US supplier expands operations into Turkey

According to W&O, more than 70 operating shipyards makes Turkey the eighth largest producer of new ships, while Turkish yards are involved in numerous repair projects, which provides tremendous potential for W&O’s international growth as it expands into southern Europe.

“Establishing operations in Turkey through our partnership with Simsekler is a key component in cultivating a future network of distribution points throughout southern Europe, which is an important step in achieving our long-term global growth objectives,” said Kristof Adam, managing director of W&O’s European operations. “Simsekler has a very positive reputation within the Turkish marine industry and our partnership will allow both of our companies to grow and better service this very important geographical segment within the international marine industry.”

Simsekler, has some 34 years of experience in the industry, is based in Istanbul and will supply W&O valves, pipe, fittings, engineered products and valve automation packages to shipyards throughout Turkey. W&O will provide technical support to Simsekler and its customers.

“Our knowledge of the marine industry in our country and our experience with the local customers and their needs, combined with W&O’s technical experience and breadth of available products, creates an optimal partnership that will provide our customers with more options and better service,” said Erhan Unlu, sales manager of Simsekler. “This partnership is a win-win situation for us, for W&O, and for the marine industry in Turkey.”