Dear Readers, my name is Tarık Pehlivan, and I have been part of Polipa more than 2 years, serving as a Domestic Sales Representative for the past year. At just 25 years old, I’ve had the privilege of traveling across Türkiye in this role, exploring the unique beauty and charm of our country’s cities. Each destination, with its rich history and vibrant cultural heritage, has not only enriched my personal journey but also shaped my professional growth.

One of these journeys brought me to Gaziantep, celebrated as Turkiye's gastronomy capital. In this article, I would like to share my impressions of this vibrant city, highlighting the cultural richness and commercial insights it offered during my visit.

Gaziantep Adventure: A Sales Representative’s Perspective on a City Full of History

Traveling across Türkiye, exploring its diverse cities, and gathering new stories through my work is one of the most rewarding aspects of being a sales representative. Gaziantep, with its rich history, legendary cuisine, and dedication to craftsmanship, brought a unique vibrancy to both my professional and personal journey. What started as a business trip quickly transformed into an unforgettable cultural experience.

Gaziantep: A Historical and Cultural Treasure

Gaziantep is a city that seamlessly blends modernization with its thousands of years of history, confidently paving the way toward the future. Home to the legacies of civilizations like the Hittites, Assyrians, Romans, and Ottomans, every step in this city feels like a journey through time. From the iconic Gaziantep Castle to the bustling Coppersmiths’ Bazaar, this remarkable land has preserved the vivid echoes of its past for centuries.

One of the most beautiful reflections of this rich history is the Zeugma Mosaic Museum. Taking a brief break from business meetings, I felt as though I was being drawn into the past, losing myself in the captivating world of mosaics. The museum has become a source of unforgettable memories of Gaziantep. Each mosaic, each stone, is a piece of the cultural heritage passed down through the ages, preserving the unique spirit of the city.

Gaziantep Cuisine: A Unique Culinary Journey

When it comes to gastronomy, Gaziantep is one of the first cities that comes to mind in Turkiye, having established itself as a brand through its exceptional dishes. Baklava, katmer, kebab, and beyran soup are just a few examples of the unique flavors, all deeply rooted in centuries-old traditions and recipes passed down through generations. It's clear that Gaziantep cuisine is not only about taste but also a cultural heritage that is carefully preserved and celebrated.

Working with Food Producers in Gaziantep: Collaboration Beyond Packaging

The food producers in Gaziantep deeply impress me with the value they place on their products and the respect they have for their brands. In this city, packaging is not only seen as a protective element but as a powerful tool that reflects a brand's identity and story. As a sales representative, it is a pleasure to collaborate with producers who have such awareness. In every packaging solution, it's not just about preserving product quality, but also about carrying forward its story and cultural values, which is incredibly valuable to us.

Working with these producers, it’s inspiring to see how they embrace modern practices while preserving the strong traditions of Gaziantep. This balance highlights the importance of flexibility and innovation in business. The concept of "Change," one of Polipa’s core values, is clearly evident in this context. Flexibility and innovation, integral parts of change, enable us to grow and provide the best solutions to our customers. Thanks to this mindset, we not only meet the needs of our business partners but also contribute significant value to their brands.

What I Learned from Gaziantep as a Young Sales Representative

As a 25-year-old sales representative, one of the most important lessons I learned from Gaziantep is the immense value that cultural richness brings to business life. Through my work with local producers, I’ve witnessed the perfect balance between preserving deep-rooted traditions and embracing innovation. Gaziantep is not just a place where I conduct business; it’s a city that shows me how cultural values shape the business world and enrich my professional journey. This blend of tradition and innovation is something I carry with me, understanding that respecting heritage while adapting to change is key to long-term success.

Every business day I spend in Gaziantep not only enriches my professional experience but also connects me to Türkiye's cultural heritage. Here, each day goes beyond being just a business trip, as I follow the footprints of history and tradition with every step. The lessons I’ve learned in Gaziantep continue to leave a lasting impact, shaping both my professional growth and personal journey. This city has taught me that the integration of culture, history, and business can lead to profound and meaningful experiences.

Thank you for reading my Gaziantep adventure! I’m eager to share more about many of our valuable cities with you!

See you soon..

Tarık Pehlivan / Sales Representative – Türkiye