ŞOK Marketler and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) have launched the Supply Chain Financing Program. Under this agreement, implemented with the facilitation of Akbank and the support of contributions from the EBRD, financial assistance will be extended to ŞOK Marketler’s suppliers in the earthquake-affected region.

ŞOK Marketler, in collaboration with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and Akbank, has launched the Supply Chain Financing Program to support suppliers in the earthquake-affected region. The official launch of the program took place on Monday, 25 November 2024, during a signing ceremony held in Ankara. This extensive initiative, focused on supply chain financing and sustainability, aims to foster economic and social recovery in the regions impacted by the devastating earthquakes of 2023.

Financial Support for Suppliers in Earthquake Zones

Through this initiative, ŞOK Marketler, with the support of EBRD and Akbank, seeks to facilitate access to affordable financing for suppliers in the earthquake-hit areas, enhancing their cash flow. The program is designed to reinforce the financial resilience of suppliers, ensure uniterrupted production and supply chain processes in the area, and contribute to boosting local employment.

Promoting Sustainable Development and Skilled Workforce Growth

The program goes beyond addressing suppliers' financial needs. As part of the initiative, the EBRD offers participating suppliers an advisory and incentive package to improve their Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) performance. Supported by the European Union’s Instrument for Pre-Accession Assistance (IPA) II funds, the program provides EBRD incentives upon achieving predetermined targets. Key goals of the program include strengthening suppliers’ human resource capabilities and encouraging the return of skilled labor displaced by the disaster to support local production. Another key objective of the program is to promote sustainability principles among suppliers, aimed at reducing their carbon footprint.

Commitment to Solidarity and Sustainability by ŞOK Marketler

Addressing the ceremony, ŞOK Marketler CEO Uğur Demirel highlighted the company’s dedication to sustainability and its contributions to maintaining uninterrupted supply processes in earthquake-affected regions. He remarked, “Our priority is to respond swiftly and effectively to the needs of our suppliers in the earthquake-affected areas. This program will strengthen our suppliers’ financial foundations while promoting the adoption of sustainable business models and driving improvements in operational efficiency. Moreover, it will support regional employment growth by encouraging the return of skilled workers who relocated after the disaster, contributing to the area’s broader economic and social development. This initiative is a vital step, not just in reinforcing the supply chain but also in advancing Turkey’s sustainability goals. We take great pride in supporting the earthquake-affected region through this initiative.”