Özsimge Tekstil was established by Şahika Aşkıner in 1992 when she was 27 years old. Sahika started with minimal capital and only two years of experience in the textile sector as a merchandiser. Initially operating with ten second-hand sewing machines and eleven female workers in a family building, the company began as a subcontractor for prominent garment exporters in İzmir, primarily stitching nightwear and basic t-shirts.

From 1992 to 1994, Özsimge Tekstil focused on subcontracting, but by 1994, the company expanded its operations by adding cutting tables, ironing units, and quality controllers, allowing it to move to the second floor of its building. This expansion led to its first export to a well-known Dutch and American nightwear company. By 1996, the company had secured its first order for children’s t-shirts from a Belgian client, which marked the beginning of its growth into various children’s garments and maternity wear, including products under a Walt Disney licence.

In 2000, Özsimge Tekstil entered the Italian market, through an agent, and spent 15 years collaborating with high-quality Italian brands and designers, such as Moncler, Cerruti, and Jean Paul Gaultier. Until 2010, 80% of the company’s production and exports were directed to Italy. Following the economic crisis in Italy, many brands shifted their production back home, prompting Özsimge Tekstil to diversify its export markets to the UK, Russia, France, and Denmark while maintaining relationships with some longstanding Italian customers.

Özsimge Tekstil is recognized as one of the first garment manufacturers in İzmir to obtain GOTS certification for organic garment manufacturing, having launched its registered organic ladieswear brand, Profondita, which sells in high-end shops across Europe, and Russia.

As of August 2022, Özsimge Tekstil celebrated its 30th anniversary. Reflecting on its journey, the company acknowledges the challenges faced, giving Sahika many sleepless nights, but attributes its resilience to the empowerment and passion of its predominantly female workforce, which constitutes 60% of its employees. Over half of the staff has been with the company for over 15 years, with several having dedicated more than 25 years to the organization.

The success of Özsimge Tekstil is rooted in a commitment to quality, ethical practices, and fostering a positive work environment characterized by mutual respect and understanding among all employees. This experienced workforce enables the company to provide efficient and professional service to its customers, many of whom have enjoyed long-term relationships with the brand.

Customer representatives are fluent in English, and Şahika Aşkıner speaks English, Italian, and Spanish, facilitating direct communication with clients.