Turkish furniture giant Istikbal resumes operations in Syria with plans for over 20 stores

One of Türkiye’s leading furniture manufacturers, Istikbal, has announced its return to the Syrian market with plans to open more than 20 stores across the country through franchise agreements.

Speaking to Anadolu Agency (AA), Istikbal Furniture General Manager Mehmet Ali Yoruk said the company first entered the Syrian market in 2007, achieving high revenues until 2011, when they were forced to halt exports due to political developments.

Yoruk noted that Istikbal resumed showcasing its products in Syria in 2022 with a store in Idlib. “In this new phase, we have signed an agreement with our client in Idlib, granting them a franchise for Syria. According to our targets set in the agreement, we plan to open more than 20 stores in the country within three years,” he said.

He emphasized that recent developments regarding customs duties have also contributed positively to the process, motivating both companies and customers. According to Yoruk, the company plans to open six stores this year in Damascus, Aleppo, Idlib, Hama, Homs, and Latakia. He outlined further expansion goals, stating:

In 2026, we plan to establish 11 stores in cities including Azaz, al-Bab, Jarabulus, Afrin, Tartus, Baniyas, Deir ez-Zor, Tell Abyad, Manbij, and Daraa. In 2027, we will add four more locations in Raqqa, al-Hasakah, Ayn al-Arab, and Qamishli, bringing the total to 21 stores within three years. Warehouses and service vehicles will also be necessary for these operations. Additionally, we have already launched signage and advertising efforts.

‘Syria will be a top destination for Turkish exports’

Highlighting the improving business environment in Syria, Yoruk stated that the country’s economic activity is fueling a resurgence in trade.

He added that Istikbal aims to achieve growing revenues in Syria each year, forecasting that Syria will soon be a top destination for Turkish exports.

“Competition will inevitably intensify over time, and at Istikbal, we are moving as swiftly as possible while also taking calculated and rational steps,” he said.

He also pointed out that war-torn cities are undergoing reconstruction, supported primarily by Türkiye and other international efforts. “Furniture will be one of the essential needs in these newly revived communities.

We are determined to secure a significant share of this market. Naturally, domestic and international brands will also seek to capitalize on the country’s growing trade opportunities,” he remarked.

Following the collapse of Syria’s 61-year Baath regime and the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s government, commercial activity in the region has gained momentum, prompting Turkish companies to reenter the market.

The acceleration of infrastructure projects, housing renovations, and the reopening of trade routes are making Syria an increasingly attractive market for Turkish investors.

Meanwhile, recent decisions by Türkiye’s Trade Ministry regarding customs duties on Syria-bound exports have further facilitated trade, enhancing the competitiveness of Turkish firms.