“The Exhibition Created a Strong Synergy by Bringing Together All Players of the Industry”
Interview: Dilek HAYIRLI
Cem Demirdeş, Sales and Marketing Manager of Uğur Tekstil Makinaları, who participated in the Garment Tech Istanbul Exhibition, spoke about the latest innovations presented through the global brands they represent and the company’s local and global vision. Demirdeş stated; “Garment Tech Istanbul Exhibition became a way to say, ‘We are here because we want to do business.”
Half a Century of Experience Leading the Industry
Founded in 1969, Uğur Tekstil Makinaları is today one of the strongest players in the sector. Cem Demirdeş explained the brand’s success as follows: “As of today, our company has surpassed the half-century mark and is a market leader and guiding force in the industry. Our brands are considered a reference worldwide.”
The brands represented by Uğur Makina include leading manufacturers such as Brother, Yamato, Morgan Tecnica, and Sip-Italy. At Garment Tech Istanbul Exhibition, the company showcased the latest innovations from these brands to its visitors.
Brother Nexio: The Next Generation in Sewing Technology
One of the highlights at the exhibition was Brother’s Nexio technology, introduced by Uğur Makina. It offers solutions suited for low-volume and boutique production. Demirdeş explained the advantages of this technology: “In the past, we received high-volume orders. Now, jobs come in smaller, boutique quantities. Therefore, we need technologies that can quickly adapt to production lines. Brother’s Nexio technology fits this need. With its electronic feed mechanism, it adapts more easily to various fabrics. The thickness detection sensor prevents stitch distortion. Machines can be updated via USB, and data can be transferred to other machines.”
Yamato: High Speed and Oil Leak-Free Guarantee
Japan based Yamato machines provide high efficiency, especially for knitwear groups. “Yamato is very durable, operates at high speeds, and oil leak-free guarantee. We receive very positive feedback from our knitwear customers.” said Demirdeş.
Sip-Italy: Automation Power in Denim Production
Italy-based Sip-Italy stands out with its rich product range catering to denim manufacturers. “From pocket setters to the arm unit and belt loop setter, we offer many different solutions,” noted Demirdeş. “Our main goal is to adapt quickly to production processes, increase efficiency, and reduce costs by minimizing labor needs.”
“We Showcased Our Technologies and Brainstormed with Customers”
Although the industry is going through challenging economic times, exhibitions remain crucial for growth. Demirdeş shared his impressions from the second day of the Garment Tech Istanbul Exhibition: “Such events bring together manufacturers, suppliers, and buyers—essentially all players—creating a strong synergy. We brainstorm with customers and listen to their needs while sharing our technologies. Garment Tech Istanbul Exhibition became a platform to say, ‘We’re here because we want to do business.’”
Export Vision: Focus on the Middle East and Africa
In addition to the domestic market, Uğur Makina continues to expand its international strategy. Demirdeş highlighted the visitors they hosted at the exhibition from the Middle East, especially Egypt: “We are actively working in markets like Morocco, Iran, and Uzbekistan. We walk alongside suppliers who share our vision in these regions that are culturally close to Turkiye.” He also emphasized the importance of hosting the exhibition in Istanbul: “Istanbul is a hub that hosts many cultures at once—Middle East, Europe, Central Asia, Russia… all converge here. That’s why more events like Garment Tech Istanbul Exhibition should be held in Istanbul.”
Industry 4.0 and Artificial Intelligence: A New Era of Fast Service
Demirdeş evaluated the impact of digitalization on the industry: “Everything is progressing very quickly. Whether placing an order or asking a question, people want instant results. Our goal is to speed up our service processes. Faster service, faster solutions. Whoever is faster, wins.”
Goals for 2025: Enhancing Service Quality and Expanding Global Presence
Uğur Makina has set clear goals for the second half of 2025. Demirdeş stated: “We’ve formed groups with experienced teams and are training young colleagues. We are looking for ways to improve service quality and are integrating new technologies. We are a strong player in the domestic market and will take bigger steps to strengthen our position in international markets.”
