Handcrafted gourd lamps from Turkey are gaining international attention for their unique blend of traditional artistry and modern design appeal. This article is based on the impressions gained during the search for a suitable supplier
NCal Corp designs and sells products made from natural materials. Specifically, it serves a “new age” customer segment with items produced under natural and ecological conditions, such as wood, gourd, and stone. Although the U.S. hosts many festivals themed around gourd products, the company’s desire to source from Turkey shows that this art has gained international recognition.
The gourd lamp design sector in Turkey
Turkey hosts many handcrafted products that have not yet been widely promoted abroad. Thanks to the global communication network, the internet, and social media, demand for Turkish handicrafts is growing worldwide. Gourd lamps are considered traditional Turkish crafts. They are unique and special because they are handmade. These lamps serve aesthetic and decorative purposes and are regarded as works of art. Production typically takes place in small workshops run by artisans. As a result, they attract both local and foreign customers. However, the sector faces challenges such as material sourcing, marketing strategies, and competition. Moreover, product quality and durability remain crucial factors.
Supplier requirements for NCal Corp’s handcrafted gourd lamps
NCal Corp is seeking suppliers who can reproduce (make exact copies of) their design lamps. These suppliers must sign an NDA (Non-Disclosure Agreement) and be ready for collaboration. Suppliers are expected to design aesthetic, unique, innovative, and functional lamps, with a strong understanding of both traditional and modern design approaches. Additionally, knowledge and skill in craftsmanship, fine detailing, electrical connections, and lighting technologies are important. The lamps must comply with U.S. electrical standards and have a rotating base. Understanding the characteristics of gourds and other materials, knowledge of product storage and preservation, and good planning skills for production and delivery dates are also required. Suppliers should be capable of managing shipping and export procedures for the U.S. and Spain, and must be able to speak English.
Supplier search and challenges in the Turkish gourd lamp sector
During the search for suitable suppliers, we contacted approximately 23 manufacturers and suppliers. Next, price lists were requested from 11 of them, and supplier information forms were prepared. The candidates were then presented to the customer with the report. Due to the unique and artistic nature of each product, we did not expect production standardization. Furthermore, the number of suppliers who speak English and can manage shipping was quite small. Suppliers in four different regions of Turkey were mostly artists working in small, non-corporate workshops. We consulted various suppliers who either grow, dry, and process gourds from seeds or only handle gourd processing or sales. Additionally, some suppliers have their own shops in tourist areas, and many artists produce as a hobby and sell online. This sector is open to industrialization, and promoting gourd crafts abroad should be the first step.
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If you want more information about finding reliable suppliers overseas, whether in Turkey or other countries, please contact us. We can arrange a call with our consultant who managed the supplier search project in Turkey for the American company.
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