MAT Filtration Technologies is a leader in design, manufacturing and contracting in the fields of MEP (mechanical, electrical and plumbing) engineering and speciality water filtration technologies, offering industrial-grade water treatment equipment for public aquariums, zoos, waterparks and commercial swimming pools.
The company offers engineering services globally in addition to producing high-efficiency water filtering machinery. It designs, fabricates, commissions and installs filtration systems and also provides after-sales support to its clients.
Founded in 2014, MAT Filtration Technologies celebrates its 10th anniversary this year. As it marks this milestone and opens a new state-of-the-art factory, blooloop speaks to founder and chairman Erdem Akartepe, who explains the company’s values and outlines its mission for the years to come.
A passion for the industry
Akartepe says his early interest in fish and sea life led his career in this direction. He credits his educational journey, starting in Ankara, as a significant contributor to his personal and professional growth.
“In the early stages of my career, I gained valuable experience in aquarium management, nurturing my passion for fish, sea life, and aquaculture,” he says. “After accumulating substantial expertise in the aquaculture and water filtration market, I identified unmet needs that led to the creation of a company rooted in a vision of quality and sustainability.”
This vision materialised with the founding of MAT Filtration Technologies, where he assumed the role of chairman in 2023.
His commitment to understanding the emotions and anatomy of fish, as well as his entrepreneurial spirit, has played a crucial role in shaping a successful career in the aquaculture and filtration industry. Akartepe founded MAT Filtration Technologies with a vision centred on growth, global impact, and environmental responsibility:
“In 2014, with just a few people, our goal was to address market gaps by providing comprehensive solutions in the aquarium and aquaculture industries.”
Creating MAT Filtration Technologies
Today, with over 400 employees across the globe, the company has expanded its reach to almost all continents. Yet it has also remained true to Akartepe’s original vision:
“Our commitment to sustainability and quality is unwavering. We believe in the transformative power of teamwork and have also recently launched a preservation program. This aligns with our mission to protect animals and spread the message of love for the environment. We aim to bring to the market what it couldn’t offer, ensuring a lasting impact on the industry.”
MAT Filtration Technologies maintains its commitment to quality standards, not merely in words but through consistent practice, he adds:
“In the early stages of my career, I occupied various roles, primarily in the quality assurance project team, where my focus was on delivering optimal quality and ensuring project success. Drawing upon those experiences, I now find myself driving the team forward. I am seeking to inspire continuous improvement in our approach to quality assurance. My aspiration is for MAT to be recognised as the unparalleled and most robust quality product in the market.”
A strong vision
A combination of growth, global impact, teamwork, and a deep passion for animals and the environment is what drives MAT’s vision.
In addition:
“MAT is focused on a mission to develop, manufacture, install, commission, and maintain advanced water treatment systems,” says Akartepe. “Targeting customers with a strong commitment to natural resources and life, the company strives for unconditional customer satisfaction.”
This vision extends beyond mere business goals; it also aspires to leave a lasting legacy on Earth:
“By leveraging technological solutions, we aim to safeguard water, contribute significant value to the environment, and promote sustainable living practices. This overarching vision reflects a profound dedication to technological innovation, environmental responsibility, and a positive impact on the world.”
Today, the company’s mission is to grow and achieve more. Joining forces with PCP, Pragma Capital Partners, it is focusing on creating innovative solutions.
“PCP’s investment shows they believe in MAT’s ability to make a positive impact in our industries. Together, we commit to pushing boundaries and achieving the impossible. This partnership with PCP is built on shared values, respect, and a determination to leave a legacy. We’re confident that working hand in hand will bring positive results. This will contribute to a world where innovation, sustainability, and excellence thrive together.
“Together, we’re not just partners; we’re building a better future for our users, clients, employees, and animals.”
Tailor-made solutions
MAT’s uniqueness stems from its distinctive approach and the tailor-made solutions that it offers to its customers, explains Akartepe:
“Our key capabilities lie in the customization of all our products and equipment, aligning precisely with the specific demands of our clients. Beyond mere pricing considerations, our values extend to the core of sustainability. Whether in aquaculture, aquariums, zoos, or other industries, we are committed to developing products that promote sustainability.”
“Our profound love for the water is evident in our desire to connect with each client, ensuring that every project becomes an unparalleled experience. MAT is synonymous with creating unique experiences while delivering the best, in collaboration with our dedicated team. We not only identify what the market needs but also how it needs it. Constant research is integral to our operations. We strive to optimize our products and services, ensuring that we remain at the forefront of innovation in our industry.”
With the inclusion of MAT’s new partner, PCP, its collective strength has grown. This enables the company to confidently present its products on a global stage.
“The collaborative efforts of individuals and projects have played a pivotal role in shaping MAT into the thriving entity it is today, driving our expansion and reaffirming our fundamental purpose – to be the best. Embracing a new hierarchy, establishing a state-of-the-art factory, expanding our product line, and refining our catalogue are all in progress.
“Our unwavering focus is on always moving forward.”
New partnerships for MAT Filtration Technologies
The company has also recently announced a ground-breaking partnership with Bureau Veritas. MAT stands as the sole provider implementing rigorous quality control measures on equipment before dispatch.
“Drawing from my experience at the BTC (Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan) pipeline project, where I honed my quality skills, I am committed to gaining a comprehensive view from both the customer and marine life perspectives,” says Akartepe. “Given that our products are consumed regularly, our primary objective is to cater to their needs.
“Bureau Veritas will play a crucial role in elevating the quality of our products. Their continuous presence in our factory ensures daily inspections for pre- and post-quality checks before and after shipment. Our commitment is to focus on peak performance, ensuring the delivery of impeccably tested equipment.”
Successful projects
Over the past decade, MAT has successfully delivered numerous projects. Notable highlights include SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, Mazatlán New Aquarium, Poema del Mar, Dubai Mall Penguins, The Land of Legends, Dubai Safari Park (where the MAT Zoological teams have expertly managed operations), Loro Parque Zoo Hippopotamus Exhibit, Legoland Dubai, BioMuseo Aquarium, Michin Aquarium, and many others.
“Every project holds a special place in our hearts at MAT,” says Akartepe.
“We are also excited to share that we have recently become the primary LSS supplier for the Amaala Red Sea Marine Life Institute Aquarium. This marks a significant milestone. Nevertheless, we continue to approach each project with a unique dedication, striving to deliver excellence. Our diverse portfolio includes life support systems, aquaculture, industrial filtration projects, and more, scattered across the globe.
“Each endeavour fills us with pride as we play a crucial role in their execution and development.”
MAT’s global branches also play a pivotal role in acquiring, managing, and executing projects across the globe:
“Our extensive network includes MAT branches in Doha, Dubai, and the USA, with our main subsidiary located in Stavanger, Norway, the MAT-KULING head office. Notably, it oversees the execution of recirculating aquaculture technology projects. In Izmir, we also proudly operate MAT Pool Technologies, dedicated to collaborating with commercial pools and water parks worldwide.
“With a formidable team comprising over 400 professionals, we strive for excellence in every project we undertake. Special mention goes to our MAT Zoological team, headquartered in Doha, Qatar. Comprising veterinarians, project managers, and engineers, this team spearheads operations in zoos and aquariums globally. One such noteworthy project is Qatar’s Al Khor Panda House.
“We take immense pride in our diverse and accomplished international team.”
New premises for MAT Filtration Technologies
In terms of how the company has grown over the past ten years, both its team and its capabilities have expanded:
“We have consistently aimed to develop products that promote the sustainability and well-being of animals. As proud members of AZA, EAZA, EUAC, and WAZA, we actively engage with programs, organisations, and projects that share our vision. Since our inception, we have strategically focused on the international market.
“Our branches in the USA, the United Arab Emirates, Norway, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar serve as a testament to our global presence and sustained growth.
“Our international team comprises individuals with various abilities and language skills, reflecting our commitment to diversity and inclusion. Beyond merely selling equipment, our primary focus is to lead and advance our vision of being a company conscientious of global needs.”
MAT’s new factory was meticulously designed to quadruple its total area, he adds:
“Over the years, our demands have significantly increased, prompting the need to enhance our production capacity. The new facility houses various departments, including electrical installation and testing, manufacturing and testing, equipment assembly, logistics, purchasing, and more.”
This expanded space currently accommodates approximately 100 employees and a much larger overall capacity in a total of 7500 m² area. The firm’s production staff comprises 75 skilled welders, 60 specialists focusing on UV and Ozone technologies, and an annual output of 840 containers. This state-of-the-art factory provides a conducive environment for MAT’s employees and clients. It also positions it for substantial growth.
“With the ability to meet four times our previous demands, the facility includes dedicated areas for testing and optimizing processes, ensuring efficient and timely operations.”
Sustainability is key
Sustainability is of huge importance to MAT Filtration Technologies:
“We aspire to undertake more projects that promote environmental awareness and sustainability,” says Akartepe. “Shortly, we will unveil our new project for 2024.
“Our focus extends beyond creating materials that may linger in the environment or are potentially degradable. We develop materials that are recyclable and excel in filtration efficiency. Our commitment extends to creating products for water, air, and animals, with a simultaneous dedication to their well-being. This marks our milestone — a journey towards heightened awareness of the demands impacting the lives of all beings.”
The firm has several projects to share, including its continued involvement in the Amaala Project as a supplier.
“Additionally, we have an internal project that we will unveil shortly, promising more details. Today, what I can reveal is that we are dedicated to fostering a better world. MAT transcends the realm of a mere provider of filtration and aquaculture equipment. It is a sustainable company committed to actualizing its principles. This commitment is evident in various internal projects and the increasing demands we undertake.
“I am privileged to assume the position of chairman of the board at MAT Filtration Technologies, marking a significant milestone in our strategic partnership with PCP. In the face of emerging challenges and opportunities, I eagerly take on the responsibilities of a leader, collaborating closely with our team to magnify the positive impact of our initiatives.
“This partnership transcends mere financial investment. It is a synergy grounded in shared values and mutual respect, as well as a steadfast commitment to forging a lasting legacy for a more sustainable and eco-friendly world.
“I stand prepared to guide our exceptional team into a new era of innovation and growth.”
