Closure of the Beykoz Shoe Factory in Istanbul

Historical Importance and Background

The Kundura Factory, which was established in Istanbul Beykoz and founded in 1832, was closed on November 13, 2003. This event signifies the loss of an important part of the industrial heritage dating back to the Ottoman Empire era.

The Kundura Factory was one of the most significant shoe production centers in Istanbul from its establishment until its closure. The factory initially produced shoes only for the local market but eventually started exporting and gained a great reputation. This shows that the factory had not only economic value but also played an important role in Turkey's industrial development.

The year 2003, when the event took place, coincides with a significant point in Turkey's economic transformation process. The country was making reforms in its path towards European Union membership and modernizing its economy. The closure of the Kundura Factory is seen as part of the changes that occurred during this period.

Development of the Event

Difficult Period for the Factory

The Kundura Factory faced many challenges from its establishment onwards. Factors such as economic crises, competition, and technological advancements increased the struggle for the factory to survive. However, with the dedication of the management and employees, the difficult times were overcome.

Issues in the Recent Period

In the late 1990s, the Kundura Factory faced even greater challenges. Increased costs, inadequate marketing strategies, and external competition made it difficult for the factory to continue its operations. During this period, rumors about the closure of the factory started to spread rapidly.

Decision to Close and its Effects

On November 13, 2003, the management of the Kundura Factory announced the decision to close the factory due to economic reasons. This decision became one of the most challenging moments in the factory's history. The closure of the factory left approximately 700 employees unemployed and affected the economic balance in the region.

Consequences and Implications

The closure of the Kundura Factory led to many short-term and long-term consequences. In the short term, the closure of the factory increased the unemployment rate and decreased economic activities in the region. Additionally, the closure of the Kundura Factory meant the loss of Istanbul's industrial heritage.

In the long term, the closure of the Kundura Factory decreased Turkey's strength in the shoe manufacturing sector. Losing Turkey's position as a global shoe production center had negative economic effects.

From a societal and political perspective, the closure of the Kundura Factory affected labor movements and reduced union activities. Furthermore, this event is important in highlighting the difficulties and economic dilemmas experienced during Turkey's industrial transformation process.

Historical Importance and Reflections to the Present

The closure of the Kundura Factory is considered a significant turning point in Turkey's industrial history. While symbolizing the challenges and changes in Turkey's economic transformation process, it also serves as a warning to preserve the country's industrial heritage.

Today, the closure of the Kundura Factory is seen as an example of the disappearance of Istanbul's historical fabric. This event has raised awareness about the preservation of history and cultural heritage and has led to taking measures to prevent similar situations.

Among the lessons learned, the preservation of industrial heritage and cultural values is emphasized as an important factor to consider during economic transformation processes. This event provides an opportunity to understand Turkey's industrial history and pass it on to future generations.