Page 23 - EIF_CIP case studies

Hamit and Didem set up Bonnyfood, an internet-based retail company selling “edible fowers”, in October 2008 in Istanbul. Since then, the company has grown to become a popular brand offering fresh and premium fruit bouquets for special occasions – like birthdays, anniversaries and business events.

Before setting up Bonnyfood, Hamit and Didem occupied various roles in the technology, internet and banking sectors and also managed a number of different e-business companies. They always had a real passion for giving special gifts and as Didem’s favourite hobby was cooking, it seemed logical that they would one day start a special food service.

When Hamit and Didem approached banks for fnancing their idea, they encountered diffculties given the type of market and size of their business. The idea of selling a new type of product from an e-commerce platform was a concept many banks could not understand but Finansbank was different. They received a loan, and six months later, it is clear that Bonnyfood is not only doing well but even continuing to grow.

Bonnyfood is expanding its services across the eastern parts of Turkey. It is planning to increase its franchise network to at least 40 new outlets in the next two years and is endeavouring to enter the Russian and European franchise markets.

Company: Bonnyfood, Istanbul Type of business: Retail company EU-guaranteed loan from Finansbank: EUR 250,000

Turkey

Sowing the Seeds for growth

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