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Metro Türkiye is a Pioneer in Geographical Indication Products

In line with its mission to carry Turkish cuisine into the future, Metro Turkey, which has implemented projects like the Geographical Indication Products Project—a first in our country—has launched another pioneering study: In collaboration with TURYID and FutureBright, it has announced the results of a research study measuring the awareness of these products and their perception among consumers, producers, and food and beverage industry professionals. The research, which revealed that 72% of participants knew what products with a Geographical Indication were, and 34% preferred them, highlighted the most important concept of "trust." This concept, on the one hand, defines the "value," "excellence," and "legacy" attributed to the product, while also revealing concerns about incorrect labeling and the trust in the channel through which the product is obtained.

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Metro Türkiye, a Pioneer in Geographical Indication Products | HORECA TREND

Metro TurkeyIn its "Geographical Indication Products Survey," conducted in collaboration with TURYID and FutureBright, Metro Turkey shared a comprehensive picture with the sector, revealing awareness, preference motivations, and, in particular, the decisive role of trust in local and Geographical Indication-registered products. Believing that the future of Turkish cuisine depends on the protection of local products and working towards this goal, Metro Turkey has once again consolidated its leadership in this field with this survey, once again pioneering the sector. Conducted through interviews with 600 consumers, producers, and food and beverage industry professionals aged 18-60, the survey addresses the knowledge levels, perceptions, and key challenges they face regarding Geographical Indication-registered products within a holistic framework.

Reminding that their aim is to preserve Turkish culinary culture and values ​​and pass them on to future generations Metro Türkiye CEO David AntunesWe know that this can only be achieved by keeping the product alive; for 35 years, we have been working to protect domestic products and support producers. In 2012, with the understanding that "Turkish cuisine cannot be sustainable if domestic products are not sustainable," we launched the Geographical Indications project, which brought this issue to the public agenda for the first time. With this project, we explain to producers how to grow the product, how to store the seeds, and how to ensure sustainability. We guide them on issues such as registration applications and exports. We also work to increase the presence of these products in kitchens and undertake projects that raise public awareness. Today, we have taken this work a step further, focusing on measuring the value of Geographical Indications among producers, consumers, and industry professionals through research conducted in collaboration with TURYİD and Future Bright. We aimed to answer the questions of how well these products are known and recognized, to assess consumption and usage habits, and to reveal their impact on economic, cultural, and social dimensions. Based on the results obtained, we will undertake studies that will illuminate and lead the sector. "We will focus on what the development points are and what we can do to improve the processes by focusing on them," he said.

'The identity of the product is the future of the young farmer'

Pointing out that geographical indications are a cultural force Founder of FutureBright Akan Abdula; ''Geographical indications are ecosystem creators. When activated, they transform not only a mode of production but also a way of life. They radically impact everything: the value of the land, the hope of the village, the meaning of the table. They create collectives. They move producers from competition to unity. They allow consumers to consume not only products but also culture. But for me, the most important thing is young farmers. In the last decade, many have abandoned their land and migrated to big cities. Yet, geographical indications have a great potential to keep these young people in their villages. These products not only preserve the past but also re-grow the future. This is one of the most promising areas for solving Türkiye's agricultural problems. We must defend it. We must support it. Because the identity of the product is the future of the young farmer," he said.

Pointing out that today, consumers not only want to see the name of the Geographical Indication registered products on menus, but also want to hear the story of the product from the chefs. TURYID Board Member Ebru Koralı He said, "I find the use of geographical indications crucial for two reasons. First, they create a difference. The most important criterion for geographical indications is the unique, inimitable aroma and flavor profile created by the region's soil, climate, water, and people. Chefs strive for perfection and strive to achieve the best flavor. Geographical Indications provide chefs and restaurants with certified, controlled, and standardized quality raw materials. Every geographically indicated product has a cultural, historical, and production story behind it, and restaurants incorporate these stories into their menus to offer not just a dish but an experience. This strengthens the restaurant's identity and philosophy. Second, restaurants create significant awareness by educating consumers. Customers are introduced to the product when they look at the menu. At the restaurant, they can experience the flavor of the geographically indicated product. Geographical indications establish a strong bond of trust between consumers and the product, providing satisfaction in various ways, such as trust and transparency, respect for labor, and the experience of a value-added product."

Awareness rate is 72% 

The research revealed valuable results for the future of products. While 72% of consumers say they know what a Geographical Indication registered product means, only 2 in 10 can correctly define it. Meanwhile, 34 in 100 people express a particular preference for Geographical Indication registered products.

The first registered product that comes to mind is Antep Baklava 

When 58% of consumers think of products with a registered geographical indication, they primarily think of food, desserts, and pastries. This is followed by fruits and vegetables (37%), and honey, sugar, and nuts (29%). Antep baklava stands out as the first product with a registered geographical indication that comes to mind for 26% of participants. This is followed by Malatya apricots (14%), baklava (9%), Adana kebab (8%), pistachios (7%), hazelnuts, Kayseri pastrami, and Aydın figs (6%), and Kars kashar cheese, Antakya-Hatay kunefe, and Edirne liver (5%). When local products are mentioned, hazelnuts, cheese, tea, and olives come to mind first.

Consumers seek trust in Geographical Indications

Consumers perceive local and Geographical Indication-registered products as cultural "heritage," while industry professionals consider them an element of "excellence." This translates to the concept of "trust." While trust is the greatest strength of Geographical Indication-registered and local products, consumers and professionals can also question the quality and inspection of products bearing Geographical Indication labels everywhere, from market to market. "Incorrect labeling" that has not been obtained through registration and inspection can damage brand value. This is where trust in the product channel becomes paramount. Metro Turkey assumes a significant responsibility for both the food and beverage industry and end consumers, with nearly 750 food and non-food Geographical Indication-registered and candidate products, seasonally carried on quality and food safety inspections.

Big opportunities are missed with small budgets

According to the research, manufacturers' limited budgets for products prevent them from making the necessary infrastructure investments for the development and expansion of their production operations. Not only are manufacturers unable to meet the necessary logistics requirements, but inadequate infrastructure can also compromise the quality standards of some products. This, in turn, creates distrust among industry professionals. Metro Turkey focuses on creating benefits for both manufacturers, consumers, and industry professionals through analyses conducted not only during the production phase but also throughout the logistics process of products reaching market shelves.

Support is essential for the producer to make his voice heard

The research also shows that manufacturers often fail to adequately promote their products. Industry professionals, on the other side of the process, can only connect with manufacturers through industry references and social media. This situation highlights the need for solutions that bring manufacturers and relevant stakeholders together. With this responsibility, Metro Turkey builds a bridge between manufacturers and the professionals for whom it is one of the most important business partners, providing significant support for the promotion of products and their use in the kitchen.

The results indicate “cooperation”

The research, conducted to shed light on the future of Geographical Indication-registered and local products, reveals that collaborations are a vital lifeline for ensuring the continued production of these products. It's stated that with the support of everyone from consumers to managers and the right stakeholders, information gaps, miscommunications, and inadequacies experienced in the process can be overcome.

Metro Türkiye aims to produce solutions to problems in light of the data obtained from the research and is determined to carry these products into the future by ensuring the necessary improvements and establishing collaborations.

Source: HORECA TREND and Metro Türkiye

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HORECA Supply

Add flavor and convenience to your menus with mezzeMarin.

MezzeMarin, Türkiye's seafood specialist brand, consistently meets the speed, quality, and standard expectations of the HORECA (Hotel, Restaurant, Catering) sector. With its Marine Seafood Salad product, MezzeMarin offers a practical and premium solution for professional kitchens.

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Add Flavor and Convenience to Your Menus with mezzeMarin | HORECA TREND

Carefully selected seafood such as squid, cuttlefish, octopus, shrimp, mussels, and bonito are prepared using a balanced marinating method and made ready for serving. Offering a wide range of uses from cold appetizer presentations to buffets, main course accompaniments, and catering services, this product increases operational efficiency.

Thanks to its ready-to-serve form, Marine Seafood Salad saves labor and time, and makes it possible to maintain consistent taste even in a busy kitchen environment. Stored under +2/+5 °C cold chain conditions, the product offers a safe and sustainable solution for professional use.

mezzemarin The Marine Seafood Salad stands out as a strong alternative for HORECA professionals, offering consistent quality and a chef's touch that can differentiate their menus.

The mezzeMarin brand supports culinary professionals with its diverse range of fresh seafood products.

Source: HORECA TREND and mezzeMarin

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HORECA Supply

Bonna continues to support the chefs of the future.

Bonna, Türkiye's export champion in the "Porcelain, Tableware and Kitchen Equipment" sector, has added another contribution to gastronomy. As part of its "Let's Keep It for Tomorrow" social responsibility project, Bonna launched "Bonna Supports the Chefs of the Future" to provide equipment support to schools. The first phase of the project took place in Hatay. On January 9th, the Bonna team, along with leading chefs from the sector, met with students and teachers in Hatay, engaging in a friendly gathering and answering the young people's questions.

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Bonna Continues to Support the Chefs of the Future | HORECA TREND

Since 2014 Hospitality Bonna, which stands out with its sector-specific solutions and offers high-quality and aesthetically pleasing presentation equipment to gastronomy professionals, has added another contribution to its social responsibility efforts. With a vision that believes in the importance of education and considers it its duty to participate in projects that contribute to education, Bonna has embarked on this journey. BonnAs part of its social responsibility umbrella project titled "Let It Remain for Tomorrow," Bonna launched the "Bonna Supports Future Chefs" project. This project, which aims to contribute to the training of future chefs by providing equipment support to schools, began in Hatay, a city of civilizations known for its rich cuisine. On January 9th, the Bonna team and chefs met with students and teachers from Hatay at the Şehit Serkan Talan Vocational and Technical Anatolian High School Conference Hall.

Bonna's sustainability efforts were also discussed.

In addition to providing equipment support, Bonna also met with students and teachers, engaging in conversations and listening firsthand to the future chefs. Bonna Marketing Manager Esra Atagün Karaduman explained Bonna's sustainability efforts. Bonna, which strives to support a sustainable world through its collections and operates under the motto "Let There Be Tomorrow Too," has produced 120 pieces with zero waste through its Cras collection, made from 87% recycled materials. The brand continues to contribute to sustainability with its Vitrified products. Durable, sustainable, and giving a handmade feel, Vitrified products are fired only once in kilns, consuming less energy than standard porcelain and supporting Bonna's low carbon footprint goal as an environmentally friendly category.

Sustainable Gastronomy Expert Cansu Dirim, in her presentation within the scope of "Sustainable Gastronomy Meetings," provided information about the increasing world population and explained why sustainability is a necessity. Dirim pointed out that one-third of the food produced in the world is wasted without being consumed, and shared information about the situations that cause food waste and how to prevent them. Following the presentations, "Sustainability Talks" were held with students and teachers, with the participation of guest chefs Çiğdem Seferoğlu and Baykaner Gönen.

"We believe that the future of gastronomy lies in education."

Bonna Marketing Manager Esra Atagün Karaduman said the following in her speech about the project:

“Since its inception, Bonna has considered supporting young chefs an integral part of its corporate responsibility. Over the past two years, we have reached more than 100 schools across Turkey, contributing to gastronomy education with equipment support. In the last six months, we have taken this approach a step further, transforming our understanding of social responsibility into a more holistic and sustainable structure. At Bonna, we believe that the future of gastronomy lies in education. With this belief, through our ‘Bonna, Supporting the Chefs of the Future’ project, implemented within the scope of our main sustainability project ‘Let It Remain for Tomorrow,’ we are not only providing equipment support to schools; we aim to create a long-term support system that nourishes the ecosystem, making young people feel that we are by their side on their professional journey. At the heart of this approach are two main missions: supporting equal opportunities in education and increasing access to the knowledge and experience necessary for sustainable growth in gastronomy. Bonna, by further strengthening its long-standing support codes in the last six months, has assumed the role of a leading brand in the field of gastronomy education. Today, we are not just providing equipment..." No, we position ourselves as a leading stakeholder that shares knowledge, transfers experience, and guides the development of young chefs. This structure offers a model that is unparalleled on a global scale, centering on ethics and social benefit.”

"Our choice of Hatay is no coincidence.”

Karaduman, noting that choosing Hatay as the first stop of the project was not a coincidence, continued as follows:

“In this city with a rich gastronomic heritage, meeting with future chefs has become a powerful symbol that combines our vision of equality in education and sustainable gastronomy. The Hatay meeting, carrying both of these missions simultaneously, is positioned as Bonna's most special meeting of 2026. Making direct contact with our students and teachers in Hatay, listening to them, and sharing their dreams has been one of the most valuable outcomes of our project. As a brand that places sustainability at the heart of its business practices, we value passing on this perspective to younger generations and growing the gastronomy ecosystem together. The conferences we have held to date and our Hatay initiative have been important steps that strengthen Bonna's commitment and vision in this field. As Bonna, we will continue to stand by young chefs, take responsibility at every intersection of education, sustainability, and gastronomy, and leave lasting values ​​for the future.”

Kaynak: HORECA TREND and Bonna

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HORECA Supply

A Silent Profitability Crisis in the Food and Beverage Industry

While profit margins in the food and beverage industry have been rapidly eroding in recent years, newly established businesses are closing down within a few months due to cost pressures. NarPOS, which offers end-to-end solutions in restaurant automation and financial technologies, aims to alleviate the profitability crisis created by high commission rates and long payment terms that are driving the sector into a deadlock.

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The Silent Profitability Crisis in the Food and Beverage Industry | HORECA TREND

Contrary to what rising menu prices might suggest, Türkiye's food and beverage sector is experiencing one of the deepest and quietest profitability crises in its history. NarPOS Data shared by the sector shows that 4 out of every 10 businesses established in the sector close down before completing their first 6 months. The main reason behind this striking picture is the profit margins that are rapidly eroding due to rising costs. The profitability level of the sector has decreased significantly compared to a few years ago; margins are stuck at low levels in many businesses.

The consumer is paying the middleman, not the food.

At the root of the crisis that is pushing restaurants' profit margins to the brink of survival lies the high commission rates and long payment terms imposed by marketplaces, food card companies, and banks. Commission rates and collection periods can vary depending on the channel and contract terms. Businesses in the sector pay up to 45% of their sales in commissions, while having to wait between 10 and 45 days for collections.

This cost spiral gripping the food and beverage sector in Türkiye affects not only business owners but also consumers directly. Behind the constantly rising menu prices lies not only food inflation but also other factors. vehicle inflation This is also the case here. Businesses are reflecting this cost in their menus in order to cover the high commission burden.

Today, consumers are paying a significant portion of their restaurant bill not for the quality of the food on their plate or the service, but for the system and intermediaries that deliver the food to them. This structure, which dissatisfies both businesses and consumers, stands out as one of the most important factors causing new players entering the sector to close down.

'NarPOS Model' Against Commission and Payment Term Pressure

NarPOS is pursuing a strategy that combines the worlds of finance and technology to rescue the food and beverage sector from the current cost constraints. Through collaborations with established institutions like Halkbank and Şekerbank, as well as agile players in the fintech ecosystem, the company is reducing the commission burden on businesses and bringing it to sustainable levels. Special discounts applied exclusively to NarPOS member businesses contribute to improved profitability. The company plans to further increase its impact on business profitability by launching its new solution, NarPay, in 2026.

Another critical pillar of this strategy is enabling restaurants to achieve digital independence. NarPOS eliminates one of the biggest cost constraints by providing businesses with the technological infrastructure to take orders directly through their own websites and mobile applications, without forcing them to rely on high-commission marketplaces and food vouchers.

The 'NarPOS Model' has already generated millions of liras in savings for businesses in the field. By making the billing system, one of the biggest expenses for businesses in the digitalization process, completely free, the company has enabled businesses to save a total of 35 million TL in just three months.

NarPOS Founding Partner and CEO İlyas Akça, in his statement on the subject, drew attention to striking data that reveals the state of the sector: “Today, contrary to what is believed from the outside, the food and beverage sector is struggling to survive. The data we have shows that just 6-7 years ago, profit margins in the sector could reach 60 percent, but today this rate has fallen to 10 percent. Commissions and long collection periods are straining profitability and cash flow; this pressure is also reflected in menu prices.”

Akça stated that NarPOS has created a significant improvement in profitability by reducing commission and collection difficulties, and continued: “With the NarPOS system, we can reduce intermediary costs and lower menu prices by 10 percent, while increasing the profit margin of tradespeople by up to 30 percent. In 2026, we will also implement our NarPay solution to further alleviate this cost squeeze and give tradespeople some breathing room. We will continue to improve the profit margin of the sector and contribute to changing this picture.”

Kaynak: HORECA TREND and NarPOS

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