ENGLISH SUMMARY
Headlines from Zorlu Monthly
October 2023
ZORLU HOLDING
Zorlu Holding: a recognized “Brand Upholding Republic Values”
On the occasion of the Republic’s 100th anniversary, Zorlu Holding attained a noteworthy achievement, being recognized among the “Brands Upholding Republic Values” according to a survey conducted by Marketing Türkiye. Vestel, a Zorlu Group company, shared in this pride by securing a place on the said list. The results of the Brands Upholding Republic Values survey, conducted in collaboration with Marketing Türkiye and Aksoy Araştırma in honor of the 100th anniversary of the Republic, were revealed during the Republic Ball, where the business world actively participated. As a testament to its dedication and responsibility towards the values of the Republic, Zorlu Holding, diligently striving to contribute significant value to Türkiye and foster enduring impact, has been chosen as a “Brand Upholding Republic Values” by consumers through the survey.
ZORLU PSM
The Musical 1923 takes the stage in three shows as part of Republic Day celebrations!
The three performances of the musical 1923, specially crafted to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Republic and narrate the journey from the National Struggle to the establishment of the Republic, garnered immense interest. 1923, one of the grandest theater productions ever staged, brought the jubilation of the Republic to the Zorlu PSM Turkcell Stage on October 28-29. In a collaborative effort between Çolpan İlhan & Sadri Alışık Theater, Piu Entertainment, and Zorlu PSM, with significant contributions from Zorlu Holding and Group companies, 1923 is a production written by Yekta Kopan and Mert Dilek, directed by Lerzan Pamir and Mehmet Ergen. This monumental production, featuring prominent figures from both local and international theater, is set to continue its run throughout the season.
ZORLU HOLDING
The musical 1923 wins the Haldun Dormen Special Award at the 25th Yapı Kredi Afife Theater Awards!
The musical 1923, specially curated for the centennial celebration of the Republic and brought to life with the support of Zorlu Holding and Group companies, was honored with the Haldun Dormen Special Award at the 25th Yapı Kredi Afife Theater Awards. Commenting on the musical featuring Kerem Alışık, Özge Özder, and Ece Dizdar, and brought to life by a dedicated team of 200 individuals working on and off the stage, with stunning set design and multimedia elements, Zorlu Holding CEO Ömer Yüngül said, “2023 signifies the centennial celebration of our Republic, and it’s also our 70th anniversary at Zorlu Group. We aimed to embody our commitment and responsibility to the values of the Republic by creating a lasting work of art as a tribute to Atatürk’s greatest achievement—the Republic. Our utmost desire is for the musical, to be performed at the Zorlu Performing Arts Center for years to come, to reach a broad audience and extend its reach to Anatolia.”
ZORLU ENERGY
Gold Certificate for Zorlu Enerji in the “Be Responsible!” project
OEPSAŞ, Zorlu Enerji’s electricity retail sales company, achieved the Gold Level certificate in the “Be Responsible!” project by the Business and Sustainable Development Council (BCSD Türkiye). Established in 2004 with the objective of integrating sustainability into the core strategies of companies, the council certifies environmentally conscious and sustainable organizations as part of the “Be Responsible!” project. “Be Responsible!”, guided by the motto “Responsible organizations, responsible employees,” provides direction to organizations regarding environmentally friendly office practices. It covers areas such as governance, sustainable procurement, energy management, water management, and waste management.
VESTEL
Vestel products earn top marks from VDE once again!
Vestel, a trailblazer in Türkiye’s technology landscape, stands as a leading giant with its innovative technologies and commitment to sustainable production methods. At IFA 2023, the eco-friendly Vestel products showcased achieved notable success, securing approval from the German VDE following rigorous independent testing. At IFA 2023, Vestel Beyaz Eşya General Manager Hasan Uğur received the VDE certificates from VDE Global Services CEO Sven Ohrke, marking a significant acknowledgment of Vestel’s commitment to quality and sustainability. Through these reports and certificates, Vestel is poised to uphold its leadership in sustainable technology and environmental sustainability in the future. As Germany’s premier independent institute, VDE plays a pivotal role in elevating innovation, safety, and quality standards. It conducts tests on devices ranging from electrical personal appliances to household and IT products, contributing significantly to industry benchmarks.
ZORLU HOLDING
Teachers’ Network hosts Creative Self-Confidence Festival in main partnership with Mehmet Zorlu Foundation
Inspired by the courage of teachers crafting creative solutions to their daily challenges, the Creative Self-Confidence Festival took place at Zorlu PSM Sky Lounge under the theme of “#CreativelyTogether,” in collaboration with the festival partnership of Mehmet Zorlu Foundation. The third edition of the festival, featuring experts in various fields as speakers, garnered significant attention. Approximately 500 participants, collaborating with stakeholders such as Eğlenceli Bilim, Teknokta Yenilikçi Öğrenim Çözümleri, Science Heroes Association, Contemporary Drama Association, Researcher Children’s Center, Teacher Academy Foundation, GamFed, Şehir Dedektifi, Kodluyoruz Association, and Needs Map, had the privilege to engage in a variety of activities focused on creativity and togetherness, along with interactive areas crafted by Teachers’ Network Ambassador teachers.
ZORLU HOLDING
Zorlu Holding receives “Sustainability Communication” award
At the grand award ceremony of the ninth edition of the Sustainable Business Awards, winners were unveiled, showcasing exemplary business models and projects that have a profound impact on social, economic, and environmental issues, emphasizing a collective commitment to a shared future. Zorlu Holding was honored with an award in the “Sustainability Communication” category, recognizing its communication initiatives aligned with the Smart Life 2030 sustainability strategy. In line with the Smart Life 2030 sustainability strategy, which is guided by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, Zorlu Holding remains dedicated to creating a more livable world for future generations. The “Responsible Investment Holding” approach underscores Zorlu Holding’s commitment to fostering a future that is more equal, inclusive, and fair.
ZORLU ENERGY
Zorlu Enerji enters into a strategic partnership with the German company Schaeffler
Zorlu Enerji, a frontrunner in the Turkish energy sector, has forged a significant collaboration aimed at enhancing sustainability, improving efficiency, and bolstering reliability in the field of wind energy. The company has signed a strategic partnership agreement with Schaeffler, a German technology company specializing in the design and manufacture of essential equipment for wind turbines. The Zorlu Repair and Renovation Center, established in Denizli to offer comprehensive maintenance, repair, and overhaul services for wind turbine components, initially dedicated to servicing Zorlu Enerji’s portfolio, aspires to deliver world-class and enhanced services to all wind power plant operators in Türkiye through its collaboration with Schaeffler.
ZORLU TEXTILES
Taç emphasizes sustainability with the brand-new Reborn Collection!
Taç, a powerhouse brand in home textiles within the Zorlu Textiles Group, remains committed to designing products that envision the future for a more sustainable world. Determined to create a more sustainable world for future generations, Taç has prepared the brand-new Reborn Bedding Collection, which embodies the mission of reducing water consumption, minimizing waste and carbon footprint, while emphasizing increased human value and innovation. Taç enriches both homes and the planet with the Reborn Collection, a testament to sustainability under the motto “Today for the future.” The collection’s design aims to raise awareness about the conservation of endemic plants, seeking to garner greater appreciation for society’s efforts in this crucial direction. "Six distinctive bedding sets bring to life the stories of endemic plants like İstanbul Wavy Pea, Cappadocia Onion, and Van Reverse Tulip.
VESTEL
Two new awards for Vestel Customer Services
Vestel Customer Services secured dual wins at the Türkiye Customer Experience Awards (TCXA’23), organized by Awards International, a global platform hosting customer experience competitions since 2008. Vestel clinched the Gold Award in the Best Use of Customer Insight and Feedback Strategy category for its innovative Five Senses Customer Experience approach. Additionally, the company secured the Silver Award in the Best Product or Service Development category for its new service design, enhancing the ease of installation for specific products. Currently, Vestel Customer Services implements initiatives aimed at enhancing customer benefits through its insight and feedback strategy, incorporating emotions and technology, all grounded in the five senses. For the award-winning product installation, recognized with the Silver award at TCXA’23, customers can effortlessly and rapidly set up and use their products without requiring technical service, thanks to clear and concise instructions.
ZORLU ENERGY
Solarşarj and ZES sign comprehensive cooperation agreement
To support the widespread adoption of electric cars, ZES, offering uninterrupted driving services through over 4,000 electric vehicle charging stations across 81 provinces in Türkiye, has entered into a “Roaming Cooperation” agreement with Solarşarj, a sister company of Solarçatı, which specializes in providing solar energy services in both individual and corporate sectors. This collaboration enables customers of both ZES and Solarşarj to access charging stations from both brands nationwide. By utilizing the ZES and Solarşarj applications available on the App Store and Play Store, electric vehicle users can charge their vehicles within a significantly expanded network. ZES General Manager İnanç Salman and Solarşarj Chairman Utku Korkmaz attended the signing ceremony held at the ZES Head Office.
VESTEL
Vestel receives accolades from TSE
The Turkish Standards Institute (TSE) hosted the “International Young Professionals Workshop” at the Informatics Valley in celebration of World Standards Day on October 14. At the workshop, Vestel was honored with an award for its contributions to both national and international standardization initiatives. Group Manager for Design Quality Assurance & CE Testing and Certification & Industrial Applications Gürmen Kahramanoğlu accepted Vestel’s award during the ceremony. The ceremony was attended by Minister of Industry and Technology Mehmet Fatih Kacır, TSE President Mahmut Sami Şahin, Governor of Kocaeli Serdar Yavuz, and Mayor of Metropolitan Municipality Tahir Büyükakın.
VESTEL
Prestigious award to Vestel IOT Cloud Systems Group
Future of Consultancy Cloud & AI, Türkiye’s most comprehensive Cloud and Artificial Intelligence Summit, took place on November 2, 2023, at The Bosphorus İstanbul. Leaders of the technology world gathered to discuss cloud and artificial intelligence strategies. At the Future of Cloud & AI award ceremony, a panel of judges, including CIOs, academics, and industry thought leaders, evaluated various cloud projects. The 2023 Future of Cloud Awards recognized and awarded the best cloud projects of successful companies that distinguish themselves in their respective sectors. During the ceremony hosted by CXO Media, Vestel IoT Cloud team secured the Cloud Project of the Year Award in the IaaS/PaaS category with their “Evin Aklı - Togg Smartliving integration” out of over 200 applications.
ZORLU ENERGY
OEDAŞ’s groundbreaking technologies garner great interest at the Science Fair
Osmangazi Elektrik Dağıtım Anonim Şirketi (OEDAŞ), dedicated to ensuring a secure and sustainable energy supply through innovative technologies, showcased its advancements in this domain at the 2nd Science Fair of Bilecik Şeyh Edebali University. Beyond university students, the festival drew a diverse audience from Bilecik and neighboring cities. OEDAŞ’s booth garnered significant attention at the event. At its booth, OEDAŞ also received job applications from interested university students. Throughout the two-day fair, attendees received insights into the energy sector. OEDAŞ officials provided practical demonstrations of the system using a fault detection vehicle on-site. Additionally, they showcased the drone employed in maintenance, repair, and fault detection, engaging actively with the students.
ZORLU HOLDING
Business and Sustainable Development Council Chairperson Ebru Edin hosted at the Eşit Bi’Hayat (An Equal Life) Meeting
The sixth edition of the Eşit Bi’Hayat (An Equal Life) Meeting, orchestrated by Zorlu Holding to fortify its corporate culture centered on inclusivity and equality, was hosted by Zorlu Holding Board Member and Chairperson of the Gender Equality Committee Selen Zorlu Melik, with Business and Sustainable Development Council (BCSD Türkiye) Chairperson Ebru Edin as guest. At the meeting, which brought together executives and employees of the Holding, Ebru Edin shared her experiences and insights as a leading woman in the business world and civil society. All participants engaged in a discussion on the significance of equal opportunities in business life.
A chat with Ebru Nihan Celkan on inclusion and diversity...
Zorlu Holding is steadfast in its commitment to gender equality across multiple platforms. The organization places a priority on enhancing awareness among its employees and implementing inspiring practices to fortify an inclusive corporate culture in the field of gender equality. In this context, the Human Resources Group and the General Directorate of Corporate Communications and Sustainability at Zorlu Holding engaged in a meaningful discussion with Inclusion and Diversity Expert Ebru Nihan Celkan. The well-attended meeting delved into the intricacies of diversity and inclusion, shedding light on examples to heighten awareness regarding unconscious biases.
Republic Day joy takes over Küçük Bi’Mola (A Little Break)!
Zorlu Holding warmly welcomed special guests to the Küçük Bi’Mola (A Little Break) event, an occasion organized by Zorlu Holding to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Republic. At the event, Zorlu Holding employees engaged with author and journalist Yekta Kopan, as well as history consultant Prof. Mehmet Ö. Alkan. During the session, Kopan and Alkan delved into the accomplishments and values of the Republic, discussing their enduring impact on the present day. Together, they shared the excitement surrounding the 100th anniversary.
Zorlu Group Communication Experts Convene with Nuran Aksu and Salim Kadıbeşegil!
The Zorlu Group Corporate Communication teams convened for a valuable session, where they had the opportunity to listen to a presentation on corporate brand value and accountability by Nuran Aksu, the Founder of ZENNA Kurumsal Marka Yönetim Araştırmaları ve Danışmanlığı (ZENNA Corporate Brand Management Research and Consultancy). After the meeting, the Corporate Communication teams engaged in a discussion with Salim Kadıbeşegil, Founder of RepMan İtibar Araştırmaları Merkezi (RepMan Reputation Research Center), centered around his new book “Ahlakı ve Gezegeni Tükettik - Gelmez Yola Gidiyoruz!” (We Consumed Morality and the Planet - We’re Going Down the Road!). The conversation revolved around the climate crisis, stakeholder capitalism, and the evolving values in our changing world.
Zorlu Group Communication Experts Meeting
The Zorlu Group Communication Experts Meeting, an annual event bringing together the Corporate Communication and Marketing Communication teams of Group companies, took place this year with the participation of Zorlu Holding CEO Ömer Yüngül. At the meeting, where agenda issues impacting the field of communication were addressed, Vestel and Zorlu Enerji Board Member, as well as Konda Board Member Bekir Ağırdır, and Next Academy Founder and Academician Levent Erden shared crucial insights in the session titled “Strategies for Marketing and Communication in an Era Where Extraordinary Becomes Ordinary.”
ZORLU TEXTILES
Linens unveils the “Heed” theme for the new season
Transforming home shopping into a delightful experience, Linens introduces its “Heed” themed collection, infusing living spaces with the tranquility and serenity of the sea. This creatively designed collection adds a burst of color to the autumn/winter season with its unique and original designs. The collection prominently features the blue color, complemented by combined tones of gray, beige, and green. In this standout design featuring intricate patterns, colors are imbued with a watercolor effect achieved through brushstroke detailing. Crafted with harmonious monochrome prints, the collection presents a refined yet understated elegance. In the “Show” pattern, vibrant flowers take center stage, seamlessly transitioning into water tones with floral prints on the backdrop, in harmony with the overarching theme colors. The “Jacquard” duvet cover and “Throw” bedspread group showcase captivating geometric forms. The dominant hues include blues, khakis, greens, sand tones, and ecru.
ZORLU ENERGY
ZES Solar hosts SPP Solutions and Field Applications event
Zorlu Enerji’s solar company, ZES Solar, hosted an event focused on Industrial Rooftop Solar Power Plant (SPP) Solutions and Field Applications. The event served as a platform for industry stakeholders and potential customers interested in gathering information about ZES Solar’s solar panels, Solis inverters, and undertaking high-power installations. Various aspects, including engineering considerations, material procurement, selection of panels and inverters, and challenges encountered during energy generation in rooftop and ground solar energy installations, were thoroughly examined with a focus on quality and field supervision. During the event, ZES Solar elucidated the benefits of both Industrial Rooftop SPP and Land SPP systems to the participants.
ZORLU ENERGY
Zorlu Enerji’s “Geothermal Energy: Benefits and Efficiency” video is now online!
Zorlu Enerji’s “Geothermal Energy: Benefits and Efficiency” video delves into Türkiye’s abundant geothermal resources, explores the various applications of geothermal energy, highlights the value generated through Zorlu Enerji’s production endeavors, and outlines its future objectives. The video has been released on social media platforms and YouTube channels. The film is complemented by visuals showcasing Türkiye’s geothermal capacity. Zorlu Enerji takes pride in contributing to nearly 20 percent of Türkiye’s geothermal energy production. This achievement is realized through the operation of Kızıldere I, Kızıldere II, and Kızıldere III power plants in the Kızıldere field—home to Türkiye’s first geothermal power generation facility. Additionally, Zorlu Enerji’s Alaşehir power plant, a pioneering hybrid power facility, further solidifies its position in the sector.
