Why Turkey?

Some people visiting this blog (perhaps you) didn't know that I was going to Turkey, or if you did, didn't know why. Well, this post is here to rectify that lack of hard knowledge.

I currently work for Pixelworks. We make custom chips that go inside of flat panel TVs, monitors and projectors. Right now, the flat TV thing is booming. A big market for these hip little units is Europe. They were a big part of Pixelworks bottom line last quarter. So, where are these TVs for Europe made? Well, lets first look at the USA. Where are a lot of our TVs made? Mexico. They have low labor wages, but are still inside of the NAFTA free-trade system so they don't have to pay extra taxes on TVs like even low-wage powerhouse China does. Where is a similar situation in Europe? Turkey. While they are not in the EU, they are still inside many of the tariffs, including TVs. Two companies inside of Turkey, Beko and Vestel, account for a majority of the TVs sold in Europe. So, when Pixelworks wants to sell chips to the European market, we go to Turkey. We have designs in both companies, and with the volume they are producing, deserve a little Pixelworks TLC. That would be me. I will be over there working with both companies on a range of new projects.

As of my last visit, I have been to Turkey five times now, so I know it well. The people are nice, the culture is a wonderful mix of West and East, and history abounds. Not only is this a great opportunity for me inside of Pixelworks, but it is a great adventure as well.

As you can tell from the apartment tour, there will be a guest bedroom, so why not be part of the adventure as well?