At Egedeniz, we believe the well-being of our people, the environment we operate in, and the products we create are all interconnected and to show our appreciation we have started to launch an interview series with dedicated people behind the process of services we offer.

We are thrilled to celebrate Aysemin Çirak Tosun’s 20th anniversary as part of the Egedeniz family! Aysemin is a successful manager who has played a vital role in our company’s journey. In this interview, she shares her experiences, insights on sustainability in the textile industry, and personal eco-friendly practices.

Evolving with Egedeniz Textile

Q: Aysemin, tell us about your journey with Egedeniz Textile.

A: I joined Egedeniz Textile in 2004. Back then, the warm, friendly, and welcoming atmosphere remains the same, but technology has significantly advanced. Initially, we couldn’t access servers remotely, and internet access at home was limited. Information sharing was restricted, and people took turns handling tasks. Traveling to dyehouses was also time-consuming, requiring several hours each way. Today, information access and travel are much easier, opening up a world of possibilities.

I started with basic tasks and gradually learned and took on more responsibility. I approached every job with dedication, regardless of its level of importance. The support from my managers, participation in fairs and conferences, training opportunities, supplier knowledge, and problem-solving experiences have all contributed immensely to my development. Consistency is key to reaching this point in one’s career.

Sustainability in Fashion

Q: How have fashion brand demands regarding sustainability changed over the years? What do you foresee for the future?

A: The world’s growing population strains natural resources, leading to pollution. The textile industry is a significant contributor to this. Consumers are becoming increasingly aware of the environmental impact, driving a trend towards recycled materials, natural fibers, and eco-friendly dyeing methods.

Regulations are being introduced to limit water, energy, and chemical consumption. Sustainable production is gaining traction, with certification bodies and auditors playing a more prominent role. Traceability will be crucial in the future, potentially requiring collaboration with companies using renewable energy sources and documenting waste recycling practices. Synthetic fiber production and consumption need to be reduced.

Ensuring Alignment and Fair Practices

Q: As Purchasing Manager, how do you coordinate between departments to meet project deadlines and ensure fair production for our business partners?

A: Effective coordination hinges on three key principles:

• Mutual trust and honesty: Building strong relationships based on sincerity and transparency is paramount.
• Understanding customers and suppliers: Knowing customer sensitivities and supplier strengths and weaknesses allows for tailored approaches.
• Data accuracy: Timely and accurate data communication between parties streamlines workflow. We strive to forward information seamlessly, recognizing that “Accurate input, accurate outcome” applies. We act as an internal filter to ensure data integrity.

Egedeniz Group’s Commitment to Sustainability

Q: How does Egedeniz Group prioritize sustainable practices in sourcing and production?

A: Egedeniz Textile is a sustainability leader, from its customer base to internal operations. All stakeholders prioritize sustainable practices and hold relevant certifications. Our dyehouses use green energy to minimize carbon emissions and have a saving system, demonstrating a 12% reduction in water consumption compared to previous years. We are constantly striving towards a carbon-neutral future.

In essence, Egedeniz Textile collaborates with companies that align with our vision. Respect for people and nature is at the core of Egedeniz’s culture. We partner with companies that share this mindset and actively contribute to sustainability efforts.

Personal Sustainability Efforts

Q: Do you incorporate eco-friendly practices into your personal life?

A: Growing up on a farm instilled in me an appreciation for the environment. While I consider myself environmentally conscious, my husband and family have significantly influenced me to adopt more sustainable practices. Here are some examples:

• Energy-saving bulbs and mindful lighting habits
• Energy-efficient appliances and eco-friendly programs
• Full loads for laundry and dishwashing machines
• Natural cleaning solutions (vinegar and baking soda) instead of chemicals
• Recycling old electronics at designated facilities
• Separate collection and proper disposal of cooking oils
• Donating used clothes instead of throwing them away
• Supporting my daughter in buying second-hand books
• My father-in-law’s tree-planting initiative in his village
• Water conservation practices like using collected rinse water for watering plants

Life Beyond Work

Q: What are your hobbies and how do you spend your free time?

A: My husband and I enjoy hiking whenever possible. We also try to incorporate walking into our daily routines. Having a child naturally shifts priorities toward their activities and hobbies. As a track athlete, my daughter’s training schedules our walks.

When I have spare time, I enjoy reading geographical magazines and articles.

Inspiration and Advice

Q: Are there any books, podcasts, or movies that have significantly impacted you? Would you recommend any to others?

A:

• Books:
  • Helen Keller – My Story
  • The Music Within
• Quotes:
  • “The only thing lost in life is experience.”
  • “20% of the effort causes 80% of the result (Pareto Principle)”
  • “It is the root that stands against the storm. Therefore, deepening comes before rising for a person.”
  • “Inspiration comes if you work every day.”

Q: What advice would you give to newcomers in the textile industry? If you could make changes in the industry, what would they be and how would you implement them?

A: My Advice to Young People:

• Be patient and focus on learning. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and stay curious.
• Develop your knowledge and reliability. These are your most valuable assets.
• Embrace technology. Stay updated on the latest advancements.
• Everyone creates their brand. Your reputation and work ethic will build your career over time.

Industry Changes:

• Data accuracy is crucial. As in other sectors, many problems stem from inaccurate data.
• A centralized data platform: Imagine a universal platform connecting customers and the supply chain with real-time data visibility, even for lower-level personnel. Artificial intelligence could facilitate this. As soon as a customer submits data, it should automatically reach the relevant producer. 
• Restricting unnatural products: International organizations can play a role in limiting the use of harmful materials. Remember, nothing truly disappears in nature, it just transforms. While some materials may dissolve quickly, they don’t vanish.
• Sustainable repair practices: Looking at this from a purchasing perspective, minor product flaws shouldn’t necessitate repairs that create more environmental damage. Dyehouses and other production stages should transparently communicate errors to customers and seek approval before proceeding with repairs. Perhaps a yearly certificate could be issued to acknowledge responsible repair practices.

Egedeniz Family Final Note

Aysemin Çirak Tosun’s dedication and experience have been instrumental in Egedeniz Tekstil’s success. Her commitment to sustainability extends beyond work, reflecting a genuine concern for the environment. We are grateful for her 20 years of service and look forward to her continued contributions.