ETO WILL CONTINUE TO SUPPORT TRADERS

During the Eskişehir Chamber of Commerce's (ETO) regular June assembly meeting, President Metin Güler addressed economic concerns and traders' requests, emphasizing that rising electricity bills are affecting small businesses and highlighting the need for an increase in minimum wage with reduced employer burdens. He also reiterated the demand to cap rent increases for business premises.

The assembly meeting, held on Tuesday, June 28, began with an opening speech by Assembly President Halil İbrahim Ara. ETO President Metin Güler discussed economic challenges and issues facing traders, noting that the national economy is facing tests, with inflation and macroeconomic conditions putting pressure on businesses. Güler warned that the inflation, interest rate, and currency cycle has deepened, though resolving these issues will require time. He called again for a cap on rent increases for business premises, similar to that applied to residential rents.

Güler Highlights Rising Business Rents Again

Güler noted significant increases in commercial rents, even for small spaces, with traders expecting a cap on these hikes. He shared members' concerns over escalating utility bills, explaining that small businesses relying on electricity, such as bakeries and cafes, are suffering due to high electricity costs. Although industrial businesses have adjusted to high utility bills, even small establishments are now facing bills up to 70,000 liras, a situation Güler deemed unsustainable.

Minimum Wage Should Increase, But Employer Burden Must Be Reduced

Regarding the anticipated minimum wage increase, Güler stated that traders support higher wages and purchasing power for employees. However, he emphasized that the entire burden should not fall on employers and that they expect incentives to offset the costs of wage hikes.

Fuel Prices Driving Up Operating Costs

Touching on fuel prices, Güler mentioned that, although a slight decrease is anticipated, the high costs are still impacting business expenses. He suggested that temporary reductions in VAT and SCT on fuel used in commercial activities could alleviate some pressure. Güler concluded by affirming that ETO will continue to support traders and take the lead in voicing and addressing members' concerns.