Supporting job creation in the Turkish tyre industry
The EBRD has extended a US$ 150 million long-term loan to Brisa Bridgestone Sabancı Lastik Sanayi ve Ticaret A.S., a leader in the Turkish tyre sector.
The company is a joint venture between industrial and financial conglomerate Hacı Ömer Sabancı Holding and Japan’s Bridgestone Corporation, the world’s leading manufacturer of tyre and rubber products.
With EBRD financing, the company is planning to invest in its new greenfield plant in Aksaray Province Organised Industrial Zone to produce tyres for passenger cars and light commercial vehicles under the Bridgestone and Lassa brands. Part of the loan proceeds will also help Brisa expand its production of truck and bus tyres at its Izmit plant.
The new production facility in Aksaray is set to become the company’s strategic hub. It will also provide a significant boost to the local economy. Brisa has already accelerated employment operations for the new plant and expects to create 550 jobs, offering opportunities particularly to young people. Brisa and the EBRD will join forces to develop technical and vocational training programmes.