Tren, one of Turkey's leading entertainment brands, has been driving the transformation of the sector with its different concepts since 2012. The brand aims to grow in Turkey and internationally with its strong franchise model. In this special interview, you can find the answers given by Tren CEO Abide Gülel Saral to our questions about the franchise system and the brand's future vision.

Can you tell us about the establishment process of your brand?
Tren brand was first established in 2012 and in a short period of time, it reached more than 20 branches. When the entertainment culture started to change in the world, we adapted to this change and developed a new concept. Today, Tren has become a güçlü structure serving with different concepts under the same brand.

How many branches do you have in total? How many of them are franchises?
We currently have a total of 8 branches. 7 of them operate in Mersin, Uşak, Balıkesir, Van, Denizli and Diyarbakır with the franchise model. Our branch in Cappadocia is directly owned by us. We are evaluating incoming requests for Ankara, Istanbul and Izmir, but we are not in a hurry here; we want to move forward with the most suitable investors.

Are you active abroad?
We currently do not have any active branches abroad. However, we are in the process of transferring the operations manager of a strong brand that operates internationally as a franchise controller. Our priority is countries affiliated with the Organization of Turkic States. Additionally, under the agreement we signed with Nova Group, we offer franchise + residency + incentives + training packages to investors in Europe and America.

What characteristics do you look for in investors who want to open a new branch?
First of all, the size of the venue is important.
- Approximately 400 m² for Club & Stage concepts
- Approximately 200 m² is sufficient for Pub & Tavern concepts.
Entry fees:
- Club & Stage → $75,000 USD
- Pub & Tavern → $35,000 USD

Monthly royalty and advertising fee: varies between 3% and 5%.

We offer investors collective artist & DJ agreements, high-discount partnerships with beverage companies, event, security, and advertising support, training, and regular inspections.

How many different concepts do you have?
We have a total of 4 main concepts:
- Club & Dining
- Stage – Concert Hall
- Pub & Snacks
- Tavern

In addition to these, the Beach and Shisha concepts can be integrated into all other concepts.

What is your branch target by the end of 2025?
Our goal is to reach 25 branches with our current team. So far, 8 have been completed. In addition, we have closed 5 large franchise branches that did not meet our brand's current standards. We are now only continuing our journey with investors who align with our vision.

Do you have anything to add?
Tren is a small but powerful organization that has made a name for itself in the industry by securing investment from a foreign fund. We began our collaboration on the day we decided to change our concept with Osman Bilge from Franchise&More. We then implemented our overseas residency, incentive, and training package with Müjdat Güler from Nova Group. We brought Mariana Pavlova, who received international brand training through our German partnership, into our organization.

Unlike many companies, we don't just build a team by granting franchises. We first build a strong team, then sell our franchise system. Nevertheless, we see our franchisees as part of our family.

These developments will enhance not only our brand's financial strength but also its international image and recognition.