Izmir University of Economics is leading the way for its graduates. Life of Mustafa Kaynakcı, who is in the souvenir business in historical Kemeraltı bazaar, was reshaped when he completed Executive MBA Program at IUE. Kaynakcı used his training and created “I love İzmir” brand souvenirs, and satisfied a need in that sector. Kaynakcı is offering souvenirs especially for cruise tourists visiting Izmir.
Kaynakcı stated that he realized the lack of products promoting the city when he started his souvenir business in historical Kemeraltı bazaar. He said, “Promotional products for local and international tourists were inadequate. I decided to create a brand name. Meanwhile, I heard about the vision of Izmir University of Economics on entrepreneurship. I enrolled in the Executive MBA Program. As a result, I was able to combine my patented brand name with the education I received at IUE.”
‘I learned entrepreneurship’
Kaynakcı stated that upon completing his education at Anadolu University, Department of Economics, he opted for IUE to get his master’s degree, where he got a chance to improve his brand name with the help of the lecturers. “We worked hard on the idea of how to promote Izmir, how to make it a better brand. I had tremendous ideas on entrepreneurship during my education at IUE. The courses I took allowed me to create and improve my brand name, enlarged my vision,” said Kaynakcı.
‘Bigger investments in 5 years’
Kaynakcı indicated that his products were greatly admired especially by cruise tourists who were visiting the city, and speaking a foreign language was also a big plus for him. Kaynakcı, who is planning for bigger investments in the next 5 years, stated the following:
“My products were admired and appreciated a lot, I got good feedback. Local and international tourists love our products such as key chains, glasses, tower clocks, magnets with ‘I love İzmir’ logo. Cruise tourism especially became an important source of income. Our products met the expectations of the tourists. Izmir deserves innovative ideas and ventures. I believe that young entrepreneurs should acquire the necessary knowledge and skills and put forth all they have”.
