UK supermarket megabrand Tesco took over the Turkish market chain Kipa in 2003, since when it has been working hard to move its market position from 6th to 1st among major grocery retailers in Turkey (Migros and Carrefour currently occupy the top two spots). Tesco Kipa owns markets and hypermarkets in Bodrum, Izmir and Antalya, as well as other 11 locations, and is hoping to expand its reach by announcing 8 new locations by the end of 2007.
There has been much speculation about the probability that Didim might be one of the planned locations for a Tesco Kipa hypermarket complex. Didim was included on the map of significantly populated towns in Turkey in a special presentation for Tesco Kipa investors earlier this year - even though that was based on the 2000 census results. The massive increase in population since foreigners have been allowed to directly own property here will have expanded numbers way beyond the 37,000 captured 7 years ago. Add to that Tourism Today's estimate that Didim's population swells tenfold in the summer months and the appeal to Tesco Kipa becomes even more evident.
According to The Didymian newspaper, Mayor of Didim Mumin Kamaci is aware of Tesco's interest in Didim and welcomes the plans, but has not been formally approached by the chain in regards to the project. It is believed that Tesco has already carried out a feasibility study on opening a mall in Didim and is in final negotations with landowners before making any official announcements.
The rumoured location of the mall is on the Akbuk Road, which runs from Yenihisar's Cumhuriyet Caddesi, out towards Akbuk and on towards Bodrum and the airport. It is hoped that the shopping complex will include a Tesco Kipa hypermarket, stores and a cinema, similar to the one opened last month in Kusadasi.
Sources: Tourism Today , The Didymian
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