Turkey is a major economic power in the Middle East and one of the world’s fastest-growing consumer markets. As a result, retail in Turkey has undergone significant changes over the years. In this article, we will explore the typical opening hours of shops in Turkey, forms of payment accepted, major supermarkets, online shopping, shops for expats, and consumer rights.
Opening Hours and Forms of Payment
Typical opening hours of shops in Turkey vary by location and business type. Generally, shops open at 9 or 10 in the morning and close at 9 or 10 in the evening, from Monday to Saturday. Some shops are open on Sundays, while others may close earlier on weekends. Large supermarkets and shopping centers may have extended hours of operation.
Forms of payment accepted in Turkey are cash, credit cards, and debit cards. Credit and debit cards are widely used, and most businesses accept major international cards such as Visa and Mastercard. Mobile payment options, such as Apple Pay and Google Pay, are becoming more popular as well.
Major Supermarkets
There are several major supermarket chains in Turkey, including Migros, Carrefour, Bim, and Sok. Migros is one of the largest supermarket chains in Turkey, offering a wide range of products and services, including fresh produce, bakery, and home appliances. Carrefour is a French chain with a strong presence in Turkey, offering a similar range of products to Migros, including electronics and clothing. Bim and Sok are discount chains that offer a limited range of products at lower prices.
Prices at supermarkets in Turkey can vary significantly depending on location and brand. Generally, supermarkets in Istanbul and other major cities are more expensive than those in smaller towns. Local markets, known as “bazaars,” can offer lower prices and unique products, but it’s important to be aware of potential scams and haggling practices.
Online Shopping
Online shopping is becoming increasingly popular in Turkey, with several major e-commerce websites offering a wide range of products and services. The most popular websites in Turkey for online shopping include Hepsiburada, Trendyol, and n11. Hepsiburada is one of the largest e-commerce websites in Turkey, offering a wide range of products from electronics to fashion. Trendyol is a newer website that focuses on fashion, beauty, and home products. n11 is a marketplace that allows sellers to offer their products to consumers.
It’s important to be aware of potential scams when shopping online in Turkey, as fraud and counterfeit products are common. Always check the reviews and ratings of sellers before making a purchase, and be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true.
Shops for Expats
There are several shops in Turkey that cater specifically to expats, offering international products and services. One of the largest expat supermarkets in Istanbul is called Macrocenter, which offers a wide range of imported products from around the world, including specialty foods and cosmetics. Another popular store for expats is called Tarihi Cicek Pazari, which offers imported products from Europe and the United States.
Consumer Rights
The Turkish government has several laws and regulations in place to protect consumers. The Consumer Protection Law, for example, outlines the rights and responsibilities of consumers and sets out guidelines for product safety, labeling, and advertising.
In addition to government regulations, there are several consumer organizations in Turkey that provide information, support, and advocacy for consumers. Some of these organizations include the Turkish Consumer Protection Association (TÜKODER), the Turkish Competition Authority (Rekabet Kurumu), and the Consumer Rights Association (TÜKETIM). These organizations can provide assistance and advice on issues related to consumer rights, such as disputes with businesses, product quality issues, and pricing complaints.
In conclusion, retail and consumer issues in Turkey are similar to those found in many other countries. Typical opening hours for shops in Turkey vary, but most are open seven days a week. Major supermarkets in Turkey include Migros, CarrefourSA, and BIM, which offer a range of products at different price points. Online shopping is popular in Turkey, with websites like Trendyol and Hepsiburada offering a wide variety of products.
Expats living in Turkey can find shops that cater to their needs, such as Macro Center and Migros. Consumer rights in Turkey are protected by government regulations, and there are several consumer organizations that provide information and advocacy for consumers. Overall, consumers in Turkey have many options for shopping and support when it comes to their rights and interests.