From the very first day, the purpose was clear: to build a brighter future.
Born in 1959, Zafer Ergüney’s business journey began, much like many entrepreneurs of his era, with limited means. In the politically and economically turbulent climate of the 1980s, it was nearly impossible to accumulate significant capital as the son of a baker. When he stepped into the business world, his greatest assets were his education, determination, patience, disciplined work ethic, and an unwavering commitment to progress.
His professional life began at a young age selling simit, an experience that taught him resilience and perseverance. As a graduate of Bursa Uludağ University’s Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences, Ergüney understood the value of education and used it to his advantage. Observing that the Turkish economy—stagnant after years of political disruption—would soon recover, he adopted a forward-looking perspective. After working for a period as an accountant, he transitioned into the energy sector, motivated not merely by commercial aspirations but by a desire to contribute to a brighter and more sustainable future for the world.
In the constrained economic environment of that era, decisions had to be flawless; there was no room for trial and error. Each step required precision and strategic thinking. The energy sector—marked by intense global competition and geopolitical significance—was a formidable arena for someone with limited financial resources. Yet Ergüney’s courage, vision, and work ethic drove him forward. With a modest company and a handful of machines acquired under difficult circumstances, he dedicated himself tirelessly to his work. His belief was unwavering: a brighter future for Turkey and for generations to come.
As projects began to come to life, adapting to competitive pressures became essential. Ergüney set clear principles for himself: integrity, reliability, and uncompromising quality. By delivering work that exceeded the standards of the time, he positioned himself ahead of his competitors. With the involvement of his brothers and a strengthened organizational structure, the company grew beyond Erzurum—first across Turkey, then into international markets.
In pursuit of a “brighter future,” expanding into new sectors became a natural next step. With the combined strength of the family, ER-KAL Group extended its operations from electrical distribution to renewable energy, construction, and engineering services, evolving into a multi-sector structure built on strong foundations. As Turkey transitioned from a closed economy to a global economic model, the Group advanced in harmony with this transformation.
Today, the ideas, principles, and vision of Zafer Ergüney continue to illuminate the path of the ER-KAL Group family, guiding its forward momentum and shaping its future.