AYSAD leads Turkish footwear sub-industry to global success

By Ahmet Taş | Wise News Press

ISTANBUL, TURKIYE — AYSAD (Footwear Sub-Industrialists Association), the first and only non-governmental organization in its field, continues to serve as the unified voice for Turkiye's footwear manufacturing components sector since its inception in 1988.

With a robust structure bringing together 325 members from approximately 36 different business lines, AYSAD bridges the gap between raw material producers, importers, designers, and exporters. Under the leadership of Chairman Sait Vakkas Salıcı, the association focuses on a dynamic and innovative approach to empower its members against global competition. By providing strategic support, training, and representation in national and international platforms, AYSAD ensures that the Turkish footwear sub-industry remains a key player in the global supply chain.

Strategic representation and global integration

AYSAD is dedicated to the effective representation of its members through a variety of initiatives, including domestic and international trade fairs, product launches, and specialized training programs. The association’s unique structure allows it to harmonize inputs from diverse sectors—ranging from chemical suppliers to machinery manufacturers—creating a stronger, collective voice in the industry. By monitoring global trends closely, AYSAD facilitates the rapid adaptation of its members to technological advancements and changing market demands.

Mission and core values

The association’s mission revolves around fostering solidarity among pioneering entrepreneurs and providing them with the necessary tools for global competitiveness. AYSAD’s operational philosophy is built on transparency, accountability, and equal opportunity. Beyond industrial support, the organization also fulfills a social mission by providing scholarships to local and international students in footwear-related fields, ensuring a steady influx of skilled talent into the sector.

AYSAD Current Board of Directors

The current management team leading the association's strategic vision consists of the following industry leaders:

• Sait Vakkas Salıcı – Chairman of the Board

• Ömer Sağlam – Deputy Chairman

• Yılmaz Polat – Deputy Chairman

• Tolga Denizel – Secretary General

• Erol Darılmaz – Treasurer

• Kadir Beşkardeş – Board Member

• Göksu Tuğsuz – Board Member

• Zeki Serkan Cevahircioğlu – Board Member

• Oğuz Aksu – Board Member

Historical Leadership: Former Presidents

Since 1988, AYSAD has been shaped by the following chairmen:

• M. Yalçın Egemen: 1988 - 1989 | 1991 - 1993

• Fikret Şerafettinoğlu: 1989 - 1991

• Osman Keserkaya: 1993 - 1993

• Fahri Türkkan: 1993 - 1995

• H. Basri Özmutaf: 1995 - 1999

• Osman Deveci: 1999 - 2001

• Ender Yazıcıoğlu: 2001 - 2012

• Tan Erdoğdu: 2012 - 2016

• Ömer Kadir Arpacı: 2016 - 2021

Sait Vakkas Salıcı has been serving as the Chairman since July 7, 2021, steering the organization toward a sustainable and innovative future.

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