Sana Margarine Machine

Like brands, machines can also become part of a country’s history. They can be something the country is proud of. They can be an ageless source of success and happiness.

On March 15, 1951, the Turkish Government approved the establishment of a company under the partnership of British-Dutch company Unilever and Türkiye İş Bankası Inc. In 1953, the Sana margarine factory with a capacity of 8,000 tons was opened in Bakırköy. This marked the birth of a brand that is commonly believed to be a local brand.

The then President Celal Bayar, who cut the ribbon at the opening, wrote these words in the factory diary: “I believe this factory provides two benefits. It will serve both Turkish producers and consumers. At the same time, what really pleases me is the fact that this valuable cooperation between a domestic and a foreign corporation is established on a well-informed basis. I congratulate the parties involved.”

One of the secret heroes of this half-century old gratifying story is Sana margarine machine. It is also one of the heroes of our food culture collection. Although it was born in England, now it’s a local resident of Bakırköy. Well done, Sana!

The year the machine started to be operated corresponds roughly to the year Sana was first produced. It started production in Bakırköy Sana factory in 1956. Then it transferred to Çorlu Sana Factory in 1987. After years of experience, it continued production in Çorlu. Easier said than done! During the time it operated, it manufactured about 1 billion packages of Sana margarine for the Turkish people. It retired in 1988 from the Çorlu Factory and now it enjoys its retirement years in the most valuable corner of our collection. It is proud, happy, and in safe hands.