The aroma of countless fabrics hangs heavy in the air. Giyimkent. That’s the name whispered on the wind. A name synonymous with textiles in Istanbul.
Giyimkent isn’t just a marketplace. It’s a story etched in fabric. It began on September 3 1985. Fifty-two founders envisioned a modern textile center. They sought to escape the cramped conditions of Eminonu Mercan. Traffic congestion and inadequate infrastructure plagued the old textile hubs. Giyimkent was to be the solution. A place of order and efficiency.
On July 18 1991 a plot of land almost 500 dönüm was acquired from the State Land Office. Construction began in earnest on May 18 1994. Then-President Suleyman Demirel and Istanbul Mayor Recep Tayyip Erdogan laid the foundation stone on October 12 1994. Giyimkent was born.
The cooperative structure evolved. In 2005 it transitioned to an operating cooperative. In 2006 then-Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan himself handed out the deeds. This act solidified Giyimkent’s place as a thriving community.
Today Giyimkent stands as a testament to vision. It boasts over 2182 independent shops. There are 935 offices. Two four-star and five-star hotels cater to visitors. The textile industry pulses within its walls. Wholesale and retail coexist. This reflects the depth and reach of Giyimkent. With a 99% occupancy rate it’s a testament to its success. Ample parking ensures convenience for the thousands of visitors.
Giyimkent caters to every need. Women’s wear men’s wear children’s clothing and baby clothes are readily available. Home textiles fabrics and accessories complete the vast array. Many companies offer retail alongside their wholesale operations. Even brand outlet stores have found a home in Giyimkent’s bustling heart.
Its location is strategic. It’s near Istanbul’s airports and the main bus station. Its location on the TEM highway connects it easily to surrounding areas. Giyimkent isn’t merely a location. It’s a symbol of Turkey’s textile prowess. A vibrant community built on the threads of commerce. A place where dreams are woven into reality. A place where you feel the energy and history within every thread. That’s Giyimkent.