According to the Turkish Ceramic Promotion Committee, ceramic exports from Turkey have increased 20 percent from January 2006. To continue the momentum and increase the brand value of Turkish ceramics, the promotion committee says it has joined forces with DDB Istanbul and Markam, two branding and management-consulting firms.

Promotion committee president and general manager of Istanbul, Turkey-based Kale Group Export Bahadir Kayan says more “innovative products and global marketing campaigns” are underway by Turkish ceramic manufacturers.

The promotion committee, formed to conduct research, organize fairs and exhibitions, and promote Turkish ceramics, says it has several plans in the works for the future in differentiating Turkish ceramics, including: becoming transnational; analyzing global competitors and markets; brand positioning and identity; integrated marketing communication; increase the amount of both domestic sales and exports; increase the added value of the products; and additional endeavors that feature creativity that involves selling brands rather than products.

Bahadir Kayan, Turkish Ceramic Promotion Committee president and general manager of Istanbul, Turkey-based Kale Group Export, leads all collaborative efforts that will increase Turkey’s momentum in exporting ceramic products.

Markam will promote the committee’s efforts in several fields including analyzing market trends, preparing for upcoming exhibitions, and developing advertising campaigns. DDB Worldwide Communications Group’s Istanbul, Turkey-based branch is handling the creative advertising and marketing campaigns needs.

Additionally, several Turkish ceramic manufacturers will be exhibiting during Coverings, including Toprak Dis Ticaret; Kalebodur-Canakkale Seramik; Termal Tiles USA, Inc.; Ege Seramik; Vitra Eczacibasi; Yuksel Seramik; and Yurtbay Seramik.

Also exhibiting will be the Turkish Ceramic Association within the Turkish pavilion. During the four-day event, the association has invited visitors to booth 1942 in the main hall for a traditional Turkish breakfast each morning, and Turkish wines and canapés in the afternoons.