With our expertise: We are wherever there is risk

We spoke with Mr. Süleyman Sarı, the founder of Link Inspection Expertise Services Co. Ltd., which provides international inspection services in the maritime, logistics, and insurance sectors. In this exclusive interview conducted ahead of Europort 2025, we discussed the company’s founding story, areas of expertise, and global growth strategies. Mr. Sarı also shared his insights and messages regarding the industry.

Q: Mr. Sarı, could you tell us a little about yourself and how your professional journey began?

I was born in Istanbul in 1961 as the youngest of eight siblings. I received my early education in Şişli and later attended Darüşşafaka High School, which played an important role in shaping both my academic and personal development. After graduating from Marmara University with a degree in Business Administration and International Relations, I started my career in the inspection and survey industry at one of the leading companies of the time. That experience gave me the technical knowledge and global perspective that eventually led me to establish my own companies, Link Inspection Expertise Services Co. Ltd., in 1999 and Link Inspection (Europe) B.V.in 2015.

Q: What motivated you to establish Link Inspection?

After 15 years of professional experience and working as a sworn insurance expert for many years, I felt the time had come to create a company that could combine global service quality with strong local expertise. The idea was to build a firm capable of providing impartial, reliable, and high-standard inspection and survey services. In 1999, we began with a modest office in Istanbul, and through determination and client trust, we grew step by step into an internationally recognized company.

Q: Can you give us an overview of Link Inspection’s services and areas of expertise?

Link Inspection specializes in a broad spectrum of services, including Marine and P&I surveys, H&M surveys, Cargo and Commodity Inspections, Damage Surveys, Steel Scrap Inspections, Insurance Expertise and Claim Handling. Our work covers the entire chain from raw material supply to production, transport, storage, delivery and damage inspections. In practical terms, this means we verify the quantity, quality, packaging, stowage, and condition of goods to ensure compliance with contracts and international standards.

We have more than 50 in-house experts, including marine masters, engineers, naval architects, and cargo surveyors. This highly skilled team allows us to deliver solutions tailored to the unique requirements of each client while meeting the highest global standards.

Q: Your company has expanded beyond Turkey. Could you tell us about your international presence?

Yes, we are very proud of our international growth. Link Inspection established its European branch, Link Inspection (Europe) B.V., in Amsterdam in 2015, to cover the Netherlands, Belgium, and German ports. Later, we expanded with branch offices in the USA, the UK, and Bulgaria, as well as representatives across Europe, South America, Japan, the Black Sea, and the Mediterranean regions. This global network enables us to respond quickly and efficiently to client needs in virtually any part of the world.

Q: Who are your main clients, and what industries do you serve?

Our clients include major players in maritime transport, logistics, insurance, international trade, and manufacturing. Approximately 60% of our portfolio consists of international clients, while 30% of our Turkish clients are among the country’s top 100 companies. We also work closely with leading P&I Clubs, insurance companies, and commodity traders. This wide range demonstrates the trust we have built over the years across different industries.

Q: Quality and reliability are key in your sector. How do you ensure high standards in your services?

We operate under internationally recognized accreditations and certifications. Link Inspection is certified with ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management by Türk Loydu, accredited under ISO 17020 by TURKAK, and holds GAFTA and FOSFA certifications for commodity inspections. Beyond these formal standards, we place great emphasis on continuous training for our staff and close monitoring of global industry regulations. This ensures that our services are both compliant and innovative.

Q: Looking at the broader industry, how do you see the future of inspection and survey services?

The demand for inspection services is directly tied to global trade volumes. As international commerce grows, so does the need for independent, reliable inspection. At Link, we see our role as providing assurance and minimizing risks for our clients. Looking ahead, we are committed to further institutionalizing our operations and positioning Link as a leading global brand in inspection and survey. Our goal is not only to compete with international players but to surpass them as a Turkish-origin company with a global reach.

Q: Finally, what message would you like to share with your partners and clients at Europort 2025?

Europort is one of the most prestigious platforms in our industry, and we are honored to be part of it. My message to our partners and clients is simple: Link Inspection is here to be your trusted partner, wherever you operate in the world. With over two decades of experience, a dedicated team, and a commitment to continuous improvement, we aim to safeguard your interests and add value to your business.

Source: 7deniz Magazine