The opening of HORECA 2025 was marked by a dynamic presence from representatives of the political and business sectors, as well as institutional bodies in Tourism and Catering.
The event took place on Friday, February 7th at 12:00, in Conference Room C2 at the Metropolitan Expo, and signaled the start of the exhibition, which happened in an atmosphere of optimism and excitement.
The first to take the stage was Mr. Peter Ottmann, CEO of the NürnbergMesse exhibition group, who discussed the crucial role HORECA plays in the development and upgrading of the tourism and mass catering sectors, and how it serves as a source of inspiration for all professionals. He also made a special mention of the challenging situation currently in Santorini and, with optimism, stated, “God bless all. There is always a future.”
Next, Mr. Tasos Yagoglou, President of the Greek Coffee Association, referred to the challenges the industry faces, such as climate change and geopolitical instability, emphasizing that “the need for sustainable cultivation is more urgent than ever.”
Mr. Sophocles Panagiotou, President of the Greek Brewers Association, speaking about their long-standing presence at the exhibition, stated, “We have always been present at this meeting since 2009. This year the challenges are greater, but despite the adverse conditions, once again we will succeed.”
Mr. Panagiotis Moraitis, President of the SEEME, praised the enduring connection of HORECA with innovation, progress, and quality, adding that the exhibition serves as a powerful gateway for collaboration and growth in the industry. Specifically, he sai “For 19 years, HORECA has been associated with Innovation, Progress, Knowledge, Experience, and Passion, acting as the strong link that unites the stakeholders and executives who invest and upgrade their services. The Panhellenic Association of Mass Catering Equipment Businesses actively supports the institution, contributing to the consolidation and development of the sector through continuous networking, knowledge exchange, and targeted actions. With our support, we aim to strengthen innovation and excellence. HORECA 2025 is, for all of us, the most important gateway in our field of cooperation.” In closing, he thanked everyone who contributes with professionalism and passion to the development of the catering and hospitality sectors, adding, “Together, let’s continue to promote innovation and collaboration.”
Mr. George Kavvathas, President of the GSEVEE and POESE, highlighted the importance of HORECA as a meeting point for the Greek market and its contribution to the development of the coffee catering and hospitality sectors, stressing the need for state support. He said: “We’ve been saying HORECA for two decades now! Two decades ago, the idea of Nikos Choudalakis, which was strongly supported by the Panhellenic Federation of Restaurant and Related Professions, started HORECA and filled a space that was essential for the market itself in the coffee catering and hospitality sector. I believe that over the years, year by year, this exhibition has become an international institution. I sincerely hope that we will keep saying this here at HORECA for many years. Good luck to HORECA. Good luck to the exhibitors, good cooperation, and successful business.”
Ms. Vasiliki Kavallari, representative of the Attica Regional Governor, Nikos Hardalias, spoke about the significance of the exhibition as a reference point for the sector, while Mr. Ioannis Georgizas, representative of Athens Mayor, Haris Doukas, highlighted the transformed development of the municipality and its new strategy.
Ms. Kalliopi Vetta, MP for Kozani and Tourism Sector Head of SYRIZA, congratulated the organizers for the dynamic presence of HORECA, which showcases the latest trends in business and tourism activities, and emphasized the importance of sustainable and resilient proposals for businesses.
Ms. Aikaterini Spiridaki, MP for Lasithi and Tourism Sector Head of PASOK – Movement for Change, stressed that HORECA is not just an exhibition, but a living ecosystem that unites people, ideas, and innovative technologies, giving a boost to Greek tourism and mass catering. She continued, “Every year, HORECA grows and strengthens by practically supporting tourism and mass catering in our country.” In closing, she stated, “The success of the exhibition is not a matter of luck; it is the result of hard work, dedication, and passion from all of you.”
Finally, the Minister of Tourism, Ms. Olga Kefalogianni, congratulated the organizers of HORECA and pointed out that “the exhibition has established itself as an institution for the hospitality and catering sectors and is an event that reflects the progress, dynamics, and prospects of Greek tourism, which is experiencing a period of historically high performance.” She specifically emphasized that “HORECA is the ideal platform to present the most modern developments in services, equipment, and practices that could contribute to achieving sustainability and competitiveness goals that significantly enhance the travel experience.” In conclusion, she congratulated the organizers and wished them every success, which is sure to spark constructive collaborations and innovative solutions that will elevate Greek tourism even higher.
All representatives from institutional bodies in the sector were present.
Among the attendees at the exhibition opening were Mr. Marinos Giannopoulos, CEO of Enterprise Greece, Mr. Makarios Papadopoulos, President of the Thessaloniki Chamber of Crafts, Mr. Antonios Stellatos, President of EPST (Union of Greek Tourism Boat Owners), Mr. Panagiotis Sakellariopoulos, Deputy Regional Governor of Western Greece, Mr. Theodoros Vokos, CEO of Poseidonia Exhibitions SA, and Ms. Elena Raptopoulou, Deputy Minister of Tourism and MP for Thessaloniki.
The event was coordinated by journalist Maria Nikoltsiou. After the ceremony, everyone gathered at the entrance to participate in the ceremonial ribbon cutting.
