Elbaşı, PhD. Bringing entrepreneurs and investors together and providing an opportunity for connection and idea exchange, Stage XL aims to reach even more entrepreneurs and investors through these events. Looking forward to seeing our valued friends and stakeholders.

We listened to Migros Chief Commercial Officer Özgür Tort, Koton’s Dr. A. Bülent Sabuncu, and Vodafone’s Özlem Kestioğlu on what they have been doing during this period of global disruption

This weekend in Antalya, we listened to our valued speakers—Migros Chief Commercial Officer Özgür Tort, Koton’s Dr. A. Bülent Sabuncu, and Vodafone’s Özlem Kestioğlu—on what they have been doing during this period of global disruption. I am sharing a brief summary of their remarks. Mr. Özgür shared what they have done regarding local production: When our producers cannot earn, it leads to reluctance to engage in agriculture and therefore a turn toward imports. However, we must break this cycle. Concrete Steps and Success Stories: Local Lentil Project: While easy importing was an option, the will to shift to local lentil production was shown. In cooperation with Kayseri Sugar, lentil cultivation was started on fields left empty after sugar beet planting. 100% of the lentils under our private label on our shelves are local. This is a preferred choice, even if it is more expensive than imports. 100% Local Sesame and Tahini: Although 95% of the sesame used in tahini production is imported, the process has begun to switch entirely to local sesame by partnering with suppliers in Çukurova for the sesame used in the tahini and halva we sell. Bingöl Honey Project: For honey, which is highly prone to adulteration, production of EU-registered, geographically indicated honey is being supported through cooperation with the Bingöl Beekeepers’ Association. Returning to Endemic Varieties in Niğde Potatoes: In Niğde’s soils, where potato farming has come under risk due to excessive and aggressive agricultural practices, working with associations encourages more conscious production of endemic and original varieties. Özlem Kestioğlu said: Our infrastructure is ready! Now, especially the manufacturing, transportation, and logistics sectors need to seize this great opportunity, design projects with technology partners starting now, and focus on growth with 5G. It’s time to invent boldly and compete with efficiency! Dr. A. Bülent Sabuncu shared the following: Transition from Production to Branding: He emphasized that global competition can no longer be won solely with production strength. For Turkish textiles to regain momentum, the lack of branding must be addressed. In his view, building a valuable brand is a strategy that goes beyond contract manufacturing and requires reaching the end consumer. I would like to thank TÜRKONFED and the team of Oniki Ziya KızılTan for organizing, and all speakers for their inspiring contributions.

Erich Fromm’s To Have or To Be

While rereading Erich Fromm’s To Have or To Be, I encountered remarkably powerful insights about human freedom, the state of mind of modern society, and how a consumption-oriented life has transformed us. According to Fromm, the more a person possesses, the poorer they become—because they place the source of their existence outside themselves. True wealth is to be one with everything while possessing nothing. Having is the path of fear; being is the path of freedom. Modern people can buy everything, but they have lost themselves. The more we have, the less we “are ourselves.” A person who has fears losing; a person who is does not fear sharing. Human beings are born free, yet because of their fears they create new chains with their own hands. Freedom is not doing whatever you want; it is having the courage to choose what is right. The obedient person feels safe; the free person is often lonely, because loneliness is the price of maturity. For Fromm, the true revolution begins within the individual. A person who does not own their own thoughts becomes a slave to the thoughts of others. Modern society, however, slowly kills the human spirit by turning people into consumers rather than producers. Today, a person’s value is measured not by who they are, but by what they have. When a person begins to believe they exist only to the extent they can purchase, they experience their deepest loss. The capitalist system often sells not a person’s labor, but their spirit. Yet a healthy person is not one who adapts to a sick society, but one who dares to transform it. I recommend it to everyone who has not read it.

Say Stop to Food Waste

Say Stop to Food Waste. We will speak about our social responsibility project that we carry out with our Istanbul Chamber of Commerce together with all retailers and service businesses, where we deliver trainings at company headquarters, under the leadership of our Chamber’s Vice President Ahmet Özer. In Turkey, millions of tons of food are thrown away every year. Yet this waste is not only an economic loss; it also means the squandering of labor, water, energy, and our agricultural resources. Today, once again, it is worth remembering: reducing food waste is everyone’s responsibility if we want to strengthen the national economy and leave a more sustainable Turkey for future generations. Shelf optimization in markets, Digital tracking in the supply chain, Efficiency in production stages, Conscious consumption at home, Recovery systems in local governments… Each is part of the solution. Fighting waste is not only an environmental issue; it is a development issue.

On a morning when Istanbul was embraced by a rainbow, Istanbul NielsenCEO Event Türkiye 2025 – NIQ program

On a morning when Istanbul was embraced by a rainbow, it was a privilege for me to attend the Istanbul NielsenCEO Event Türkiye 2025 – NIQ program. Being in the same environment with valuable CEOs, leaders, and visionary figures from various sectors of Turkey offered an inspiring perspective on future business models, consumer behavior, and data-driven transformation. I sincerely thank the entire NIQ team for their efforts, presentations, and hospitality throughout the event. Such organizations, which accelerate the transformation of industries, not only strengthen our leadership journey but also bring new responsibilities. In today’s competitive landscape, the winners will be the companies that read data correctly, manage change effectively, and never lose their human-centric focus. I believe that the knowledge and connections I gained during the event will strongly contribute to our projects and strategies. Daniel Chorbadjian, Didem Sekerel Erdogan, Turan Konu

President of the Malaysian International Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MIICCI), Haji Muhamad Amin Fahmi

President of the Malaysian International Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MIICCI), Haji Muhamad Amin Fahmi, and the accompanying delegation were our guests.

Bahçıvan Dairy Products

Our valued business partner Bahçıvan Dairy Products visited us at our company. The strategic vision of the young generation, represented by Hasan Bahçıvan, and his experience in the United States are admirable. I have long observed how our colleague Yılmaz Tokgöz blends traditional and modern channels with technology, thanks to his strong marketing background. Our İstanbul Chamber of Industry President, Erdal Bahçıvan, adds value to every point with his precious team: Domestic Sales Group President REZZAN GEBOLOĞLU ACAR and Osman Ozturk—whose contributions in the field have long been visible. We believe that Bahçıvan will make great contributions to retail distribution channels, efficiency, and new product development processes, and we wish them continued success.

Our Istanbul Chamber of Commerce 3rd Term Assembly Working Meeting in Mardin

We held our Istanbul Chamber of Commerce 3rd Term Assembly Working Meeting in Mardin. We shared our views on sectoral issues and solution proposals. I hope that the outcomes of our meeting will be effective, productive, and beneficial for our country. I would like to sincerely thank our Istanbul Chamber of Commerce President Mr. Şekib, our Assembly members, and all our colleagues who contributed to the organization.

Consultations in Antalya with all stakeholders from seed to table

In Antalya, we held consultations with all stakeholders from seed to table and visited their facilities. To summarize the consultations: We can secure the future only by seeing water as a “sacred trust” and adopting smart drip irrigation systems. If smart irrigation is implemented nationwide, we can reduce costs by up to 50% while increasing production and efficiency by the same rate. This would make us one of the top 3 agricultural countries in the world for vegetables and fruits. Drought is the biggest challenge. Agriculture 4.0: We must bring our youth to the fields and integrate technology, data, and intelligence into the soil. National Security: We must not only rely on raw materials but also aim to lead the global market with branded and value-added products. Through contract farming and planned production, we must guarantee that our farmers receive the value of their labor. Turkey’s future will be shaped by the strategic steps it will take in agriculture. Food security is now the biggest national security issue for countries.

Bahçelievler Yayla branch

We held the opening of our long-awaited Bahçelievler Yayla branch. We sincerely thank the people of Bahçelievler for their support and all our colleagues for their efforts.

Our second store in Gönen, Balıkesir

We are opening our second store in Gönen, Balıkesir. We sincerely thank the people of Gönen for their warm support. We congratulate and appreciate our Bandırma Regional Manager, Osman Orak, and all our team members for their efforts and dedication, and we wish them continued success. Wishing to come together again…

GrowTech Antalya

On the GrowTech Antalya stage, we will discuss not only numbers but also the spirit of Anatolia and the value of our farmers' hard work, as well as the global situation. Agriculture is a matter of national security for countries. As Turkey, we are the 4th in the world in vegetables and 6th in fruits. But our real strength lies in being the world leader in hazelnuts, cherries, and dried figs. This success was not achieved easily. Despite high input costs and the climate crisis, those devoted hands who never abandoned the fields and kept our tables full made it possible. They did not only produce crops but also hope. They carried this hope to the four corners of the world. Mainly Russia, Germany, Iraq, the USA, and the UK — our exports made us a key player on global tables. So, what should be our vision for the future? ​ Respect for Water: Seeing water as a “sacred trust” and securing the future with smart irrigation systems. Drought is the biggest challenge. ​ Agriculture 4.0: Bringing our youth to the fields; integrating technology, data, and intelligence into the soil. ​ National Security: Not just raw materials — aiming to lead the global market with branded and value-added products. Ensuring our farmers receive the value of their labor through contractual and planned production. ​Turkey’s future will be shaped by the strategic steps it will take in agriculture. Food security is now the biggest national security issue. ​We must protect this sacred heritage together, from field to table. I wish abundance for our soil and our products and look forward to meeting all stakeholders…

Opening of Levent Birant Gürsel Tourism, Birant Technical Services (BTS Oto)’s new service center

Today, together with my colleagues, we attended the opening of our dear friend Levent Birant Gürsel Tourism, Birant Technical Services (BTS Oto)’s new service center. We wish them ease and success in their new facility; may it be prosperous and beneficial.

PRIV Seminars

On November 5, 2025, within the scope of PRIV Seminars, we will come together with industry stakeholders, where I will share my knowledge and experiences about supermarket supply processes and the latest trends.

Istanbul E-commerce & Supply Chain Summit

Istanbul E-commerce & Supply Chain Summit

Monster Notebook

Last night, we witnessed the inspiring 25-year journey of Monster Notebook, which began with a $1000 investment by my dear friend İlhan Yılmaz and his wife Meryem Yılmaz. What started as a small step has evolved, with love and dedication, into a leading brand in our country’s market today. Their story, both as a family and as a brand, inspired everyone present at the event. I would like to thank them for their kind invitation and wish the entire Monster family continued success and great achievements globally.

IV. Reliable Product Summit

At the IV. Reliable Product Summit held at Crowne Plaza Istanbul Florya, we gathered with industry stakeholders, colleagues, and students for a meaningful discussion and book signing. I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to the organization of this event.

IV. Trusted Product Summit

The IV. Trusted Product Summit On October 1, 2025, I will be participating as a speaker at the Career Meetings organized within the scope of the IV. Trusted Product Summit, which will take place at Crowne Plaza Istanbul Florya. I would like to thank the esteemed Celal Toprak, Elif Aşlamacı Attepe, and all members of the Trusted Food Platform for their kind invitation. Wishing for an inspiring conversation, I look forward to coming together with our stakeholders. hashtag#TrustedProductSummit hashtag#Retail hashtag#Strategy hashtag#Leadership hashtag#TrustedProduct hashtag#CareerMeetings

Meeting with Turkish Businesspeople in Dallas, USA

We came together with Turkish businesspeople in Dallas, USA. Upon the invitation of TACCS - Turkish American Chamber of Commerce of the South, we had a heartfelt conversation about life and the business world here and discussed current topics. We sincerely thank Mr. Kubilay Onder WMCS and his colleagues for hosting and inviting us to the event. Special thanks to our Commercial Attaché Mr. Hasan Kose for his well-prepared presentation detailing the market, to Ms. Tulay Spicker M.A. Diplomacy, MBA, for visiting us, and to our group leader, Vice President of the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Ahmet Ozer, as well as all valuable participants and everyone who contributed.

ECRM Sessions

I’ll be in Dallas from July 21–24 for the upcoming ECRM sessions. If you're attending or based nearby, I’d be glad to connect — whether for a quick coffee or to explore potential collaboration opportunities. Feel free to reach out if you’ll be around. Looking forward to productive meetings and valuable conversations.

Hafız Mustafa

The Ongurlar family kindly hosted us at Hafız Mustafa, one of the oldest brands in our country, founded in 1864 by Hacı İsmail Hakkı Bey from Çankırı as a small confectionery shop in Eminönü Bahçekapı. One of his sons, Hafız Mustafa, also known as the inventor of the savory pastry “poğaça,” volunteered as a muezzin at Arpacılar Mosque in Beyoğlu while managing the daily pastry work. It is said that he was the first to make poğaça. Between 1926 and 1938, the brand won 11 gold medals at various European fairs. The business, passed down through generations, has been operated by the Ongurlar family since 2007. We were warmly welcomed by the esteemed Avni Ongurlar. Being part of this journey — from an Ottoman confectionery shop to a global brand with branches in Dubai, the UK, and more — even for a moment, was indescribable. They hosted me in a place where the elegance of the past meets the refinement of the present. I saw dedication in every detail, care in every flavor, and the spirit of Istanbul in every smile. The secret to the brand’s longevity lies not just in the recipe but in its values, sincerity, and people. My heartfelt thanks to Mr. Avni and the entire Hafız Mustafa family. Today, I tasted something beyond flavor: value, service, connection, loyalty, and inspiration.

Türkiye – TRNC Chamber of Commerce Economic Forum

The Türkiye – TRNC Chamber of Commerce Economic Forum was held in Nicosia with the participation of the President and Prime Minister of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, our Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz, TOBB President Rıfat Hisarcıklıoğlu, and the Presidents of the Chambers of Commerce from seven Turkic states. Hosted by the TRNC Chamber of Commerce, significant steps were taken to enhance mutual trade and relations. I hope our meetings bring fruitful outcomes.

Saha Robotics

As Saha Robotics, we had the pleasure of visiting my dear friend Mr. Tahsin Öztiryaki along with Murat Ayrancı and Eray Çobanoğlu. Öztiryakiler, established in Istanbul in 1958, is one of Turkey’s pioneering and most established companies in industrial kitchen equipment manufacturing. The firm is a globally recognized brand, exporting to over 130 countries across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and the Americas. Mr. Tahsin gave us a tour of the facilities — with a production area of 140,000 m² and an annual capacity of over 100,000 products. I watched with admiration. Many thanks to the Öztiryaki family for their hospitality. I wish them continued success and ease in their endeavors.

Commercialization Center of Information (BTM) Board Meeting

Following our Board Meeting at the Commercialization Center of Information (BTM), we held the first Sahne XL event of 2025 with the theme “Supernova.” BTM was selected as the world’s 3rd best incubation startup center. During the event, ITO Vice President Mr. Mehmet Develioğlu emphasized that entrepreneurs illuminate not only BTM but also Turkey’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, calling BTM the center of this light. Thirteen startups pitched on stage, while 21 showcased their products and projects at booths. This year, the Turkish leg of the prestigious Startup World Cup competition will also be held at BTM. Many thanks to our Chairman, Board Members, BTM General Manager Dr. Onder Kul, and the entire BTM team, as well as everyone involved in the organization.

F Istanbul Opening Ceremony

We held the F Istanbul opening ceremony together with Nurmuhammet Orazgeldiyev / Minister of Textile Industry of Turkmenistan, Mergen Gordov / Chairman of the Board of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Turkmenistan, Prof. Dr. Ömer Bolat / Minister of Trade, Mustafa Gültepe / President of Turkish Exporters Assembly (TIM), Ahmet Özer / Vice President of the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce, and our industry stakeholders. Later, together with Mr. Ahmet, we gave a speech on the future of food. I wish the fair to be beneficial for our country.

F Istanbul Food and Beverage Products + Production Technologies Export Fair

On July 2 at 13:30 at the Istanbul Expo Center, we will be discussing the future of food, sustainability, technology, and global trends together with Mr. Ahmet Özer, Vice President of the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce at the F Istanbul Food and Beverage Products + Production Technologies Export Fair. Bringing together the food, beverage, confectionery, additives, food processing, packaging, and hygiene sectors, F Istanbul is Turkey’s most comprehensive international fair. The official opening ceremony, with the participation of senior representatives from national and international ministries, associations, and institutions, will be held on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, at 12:00. I look forward to meeting with our industry stakeholders.

AFEX’25 Africa Business Forum and Expo

A win-win situation is possible in trade with Africa! 👉Yavuz Altun, CEO of Happy Center and Chairman of the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce Retail Committee, shared international trade strategies and Turkey’s approach to Africa with African leaders at the “Managing International Trade” panel held at the AFEX’25 Africa Business Forum and Expo at the Haliç Congress Center. 🖇️📰https://lnkd.in/dWiqH2K6 AFEX Yavuz Altun M.Fatih Akbulut Happy Center hashtag#Africa hashtag#Istanbul Republic of Türkiye Ministry of Trade, Istanbul Chamber of Commerce (ITO), TOBB, Digital Transformation Office of the Presidency of the Republic of Türkiye 🇹🇷 The Business Istanbul Haliç Congress Center 📺📰 Stay tuned for important news and analysis that keep the pulse of the business world. hashtag#IstanbulTradeNewspaper hashtag#Economy hashtag#BusinessWorld

Let's Discuss This with Çetin Ünsalan

I will be a guest on the program "Let's Discuss This with Çetin Ünsalan." Looking forward to meeting those who follow on June 27 at 18:00.

AFEX Africa Business Forum

We were together with our guests and friends from abroad at the AFEX Africa Business Forum and Expo.

June 25–26 AFEX Africa Business Forum & Expo

On June 25–26, at the AFEX Africa Business Forum & Expo, we will share our knowledge and experiences on the topic “Managing International Trade” on June 26 from 15:00 to 16:00. TABA, Turkish African Business Association, will host the 3rd AFEX Africa Business Forum and Expo this year at the Haliç Congress Center. The event will feature the participation of ministers, presidents of chambers of commerce, businesspeople from both domestic and international sectors, and will host over 2,000 delegates.

Van Chamber of Commerce and Industry

As a member of the advisory board of the Reliable Product Platform under the presidency of Mr. Celal Toprak, we were guests of the Van Chamber of Commerce and Industry. However, I couldn't attend due to an urgent matter that came up on the last day. Our journey, which began with the commercial seeds sown by my grandfather in 1958 on this land, holds the most beautiful memories of my childhood. I spent my primary school years in Van, with its unique nature and warm-hearted people. Although we moved to Istanbul from middle school onwards, the longing for those beautiful days in Van has always stayed with me. I felt the sadness of not being there today and wanted to send a small gift to our friends. I sent one of my signed books as a heartfelt gift to all our friends there, with sincere greetings and love. I hope to come together soon and relive the memories of this beautiful land. With my sincerest regards to everyone, I thank our Van Chamber of Commerce President Necdet Takva, all board members, Mr. Celal, Elif Aşlamacı Attepe, and everyone who contributed to the organization. Greetings and regards to Turan AVCİ, Prof. Dr. Abdullah ALTIN, Şenol Özdemir, Sait ALTIN, Enes ÖRER, and all our esteemed friends.

Murat Çim, Founder of QSoft, known for successful AI-powered CRM projects that bring all ERP systems to WhatsApp

My guest will be Murat Çim, Founder of QSoft, known for his successful AI-supported CRM projects that integrate all ERP systems into WhatsApp. We will discuss emerging technologies.

Ziya KIZILTAN, Founder of Oniki, a next-generation event platform aiming to provide the most accurate B2B matchings in the business world

I will be hosting Mr. Ziya KIZILTAN, the Founder of Oniki, a next-generation event platform that aims to provide the most accurate B2B matchings in the business world. See you soon, followers.

Sezgin Sener, Founder of ToptanTR, on how the company builds a bridge between retailers and manufacturers with its innovative business model

We will discuss how ToptanTR builds a bridge between retailers and manufacturers with its innovative business model and what its future goals are, together with the company's founder Sezgin Sener. Looking forward to seeing you...

Istanbul PERDER (Istanbul Retailers Association) President Rahmi Kartal and our committee member and dear friend at Istanbul Chamber of Commerce, Ortakakıl Conferences

Newly elected Istanbul PERDER President Rahmi Kartal and our committee member, a dear friend at Istanbul Chamber of Commerce, will have a private conversation as part of the Ortakakıl Conferences 2025. Looking forward to meeting you.

81st Financial General Assembly chaired by our TOBB President M. Rifat Hisarcıklıoğlu

Today, we held our 81st Financial General Assembly chaired by TOBB President M. Rifat Hisarcıklıoğlu. We attended with Istanbul Chamber of Commerce President Şekib Avdagiç, Assembly Chairman Erhan Erken, and TOBB delegate members. Topics discussed included the Turkish economy’s current status; expectations of chambers and commodity exchanges; SMEs' access to financing; foreign trade and export strategies; digitalization, AI, and green transformation; agricultural, industrial, and service sector challenges; and insights from Prof. Dr. Ömer Bolat, Minister of Trade.

Oniki Event

At the Oniki event, we shared our ideas with a highly interested audience and I had the chance to hold strategic meetings and establish cooperation with 10 valuable companies. Thanks to the attendees and especially the entire Oniki team, especially Ziya Kızıltaş. Wishing continued success.

International Student Community Culture Day at Istanbul Commerce University

We gathered with the students I sponsor at the International Student Community Culture Day at Istanbul Commerce University.

Gathering with My High School Friends

I met with friends I attended middle and high school with at Küçükçekmece High School, sharing the same desk. Mustafa Çiçekyurt, an Industrial Engineer and one of Turkey’s leading SAP transformation experts from Eskişehir Technical University, and Prof. Dr. Gürkan Öztürk were also there. Childhood and youth pass quickly and often unnoticed. Though time has physically separated us, our hearts remain connected. We fondly recalled the days of skipping school, our teachers, and friends, sharing those memories. Wishing success, ease, and happiness to all friends we lost touch with.

Ekoturk

On Ahu Orakçıoğlu’s program on Ekoturk, we discussed the position of Turkish brands in the global market.

Reunion with My High School Friends

We gathered with my friends with whom I attended middle school and high school together at Küçükçekmece High School, sharing the same desk. Mustafa Çiçekyurt, an Industrial Engineer who studied at Eskişehir Technical University's Faculty of Engineering, Department of Industrial Engineering, and led the SAP transformation of many companies, is one of Turkey’s leading IT experts, under the mentorship of Prof. Dr. Gürkan Öztürk. Childhood and youth life flow by very quickly, often unnoticed by us. Although time takes us to different geographies and physical distances, our hearts remain united. Together, we recalled and completed memories of the days we skipped school, our teachers, and our friends from our youth. I wish all the friends we have lost contact with since those years ease, success, and happiness in their lives.

International Student Community Culture Day at Istanbul Commerce University

We came together with the students I sponsor at the International Student Community Culture Day held at Istanbul Commerce University.

Academic Delegation from Harvard Business School Research Center

We hosted the valuable academic delegation from Harvard Business School Research Center at our company. The delegation included Yasemin Çağıltay Çağlar, Associate Director of Educational Programs, and Gizem Cihan Dinçsoy, Senior Researcher at the Middle East & North Africa Research Center.

During the visit, we had an extensive exchange of views on Turkey’s entrepreneurship ecosystem, rapid growth strategies, and data-driven leadership models.

Some of the topics discussed:

• Turkey’s regional strategic position and entrepreneurship potential
• Applicability of exponential growth models in the real sector
• Sustainability, artificial intelligence, and the future of the manufacturing economy
• The impact of young leaders in the global system

I believe this bridge between academia and business will shape not only today but also the future.

I would like to thank the Harvard team for their visionary approach and constructive contributions.

#Harvard #Academy #Entrepreneurship #Strategy #Leadership #HarvardResearch #Business #ScienceandBusiness #GlobalImpact #hbs #pld

Bahçıvan Cheese Company

We had the pleasure of hosting Bahçıvan Cheese Company. This pioneering brand has been blending traditional production power with modern technology for many years, which we have closely observed. Led by our Istanbul Chamber of Industry President Erdal Bahçıvan, the dedicated team of our domestic company including Domestic Sales Group Manager Rezzan Geboloğlu Acar, Osman Öztürk, and Evin Karaman always add great value to their work.

Two aspects of Bahçıvan caught my attention:

• Efficiency analysis in retail distribution channels
• The role of R&D in new product development processes

The visionary approach of the Bahçıvan team consistently contributes positively to the global competitiveness of the Turkish food industry.

FinTech Istanbul B2B Connect Summit

The role of financial technologies in the business world is becoming increasingly critical every day.

On May 22nd, I will take the stage at the FinTech Istanbul B2B Connect Summit to share my experiences at the heart of this major transformation.

As someone who knows closely the financial needs of SMEs, producers, entrepreneurs, and brand owners, I will convey practical solution proposals for the concrete needs we face on the ground, as well as the latest developments.

During the event:

• 🔸 Opportunity to meet next-generation financial solutions for those who want to grow their business,
• 🔸 A strong networking space that opens doors to potential collaborations through the right connections,
• 🔸 The chance to use time efficiently with an AI-supported matching system awaits you.

🎙️ Participation is free for producers, sellers, and wholesalers looking for financial solutions.

📍 Wyndham Grand Istanbul Levent

For detailed information about the event and the participation form, you can visit the link below:
🔗 https://lnkd.in/di9SjCDC

If you want to step into the FinTech world and make your business more efficient and sustainable, I recommend securing your spot in advance.

Looking forward to seeing you there!

Bonafel Brand

In the fast-moving consumer goods sector, our esteemed colleague Uğur PEKER, one of the veterans of sales and marketing, continues his entrepreneurial journey in the pet category with functional products under the Bonafel brand. We wish him success and ease on this journey.

This Month's Agenda and Developments in the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce Newspaper

This month’s agenda and developments in the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce Newspaper:
1. Turkey: The Key to Energy in the Gulf Region Turkey is among the leading countries in solar panel production and wind energy. With its expertise, Turkey plays a crucial role in helping Gulf countries transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy. The transition is accelerating: Gulf countries are increasing their investments in renewable energy, and Turkey’s solar panel production and technical expertise will be vital in this process. Multiple advantages: Turkey stands out in this field with its cost advantage, production capacity, and technical know-how.
2. The EU Accession Blockade Must Be Lifted ITO President Şekib Avdagiç emphasizes the need to remove obstacles in Turkey’s full EU membership process. Strengthening Turkey’s trade relations with Europe is highlighted as a key priority.
3. Time to Update the Customs Union The need to update the existing Customs Union agreement with the EU is emphasized. Despite challenges, increasing trade is considered essential.
4. Defense Package Brings Joy to Investors The European Union has announced an €8 billion defense package. This package is expected to be relevant for Turkish defense industry investors as well.
5. Tourism Boom Expected During the Holiday Season A surge in tourism is anticipated during the holiday period. Demand for Turkey’s tourist destinations is on the rise.
6. $1 Billion Investment for Startups Investments in Turkey’s entrepreneurial ecosystem are discussed. Major investment opportunities for Turkish startups are highlighted.
7. Digital Transformation in Top Gear The impact of technological advancements on the business world is examined. Digital transformation is accelerating and reshaping business practices.
8. Gamification Gains Significant Valuation Investments in the gaming industry and the impact of gamification on business are explored. Turkey’s rise in this sector is emphasized.
9. Trade Cooperation Call from the Dominican Republic The Dominican Republic has called for stronger trade relations with Turkey. Economic opportunities between the two countries are being assessed.

A Discussion on Entrepreneurship and Exponential Growth Strategy with Istanbul Sabahattin Zaim University Students

We had an insightful conversation with Istanbul Sabahattin Zaim University students about entrepreneurship and exponential growth strategy. I also presented my book on exponential growth strategy to them. Special thanks to Elif Çığrıkçı and her team for the invitation, and I wish great success to all students aspiring to be part of the entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Guests from Japanese Ajinomoto Co., Inc.: Satoshi Kitamura, Satoshi Ogawa, Mika Iwasaki, and Bogachan Atabay

We had the pleasure of hosting our esteemed guests from Japanese Ajinomoto Co., Inc., including Satoshi Kitamura, Satoshi Ogawa, Mika Iwasaki, and Bogachan Atabay. I presented them with a signed copy of my book, "Exponential Growth Strategy." Wishing continued success to the entire Kemal Kükrer and Bizim family.

Kopaş Kozmetik Dalin Family

We had the pleasure of hosting our esteemed business partners from Kopaş Kozmetik Dalin, one of our country's distinguished companies, including the highly valued Ms. Neslihan Aksoy Karaağaç and Sales Manager Mr. Serkan Gedik, along with the sales and marketing team. Last year, we achieved great success together in the category, and we evaluated how we can improve even further this year. Wishing continued success to the entire Kopaş family.

A Critical Project for Istanbul: Say No to Food Waste

The project "Say No to Food Waste," a significant initiative for Istanbul, led by the President of the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Şekib Avdagiç, is a highly valuable effort to raise awareness and prevent thousands of tons of food waste. We extend our gratitude to Vice President Mr. Ahmet Özer and all stakeholders for pioneering this project.

Akgün Karlıbel

Our dear friend Akgün Karlıbel, who has provided services in the fast-moving consumer goods sector for many years, has embarked on an entrepreneurial journey with Finsmart AI. Together with his partner Suat Görgülü, who also comes from a professional management background, they have developed an AI assistant acting as a CFO for companies. This product holds great value for both companies and startups. Wishing both of them success and ease in their endeavors.

Our Valued Guests from Lavi Fruit Juices: Zafer Akgün Karahan and Sales Team

We had the pleasure of hosting our valued friends from Lavi Fruit Juices, including Mr. Zafer Akgün Karahan and his sales team. Lavi is a local company striving to become a pioneer in fruit juice exports from Anatolia to the world. We wish them continued success and ease in their business ventures.

Burakcan Kızılaslan from Mizanplus Kitchens

Burakcan Kızılaslan from Mizanplus Kitchens was our guest. He shared how they are transforming restaurant operations with cloud kitchen models and the relevant software technologies. Mizanplus is a successful startup founded by Mr. Burak and his partner A. Harun Özdemir. We wish them continued success and ease in their work.

Emin Sezgin Zeytin from Joy of Try, Dubai

Emin Sezgin Zeytin from Joy of Try in Dubai was our guest. They have created an enjoyable and engaging platform where consumers share their experiences with products. We wish Mr. Emin and the Joy of Try team continued success and ease in their work.

FİDE KONSERVE Family

The FİDE KONSERVE family, Cemal Konakçı and Melih Maral, were our guests. We wish them and their team continued success and ease in their work.

Wanting something too much pushes it further away

Wanting something too much pushes it further away and makes you lose it. Just like water, when things get stuck and can’t move forward, sometimes you need to wait and let them flow naturally. Knowing when to pause, wait, and observe is crucial before making a bigger leap forward.

Founders of SalesArt and Harmony AI

The founders of SalesArt and Harmony AI, three esteemed engineers from Boğaziçi University, shared their work on AI-powered sales price optimization. This is a highly strategic field for producers, retailers, and all industries. We sincerely thank Fatih Ceviz, Faruk Erdoğan Buldur, and Enes Köser for their visit and wish them continued success in all their endeavors.

DeepSeek

Today, one of the most significant headlines on global news websites was DeepSeek's success against OpenAI. This was, in a way, a major achievement for China in response to America's decision to restrict access to its technology. While everyone was focused on the ball, they were looking at the ground.

Unilever Lipton Verkoop Türkiye Sales Manager Süleyman Nurel and Ali Cömert

Our friends, Unilever Lipton Verkoop Türkiye Sales Manager Süleyman Nurel and Ali Cömert, were our guests. I presented them with my signed book. They shared Lipton's 2024 market status and 2025 goals. I wish them continued success.

Pınar Brand Yaşar Birleşik Pazarlama General Manager Hüseyin Karamehmetoğlu and His Team

The esteemed General Manager of Pınar Brand Yaşar Birleşik Pazarlama, Hüseyin Karamehmetoğlu, and his team—Ahmet Akçay, Deniz Yükseldi, and Seda ZİYANOĞLU—were our guests. Together, we evaluated the years 2024 and 2025, and I presented them with my book. We wish continued success to the entire Yaşar Birleşik family.

Breakfast with Former and Current Members of the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce

Today is minced meat and egg day! We gathered for breakfast with former and current members of the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce and had a heartfelt reunion. People need each other, and conversation is eternal. We extend our heartfelt thanks to our esteemed chamber vice president Ahmet Özer, the participants, and everyone who contributed to organizing this wonderful event.

MIT Sloan School of Management - Professor John Sterman

Years ago, Professor John Sterman from the MIT Sloan School of Management shared a story about how the Obama administration struggled to convey climate change concerns to the Chinese government. They invited him to present simulation studies, which significantly raised awareness in China and led to action. One of the most notable outcomes was the rapid adoption of electric vehicles. In China, the electric vehicle market share has exceeded 50%, while in Europe, it is around 13%, similar to our country. Within a few years, as market conditions evolve, we will also reach 50%. I encounter more Teslas than Togg vehicles in Istanbul traffic. However, the data tells a different story—Togg has sold nearly three times as many vehicles, likely with higher sales in Anatolia, dominating 30% of the market across Turkey. In 2024, electric car sales increased by 51.75% compared to the previous year, reaching 99,489 units and raising the market share to 10.1%. Now, one in every ten cars sold is electric. With the arrival of foreign investors and technological advancements, the share of electric vehicles will continue to rise rapidly.

Istanbul Chamber of Commerce No. 1 Retail Committee

We held our first board meeting of 2025 for the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce No. 1 Retail Committee. We discussed market developments in 2024, competition, other agenda items brought to our committee, and plans for 2025. I sincerely thank all our board members for their participation and contributions. In 2025, I hope for an end to suffering worldwide, especially in Gaza, and I wish peace, health, abundance, and prosperity for our country and the world.

Our friends Prevego Berkan Pekyen and Tokenflex Yusuf Islam

Our friends Prevego Berkan Pekyen and Tokenflex Yusuf Islam honored us with their visit. We wish both of them success and ease in their careers.

Real Technology Wars with China

The real technology wars with China have now begun. The United States has enjoyed wealth through the technology it has introduced to the world so far. Now, in an effort to protect itself, it is imposing bans on the export of AI hardware technology. Previously, I had mentioned multiple times that NVIDIA would become the world's most valuable company, but if the U.S. government implements its newly adopted decisions, sales will be restricted, affecting NVIDIA and enabling Chinese competitors to produce better products more quickly, as seen in electric vehicles and smartphones.

On Monday, the U.S. government announced that it would further restrict AI chip and technology exports, aiming to maintain control among the U.S. and its allies while blocking China's access. The new regulations will limit AI chips that can be exported to most countries. While the U.S. will allow AI technology access for its closest allies, exports to China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea will be prohibited.

The new regulations, announced in the final days of Biden's administration, extend beyond China and aim to preserve U.S. dominance in AI by controlling its global development. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo stated, "The U.S. now leads in both AI development and AI chip design, and it is crucial that we maintain this leadership." The regulations are part of a four-year effort by the Biden administration to restrict China's access to advanced chips and manufacturing equipment.

While it is uncertain how the new Trump administration will enforce these rules, both administrations share similar views on the competitive threat from China. The regulations will take effect 120 days after publication.

New restrictions will be placed on advanced GPUs used in data centers that power AI model training. As a result, Nvidia shares fell by about 5% and AMD shares by about 1% in the morning.

So far, the Biden administration has imposed broad restrictions on China's access to advanced chips and manufacturing equipment, updating these controls annually to tighten restrictions and address risks. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang stated that the regulations significantly impact global AI chip production and data center development. Nvidia criticized the new rules as "too comprehensive," arguing that they restrict technology already available in consumer hardware.

Approximately 18 countries, including Japan, the UK, South Korea, and the Netherlands, will be exempt from these regulations. However, around 120 countries, including Turkey, Singapore, Israel, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, will face restrictions.

CES 2025

At CES 2025, we gathered with Monster Notebook İlhan Yılmaz and other colleagues. We were proud of Monster as a company representing our country. At the Intel Corporation booth, Monster showcased its upcoming gaming computer, AI laptop, and other products, standing out despite the presence of major industry players—a significant success story. We hope that our esteemed colleague will continue to raise our flag worldwide.

With the esteemed board members of the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce, Murat Hazıroğlu and İbrahim Doğan Salman, we attended the fair, where valuable Turkish startups such as PIXSelect Teknoloji A.Ş. (Kerem Yazıcı) and Bottobo Robotics (Burhan Turgut Ulutürk) engaged with their target audiences. We congratulate the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce, our board members, and everyone who contributed to this organization, wishing them continued success.

A Special Handmade Gift from Ms. Oya

One of our dedicated employees from the fresh food purchasing department, Ms. Oya, surprised us with a handcrafted gift. Everyone who saw it found it very charming. Now, we are preparing for mass production and will soon offer it to our customers.

Despite the harsh winter conditions in Van, with sub-zero temperatures and heavy snowfall, we are approaching the completion of our approximately 18 MW project with team spirit and dedication.

This picture moved me deeply; the snow reminded me of my elementary school days in Van. May God grant success and make it beneficial and fruitful, InshaAllah. My cousin İkbal from our company has been following this project from the beginning. I sincerely appreciate and congratulate him and all of you, wishing you great success. My dear grandfather, Nadir Altun, founded our company in Van in 1958. Later, my late father and uncles continued the business, and I was born in these lands. Sharing this wonderful news from here holds great meaning for us. May God bless our country and all of us with prosperity. We sincerely thank you and everyone who contributed.

Jensen Huang

Tonight, Jensen Huang introduced us to high-performance Nvidia hardware at more affordable prices, bringing real-time AI into our hands for the first time. He called it the "Cosmos foundational models," which produce photorealistic videos that can be used to train digital clones—a new revolution for all industries. 1) Autonomous logistics 2) Humanoid robots 3) Self-driving cars The cost of synthetic training data is significantly lower than using traditional data. Just as large language models help chatbots generate natural language responses, these models will help robots and cars understand the physical world. He introduced three Nvidia hardware products tailored for different industries and personal use. After this presentation, Nvidia will undoubtedly become the most valuable publicly traded company. The computer he demonstrated processes data equivalent to nearly a year's worth of internet traffic. I was lucky enough to watch it live. I highly recommend that anyone who has the opportunity should watch this presentation. The entire business world and ways of doing business will be rewritten.

Alibaba Sun Art

In China, Alibaba sold its hypermarket chain, Sun Art, for less than half the price it paid four years ago—$3.6 billion. As you may recall, Jack Ma "disappeared" for a while after criticizing the Chinese government in 2020. Many expected Alibaba and Amazon to make aggressive global acquisitions, but these companies quickly lost their appetite for such ventures. Could Amazon similarly sell Whole Foods and exit the low-margin physical retail business? In 2017, Amazon acquired Whole Foods Market for $13.7 billion, marking a major entry into physical retail. This acquisition allowed Amazon to reach a broader customer base and integrate fresh food and retail experiences. Factors influencing Amazon's decision to keep or sell Whole Foods: - **Strategic priorities**: Whole Foods is not just a grocery chain for Amazon; it is an integral part of its logistics network, helping expand its delivery infrastructure and serve Prime members more effectively. - **Customer data**: Whole Foods provides valuable customer data, crucial for Amazon’s big data analysis and customer relationship management. - **Financial performance**: Whole Foods adds value to Amazon's physical store segment, but if it ceases to be profitable, selling it could become an option. - **Regulatory and market dynamics**: Alibaba's sale of Sun Art was due to regulatory pressures and market conditions in China, whereas Amazon does not face similar pressures in the U.S. At present, Amazon is unlikely to sell Whole Foods. However, the retail sector is constantly evolving, and future economic and strategic dynamics will determine Amazon’s next steps.

Saha Robotics

Under the leadership of the esteemed Murat Ayrancı, we gathered with our Saha Robotics management team to evaluate 2024 and discuss strategies and goals for 2025. Our talented engineers have introduced groundbreaking innovations set to launch soon, while Eray Çobanoğlu shared marketing strategies. Our team, which won the world's best design awards in 2024, aims for even greater innovations this year. Saha Robotics’ robots will soon be seen everywhere—restaurants, hotels, airports, hospitals, markets—anywhere autonomous transport is needed. Our robots cover over 6 km per day on average and consume minimal energy. If you need autonomous transport robots for your business, you can reach out to Eray and his team to improve efficiency. With full in-house production, from elevator integration to motor drivers, we have achieved great success. Thanks to our integrated approach, software and hardware design have significantly boosted team synergy and efficiency. Under Murat Ayrancı's leadership, we will accompany Saha Robotics on its journey to becoming a unicorn. A huge thank you to our incredible team for their dedication and contributions—I wish you continued success.

Artificial Intelligence

AI is revolutionizing business, enhancing efficiency, reducing costs, and improving customer experience. Companies that embrace AI will gain a competitive edge, while those that resist change risk falling behind. Businesses that integrate AI strategically will lead the market, while those failing to adapt may struggle to sustain themselves.

Boğaziçi Ventures Global

I attended the artificial intelligence summit organized by Boğaziçi Ventures Global, sponsored by Monster Notebook and Intel Corporation, upon the invitation of the esteemed Monster CEO, Mr. İlhan Yılmaz. We met many familiar friends and had the opportunity to reconnect with our dear friend, Istanbul Chamber of Industry President Erdal Bahçıvan. Experts in their fields, including Boğaziçi Ventures Managing Partner & CEO Baris Ozistek, Eczacıbaşı Holding Chairman, TBV Vice Chairman Faruk Eczacıbaşı, Digital Technologies Business Council President Erdem Erkul, PhD, Monster CEO İlhan Yılmaz, Istanbul Chamber of Industry Chairman Erdal Bahçıvan, Istanbul Bilgi University Faculty Member Dr. Cagla Gül Şenkardeş, shared their insights. We sincerely thank everyone who contributed to the organization.

Istanbul Commerce University Entrepreneurship Club

We gathered at BTM with young participants from both Istanbul and outside the city, organized by the Istanbul Commerce University Entrepreneurship Club. Thanks to this event, we had the chance to meet the esteemed Şerif Kaynar, Volkan Dövenci, Cuma Dağlı, and Prof. Dr. N. Öykü İyigün. We sincerely thank Umut Özyurt, the entrepreneurship club, and everyone who contributed to the organization.

Saha Robotics Speedy

Congratulations to Murat Ayrancı and our amazing team at Saha Robotics Speedy👏👏👏. We are very happy to see your global expansion and success.

Beykent University

We will deliver a presentation on the Compounded Growth Strategy to Beykent University students, followed by a signing session where I will present my book to them. Hoping it will be beneficial to their future careers.

Economy Club

Today, our Economy Club hosted a delegation consisting of the Chinese Consul General and accompanying diplomats: 1. Mr. Wei Xiaodong, Consul General; 2. Mr. Shang Jian, Deputy Consul General; 3. Mr. Wei Zhenzhong, Consul/Director of Political and Press Affairs; 4. Mr. Meng Fanwei, Consul/Director for Commerce, Culture & Education; 5. Ms. Liu Jinglin, Consul; 6. Ms. Wang Tiantian, Consular Attaché. We sincerely thank our esteemed brother Murat Kolbaşı for his hospitality and Consul General Mr. Wei Xiaodong and his team for adding value to the event with their presentations. We had the opportunity to listen to China’s new equations and strategies firsthand and discussed potential trade opportunities.

Istanbul Commerce University

Within Istanbul Commerce University, under the leadership of our esteemed Istanbul Chamber of Commerce Vice President Mr. Ahmet Özer, we hosted young individuals at our chamber as part of our mentorship project aimed at guiding them. We shared our knowledge and experiences, and we will continue to accompany them on their career journeys. We wish all the best to our young participants in this wonderful project.

İstanbul Ticaret Üniversitesi, Girişimcilik Topluluğu, Girişimcilik Zirvesi

I will share insights on the book *Exponential Growth Strategy* and my experiences with young entrepreneurs. Looking forward to seeing you at the Entrepreneurship Summit of Istanbul Commerce University, Entrepreneurship Society...

Helal Expo

Upon the kind invitation of Mr. Hayreddin Turan, at the Helal Expo, where the bureaucracy and business world came together, I presented my signed book *Exponential Growth Strategy* to ministers, deputy ministers, ambassadors, commercial attaches, and businessmen from the Middle East, Central and Western Europe, the Balkans, and Africa. I congratulate everyone involved in the organization and wish them continued success.

9th International Hackathon

I gave a speech on my book *Exponential Growth Strategy* and signed my book for participants after the Hackathon in Ankara. The 9th International Hackathon in Ankara, successfully organized by Yavuz Selim Silay, MD, MBA, with national and international juries representing global ecosystem enablers, selected the top 20 finalist startups from around the globe out of 600 applications. We would like to thank everyone who contributed to the organization.

Arbella and Pastavilla

Today, we had a visit from Dilara Arslan and the Arbella and Pastavilla families. I thank them for their kind and thoughtful gifts, and I also express my gratitude to Sumru Gozaydin, Nevzat Tepe, and Burak Gözegü for their contributions to our work. This group, with production facilities in many countries, is one of the world's leading pasta manufacturers and legume export firms. I thank them and wish them continued success.

The British Chambers of Commerce St. Andrews 2024 Ball

We attended The British Chambers of Commerce St. Andrews 2024 Ball in Istanbul, hosted by our friend Erkan Başboğa and invited by the British Consul General in Istanbul, Mr. Kenan Poleo. Special thanks to Mr. Chris Gaunt, Chairman of BCCT, and Secretary General Tibet Kara-Drabble for their attention, and to Mr. Kenan Poleo, Mr. Erkan Başboğa for the invitation, and to everyone who contributed to the organization.

Istanbul Chamber of Commerce (İTO)

Upon the invitation of the esteemed Celal Toprak, together with our Vice President Ahmet Özer, we discussed the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce's efforts on waste, work related to waste in the retail sector, and trade opportunities with China and India.

Competition and Branding in the Retail Sector at the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce

Upon the invitation of Prof. Dr. Murat Erdal from Istanbul University, we discussed competition, branding, and supply chain issues in the retail sector at the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce. We would like to thank our İTO board member Salih Sami Atılgan for his kind gifts, Prof. Dr. Murat Erdal for his invitation, and all those who contributed to the organization, as well as the members of the chamber who supported us.

Event at the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce Assembly Hall

We are expecting our friends who have time to join the event at the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce Assembly Hall tomorrow afternoon.

International Hackathon Ankara Meet-up & Pitching Event

I will be joining the International Hackathon Ankara Meet-up & Pitching event on November 30th in Ankara, together with my dear friends Yavuz Selim Silay, MD, MBA, and Omer Barbaros Yis. I would like to thank Yavuz Selim Silay for the invitation and everyone who contributed to the organization. Looking forward to seeing everyone in Ankara.

İstanbul Chamber of Commerce Council Meeting

We held the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce Council meeting under the leadership of our president, Şekib AVDAGİÇ. Our agenda was very busy. The Rector of Istanbul Commerce University was our guest and shared the university's successes with us. One of the agenda topics was the possible effects of the American election on the world. The election promise, Donald Trump's "eye for an eye, tariff against tariff" strategy, and trade wars in foreign trade policy. This strategy, especially between China and the US, created tensions and imposed high tariffs with reciprocal trade restrictions. Trump, in line with his goals to close the trade deficit, support local production, and protect American workers, will put high taxes on imported goods to pressure foreign countries. The main elements of this strategy are as follows: 1. Reciprocal Tariffs: Trump imposed high tariffs on imported goods, especially to limit the export of low-cost products from major trading partners like China to the US. In response, China would impose similar tariffs on some goods imported from the US. This would lead to a trade war where tariffs are gradually increased between the two countries. 2. Protecting US Labor and Industry: Trump's policy aims to encourage American production and protect American workers by providing advantages to local manufacturers. It seeks to make local producers more competitive by raising import costs to prevent US companies from shifting production to countries like China. 3. Reducing the Trade Deficit: Trump aims to reduce the US trade deficit by reducing imports and ensuring that the US is in a more advantageous position in trade relations. He is trying to reduce this deficit by restricting imports through tariffs. 4. New Trade Agreements: Along with tariff policies, the Trump administration aims to make fairer trade agreements, claiming that former agreements were unfavorable to the US. This strategy, while providing some short-term advantages to certain sectors of the US economy (such as steel and automotive), would have negative effects on American consumers and farmers, as China and other countries retaliate.

Arm

How did the 32 billion-dollar ARM company emerge from the 150,000-population of Cambridge? Let’s take a look at its exponential growth strategy, and can such a company emerge from our country? ARM started as a small tech group in Cambridge, UK. Here's the development of ARM from its foundation to its success today and its acquisition by the Japanese tech giant SoftBank for $32 billion. Cambridge is known for its advanced research infrastructure and is home to high-tech companies like ARM. ARM developed a low-power, efficient microprocessor called Acorn RISC Machine (ARM) in 1985, which quickly gained attention due to its low power consumption and high efficiency. The success of the ARM processor architecture led to the establishment of ARM Holdings in 1990. ARM quickly specialized in processor design with the support of partnerships with companies like Acorn Computers, Apple, and VLSI Technology, gaining an independent identity. ARM Holdings developed a unique business model: rather than producing ARM processor designs, it licensed them to other companies. This model enabled rapid growth, as technology companies worldwide could produce their own chips using ARM’s energy-efficient and flexible designs. This made ARM a dominant player in the mobile device market. In 2016, Japanese tech giant SoftBank offered approximately $32 billion to acquire ARM. SoftBank’s CEO, Masayoshi Son, saw ARM as having significant potential in future technologies, particularly in the IoT (Internet of Things) field. Although mobile devices were already using ARM technology heavily, SoftBank foresaw its use in IoT devices such as smart home appliances, cars, and healthcare devices. The acquisition of ARM by SoftBank helped increase its influence in the tech world. ARM’s headquarters in Cambridge employs over 3,000 people, with around 6,500 employees globally. Today, ARM is a dominant player in the processor market, with applications ranging from mobile devices to IoT and AI applications. Giants like Apple, Samsung, and Qualcomm license ARM’s processor designs to create their own custom chips. ARM’s processor architecture, with its low energy consumption and efficiency, is used in billions of devices, making it nearly unbeatable in the mobile device market. ARM’s growth and innovation-focused strategy have made it a highly valuable company in the tech world. After acquiring ARM, SoftBank took additional steps to maximize its potential. However, Nvidia’s attempt to acquire ARM in the 2020s was rejected by regulators.

Stamegna Management

I'm currently in Athens, Greece as a guest of Stamegna Management, and I would be thrilled to meet any of you here. It would be a pleasure to connect, exchange ideas, and explore collaboration opportunities. I would also like to extend my heartfelt thanks to the organizers for their warm hospitality and for putting together this amazing event. Feel free to reach out if you're nearby. Looking forward to connecting!"

Trade Fair

Under the Ministry of Trade of the Republic of Turkey and in collaboration with the Turkic States Organization – Union of Turkish Chambers of Commerce and Industry, the TTF trade fair and forum aim to develop trade, industry, investments, technology, and services between the Turkish States: Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkey, Uzbekistan, Hungary, Turkmenistan, and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. I shared my experiences and ideas about entrepreneurship and presented signed copies of my book to valued friends. I would like to thank Aygün Aliyeva and the entire team for their efforts in organizing the event, as well as Bülent Kavakli for the invitation. I wish continued success to TTF.

Kodak

Kodak would have been a global player today if it had embraced change instead of resisting it. If Kodak had acquired the patent for digital photography, the company's future and the world of photography could have taken a very different direction. In 1975, Kodak’s own employee Steven Sasson invented the first digital camera, but Kodak ignored this innovation, thinking it would jeopardize their film sales. Instead of developing and patenting this technology, they chose to continue with traditional film-based photography. However, digital photography grew rapidly, and Kodak disappeared from this field. Had Kodak acquired the patent for digital photography and its use in mobile phones, it would likely have been the world's highest-valued company today. The integration of digital photography with mobile devices, which started becoming widespread in the mid-2000s, has since become one of the indispensable features of smartphones. If this scenario had played out, Kodak’s market value could have been significantly higher than that of many technology companies today, as it would have gained licensing revenue and a continuous cash flow from tech giants like Apple, Samsung, and Huawei. Kodak could have become a dominant force in the technology industry with its patents. In 2012, Kodak filed for bankruptcy due to missing the digital transformation. If Kodak had responded to change and supported its engineer’s digital photography invention, the company’s future and the photography world would have been shaped differently. Kodak’s market value today would likely surpass all technology companies, and this scenario could have turned Kodak into a global tech giant in today’s digital ecosystem. Unfortunately, it had to withdraw from the game due to the illusion of responding to growth rather than change.

A gathering of former bank general managers, bureaucrats, and academics

In a gathering that included former bank general managers, bureaucrats, and academics, we had a discussion about my book, the Layered Growth Strategy. I would like to express my deep gratitude to this distinguished and experienced group who have served in important institutions in our country. We had a very enjoyable and productive time discussing various fascinating topics.

Oniki event

At the Oniki event, I had the opportunity to meet with our valuable friends. Bringing such a large group together and facilitating B2B meetings is a significant success. I presented my book, Layered Growth Strategy, to the participants. I would like to thank everyone, especially Ziya KIZILTAN, and all participants. Congratulations to everyone who contributed to this successful organization.

At the Istanbul E-commerce and E-export conference with Oniki organization

Tomorrow, I will be giving a presentation at the Istanbul E-commerce and E-export conference with the Oniki organization and will be presenting my book. I wish success to Ziya KIZILTAN and his team. I look forward to seeing you all!

SIAL Paris

SIAL Paris took place with a record participation from Turkey! Turkey, which has participated in SIAL Paris for 38 years, was represented this year by 346 companies, a record number, compared to the 8 companies that initially participated. Şekib Avdagiç, President of the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce (ITO), stated that they targeted 8,000 major food buyers with a purchasing power of 50 billion euros at SIAL Paris. He visited the participants and presented certificates to them. This year marks the 60th anniversary of SIAL Paris 2024, held in Paris, the capital of France. A total of 7,500 companies from 130 countries are participating in SIAL Paris 2024. Turkey is the third-largest foreign participant in terms of total exhibition area, after Italy and Spain. Turkish companies filled 8,000 square meters of space in the national participation area organized by ITO and with individual booths. I would like to thank the esteemed ITO President Şekib AVDAGİÇ, Vice Presidents Mehmet DEVELİOĞLU and Ahmet ÖZER, and our board members, council members, participating companies, and the chamber staff who designed and managed this successful event. I look forward to hosting similar events in Istanbul. The world is small; while walking around the fairground, I was recognized and embraced by visitors from three different countries who followed me on LinkedIn.

ICC World Chambers Federation

The President of TOBB (Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey) and Chairman of the World Chambers Federation of ICC, Mr. M. Rifat Hisarcıklıoğlu, hosted the European-Asian Regional Summit of the World Chambers Federation in Istanbul. More than eight hundred international participants attended this beautiful event, and we would like to thank our president and everyone who contributed to its success. Additionally, I would like to thank Mrs. Sandra Sánchez Nery for her attention and for inviting us to their headquarters in Paris. It was also a coincidence that I met Mrs. Senem ASLAN YAVAŞ, and I wish her and the entire Yemeksepeti team continued success.

The Shift of Local Manufacturers to Countries Like Egypt

The trend of many local manufacturers in Turkey to move their production activities to countries with a fifth of the labor cost, such as Egypt, has become an important issue affecting the local economy and long-term sustainability. This situation might seem contradictory to Turkey’s strategies for attracting foreign investment; however, a deeper analysis reveals some fundamental dynamics. 1. Labor Costs: Rising minimum wages and inflationary pressures in Turkey make it harder for manufacturers to remain competitive. Especially in labor-intensive sectors, countries offering lower labor costs become an attractive alternative. Countries like Egypt stand out with their labor force being five times cheaper and various tax incentives. 2. Foreign Investment Strategy: Turkey aims to attract foreign investment in high value-added and technology-driven sectors. Rather than traditional industrial production, Turkey seeks to develop more innovative and technology-based fields with international capital. This strategy is being balanced with the shift of local manufacturers seeking lower costs abroad. 3. Competitiveness: Keeping costs low in the global market is crucial, especially for export-oriented companies. Firms looking to reduce costs are shifting to markets where labor is cheaper. However, this may be a temporary solution, as the quality of production and logistics challenges in low-cost countries might lead to disadvantages in the long run. 4. Foreign Investment and Production Balance: Turkey’s effort to attract foreign investors is based on a more strategic and sustainable model. This strategy focuses on technology, infrastructure, and innovation, independent of the shift of local manufacturers abroad. In the long run, this policy aims to concentrate Turkey’s production capacity in higher value-added sectors. Conclusion: The shift of local manufacturers to countries like Egypt may offer cost advantages in the short term, but Turkey’s strategic goals foresee growth in higher value-added sectors. This marks the evolution of Turkey's production structure and signals actions to increase its competitiveness in the global market. Another topic is the strategies and action plans related to the impact of China. Last year, our exports to China were 3.3 billion dollars, while imports from China amounted to 44.9 billion dollars. We must effectively target our brands that cater to the high-income segment of China with products that have added value exceeding 40 billion dollars.

The Koska Family

Our 117-year-old company, the distinguished Koska family, hosted the fourth-generation members. Our business partner, Koska, the pioneer of firsts in Turkish food industry, has a history that dates back to 1907. The name Koska comes from the district of Koska, where it arrived in Istanbul in 1931. Koska, as a 117-year-old family business, continues to produce traditional Turkish delights such as helva, tahini, and molasses. The management of Koska is now entrusted to the fourth generation of the family. We would like to thank the fourth-generation representatives of the Koska family, Mr. Emin Dindar and Ms. Zeynep Hande Eryiğit, for their visit and wish them continued success for many generations to come.

My Meeting with Prof. Aytul Ercil and my venture, Vispera

I had the opportunity to meet with the distinguished Prof. Aytul Ercil, who wears many hats, and evaluate the platform developed by her company, Vispera, which deals with image processing technologies and stock tracking systems, using AI software. We thank her and her team, and we wish for fruitful results. We also recommend working with Vispera to our suppliers and wish them continued success.

Our Brand Happy Sweat in Guangzhou, China

We have taken our place in Guangzhou, China, with our food products under the Happy Sweat brand and non-food products such as wet wipes, toilet paper, and detergent under the Happy Clean brand. Our products have been on the shelves in the Chinese market for several years. We currently export our food and non-food products to over 40 countries. If you would like to sell our products in your country, please contact us.

Guangzhou, China

🚀 I'll be in **Guangzhou, China** from **September 23-27**! We are excited to expand our presence in the Chinese market with our **Happy Sweat** brand for food products and **Happy Clean** brand for non-food items such as wet wipes, toilet paper, and detergent. These products are already in the Chinese market and exported to over 40 countries. If you are a distributor or supermarket interested in sales rights, I would be happy to connect with you. Let's meet, network, and explore opportunities! Feel free to DM me to arrange something. I look forward to connecting with LinkedIn contacts and familiar faces!

Istanbul Chamber of Commerce Retail Committee

Our Istanbul Chamber of Commerce retail committee visited the Women's Cooperative Union, which is affiliated with the Edirne Governorship, before our monthly routine meeting. We will fully support the products that our women have produced with their own hands as retailers in Istanbul. We congratulate the governorship for facilitating such a social project, and I wish the women cooperatives continued success.

Istanbul Provincial Trade Director Ismail Menteşe

We conveyed the issues and development opportunities of our retail sector to our precious Istanbul Provincial Trade Director, Ismail Menteşe, along with our Istanbul Chamber of Commerce Vice President Ahmet OZER and retail committee members. It was a very sincere environment for us. These meetings will continue and will have very fruitful results. I would like to thank our provincial trade director, who listened to us in detail and supports the issues of our sector, our vice president Ahmet, and our valuable committee members.

Lcwaikiki CEO

Today, Lcwaikiki CEO Su Mustafa Küçük was the guest of our Economy Group this month. He shared the growth journey, past, present, and future vision of Lcwaikiki, as well as 40 years of experience, and answered all of our questions in the finest details. We congratulate Lcwaikiki, which has stores in over 50 countries, and thank him very much. We wish him continued success. We also thank Dursun Topçu, who hosted our program this month.

Mini Outdoor Robot

We received a mini outdoor robot from Yandex, one of the robots you can see on every street in Moscow. Sometimes, small gifts are very valuable. Thank you very much, Niyazi Doğan Öncü, for your kind gift and invitations.

Tpf 2024 Joint Development Platform

At the Tpf 2024 Joint Development Platform, where we came together with our suppliers and colleagues, we discussed cooperation opportunities. Our friends showed great interest in our program and stayed until late hours. We thank everyone who attended. Special thanks to Omer Duzgun, President of the Turkish Retailers Federation, Perder President Faruk Guzeldere, organizer Hakan Adıgüzel, and contributors Duygu Keçelioğlu, Cemal Özen, Bilgehan Cevik, Kerem Kadakal, and Reşat Narmana for their contributions.

Exponential Growth Strategy Workshop

✨ **Thank You for Attending the Exponential Growth Strategy Workshop!** ✨ I want to send my heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated in the **Exponential Growth Strategy** workshop. 🙏 Your energy, curiosity, and participation truly made it an unforgettable and impactful session! I hope you left with valuable insights and strategies that you can immediately apply to achieve exponential growth in your business and projects. 🚀 'If you have zero expectations from others, you can create a winning mindset. No matter the results; when you have nothing to lose, you are always the winner. Yes, you are responsible for your success. It is not the fault of your family, the government, or the economy. You have no right to blame others for the decisions made in your life. It is about doing and acting, not about knowing how to do and how to act. It is about constantly changing and surviving. When everyone is looking at the ball, you need to look at where the ball could go. It's not about thinking inside the box, thinking outside the box, or thinking that the box doesn’t exist. If there is nothing, you can start thinking from scratch. Exponential Growth Strategy Workshop. Exponential Growth Strategy book, Yavuz Altun. Let's continue to push boundaries and keep the conversation going! If you have any questions or want to connect further, feel free to reach out to us. I am looking forward to seeing all of you achieve amazing results by implementing these strategies! 🌟

The British Chamber of Commerce of Turkey

Last evening, we were hosted at the Rahmi M. Koç Museum by The British Chamber of Commerce of Turkey at their end-of-summer night. Leading representatives from the business world attended the night, which included representatives from both countries. Many thanks to The British Chamber of Commerce of Turkey, ASBİR ANTREPO VE LOJİSTİK A.Ş. ERKAN BAŞBOĞA for the invitation, and special thanks to Rahmi Koç for hosting us.

Local Chains Meet 2024 Conference and Fair

"At the Local Chains Meet 2024 Conference and Fair, we will discuss the important developments in the sector. We invite all our friends who have time to exchange ideas. See you there!" Duygu Keçelioğlu, Bilgehan Cevik, Cemal Özen, Kerem Kadakal, and Reşat Narman. Haliç Congress Center.

Trendyol Group

Wherever you leave your mark, that’s who you are. We all come from somewhere and head somewhere on our journey of life. We meet and get to know each other at the intersection of fate. Our friend from Trendyol Group, Austin Kim, hosted a farewell dinner for the Turkey operations team as he continues his journey as the CEO of a major player in South Korea's sector. If the opportunity arises, I will visit him in South Korea for a congratulatory visit. We had an enjoyable conversation with Austin Kim, Merve Basci, Mehmet Cihaner, Kim Market’s Ercan Ersan, Snowy’s Utku Tanay Ulu, Bulent Efe, Mopaş’s Murat Narman, as we discussed the sector, e-commerce, the past, and the future.

Exponential Growth Strategy* Themed Private Workshop

We would like to thank all the startups and esteemed investors who participated in our **Exponential Growth Strategy** themed private workshop, coming from both abroad and various cities in Turkey. We also extend our gratitude to İbrahim Doğan Salman, the vice-president of the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce Knowledge Commercialization Center, as well as to Ulaş Kayacan, Murat Ayrancı, Kerem Yazıcı, Ziya Kızılhan, and the Oniki B2B organization for their contributions. Together, we explored new strategies for sustainable and rapid growth. We are grateful for your contributions to this inspiring journey and look forward to your future successes!

Khalid Rahimi

Khalid Rahimi from England was our guest. We consulted with him about the market of fast-moving consumer products in the United Kingdom. We talked about the initiatives and developments in the restaurant, market, and media industries in London. They invited me to their new market in London, and I plan to attend their opening if my schedule allows. I gave him my **Exponential Growth Strategy** book as a gift.

From our suppliers, Mr. Nuri Doğan from Ece Piknik, Mr. Murat Şimşek, and our colleague from Uşak, Mr. Selim Kılıç

Our suppliers, Mr. Nuri Doğan from Ece Piknik, Mr. Murat Şimşek, and our colleague from Uşak, Mr. Selim Kılıç, visited us. I wish them ease and success in their work.

Chairman of MEEI Program Yavuz Selim Silay

On August 27th, 2024, on behalf of the Chairman of MEEI Program, Yavuz Selim Silay, MD, MBA, we paid a courtesy visit to Mr. Yavuz Altun, CEO of Happy Center, who is also the Chairman of the Retailing Committee at the İstanbul Chamber of Commerce (İTO), representing 23,500 retailers and over 700,000 companies, making it the second-largest chamber of commerce in the world. !!! Preparing ahead of our biggest Summit. Join us from October 23rd to 26th at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Florya, Istanbul, for a summit that brings together global leaders, entrepreneurs, and industry experts to shape the future of business. 🔗 https://lnkd.in/dPB2EWWK 📞 +90531 965 74 43 📧 [email protected]

Special workshop with the concept of Exponential Growth Strategy*

*Exponential Growth Strategy* concept workshop: We invite our startups and investors to join! This event offers a great opportunity to explore the growth potential of businesses and meet with investors. Our limited capacity is determined for physical efficiency, so act quickly and reserve your spot! Applications can be made at https://lnkd.in/dMJUhZ3G, and they will be evaluated according to the specified criteria. Don't miss this unique experience and apply now to become one of the success stories of the future!

Ömer NART from WORLDEF and Ziya KIZILTAN from Oniki

We met with two valuable friends, Ömer NART from WORLDEF and Ziya KIZILTAN from Oniki. They were our guests. We discussed the current global processes together. I wish both of them success and ease in their work as WORLDEF and Oniki continue to achieve great things globally.

M3Mobile Vice President Mark Myung from South Korea and his team

M3Mobile Vice President Mark Myung from South Korea and his team members, Jake Cho, Eunice Jo, and Erkut Tepe were our guests. I gifted them my signed book. We wish success to M3Mobile, one of the few companies in the world specializing in mobile handheld terminals. M3Mobile Vice President Mark Myung and his team from South Korea, Jake Cho, Eunice Jo, and Erkut Tepe, were our guests. I gave them my signed book as a gift. We wish M3Mobile, one of the few companies in the world in mobile handheld terminals, much success.

Number 1 TV Patronlar Kulübü

In the joint broadcast of Number 1 TV and Number 1 FM, we discussed entrepreneurship in the Patronlar Kulübü program.

Hobby Cosmetics

Our valued friends from Hobby Cosmetics, Hakan Erdem, Sales Manager of A Dabur Enterprise Turkey, and Serdar Altunbaş, Regional Manager, were our guests. I wish continued success to the Hobby team and our friends.

Exponential Growth Strategy Concept Private Workshop

We invite our startups and investors to join our *Exponential Growth Strategy* concept private workshop! This event offers a perfect opportunity to explore the growth potential of startups and meet with investors. Our limited capacity is determined for physical efficiency, so act quickly and reserve your place! Applications can be made at https://lnkd.in/dMJUhZ3G and will be evaluated based on set criteria.

Digital Life with Bilal Eren

Wishing for a productive and beneficial conversation for the followers...

MEEI Organization

We made a pleasant presentation to the delegation from Nigeria attending the MEEI organization about my book on Exponential Growth Strategy. At the end of the organization, I presented my Exponential Growth Strategy book to the foreign guests and my book on Exponential Growth Strategy to the friends here. We thank Yavuz Selim Silay, MD, MBA, and everyone involved in the organization.

Delivery Hero-Yemeksepeti

Our valued friends from Delivery Hero Yemeksepeti, Berker Eren, Rabia Karaduman, and Kübra Taşkıran, were our guests. They made suggestions on new projects. I wish success and ease to our business partners.

Our Platform where Rectors and the Business World Meet

We held our board meeting of the platform we created to shape the future and guide the youth, where our rectors and the business world come together. We thank everyone who contributed to the platform, Hakan Bey, our University Rectors, and the business world.

Our guests from Azerbaijan

We will organize an event on the topic of "Cumulative Growth Strategy" with our business guests from Azerbaijan. If anyone is interested, feel free to contact us here.

Medyasoft Information Group

We hosted Ihsan Taser and his team from Medyasoft Information Group at our company to discuss the latest developments and trends in software technologies and explore potential collaboration opportunities.

IKV - Economic Development Foundation

IKV - Economic Development Foundation held its 62nd General Assembly with the participation of our board members, the Foundation's Founding and Trusteeship Presidents, Supporting Institution representatives, and delegates. The Assembly was chaired by KSO Assembly President Hasan Tahsin Tuğrul, with Mehmet Nuri Görenoğlu as Vice Chair and Doç. Dr. Çiğdem Nas as Secretary.

F Istanbul

F Istanbul is changing in the field of International Food Export through retail and artificial intelligence.

South Korea

Recently, we had the opportunity to visit Seoul, South Korea, and it was a wonderful experience exploring the city. Seoul hosts numerous exhibitions showcasing the latest trends and innovations in the food industry. We also had the chance to explore various districts of the city.

Technology Commercialization Center (Btm) Board of Directors

We held our board meeting at the Technology Commercialization Center (Btm). Afterwards, at the hashtag#SahneXL event, we listened to our investors and visited our startups' stands. We also heard about Btm’s journey from Istanbul Chamber of Commerce President Şekib Avdagic and met with startups after the presentations.

Business Forum Organized by the Tunisian Development Agency

In Tunisia, at the business forum organized by the Tunisian Development Agency, under the leadership of our Ambassador Ahmet Misbah DEMİRCAN and with the great efforts and dedication of Mrs. Mutlu ALKAN, we had a very enjoyable and productive business trip in Tunisia. We would like to thank everyone who contributed, starting with Mrs. Mutlu, her husband Mr. Sedat, our Ambassador Ahmet Misbah Demircan, Assistant Belgin, and all the precious friends who accompanied us.

Qatar

I was in Qatar during the Bayram holiday. Visiting Doha during Eid al-Adha is a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the city's vibrant celebrations and cultural experiences.

Harvard Business School

A special thanks to our friends from India, the US, Bulgaria, and Albania who made our evening colorful at Harvard Business School. We were very happy to host them in Istanbul. #Pldeverywhere

Istanbul Chamber of Commerce

We started the Mentorship Program at Istanbul Commerce University, under the leadership of our Vice President of the Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Ahmet ÖZER, with the participation of our Chamber of Commerce Council Members. Throughout this project, we will match national students as well as international students, interact with them, share real-life experiences, and strive to contribute to their lifelong development. We would like to thank Istanbul Commerce University Rector Mr. Abdulhamit Avşar, the Chairman of the University’s Board of Trustees Mr. İsrafil Kuralay, and all our precious friends who contributed to this project, and wish success to our students.

Giovanni Bersaglio, who made significant contributions to Business Leaders Platform

Giovanni Bersaglio, my Harvard Business School classmate and a significant contributor to the Business Leaders Platform I founded, visited us from Italy. We were also accompanied by my friend Çagri Gündoğdu, a member of the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce (ITO). We reminisced about what we had learned together, had an engaging conversation about leadership and entrepreneurship, and spent a wonderful and enjoyable day. I would like to thank both of my friends for their visit.

B2B E-commerce for SMEs

We invite you to a pleasant conversation with Bihter Olcay from Bosforas, a company offering online B2B solutions for all categories in the wholesale B2B sector, to discuss how the wholesale e-commerce platform for SMEs enhances speed and efficiency.

Business Leaders Platform

The valuable manager of Business Leaders Platform, composed mostly of Harvard Business School graduates, spent a very enjoyable day today at the Happy Center Headquarters in Istanbul with my dear Yavuz Altun brother from the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce (ITO) Assembly and our Italian friend, platform member Giovanni Bersaglio. I would like to thank dear Yavuz brother for his kind hospitality.

Ortakakıl Konferansları 2024

We invite you to the "Are you one of those we haven't been able to robotize?" session of Ortakakıl Conferences 2024.

Harvard Business School Founders Forum

At the Harvard Business School Founders Forum, we discussed Marketing Strategy for two cases: FinLit (financial literacy for high school students) and Arista (OT/ICS cybersecurity). I would like to thank all our friends who took the initiative.

QSOFT Bilişim ve Teknoloji A.Ş

Gurkan Taskiran and Murat Çim, the founders of QSOFT Bilişim ve Teknoloji A.Ş, a company specializing in next-generation RPA, were our guests. They have made innovations in many technologies. I presented them with my signed book. I wish them ease and success in their entrepreneurial journey.

CEO Platformu

This morning, we gathered with the members of the CEO Platform over breakfast. We discussed what we can do and brought up ideas related to the vision of the future. I presented my signed book, Exponential Growth Strategy, to our friends. We would like to thank President Haldun Pak, his team, and all the valuable friends who contributed.

Tim Teb Girişimevi Demoday

At the Tim Teb Girişimevi Demoday event, I had the opportunity to meet with various valuable startups. I congratulate everyone who contributed to the organization and wish them continued success.

Shopppro.io

Shopppro.io, Ahmet Albayrak and Armin Behnamiyan were our guests. I wish them continued success in their startup journey together.

Türkiye Nigeria Business & Investment Summit, 28th May, Nigeria.

Türkiye Nigeria Business & Investment Summit, 28th May, Nigeria.

İmza Günü

F Istanbul Signature Day

Ultegra Net

We talked about 360-degree online shopping technological solutions with Ms. Duygu ERIM from Ultegra Net, focusing on speed and flexibility. Looking forward to meeting with industry stakeholders...

F İstanbul International Food Export Fair

At the F İstanbul International Food Export Fair, with over 15,000 visitors from 93 countries, we will discuss changing retail and competition in the context of artificial intelligence.

Istanbul Chamber of Commerce

Together with the Vice President of Istanbul Chamber of Commerce, the esteemed Mr. Ahmet OZER, we will assess the activities of Istanbul Chamber of Commerce, the development of trade in Turkey, economic activities, small tradespeople, local retail development, the distributor system, and in short, the past, present, and future. As the Retail Committee of the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce, we have always seen our chamber president, Şekib AVDAGİÇ, and Mr. Ahmet by our side in the industry. We deeply appreciate their contributions and support.

Hepsiburada (NASDAQ: HEPS) hepsiJET

Our business partners from Hepsiburada (NASDAQ: HEPS), hepsiJET General Manager Atilla Alver, along with his team Mehmet Fevzi AKSAKAL, Cansu Coskun, and Pelin Üzer, visited us. We held a collaborative meeting to evaluate e-commerce and logistics processes. I would like to thank Hepsiburada CEO Nilhan Onal Gokcetekin, hepsiJET General Manager Atilla Alver, and all the Hepsiburada family for their interest and support. Wishing them continued success.

Hero Türkiye

Hero Türkiye Baby Food Country Manager, the esteemed Soydan YILDIZ, and Sales Director Bora YILDIRIM visited us. We discussed potential collaboration opportunities and areas for development. I wish ease and success to Soydan Bey, Bora Bey, and the entire Hero Türkiye team.

Turkey Retailers Federation Organized Fair

We would like to thank our business partners Trendyol Group and Toshiba, who have made significant contributions to the development of local retail in Turkey, for their support in the fair and event organized by the Turkey Retailers Federation as the main sponsor. Special thanks to Ozan Acar, Austin Kim, Mehmet Cihaner, Arda Hasipek, Abdullah Özgür, Can Barış Çevik, and the valuable team from Trendyol and Trendyolgo, and to Öztürk DÜNDAR from Toshiba Global Commerce Solutions and his esteemed team for standing by local retail and providing support.

Denizli Chamber of Commerce Oniki E-commerce and E-export Conference

Looking forward to meeting at the Oniki E-commerce and E-export Conference led by the Denizli Chamber of Commerce on May 16.

HBS European Alumni Summit

This year we are in Milan for the HBS European Alumni Summit. The city has a lifestyle where you can experience both the historical and the modern worlds together. It is also Italy's most developed and richest city, with an emphasis on fashion, industry, transportation, and many other fields. Milan's railway system is one of its key features. The city is famous for its historical structures, shopping streets, and cultural heritage. Furthermore, the city stands out in fashion and automotive industries. Milan is also known as a training center for renowned designers, and its streets are filled with luxury brand stores, unique designs, and artistic events.

İstanbul Chamber of Commerce

Under the leadership of Istanbul Chamber of Commerce Vice President Ahmet OZER, we are launching a mentorship project for university students with our board members. We hope to derive significant outcomes from this initiative. I congratulate Vice President Ahmet and all the board members who contributed, wishing it brings good results.

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Ankara Local Chains Meet

At the Ankara Local Chains meeting of the Turkey Retailers Federation, I was with Bihter Olcay and her team from Bosforas, a wholesale B2B solution for all categories, and Duygu ERIM and her team from ULTEGRA, providing the fastest integration solution to the world of 360-degree e-commerce. I congratulate both teams for their significant innovations and wish them continued success.

Oniki Fintech Istanbul Event

We gathered with Fintech companies at the Oniki Fintech Istanbul event. I congratulate Ziya KIZILTAN and the Oniki team and wish them continued success.

Ankara TOBB

At the Turkey Azerbaijan Business Forum at TOBB in Ankara, we discussed what could be done to increase trade between the two countries. Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz, Azerbaijani Prime Minister Ali Esedov, and TOBB President M. Rifat Hisarcıklıoğlu gave a message of determination to strengthen bilateral economic relations. During the meeting, we reconnected with our friends who we met the previous week at the forum in Azerbaijan.

Ankara Event

We gathered with our valuable suppliers and colleagues in Ankara. A big thank you to TPF President Omer Düzgün, Perder President Faruk Güzeldere, Ankara Perder President Ramazan Gülhan, the organizer Hakan Adıgüzel, and the Globus team, and everyone who contributed to the event.

Trendyol Group

Today, I presented my book "Exponential Growth Strategy" to our valued partners at Trendyol Group, especially to Mehmet Cihaner and his energetic team Arda Hasipek, Can Barış Çevik, Abdullah Özgür. I thank them for their visit and wish them continued success.

Turkic States Economic Forum in Azerbaijan

We participated in the Turkic States Economic Forum in Azerbaijan with more than 30 businessmen friends. If the business world leads the program supported by 8 countries, great productivity and prosperity will come out of this unity. These types of events will continue. I want to thank all the dear friends and participants who supported us during the event, as well as all the stakeholders involved in the organization. I also want to express our gratitude to Veyseloglu Group of Companies for their hospitality and kindness, including their headquarters and the companies under their umbrella like "Veyseloğlu MMC", "ARAZ" supermarket chain, "OBA" supermarket chain, and "ULDUZ" chocolate factories. We invited them to Istanbul and look forward to exploring business opportunities together. Our deepest respects to their top-level managers.

Haliç University

I had the opportunity to meet with the students of Haliç University at the UTEP event. It was a valuable experience for me to see UTEP members and students from outside Istanbul. We shared our experiences and knowledge on international trade with many esteemed experts. A special thank you to UTEP President Sami Bektaş, members, the Haliç University students who organized the program, and everyone who contributed, including Mustafa Güngör, as well as all participants.