Our Founders

Adem A. Kaner (1924–1975)
Adem A. Kaner was born on February 5, 1924, in Nicosia as the second of four siblings. He developed an interest in trade at a young age and, while still in primary school, helped his father Ahmet Bey, who was engaged in transportation with a horse-drawn carriage. After starting secondary school, he dropped out to support his family and began working as an apprentice tailor. Over time, he left tailoring to pursue his goal of starting his own business and turned to trade. During that period, he purchased yarns imported under a quota, had fabrics woven in villages, and sold them in markets. Thanks to his entrepreneurial spirit, he turned this business into a trading company and expanded it. After his brother Vedat Kaner completed his education in 1959, they renamed the company as Adem A. Kaner and Brother Ltd., officially establishing the partnership between the two brothers. This step became the most important foundation for today’s Kaner Group of Companies. Adem Kaner was known not only for being a hardworking, disciplined, and visionary businessman but also for the importance he placed on his family. He married Destine Hanım in 1947, and they had two children, Doğu and Sıdıka. Adem Kaner passed away in 1975. He embraced hard work as a way of life throughout his life and was remembered as a respected leader both in the business world and within his family for his determination.

Vedat Kaner (1937–1981)
Vedat Kaner was born on June 17, 1937, in Nicosia. He spent his childhood in the village of Abohor (Cihangir) and his youth in the Yenicami neighborhood of Nicosia. After completing his education, he graduated from Nicosia Turkish High School. Vedat Kaner entered the business world at a young age, assisting his older brother Adem Kaner during his youth and learning the trade firsthand. He played a significant role in the production of fabrics and bed linens, quickly establishing himself in the business world with his disciplined work ethic and commercial acumen. In 1959, he married Emine Hanım, and they had four children: Güliz, İrfan, Adem Kaan, and Ahmet Serhan. Known for his disciplined, frugal, and compassionate nature in business, Vedat Kaner was an exemplary figure not only in the business world but also in his social life. His respect for family values, his care for his employees, and his integrity in business ethics made him a guiding figure for those around him. With his foresight, he played a key role in the institutionalization of Kaner Group of Companies and significantly contributed to the country’s economy through the company’s growth. Vedat Kaner reflected his business discipline in his family life as well, always making time for his family. He enjoyed spending time by the sea and horseback riding. Vedat Kaner passed away in 1981. He is remembered as a leader who adopted the philosophy of “Every family is a history,” carrying the strength of the past into the future.