In today’s global marketplace, retailers are constantly seeking sourcing destinations that can deliver on three key fronts: quality, affordability, and reliability. For many, Turkey is quickly becoming the go-to option for buyers. From kitchenware to cosmetics and beyond, Turkish manufacturers are gaining attention for their ability to provide high-quality products with strong design and packaging capabilities, all at competitive prices.

At the recent ECRM Kitchen and Home Essentials Session in Dallas, Turkish suppliers were front and center, showcasing everything from food storage to cookware to storage and organizational products in a dedicated pavilion in partnership with several trade groups from Turkey.

One thing was certainly clear to the retailers who entered the room: Turkey is a sourcing powerhouse that’s ready to scale.

Advantages to sourcing from Turkey

Turkey’s geographic position, modest tariffs and business-friendly practices offer retailers unique advantages. With strong trade relationships across Europe, the Middle East, and North America, the country has established itself as a global supplier. 

“We are one of the biggest suppliers in the world,” says Berna Unluturk, Project Specialist of the Istanbul Ferrous and Non-Ferrous Metals Exporters Association (Turkish Metal Exporters, for short). “We offer good quality products at affordable prices and we are very easy and flexible to work with. Our aim is to be among the top 10 suppliers in the kitchenware market for U.S. consumers.”

Turkish manufacturers have earned a reputation for pairing quality craftsmanship with price competitiveness, thanks to modern manufacturing facilities that can adapt quickly to market needs. This is especially true in kitchenware and housewares, categories where durability, aesthetics, and affordability all matter. “Whatever you will need in the house – whether it’s organizers, brushes, pots and pans, or utensils – we manufacture it,” said Unluturk. “We are ready to provide for U.S. markets on a big scale.”

Favorable tariffs, strong logistics, and reliability

One of Turkey’s biggest competitive edges lies in its trade environment. Tariffs on Turkish products remain more favorable than those on goods from certain other regions. “Of course tariffs increased for Turkish products unfortunately, but not as much as China,” Unluturk says. “Logistics wise, we have an advantage.”

Shipping routes out of Turkish ports have expanded significantly since increased tariffs were announced in April, with more containers moving to the U.S. and other global destinations from Turkey than ever before. The result is faster, more reliable delivery for retailers who need supply chain stability. Indeed, logistics companies like HRS Global – another ECRM partner – have dramatically increased the number of containers flowing out of Turkish ports, boosting logistics capacity for suppliers based in the country. 

Beyond kitchenware: a diverse portfolio

While kitchenware and housewares are a core strength, Turkey’s export potential spans far wider. Partner associations also represent categories like cosmetics, hardware, and construction materials, sectors that hold strong potential in U.S. markets. For example, the Istanbul Chemicals and Chemical Products Exporters' Association (IKMIB) brings suppliers to ECRM’s Health & Beauty Care Sessions, both in the U.S. and in Europe, and the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce brings suppliers to ECRM's Food & Beverage Sessions. 

There are also many suppliers of  hardware and construction materials as well, which also have really high potential in U.S. markets, according to Unluturk.

ECRM connects suppliers from Turkey with retail buyers

ECRM has worked with these various trade organizations from Turkey to connect their supplier members with U.S. retail buyers at its category-specific Sessions. By facilitating one-on-one meetings, educational programming, and networking opportunities, ECRM helps U.S. buyers discover Turkish manufacturers and start building lasting relationships, while providing the suppliers with insights on how to maximize their chances for success in the U.S.

“We have been working with ECRM for some time,” says Unluturk. “We are very happy with this program. ECRM has been very helpful with us and handles everything. It’s a great opportunity that you are giving us so we can meet with these big big retailers in the U.S.”

Turkish suppliers that are interested in meeting with U.S. retailers at ECRM Sessions can email Alexandra Vladescu at: avladescu@ecrm.marketgate.com

Watch the full video interview with Berna Unluturk here!