Thursday, August 28, 2025
Kastamonu Bulgaria, a subsidiary of Kastamonu Entegre, a global leader in the wood-based panel industry, recently celebrated its 25th anniversary in Stara Zagora, Bulgaria. The event was a milestone for both the company and the Bulgarian flooring industry, reflecting on the company’s significant contributions over the years. With an investment of over 200 million BGN and a dominant 35% market share in Bulgaria’s particleboard sector, Kastamonu Bulgaria is stepping into a new era focused on innovation, sustainability, and fostering the next generation of talent.
Kastamonu is a name of sustainable legacy
Founded in 1943 by the Enchev Brothers, the roots of the Stara Zagora facility date back to when the region was home to a modest lumber workshop. In 2000, Kastamonu Entegre acquired “Gabrovnitsa AD” for €10 million, initiating a phase of global expansion and technological transformation. The facility underwent substantial upgrades, including the introduction of high-capacity melamine press lines, energy efficiency projects, and an €8 million upgrade to its “Dry Area” between 2007 and 2024. These investments helped Kastamonu Bulgaria grow into one of the largest players in the flooring and wood-based panel industry in Bulgaria and the surrounding region.
CEO Haluk Yıldız emphasised that Kastamonu Entegre’s presence in Bulgaria is not just about business growth but also a symbol of the strong partnership and collaboration between Turkey and Bulgaria. “This facility represents our shared vision and commitment to a prosperous future,” Yıldız remarked during the anniversary ceremony. The company now operates across six countries and produces 7% of the world’s laminate flooring, making it a key player in the global flooring industry.
The anniversary celebration brought together a diverse group of dignitaries, business partners, and employees from various countries, including Bulgaria, Turkey, Greece, and North Macedonia. The event was attended by distinguished guests such as Mr. Mehmet Sait Uyanık, the Turkish Ambassador to Sofia, and Mr. Stoyan Toshev, the Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Food of Bulgaria. Both praised Kastamonu, Bulgaria, for its significant role in regional development and the economic cooperation between the two countries. Mr. Uyanık highlighted that Kastamonu Bulgaria exemplifies the successful economic collaboration between Turkey and Bulgaria. “Kastamonu’s investment in Bulgaria is not only a key driver for the local economy but also a model of how industry can bridge borders and foster lasting partnerships,” he stated.
As the company celebrates 25 years of success, its future is now focused on three major pillars: innovation, sustainability, and investing in young talent. The ongoing transformation of the Stara Zagora facility aligns with these goals. The introduction of the EU-funded “Recycle” project, scheduled for launch in 2025, will focus on increasing the use of recycled materials in the company’s production processes. This initiative will support Kastamonu Bulgaria’s efforts to reduce its environmental impact while maintaining its commitment to delivering high-quality flooring products.
Sustainability has become a major focus within the global flooring industry, and Kastamonu Bulgaria is fully embracing this trend. The company’s efforts to optimise its manufacturing processes, increase energy efficiency, and reduce waste are a testament to its forward-thinking approach. Additionally, Kastamonu Entegre has invested significantly in sustainable production practices across its global operations, solidifying its reputation as an eco-conscious leader in the industry.
In addition to its focus on sustainability, Kastamonu Bulgaria is committed to nurturing the next generation of professionals in the flooring industry. During the anniversary event, Mehmet Safaltın, General Manager of Kastamonu Bulgaria, emphasised that the company’s growth has been accompanied by an ongoing commitment to education and training for young talent. The company has invested in programs to support the professional development of its workforce and to provide young people with the skills they need to thrive in the rapidly evolving flooring and manufacturing sectors. “We are not only investing in advanced technology but also in the future of our people,” said Safaltın. “Our investment in young talent will ensure the continued success and innovation of Kastamonu Bulgaria for years to come.”
Impact on the regional market
Over the past 25 years, Kastamonu Bulgaria has become a dominant force in the Bulgarian flooring market. Today, it holds a 35% share of the national particleboard market, underscoring its leadership position in the industry. The company’s continued investments in technology, sustainability, and its workforce ensure it will remain a key player in the region’s wood-based panel production.
The significant market share held by Kastamonu Bulgaria has contributed to the overall growth and modernization of Bulgaria’s manufacturing sector. As the company enters its next phase, its focus on innovation and sustainability will likely drive further growth, not only in Bulgaria but across Europe. With 25 years of success behind it, Kastamonu Bulgaria is poised to continue its journey of growth and innovation. The company’s commitment to sustainability, investment in cutting-edge technology, and focus on nurturing young talent position it well for the challenges and opportunities of the future.
As Kastamonu Bulgaria enters a new era, it remains committed to delivering high-quality flooring solutions while maintaining its dedication to environmental responsibility and fostering long-term partnerships. The company’s 25th anniversary is not just a celebration of past accomplishments, but a powerful reminder of the bright future ahead for the flooring industry in Bulgaria and beyond. Kastamonu Bulgaria’s 25th anniversary marks not only a significant milestone in the company’s journey but also a reflection of the broader transformation of the wood-based panel industry. With a continued focus on innovation, sustainability, and young talent, the company is poised to lead the way in the future of the flooring industry in Bulgaria and across Europe.
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Tags: flooring industry, flooring market Bulgaria, Kastamonu Bulgaria, Kastamonu Entegre, particleboard, wood-based panels
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