The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is lending €50 million to Özgörkey Otomotiv Turizm Gida, a leading frozen food producer in Türkiye, to support investment in a new production line for potato products and snacks, the bank reported. The new production line is expected to deliver energy-saving improvements driven by modern technology, making possible significant savings in terms of water and electricity usage and waste reduction. Founded in 1951, Özgörkey is a family-owned company and currently one of the country’s largest producers of frozen foods, with products including French fries, fruit and vegetables, coated produce, cakes and desserts.
As part of the project, the company will also commit to hiring and training 90 new employees for the new production line, addressing key skills gaps in the frozen food production sector. Özgörkey will also roll out a digital platform to its farmers and suppliers, helping improve farming practices and digital skills.
“We are pleased to support Özgörkey in advancing its resource efficiency journey,” said EBRD Deputy Head of Türkiye Mehmet Erdem Yasar. “By optimising the use of resources and embedding more sustainable practices across operations, Özgörkey is strengthening its competitiveness, reducing environmental impact and building long-term resilience.”
Özgörkey Group’s CEO, Erkan Tabak, said the company is redefining food banking in Türkiye by introducing long-term frozen food storage and contract farming to stabilize prices and secure supply chains. “This innovative model not only strengthens food resilience but also helps curb food inflation across the industry,” he added. The EBRD is one of Türkiye’s key investors, committing more than €22 billion since 2009, largely in the private sector.
The loan represents the EBRD’s continued support for resource efficiency and sustainable business practices in Türkiye’s food production sector. By modernizing production facilities and reducing resource consumption, Özgörkey aims to improve its environmental performance while maintaining its position as a major player in the country’s frozen food market. The company’s focus on contract farming and long-term storage also addresses food security concerns in the region.
The investment aligns with the EBRD’s broader strategy to promote green economy transition and private sector development in Türkiye. The bank’s support extends beyond financing to include technical assistance and capacity building, helping companies adopt international best practices in sustainability and operational efficiency. The new production line is expected to become operational in the coming years, creating jobs and contributing to the modernization of Türkiye’s food processing industry.
