Şişecam celebrates 90 years of glass production

As Şişecam celebrates its 90^th anniversary, it reflects on its growth and reaffirms its commitment to creating sustainable glass manufacturing processes.

Today, Şişecam operates in all areas of glass production, including glass packaging and flat glass, and is one of the largest producers of soda ash globally.

It has 45 production facilities in 14 countries across four continents, employing over 24,000 people.

However, when Şişecam first started production, it had just 400 employees.

Its founder, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, wanted to create a self-sufficient nation and a national glass industry in the early years of the Turkish Republic.

Following a decision by the Turkish Council of Ministers, Şişecam was founded in 1935.

The task of establishing the Turkish glass industry was assigned to Türkiye İş Bankası, one of the country's first national banks, which was mandated by Mr Atatürk.

The Paşabahçe Factory carried out its first production on July 4, 1935.

The factory initially produced items such as gas lamps and medicine bottles.

Şişecam began producing flat glass in 1959 and glass packaging in 1967, while Soda Sanayi was established in 1969.

Şişecam CEO Görkem Elverici said: “Our global culture, uniting individuals from 35 different nationalities and encompassing 23 languages, enables us to create value for our entire ecosystem.

“Through strategic investments, cutting-edge technologies, and a strong commitment to R&D, Şişecam has established itself as one of the world’s largest producers in its sectors.

“The milestones achieved along this journey reflect the invaluable contributions of our employees, customers, suppliers, shareholders, stakeholders, and business partners.”

With a focus on sustainable growth, Şişecam continues to invest in environmentally responsible production processes and strengthen its position in key markets.

The company remains dedicated to creating long-term value for its stakeholders and contributing to the advancement of the glass industry globally.

Mr Elverici said: “As a company that not only shapes the present but also the future, Şişecam will continue to emerge stronger from every challenge, advancing with an unwavering commitment to sustainable growth and long-term value creation.”