In today's world, businessactivities undergo rapid changes due to economic conditions, whichsimultaneously cause a great change in the business environment as well. Industriesare under the constant pressure to give the best quality output at a competitive price and keep pace with the new technologies every now and then. Consciousabout this trend, the Turkish fabrics industry concentrates on enhancing itselfas one of the most competitive and self-motivated industries.

 

Turkish Fabric Industries:

 

Root of textile productiondates back to the Ottoman period. It advanced during the 16thcentury, and developed more during the 20th century. Industrializationduring 60s and 70s breathed a new life into the fabric industries of Turkey. Fabric industries of Turkey manufacture all types of fabrics needed for apparels, technicalapplications and upholstery. Large quantity of fabric is made from cotton, wooland other man made materials in which Turkey has a well-developed applicationstructure. As a major producer of cotton, the country accelerated the progressof manufacturing textile fabrics in the later years. Today, textile fabricsindustry is one of the most important industries in the country in terms ofemployment, GDP, and exports. It is the most important component of theireconomy accounting to 16% of the total industrial production and 10% of thecountrys total employment.

 

Currently, Turkey is one of the leading manufacturers of denim fabrics and related apparels. It is amajor exporter of denim fabrics and apparels to European countries comprising ashare of 20%. GAP ekstil is one of the leading producers of denim in Turkey. It has the second largest denim factory next to India. Furthermore, Turkey also has good potential on 100% polyester and polyester blends with cotton, viscoselinen, wool etc. It has a good build in woolen fabrics as it is the thirdlargest mohair producer in the world. The Fabric industries are mainly locatedin Gaziantep, Adana, Izmir, Tekirdag, Usak, Kahramanmaras, Istanbul, Denizli,and Bursa.

 

Cotton Fabrics Industry:

 

A large quantity of fabricsmanufactured in Turkey is based on cotton. Turkey has the biggest 41 largescale cotton companies dominating the woven cotton sector. These industries encompassalmost 55% of the countrys total production capacity. During 2006, and 2007, Turkey was the biggest manufacturer of cotton in the world, holding 40% of the total cottoncontribution in the world market. Despite such high production, the countrystill imports around 300,000 tons of cotton from other countries due to itsever increasing domestic demand for cotton. The high-quality cotton grown isalso a great advantage to the Turkish fabric manufacturers. Cotton cultivatedin the Aegean Region in Turkey in one of the best quality cotton world wide dueto its superior fibre features. Due to the abundant availability of cotton aswell as its fine quality, cotton textile fabric industry in Turkey has 2.5% share in the global production capacity.

 

Going Organic:

 

The country specializes more inthe field of organic cotton, which constitute a window for Turkey; giving it a positive image, and also providing a chance for its fabric industry togo to a higher level. 85% of the country's organic cotton fabrics are used inmaking ready made garments, 10% in home textiles, and 5% in personal care products. Reputed brands in Turkey like Nike, Mark&Spencer, and Timberland have decided touse 5% organic cotton out of their total cotton consumption up to 2012. Thistrend is being followed by other big brands like NAU, Target, Next, PotteryBarn, Barney, Stella McCartney, and C&A.

 

Traditional Fabrics from Turkey:

 

Apart from large scale industries, there are many small scale fabric industries scattered around the rural areas like Mugla, Kastamonu, and Denizli. Here the production of traditional fabrics are done, which are used mainly in making home textiles. Their traditional 'Buldan Fabrics' made in the Buldan province in Denizli have a worldwide fame due to its elegant designs, and traditional uniqueness. 'Selalmaz Cemberi' is another traditional fabric that acquires its name from the Selalmaz region in Kastamonu. This fabric is obtained from pure cotton yarn and is woven on hand looms with a very delicate texture. Due to its exquisite features, it is used widely in home decorations. 'Azdavay Qemberi' is yet another fabric that got its name from the town of Azdavay in Kastamonu. All these fabrics, due to their cultural heritage, elegant look, creative designs, and variety of applications have gained considerable demand in the international markets.

 

Presently, Turkey has a well organized structure regarding textile fabric industries. The pro-activeness of Turkish industries in the area of product development keeps it one step ahead of its competitors. The firms work with fashion centers and build know-how, which add to their success to a greater extent. Turkey is now holding a consolidated position of a sophisticated fabric manufacturer, using cutting-edge technology.

 

References:

 

1)       http://www.kobifinans.com.tr/

2)       http://www.turkishdenim.com

3)       http://www.nytimes.com/

4)       http://www.turkishtextile.com