ETO PROVİDED THE LARGEST SUPPORT İN ITS HİSTORY TO MEMBERS

Speaking at the June assembly meeting, ETO President Metin Güler stated that the chamber provided the largest financial support in its history to members, working tirelessly to prevent further hardships for traders during restriction periods.

Held via teleconference due to COVID-19 precautions, the Eskişehir Chamber of Commerce’s June assembly meeting began with an opening speech by Assembly President Halil İbrahim Ara, during which agenda items were reviewed and resolved. ETO President Metin Güler provided an update on the chamber’s activities during the pandemic, emphasizing the chamber’s commitment to standing by traders and industrialists during challenging times.

Largest Financial Support in Chamber History

Güler highlighted that ETO made considerable efforts to provide financial assistance during the pandemic, distributing nearly 102 million lira in support to members—the largest in the chamber’s history. He also noted partnerships with public banks that enabled members to purchase goods and services on credit terms of up to 540 days without upfront payment. Additionally, the 2021 Breath Loan program continues to receive strong interest from members.

Efforts to Prevent the Spread of COVID-19 in Workplaces

ETO extended its support to both members and their employees, with Güler noting that 4,600 individuals received food assistance during the pandemic. The chamber also prioritized workplace safety, establishing COVID-19 PCR Testing Centers that provided services to members under favorable conditions, and distributing 105,000 “Continue Working in Health” branded masks to member businesses. Informational campaigns and events, organized with support from the Provincial Health Directorate, were also conducted to help prevent virus spread.

Preventing Disruptions and Challenges for Members

During the pandemic, Güler noted that another essential role of the chamber was addressing member challenges, particularly issues arising from restrictions. He explained that all departments, from committees to the board, worked intensively to address these issues, liaising with ministers, MPs, and TOBB to resolve challenges faced by members during restriction periods.

Plans for International Events in 2022

Güler expressed excitement over the reopening of the Eskişehir Fair and Congress Center after a long hiatus, noting that both the Eskişehir Industry Fair and B2B Meetings received positive feedback from participating companies and visiting businesspeople. He extended his gratitude to everyone involved in the organization and added that plans are in place to expand both events internationally in 2022.