Cultural integration in international entrepreneurship: How foreign food businesses localize in Türkiye

This study explores the dynamics of cultural integration in international entrepreneurship, focusing on how foreign-owned food businesses adapt to Türkiye's unique cultural and regulatory landscape. Through qualitative research involving fifteen semi-structured interviews with foreign restaurateurs, the findings highlight the importance of aligning traditional cuisines with Turkish consumer preferences, navigating bureaucratic challenges, and fostering community connections. Entrepreneurs who successfully localized their operations demonstrated a blend of cultural sensitivity, legal adaptability, and strategic networking. The research underscores that cultural integration is not merely a survival strategy but a pathway to thriving in Türkiye's vibrant and diverse market. By examining the interplay between cultural adaptation, regulatory compliance, and community engagement, this study provides valuable insights into the success factors for international food businesses in Türkiye.