An overview of corporate social responsibility contribution in Turkey GSM industry

This study investigates the Corporate Social Responsibility activities of mobile telecommunications industry in Turkey and its impact on business performance. For this purpose, the data obtained from the sustainability reports of 3 GSM companies operating in Turkey between 2015-2020 were examined using content analysis method. The activities of the companies were scored by determining categories and subcategories under the social impact and environmental impact headings. The market data reports of BTK (regulatory authority) were used for market share, average revenue per subscriber and subscriber growth rate values representing business performance and mobile infrastructure investments of companies. The relationship between the concepts was analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation and regression analysis methods. Content analysis results indicate that GSM operators' social responsibility practices has been increasing in Turkey. It is found that there is a particular focus on education, investments in youth and women's empowerment. In statistical analysis, it was concluded that there was no relationship between Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) performance and business performance. While considering the high penetration and huge income of mobile telecommunications services, it's obvious the importance of the industry's social responsibility impact. The findings of the study reveal that the sector players have a high awareness of responsibility towards the society and the environment, and this is turned into action with a managerial willness beyond necessity.