228,974 visitors raised the 89th TIF to new heights

The public supported the anniversary event,
which honored the 100 years of the exhibition institution

The Thessaloniki International Fair once again raised the bar, attracting 228,974 visitors to its 89th edition, held from September 6 to 14. The combination of this year’s anniversary character—marking 100 years since the founding of the exhibition organization—the strong business presence both from leading companies in their sectors and from small and medium-sized enterprises, the focus on technology, education, and the automotive industry as a major attraction, all earned the trust of thousands of visitors. Moreover, this year’s edition, with the addition of the JuniorLand thematic section, particularly appealed to families with children, who embraced the Fair more than ever before. At the same time, the 89th TIF stood at the center of all the country’s economic and political developments, a “dowry” that the event has carried throughout the 100-year history of the exhibition institution.

The anniversary element of the 89th TIF ran throughout the entire event, taking visitors on a journey through the main milestones of the organization’s history. In particular, Pavilion 16 hosted a tribute to this century, where the historic documentary “TIF. 100 Years From Ground Zero” by Time Machine was screened for the first time, attracting significant interest. In fact, this year’s Treasure Hunt was also dedicated to the 100 years of TIF-HELEXPO, with the top three winners already announced.

With 1,100 exhibitors, 33,000 sq.m. of exhibition space, and 11 thematic sections—Greece and Entrepreneurship, Technology-Research-Innovation, Akademia, Energy-Circular Economy, Regions-Flavors of Greece, AutoThessaloniki, Cosmos-International Participation, Public Sector-Organizations, Gastronomy-Nutrition, Hobby Festival, and Furniture-Home Equipment—the 89th TIF became for nine days a meeting point for many different sectors. Notably, AutoThessaloniki was organized for the first time and exceeded all expectations.

For the first time, the Youth Band Battle–Stage Z was organized, a music competition in collaboration with the record label Fine Records and with ERT3 as media sponsor, giving the stage to 28 youth bands from across Greece. The top 3 winners, to be announced by the jury on September 22, will receive: a record contract with the label (1st prize), the production of a music video for one song (2nd prize), a live recording at the new 95.8 FM studio (2nd and 3rd prize), and a live interview on ERT3 (all 3 prizes). All participants also had the chance to enjoy daily exposure.

Among the exhibits that stole the show- causing queues throughout the Fair – was the McLaren Formula 1 Team’s racing car, brought to the 89th TIF by OPAP, a member of Allwyn. Visitors not only had the chance to take photos with the car but also tested their skills in Formula 1 simulators, posed for keepsake photos in a unique photobooth where they virtually wore the McLaren drivers’ suit, and tried papaya-colored face painting.

Alongside celebrating its own 100-year anniversary, TIF-HELEXPO also honored the centenary of Mikis Theodorakis’ birth during the 89th TIF with a major tribute concert on the Music Events Live stage. The Mikis Theodorakis Orchestra performed the immortal songs of the great, internationally renowned composer, accompanied by the voices of Dimitris Basis, Rita Antonopoulou, Sofia Papazoglou, and Angelos Theodorakis. In addition, at Pavilion 6, visitors had the opportunity to learn about the composer’s exile in 1968–69 in Zatouna, Gortynia, during the junta, his struggles against the dictatorship, and the significant works he composed there, inspired by the emblematic mountains of Arcadia. This was presented through a historical documentary about Theodorakis and Zatouna, as well as screenings from the Zatouna Digital Virtual Museum, the first digital museum dedicated to Mikis Theodorakis in Greece.

The Music Events Live stage also hosted some of the biggest names in the Greek music scene, who energized the thousands of visitors with their performances and rhythms during the 89th TIF.

During the 89th TIF, and within the framework of TIF-HELEXPO’s collaboration with Cigaret Cycle, 172,000 cigarette butts were collected from the 31 special bins placed around the exhibition grounds. Their recycling will produce: 9.5 kg of fertilizer, 30 kg of raw plastic material, while the environmental impact amounts to saving 86,000 cubic meters of fresh or salt water from pollution.

The 89th TIF also fostered close cooperation with the European Commission. The National Bank of Greece was the Official Bank of the event, PPC (Public Power Corporation) the Official Energy Provider, Aegean Airlines the Official Carrier, NOVA the Official Telecommunications Provider, LANCOM the Official Data Center/Internet Provider, the Green Fund an Official Partner of the 89th TIF, Auto Hertz the Official Mobility Provider, Papastratos an Official Supporter of the Fair, while “Nymfi” by Athinaiki Brewery was the Official Beer of the 89th TIF, and the Official Cars of the exhibition were Škoda and Volkswagen by Kosmocar.

Thessaloniki in the rhythm of the 89th TIF from today until September 14

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis’s visits to this year’s anniversary event and meeting with the board of TIF-HELEXPO

The redevelopment of the Thessaloniki Exhibition Centre and its close connection with the development prospects of the exhibition organization and the city were at the center of today’s meeting between Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and the Board of Directors of TIF-HELEXPO, during his visit to the 89th TIF on its opening day. Also present at the meeting were the Deputy Prime Minister, Kostis Hatzidakis, a group of ministers, the European Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism, Apostolos Tzitzikostas, and the management of the Hellenic Corporation of Assets and Participations.

The company’s management, represented by its president, Tasos Tzikas, and its CEO, Dr. Kyriakos Pozrikidis, presented to Mr. Mitsotakis the characteristics of this year’s anniversary event, which coincides with the 100th anniversary of the founding of TIF-HELEXPO in 1925. They highlighted the full occupancy of the exhibition space, as well as the strong participation of the business community, including industry-leading companies. They also referred to the company’s upward financial trajectory over the past twelve years, and to the significant efforts made in preparing the landmark redevelopment project of the TIF. The meeting was preceded by a blessing ceremony for the opening of the 89th TIF, officiated by Metropolitan Philotheos of Thessaloniki.

The tour of the pavilions

The Prime Minister then toured the pavilions of the 89th TIF, including the anniversary exhibition developed in Pavilion 16, which shows the ten most important milestones in the organization’s 100-year history. Among the highlights of his visit were the display of the McLaren Formula 1 Team’s single-seater car—which has already attracted great public attention—as well as the pavilions of the Ministries of National Defense, Sports, Health, and Education, alongside major private-sector companies.

Visitor traffic at the exhibition center has been particularly high since the morning, with the 11 thematic tributes of the 89th TIF already serving as major attractions.

The 89th TIF, which will run until September 14, hosts around 1,100 exhibitors across 33,000 sq.m. of exhibition space. Its weekend opening hours are from 10:00 to 22:00.

Α nonprofit association named “Friends of TIF”

A non-profit association named “Friends of TIF” founded with 100 founding members

On the occasion of this year’s celebration of the 100th anniversary of the founding of TIF-HELEXPO, those who love and support the exhibition organization decided to create a non-profit association under the name “Friends of the Thessaloniki International Fair” and the distinctive title “Friends of TIF”. Already, 100 people from the city, representing all sectors and social spheres, have signed for the founding of the association, while during its founding assembly, a five-member provisional board of directors was elected, with Emeritus Professor and former Rector of the University of Macedonia, Mr. Ioannis Chatzidimitriou, as President; economist Mr. Alexandros Tsaxirlis as Vice-President; lawyer Mrs. Aikaterini Githkopoulou as Secretary; civil engineer Dr. Dimitrios Kourkouridis as Treasurer; and University of Macedonia Professor Mrs. Rodoula Tsiotsou as a member.
The purpose of the “Friends of TIF” Association is to serve as a link between the local community of Thessaloniki and TIF-HELEXPO, enhancing cooperation, interaction, and mutual support between the two sides.

The objectives of the Association are:

• To encourage and facilitate the participation of citizens, associations, businesses, and institutions of Thessaloniki in the events, activities, and programs of TIF-HELEXPO.

• To promote two-way information and communication between TIF-HELEXPO and the local community, conveying the needs, proposals, and expectations of residents to the Exhibition’s administration.

• To undertake initiatives for the organization of cultural, social, and educational activities that strengthen the city’s relationship with TIF-HELEXPO.

• To contribute to the promotion of Thessaloniki and its cultural identity through cooperation with TIF-HELEXPO at local, national, and international levels.

• To support corporate social responsibility and sustainable development initiatives that benefit both TIF-HELEXPO and the local community.

• To enhance transparency, cooperation, and the creation of trust among all stakeholders.

The achievement of the above objectives of the “Friends of TIF” Association will be carried out:

• Through the recording, study, highlighting, and promotion of the history of the Thessaloniki International Fair as an institution of cultural, social, and economic significance, as well as its connection to the economic and social history of the city and the country. In this direction, it will undertake initiatives to preserve the historical memory of TIF and implement activities that involve citizens in highlighting Thessaloniki as an international exhibition and conference hub.

• By creating structured communication channels (e.g., meetings, forums, online platforms) to convey the proposals and needs of the local community to the administration of TIF-HELEXPO and vice versa.

• By undertaking initiatives for cultural, social, and educational events that link Thessaloniki with TIF-HELEXPO. Among its activities will be the organization of cultural, artistic, and educational events (exhibitions, conferences, seminars, festivals, theatrical and musical performances, etc.) on the occasion of or within the framework of the Thessaloniki International Fair, as well as the creation and management of publications, a digital archive, and audiovisual material related to the history and future of the institution.

• Through cooperation with TIF-HELEXPO bodies for the promotion of cultural heritage locally, nationally, and internationally, e.g., by organizing thematic events and exhibitions. The “Friends of TIF” Association will seek cooperation with cultural bodies, organizations, universities, and local government to promote Thessaloniki’s exhibition, conference, and cultural identity.

• By participating in or initiating corporate social responsibility and sustainability actions that benefit the local community and TIF-HELEXPO, integrating sustainability concepts into events and programs.

• Through institutionalized cooperation frameworks, open and honest communication, and constant exchange of information among all stakeholders, in order to develop an atmosphere of trust and mutual support.

Immediately after the election of the administration, new members will be able to register.

Global Exposure and Immediate Economic Benefit Exceeding One Million Euros for the Local Economy from the European Conference of the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry (UFI) Organized by TIF-HELEXPO in Thessaloniki

Over 3,000 Social Media Posts Promoted Thessaloniki Globally by 400 Delegates from 37 Countries

TIF-HELEXPO and Thessaloniki gained an unprecedented vote of confidence and major international exposure thanks to the highly successful organization of the European Conference of UFI, held from June 3 to 7 at the Thessaloniki International Exhibition Center.

This landmark event, the largest regional conference in the hundred-year history of UFI—was more than just a convention. It represented a strategic success for Thessaloniki, with its positive effects visible in every aspect of the local economy and the city’s global image.

Direct Economic Boost and Support for the Local Market

The presence of 400 top executives from the exhibition industry, representing 37 countries, acted as a major economic injection for the city. The immediate financial impact of the event is estimated to have exceeded €1,000,000 in just a few days. These funds directly supported the local market, significantly benefiting hotels, restaurants, retail stores, transportation companies, tourism services, and more demonstrating the true power of conference tourism as a growth driver. Alongside the UFI conference, Thessaloniki also hosted the General Assemblies of CEFA (Central European Fair Alliance) and SOKEE (Hellenic Association of Exhibition Organizers and Constructors).

Global Promotional Campaign for Thessaloniki

Perhaps the most valuable legacy of the event is the priceless exposure Thessaloniki received. Impressed by the city’s hospitality, beauty, and vibrancy, the delegates became their most enthusiastic ambassadors. Through social media, they generated an unprecedented wave of positive impressions, posting over 3,000 pieces of content from Thessaloniki that circulated worldwide. This online buzz, combined with extensive coverage by international media (TV channels, radio stations, specialized websites, trade magazines), placed Thessaloniki at the center of the exhibition and conference industry spotlight. It is estimated that more than 5 million people across over 37 countries saw at least one social media post related to the event, TIF-HELEXPO, and Thessaloniki.

Additionally, the cultural and historical richness of the wider region was showcased, as delegates took part in organized excursions to Mount Athos and Meteora, as well as visits to selected points of interest within Thessaloniki.
The flawless execution of the UFI conference—and its certification according to the international sustainability standard ISO 20121—proved that Thessaloniki has both know-how and infrastructure to host world-class events.

This success is not just an isolated occurrence, but a foundation on which the city’s future as a leading MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences & Exhibitions) destination is being built, attracting new and even larger-scale events of both national and international significance.

UFI sees record numbers in Thessaloniki

  • Largest regional event in UFI’s history gathers around 400 industry leaders from 37 countries

  • Event hosted by TIF-HELEXPO in Thessaloniki, Greece

  • Marked the 100-year anniversary of both UFI and TIF-HELEXPO

UFI European Events Week brought a record number of delegates to Thessaloniki, Greece, from 3 to 7 June 2025. Hosted by TIF-HELEXPO, around 400 industry leaders from 37 countries gathered for an insightful week of learning, networking, and memorable experiences.

Dr. Kyriakos Pozrikidis, CEO of TIF-HELEXPO, commented: “Thessaloniki didn’t just host the UFI European Events Week 2025 — it energized it. With around 400 participants, the city became a live stage for bold ideas, future-thinking dialogue, and powerful networking moments. From buzzing panels to spontaneous hallway conversations, every corner of the event pulsed with energy and purpose.

The week was marked by two major milestones — the General Assemblies of CEFA and SOKEE — anchoring Thessaloniki’s role as not just a participant, but a driving force in the exhibition and conference industry of Southeast Europe.

This wasn’t just another gathering. It was a strong statement: Thessaloniki is rising as a vital hub for innovation, collaboration, and the next chapter of our industry.”

Nick Dugdale-Moore, UFI Regional Director of Europe, added: “What an incredible few days in the beautiful city of Thessaloniki. Together with our friends from SOKEE and CEFA, we managed to bring around 400 delegates together last week.

The conversations that took place both onstage and throughout the week, conducted in a spirit of collaboration and sharing, will help keep improving standards and open new opportunities for our businesses.

UFI is a family, strengthened by the friendships and connections we make when we meet in person. My sincere thanks to the TIF-HELEXPO and UFI teams who delivered a professional and memorable event – a fitting tribute to honour the 100-year legacy of both our organisations.”

Political support

The event received widespread political support, including a powerful message of support from the EU Commissioner for Sustainable Transport & Tourism Apostolos Tzitzikostas. The Deputy Minister of the Interior & Minister of Macedonia-Thrace, Konstantinos Gioulekas, and the Mayor of Thessaloniki also joined the event in person.

Special 100-year celebration for TIF-HELEXPO and UFI

The event marked the 100-year anniversaries of both UFI & TIF-HELEXPO. UFI launched the first part of their exhibition with archived content and artefacts from 1925 to 1999. The full exhibition will be on display 19-22 November at the Global Congress in Hong Kong SAR. UFI also honoured their founding members who were in attendance. TIFHELEXPO organised a memorable evening, hosted by the Minister of Macedonia-Thrace, which featured a drone display which required the closing of Thessaloniki Airport.

Latest content & new formats

The topics under discussion include trade tarics / geopolitical issues, strategy, digital, sustainability, talent/DEI, exhibitor ROI, new venue concepts, and a deep dive into the US market in a SISO-led workshop. The content was delivered in multiple formats, including mainstage, 3-hour workshops, breakouts, and the new Bate-Papo Corner. All UFI members have access to session recordings, speaker presentations, AI summaries, and photos now.

First UFI event to receive ISO20121 certification

TIF-HELEXPO underwent the ISO20121 certification process for this event, meaning that this event was the first UFI event to receive this international certification for sustainable event management. The Certificate was presented onstage to Dr. Kyriakos Pozrikidis by Mrs Maria Chachali from the Bureau Veritas, Athens.

New research on exhibitor satisfaction & sentiment

“2025 Channel Insights” -the latest report from UFI Research Partner Explori – which is supported by SISO – was presented by Explori CEO Mark Brewster onstage in Thessaloniki. The report is available exclusively to UFI & SISO members currently, and will be released to the public soon.

Launch of “Better Stands by NZCE” initiative with cross-industry support

Better Stands by NZCE is a project designed to drive the transition from single-use to reusable exhibition stands. Initiated by Informa and piloted for two years with a collection of organisers, it was launched to the global exhibition industry onstage in Thessaloniki. It is hosted by Net Zero Carbon Events (NZCE) and supported by the International Federation of Exhibition & Event Services (IFES).

50 Event Directors have Ignition

Exhibition & Portfolio Directors from 30 organisations across Europe joined for a special 2-part workshop, created & delivered by Global President MCI Oscar Cerezales, with contributions from CEO RX Global Hugh Jones and CEO dmg events Geoc Dickinson. This is the third edition of the Event Director Summit in Europe, which has also taken place in Asia.

Global Exhibitions Day celebrated around the world (and in Thessaloniki)

The tenth edition of Global Exhibitions Day (GED) took place on 4 June 2025 and reached audiences in over 100 countries and markets, with the theme “Exhibitions Unleash Potential”. Examples of the activations which took place in Thessaloniki and all around the world can be found at www.globalexhibitionsday.org.

Join the conversations at upcoming events

UFI organises annual events around the world for members and non-members. Our next event is the members-only 100th anniversary UFI Global Congress, which will be held from 19 to 22 November 2025 in Hong Kong SAR.

The 2026 Europe event will be held from 3-5 June in Izmir, Turkey, hosted by IZFAS.

For more information about UFI’s upcoming events, visit: www.ufi.org/our-events.

Memorandum of cooperation with the Oman Convention and Exhibition Center

TIF-HELEXPO has signed a Cooperation Agreement with the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre (OCEC), continuing its strategy for international networking and outward-looking development. The cooperation agreement was signed by the CEO of TIF-HELEXPO, Dr. Kyriakos Pozrikidis, and the CEO of OCEC, Mr. Said Salim Al Shanfari, in the presence of the President of TIF-HELEXPO, Mr. Tasos Tzikas, and Senior Consultant, Mr. Michail Michail.

The management of TIF-HELEXPO informed the CEO of the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre about the redevelopment plan currently underway, which Mr. Said Salim Al Shanfari showed great interest in, inviting the company’s executives to present it in his country.

The signed cooperation agreement sets a general framework between the two parties in the fields of exhibitions, trade promotion, business networking, and institutional cooperation, as TIF-HELEXPO and OCEC recognize the historical ties between Greece and Oman, their shared commitment to commercial and economic development, the value of cooperation in enhancing competitiveness, and the importance of developing international relations in order to leverage opportunities in both countries.

Specifically, under the cooperation agreement, TIF-HELEXPO will be able to organize and lead business and institutional missions to events under the auspices of OCEC, while OCEC will have the equivalent opportunity in sectoral exhibitions organized by TIF-HELEXPO.

At the same time, each party will support the participation of national exhibitors and official delegations in each other’s exhibitions. TIF-HELEXPO and OCEC will exchange know-how and best practices, as well as information, knowledge, and experience related to the organization and development of exhibitions and other business events. They will jointly organize business meetings, B2B networking events, and thematic seminars in order to highlight the market opportunities of each country.

The two parties will also facilitate meetings among government bodies, chambers of commerce, professional associations, and private sector entities, while also exploring investment opportunities through events and matchmaking programs.

At the “helm” of CEFA for a third term is the CEO of TIF-HELEXPO, Dr. Kyriakos Pozrikidis

International Recognition for TIF-HELEXPO and the Greek Exhibition Industry

For the third time, the CEO of TIF-HELEXPO, Dr. Kyriakos Pozrikidis, has been unanimously elected as President of the Central European Fair Alliance (CEFA), following the elections held during today’s annual general assembly of CEFA, which is taking place in Thessaloniki and coincides with the 30th anniversary of the organization’s founding.

Dr. Pozrikidis’s re-election to the leadership of CEFA, one of Europe’s most significant exhibition organization networks, is a clear sign of strong confidence in him and a reaffirmation of the leading role that TIF-HELEXPO plays in shaping exhibition policy in Europe. It also signals international recognition of the Greek exhibition industry, which in recent years has consistently pursued the place it deserves within the European and global exhibition ecosystem.

Founded in 1995, CEFA includes 21 members from 12 European countries. Its mission is to foster cross-border cooperation and promote business access to the region’s dynamic markets. TIF-HELEXPO has been an active member since 2013, playing a vital role in shaping CEFA’s strategic direction.

Dr. Pozrikidis’s election comes at a milestone moment for both the city and TIF-HELEXPO itself, as from June 3 to 7, Thessaloniki and its International Exhibition Centre host the Greek, European, and global exhibition industry on the occasion of the Pan-European Congress of the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry (UFI), held as part of UFI European Events Week, currently underway.
TIF-HELEXPO continues to strategically invest in internationalization, strengthening Greece’s role as a development hub for the broader region, with Thessaloniki at the center of Europe’s exhibition developments.

Thessaloniki and TIF-HELEXPO welcome the European Conference of the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry (UFI), 3-7 June 2025

100 years of contribution for TIF-HELEXPO and UFI

A key milestone for the exhibition industry, the UFI European Conference will be held from 3 to 7 June at the Thessaloniki International Exhibition & Congress Center.

This landmark event focused on innovation, sustainability, and the future of the sector coincides with the centennial anniversaries of both TIF-HELEXPO and UFI. The UFI’s centenary celebrations will begin in Thessaloniki, which will also host the UFI European Events Week, including a series of initiatives dedicated to the international exhibition industry.

Hosting this event marks significant recognition of Thessaloniki’s and TIF-HELEXPO’s strategic role on the European exhibition and conference map, while also highlighting the organizer’s unwavering commitment to responsible, innovative, and sustainable development.

Approximately 350 senior executives from the exhibition industry across 37 countries, the highest attendance ever for this particular conference are expected to participate. The main thematic axes will include the current geopolitical landscape, sustainability, digital innovation, and talent/HR management. The program will also feature the relaunch of the “Better Stands” initiative for sustainable stand construction, the presentation of the new UFI/Explori research on visitor and exhibitor satisfaction post-pandemic, as well as key institutional meetings, such as the UFI Board of Directors.

“Thessaloniki is a vibrant city, welcoming, with rich cultural heritage and a dynamic business environment an ideal setting for bringing together representatives from more than 37 countries. We are proud and delighted to be celebrating our 100th anniversary together with TIF-HELEXPO and to have the opportunity to showcase the city’s growing appeal as a premier destination for conferences and exhibitions,” notes Nick Dugdale-Moore, Head of Regions & Regional Director Europe at UFI.

In parallel with the UFI Conference, the General Assemblies of CEFA (Central European Fair Alliance) and SOKEE (Greek Exhibition Industry Association) will also take place, with SOKEE holding its Annual General Assembly on 3 June at the “Ioannis Vellidis” Conference Center.

ISO 20121 Sustainability Certification for the UFI European Conference

The conference is being held in full compliance with the ISO 20121 international standard, which sets the requirements for sustainable event management.

This standard integrates environmental, social, and economic aspects throughout the life cycle of an event, aiming to identify and reduce environmental impact, enhance social inclusion and accessibility, support the local economy through partnerships with responsible suppliers, and foster a culture of transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement.

To meet these goals, TIF-HELEXPO has adopted a comprehensive Sustainable Management System that includes the establishment of measurable objectives, the implementation of Health & Safety regulations, training and active engagement of all stakeholders, the application of circular economy practices, and systematic monitoring of results.

The culmination of this effort will be the joint awarding of the ISO Certificate for sustainable event management to UFI and TIF-HELEXPO an important acknowledgment of their commitment to sustainability principles.

The national exhibition body’s objective is for TIF-HELEXPO’s activities to serve as a model for the sustainable organization of exhibitions and conferences at both European and international levels.

Trade Visitors from 40 Countries at Freskon

The international profile of the exhibition is growing

Strong participation in the parallel events of the exhibition

With trade visitors from 40 countries, a strong international orientation, and a targeted programme of parallel events that highlighted critical issues in the agri-food sector, the International Trade Event for Fresh Fruits and Vegetables, Freskon, was held from 10 to 12 April at the Thessaloniki International Exhibition & Congress Center.

This year’s event confirmed and further strengthened Freskon’s role as a key meeting point for the fresh fruits and vegetables industry in Southeastern Europe.
With the participation of 275 exhibitors from 22 countries, Freskon hosted more than 2,000 business meetings, significantly expanding collaboration opportunities for Greek companies in the sector.

At the same time, for the ninth consecutive year, TIF-HELEXPO, in collaboration with FROUTONEA magazine, successfully organized FreshCon Market 2025 within the framework of Freskon. The event connected professionals from the fresh fruits and vegetables industry with buyers from 13 supermarket chains from Greece, the Balkans, and Southeastern Europe.

A major attraction for exhibition visitors was the rich programme of parallel events, held at Pavilion 13 (Special Events Area).

The International Pear Congress, the workshops on figs, persimmons, and yellow kiwifruit, as well as the sessions on fruit and vegetable exports, Thracian zeolite, and the initiatives of the Thessaloniki Central Market, featured focused presentations and sparked productive dialogue on current issues affecting Greek and global agri-food production.

Running concurrently with Freskon was the LOGISTICS & TRANSPORTS THESSALONIKI EXPO, the exhibition event dedicated to the logistics and transport sector. The co-organization of Freskon and LOGISTICS & TRANSPORTS THESSALONIKI EXPO created important synergies, holistically covering the value chain from production to the transportation and distribution of goods.

TIF-HELEXPO renews its commitment to the fresh fruit and vegetable sector with the next edition of Freskon, to be held from 23 to 25 April 2026. Until then, it will continue to focus on the internationalization of Greek agri-food production through the “Freskon Greece” programme, which will next participate in the top-tier Fruit Attraction exhibition in Madrid, from 30 September to 2 October 2025.

Over 15,000 visitors at BEYOND 2025, held for the first time in Athens from April 4 to 6

A unique platform for strategic partnerships in the sector

BEYOND, the International Exhibition of Digital Technology and Innovation made an impressive debut in Athens, where it was held for the first time, attracting over 15,000 visitors. Taking place at the Metropolitan Expo exhibition center from April 4 to 6 under the theme “AI Reality Bites”, BEYOND offered technology professionals a three-day event filled with innovation and technological developments, capturing the interest of thousands of visitors from the fields of digital technology and artificial intelligence.

Already from its first edition in Athens after four previous ones in Thessaloniki the exhibition is establishing itself as an important hub for digital technology and innovation, offering unique opportunities for strategic partnerships and strengthening interconnections in the technology sector.

Exhibitors expressed their full satisfaction with the event, as visitor turnout exceeded all previous editions. The impressive response from the public and the increased participation boosted the sense of success, while the exhibition served as a launchpad for networking and productive connections, which stood out as one of its strongest points.

Moreover, visitors came not only from Greece but also from Austria, Egypt, Azerbaijan, Belgium, North Macedonia, Bulgaria, Belgium, France, Ecuador, Germany, Iceland, Israel, Spain, Italy, Cyprus, Luxembourg, the UK, the Netherlands, Hungary, Romania, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey—highlighting the international character of the exhibition.

The Exhibition

BEYOND brought together over 300 exhibitors from Greece and 10 other countries, specifically: Belgium, France, Ecuador, Cyprus, Luxembourg, the UK, the Netherlands, Hungary, Ukraine, and Romania.

It hosted technology leaders, startups, research centers and universities, as well as pioneers and visionaries in the field. Distinguished leaders presented innovative products and discussed the impact of emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, IoT, and quantum computing. Startups and scaleups showcased disruptive solutions, outlining the next generations of digital products and services, while research institutions shared the latest developments in scientific research. BEYOND 2025 became the ultimate hub for knowledge exchange and collaboration between professionals, academics, and innovators, shaping the future of the digital age.

The AI Forum

The AI Forum, the most influential Artificial Intelligence Conference in Southeastern Europe, concluded with great success, hosting more than 120 speakers from Greece and abroad, including top professionals and leaders in digital technology and innovation. Throughout the event, crucial topics concerning the future of emerging technologies were discussed, focusing on issues such as the ethics and regulation of Artificial Intelligence, government strategies for a sustainable and inclusive digital transition, as well as the challenges and opportunities arising from modern technological advancements.

The AI Forum covered key areas such as the application of AI in healthcare, the enhancement of education through digital tools, the revolutionary approach to the energy sector via AI, and the use of new technologies to address climate change challenges. Special emphasis was placed on AI’s potential to transform industries and improve productivity, while new opportunities for businesses resulting from the adoption of these innovations were discussed.

Digitalization of the public sector, data privacy protection, and the strengthening of cybersecurity through AI were also at the forefront, with the goal of creating a secure and ethical digital environment. In parallel, Greece’s development as an innovation hub and the strategic growth of the AI sector were examined, with a focus on the policies that will enable the country to strengthen its position on the global technology map.

The conference emphasized the importance of collaboration between public and private institutions, academic institutions, and entrepreneurs to create a sustainable and strong digital ecosystem.

B2B Meetings

One of the most important aspects of this year’s BEYOND 2025 was the B2B meetings, which formed the core of business opportunities during the exhibition. More than 500 business meetings were held with the participation of companies from Greece, Cyprus, Turkey, Spain, North Macedonia, Austria, Hungary, the Netherlands, and Germany establishing BEYOND as the leading meeting point for professionals and entrepreneurs active in the digital technology and innovation sector.

These meetings laid the groundwork for strategic partnerships and networking, while also serving as a platform for knowledge exchange, opening the way for participants to develop new business relationships and explore innovative solutions for the future.

The BEYOND Marketplace

The BEYOND Marketplace – Open Stage was a key highlight of this year’s exhibition, offering companies an excellent opportunity to showcase their innovative solutions and connect with new markets. With real-time presentations of technological products and services, the Marketplace served as a dynamic platform for growth and networking, enabling companies to find new partners and create new future prospects.

The Startup Village

Dozens of scaleups and startups took part in BEYOND 2025’s Startup Village, presenting their innovative solutions and business models, boosting the momentum of the Greek and international innovation ecosystem. Discussions focused on key topics such as the connection between technology and cultural development, the support of innovation, and the strengthening of global innovation ecosystems through strategic partnerships. Companies had the opportunity to explore funding prospects and share the challenges they face in their sectors with a focus on their strategic growth.

Lack of funding and insufficient entrepreneurship education were highlighted as the biggest obstacles for startups. The discussion around bridging the investment gap and the need for guidance in the scaling process was at the forefront, as many startups seek more support and strategic solutions to face market challenges.

Conversations also focused on how investments and proper mentoring can enhance business sustainability and help create stronger, more resilient innovation ecosystems.

As part of the exhibition, the BEYOND Tomorrow Competition was held, with finalists competing for a total prize pool of €15,000. During the award ceremony, which took place at the closing of BEYOND, winners had the opportunity to present their ideas to investors and top companies in the sector, enhancing their growth prospects.

The Investor Lounge at the Startup Village

The Investor Lounge at the Startup Village emerged as one of the most popular areas of BEYOND 2025, offering startups the opportunity to meet with investors and present their innovative proposals. By creating a friendly and supportive environment for networking and idea exchange, the Investor Lounge facilitated interaction between entrepreneurs and investors, promoting funding and growth opportunities for the startups participating in the exhibition.

About BEYOND

BEYOND is an international exhibition and conference for digital technology and innovation, serving as a meeting point for leading technology companies, visionaries and pioneers, startups and scaleups, as well as research centers and academic institutions. It aims to become the premier event of its kind in Southeastern Europe, the Mediterranean, and the Middle East.
After four successful editions in Thessaloniki, the fifth BEYOND, titled “AI Reality Bites”, was hosted from April 4 to 6, 2025, at the Metropolitan Expo Exhibition Center in Athens.
BEYOND was organized by TIF-HELEXPO, Be-Best, and the Industry Disruptors Game Changers (IDGC), with co-organizers the Ministry of Digital Governance, the Ministry of Development, the Region of Central Macedonia, the Athens Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Central Union of Municipalities of Greece (KEDE), and the Municipality of Thessaloniki. It was held under the auspices of the Ministry of Interior, the Ministry of Rural Development and Food, and the Region of Attica. Supporters of BEYOND included SEPE, SETPE, SEKEE, and HETIA.