Out on his own

For more than a decade, Okan Ates was a familiar face as Izmir-based Deri Maksan's export manager. Since Ates was 18 years' old, he has wanted to run his own show and International Leather Days in January 2003 gave him an opportunity to introduce his newly-minted tannery machinery and spare parts business to the sector. Over 50 different parts were on display and the new company, Onesa Makina ve Yedek Parca Ith-Ihr Ticaret, will import and export machinery, spare parts and sell secondhand and reconditioned machines. Ates envisages excellent opportunities for his products in Egypt, Malaysia and south-east Asian markets. Pigment pumps, spray guns, toggles, grinding stones and gauges are some of the hundreds of items available. All are guaranteed for one year. 'In Türkiye, there is nobody else who is selling tannery machinery parts professionally', Ates said.