{"id":90644,"date":"2026-01-09T23:08:08","date_gmt":"2026-01-09T20:08:08","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/horecaexpo.gr\/?p=90644"},"modified":"2026-01-22T15:26:25","modified_gmt":"2026-01-22T12:26:25","slug":"horeca-business-lab-2025","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/horecaexpo.gr\/en\/horeca-business-lab-2025\/","title":{"rendered":"HORECA Business Lab 2025"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"wpb-content-wrapper\"><p>[vc_row][vc_column]<h3 class=\"vc-internal-title \" style=\"font-weight: 700; font-size:28px;color:#000000;\">AI hospitality, zero waste and digital marketing from market\u2019s top!<\/h3>[vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;]<span data-teams=\"true\">From 7-10 February 2025, the stage of Hall 3 transformed into an innovation incubator for everyone, full of open workshops, case study presentations and interesting discussions.<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;]<b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Monday, February 10<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:true,&quot;134233118&quot;:true,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The four-day <strong>Business Lab<\/strong> program at <strong>HORECA 2025<\/strong> was successfully concluded, showcasing the most innovative trends in digital marketing, management, and the utilization of new technologies in the tourism and hospitality industries. The fourth and final day was dedicated to online sales, presenting the latest developments and tools that contribute to optimizing bookings, personalizing services, leveraging artificial intelligence, and driving the overall digital transformation of the hospitality sector.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:true,&quot;134233118&quot;:true,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The day began with an in-depth discussion on the evolution of online bookings, where <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Markos Georgiou,<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> Managing Director of LOGUERS, <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Alexandros Damigos<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, CEO of MARINET, and <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Argyris Baklezos<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, CEO of Verity Interactive, highlighted the importance of loyalty tools and personalized experiences in customer retention. Following this, <\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\"><strong>Tina Tsiambaou<\/strong> Account Manager at webhotelier | primalres, presented the latest trends and the most advanced tools for enhancing direct bookings through hotel websites, offering practical solutions to reduce reliance on third-party providers.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:true,&quot;134233118&quot;:true,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner equal_height=&#8221;yes&#8221; gap=&#8221;3&#8243;][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/2&#8243; css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1707660220062{margin-right: 0px !important;margin-left: 0px !important;padding-right: 0px !important;padding-left: 10px !important;}&#8221;][vc_single_image image=&#8221;89528&#8243; img_size=&#8221;FULL&#8221; css=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;]Tina Tsiambaou[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/2&#8243; css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1707660268076{margin-right: 0px !important;margin-left: 0px !important;padding-right: 10px !important;padding-left: 0px !important;}&#8221;][vc_single_image image=&#8221;89526&#8243; img_size=&#8221;FULL&#8221; css=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;]<span data-teams=\"true\"> Alexandros Kapsetakis &#8211; Vasilis Ravioglou\u00a0<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;]<span data-contrast=\"auto\">Next, <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Alexandros Kapsetakis<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, Revenue Manager at REVITUP, and <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Vasilis Riavoglou<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, Senior Business Development Manager East Med &amp; Balkans at LIGHTHOUSE INTELLIGENCE, analyzed how revenue management can be improved using real-time data, emphasizing techniques that enhance efficiency and profitability. <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Nikos Gliatis<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, Managing Director of GDS Digital Systems LTD, introduced the concept of smart hotels, demonstrating how artificial intelligence can shape personalized experiences for guests, increasing satisfaction and engagement.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:true,&quot;134233118&quot;:true,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">One of the most intriguing topics of the day was the analysis of the future trajectory of Online Travel Agencies (OTAs). <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Giorgos Giannios<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, CEO of RELOAD HOTEL SALES, highlighted how major platforms now compete with innovative new solutions and how hoteliers should manage their online sales channels. Meanwhile, the theme of digital transformation in the restaurant industry was extensively discussed by <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Stratos Zervas<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, CEO of BUSINESS CLOUD, <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Stavrialena Gontzou<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, Marketing &amp; Content Manager at BUTLER CHAT, and <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Giannis Karalis<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, Commercial and Creative Director of Novidea. They showcased solutions such as online reservations, QR menus, and digital payments, highlighting the benefits of technology in improving operational efficiency and customer experience.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:true,&quot;134233118&quot;:true,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The day concluded with a presentation by <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Alexandros Georgantas<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, Business Strategy &amp; Operations at efood, who discussed strategies for strengthening takeaway and delivery services through mobile applications, emphasizing the importance of digitizing delivery services to maximize efficiency and customer satisfaction.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:true,&quot;134233118&quot;:true,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">With this dynamic finale, the Business Lab at HORECA 2025 wrapped up its sessions, reaffirming the significance of innovation and digital adaptation in the hospitality industry.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:true,&quot;134233118&quot;:true,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;]<b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Sunday, February 9<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:true,&quot;134233118&quot;:true,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Business Lab<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> at <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">HORECA 2025<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> continues to raise the bar, bringing to the forefront the most relevant trends, tools, and practices for the hospitality and food service industry. The third day of this parallel event was packed with knowledge and innovation, featuring top speakers who analyzed critical issues affecting the market. From the integration of HoReCa businesses with the <\/span>Independent Authority for Public Revenue (IAPR)<span data-contrast=\"auto\"> to the utilization of <\/span>artificial intelligence<span data-contrast=\"auto\"> in advertising campaigns and the management of online reviews, this day provided valuable insights and practical solutions for every industry professional.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:true,&quot;134233118&quot;:true,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The day kicked off with a focus on the new <\/span>requirements and challenges<span data-contrast=\"auto\"> that HoReCa businesses face regarding their integration with IAPR. <\/span>Mr. <b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Giorgos Pitsilis,<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> Governor of the Independent Authority for Public Revenue, elaborated on the importance of <\/span>tax compliance,<span data-contrast=\"auto\"> the new technologies facilitating these processes, and the regulatory changes impacting businesses in the sector.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:true,&quot;134233118&quot;:true,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner equal_height=&#8221;yes&#8221; gap=&#8221;3&#8243;][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/2&#8243; css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1707660220062{margin-right: 0px !important;margin-left: 0px !important;padding-right: 0px !important;padding-left: 10px !important;}&#8221;][vc_single_image image=&#8221;89397&#8243; img_size=&#8221;FULL&#8221; css=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;]Giorgios Pitsilis[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/2&#8243; css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1707660268076{margin-right: 0px !important;margin-left: 0px !important;padding-right: 10px !important;padding-left: 0px !important;}&#8221;][vc_single_image image=&#8221;89399&#8243; img_size=&#8221;FULL&#8221; css=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;]Christos Ditoras, Katerina Dimitrakopoulou, Vasilis Polyzos[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;]<span data-contrast=\"auto\">Next came a <\/span>dynamic panel discussion<span data-contrast=\"auto\"> on <\/span>social media strategies and trends for 2025<span data-contrast=\"auto\">. <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Christos Ditoras,<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> Marketing Manager at <\/span>SWOT HOSPITALITY, <b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Katerina Dimitrakopoulou,<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> Managing Director of <\/span>SCL Mellon<span data-contrast=\"auto\">, and <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Vasilis Polyzos,<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> Co-Founder and Managing Director of <\/span>THE VSCOPE<span data-contrast=\"auto\">, highlighted the latest developments in <\/span>digital marketing<span data-contrast=\"auto\"> and new approaches to <\/span>social media management<span data-contrast=\"auto\">. The speakers emphasized that <\/span>artificial intelligence<span data-contrast=\"auto\"> is now reshaping the landscape, and businesses must adapt accordingly.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:true,&quot;134233118&quot;:true,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Following this, <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Dimitris Mathioudakis,<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> Co-Founder of <\/span>MIND THE AD<span data-contrast=\"auto\">, presented how <\/span>AI is transforming advertising campaigns<span data-contrast=\"auto\">, focusing on <\/span>automation, improved results, and personalized content<span data-contrast=\"auto\"> for more effective promotional efforts. A <\/span>fireside chat<span data-contrast=\"auto\"> followed, featuring <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Panos Alefragkis,<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> Head of Digital at <\/span>THE NEWTONS<span data-contrast=\"auto\">, and <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Nikos Xydas,<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> Founder of <\/span>HUMBLE<span data-contrast=\"auto\">, discussing the shift from <\/span>Instagram to TikTok<span data-contrast=\"auto\"> and the importance of an <\/span>omnichannel approach<span data-contrast=\"auto\"> in modern digital marketing.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:true,&quot;134233118&quot;:true,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The <\/span>influencer marketing<span data-contrast=\"auto\"> session underscored the significance of <\/span>authentic content and strategic partnerships<span data-contrast=\"auto\">. <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Tina Michailidou,<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> Founder of <\/span>Gr8 COMMUNICATION<span data-contrast=\"auto\">, <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Nikos Marolis,<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> YouTuber, <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Gogo Farmaki,<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> Influencer, and <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Nancy Paradeisanou,<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> Journalist, shared their <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">i<\/span><\/b>nsights and experiences<span data-contrast=\"auto\"> through real <\/span>case studies<span data-contrast=\"auto\">. <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Themis Sarantaenas,<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> Founder of <\/span>MARKETING CONSULTANT<span data-contrast=\"auto\">, discussed <\/span>creating viral content<span data-contrast=\"auto\"> for <\/span>hotels, restaurants, and caf\u00e9s<span data-contrast=\"auto\">, presenting <\/span>practical techniques<span data-contrast=\"auto\"> to enhance brand visibility and audience engagement.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:true,&quot;134233118&quot;:true,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner equal_height=&#8221;yes&#8221; gap=&#8221;3&#8243;][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/2&#8243; css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1707660220062{margin-right: 0px !important;margin-left: 0px !important;padding-right: 0px !important;padding-left: 10px !important;}&#8221;][vc_single_image image=&#8221;89401&#8243; img_size=&#8221;FULL&#8221; css=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;]Dimitris Mathioudakis[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/2&#8243; css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1707660268076{margin-right: 0px !important;margin-left: 0px !important;padding-right: 10px !important;padding-left: 0px !important;}&#8221;][vc_single_image image=&#8221;89405&#8243; img_size=&#8221;FULL&#8221; css=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;]Tina Michailidou, Nikos Marolis, Gogo Farmaki, Nancy Paradeisanou[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;]<span data-contrast=\"auto\">The day concluded with a presentation by <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Dimitra Parashaki,<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> Account Manager at <\/span>Travelworks Public Relations<span data-contrast=\"auto\">, who analyzed <\/span>best practices for managing online reviews<span data-contrast=\"auto\"> on <\/span>TripAdvisor, Google, and social media<span data-contrast=\"auto\">. She highlighted the importance of <\/span>responding effectively<span data-contrast=\"auto\"> and leveraging feedback to <\/span>enhance customer experience<span data-contrast=\"auto\">.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:true,&quot;134233118&quot;:true,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The third day of the <\/span>Business Lab<span data-contrast=\"auto\"> confirmed that <\/span>technology, digital marketing, and strategic partnerships<span data-contrast=\"auto\"> are the key pillars of success in the <\/span>HoReCa<span data-contrast=\"auto\"> industry. The strong participation and engagement from attendees reaffirm the <\/span>need for continuous education<span data-contrast=\"auto\"> and adaptation to the <\/span>market\u2019s evolving challenges.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h4><strong>Saturday 8th February<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;]<span data-contrast=\"auto\">The second day of the Business Lab provided a dynamic platform for knowledge exchange and discussions around current trends in hospitality and catering. Focusing on sustainability, human resources, funding, and regulatory changes, leading industry professionals shared valuable insights and practical advice.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The event highlighted the importance of continuous updates and education for HORECA businesses, providing knowledge that can be translated into tangible business benefits.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The first panel of the day focused on attracting and retaining talent in the hospitality industry, with speakers including <strong>Magda Peistikou<\/strong>, PR &amp; Events Training Manager at INSETE, <strong>Giannis Batsis<\/strong>, Group Head of Talent &amp; Culture at DOMES, and <strong>Christos Dima<\/strong>, General Manager of Hotels. The speakers emphasized the importance of proper selection and retention of skilled staff, stressing the significance of training and creating an attractive work environment.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner equal_height=&#8221;yes&#8221; gap=&#8221;3&#8243;][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/2&#8243; css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1707660220062{margin-right: 0px !important;margin-left: 0px !important;padding-right: 0px !important;padding-left: 10px !important;}&#8221;][vc_single_image image=&#8221;89126&#8243; img_size=&#8221;FULL&#8221; css=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;]<span data-teams=\"true\">Zero Waste HORECA Awards 2025<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/2&#8243; css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1707660268076{margin-right: 0px !important;margin-left: 0px !important;padding-right: 10px !important;padding-left: 0px !important;}&#8221;][vc_single_image image=&#8221;89405&#8243; img_size=&#8221;FULL&#8221; css=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;]<span data-teams=\"true\">Vicky Tryfona, Paraskevas Geronikolos, Kostas Vamvakas<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;]<span data-contrast=\"auto\">Next, <strong>Christos Koutsopoulos<\/strong>, General Manager at Athenaeum Hotel Group, provided useful tips on effective CV analysis and selecting the right staff, highlighting the importance of soft skills and professional compatibility.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The next topic was about funding programs for hotels and restaurants, with speakers <strong>Kostas Vamvakas<\/strong>, Founder &amp; CEO of VK PREMIUM, and <strong>Paraskevas Geronikolos<\/strong>, Director\/Investment Funding Services at DBC BUSINESS CONSULTING. The speakers analyzed available funding opportunities, the requirements for a successful submission package, and new trends in managing investment funds. The discussion was moderated by <strong>Viki Tryfona<\/strong>, journalist at Power Game.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Following this, <strong>Ignatios Litsas<\/strong>, Certification Manager \u2013 Lead Auditor, and <strong>Panagiotis Kenterlis<\/strong>, Certification Commercial Manager at Bureau Veritas Hellas, presented the latest developments in environmental certifications, emphasizing the importance of sustainability for the competitiveness of hospitality businesses.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner equal_height=&#8221;yes&#8221; gap=&#8221;3&#8243;][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/2&#8243; css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1707660220062{margin-right: 0px !important;margin-left: 0px !important;padding-right: 0px !important;padding-left: 10px !important;}&#8221;][vc_single_image image=&#8221;89122&#8243; img_size=&#8221;FULL&#8221; css=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;]<span data-teams=\"true\">Ignatios Litsas<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/2&#8243; css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1707660268076{margin-right: 0px !important;margin-left: 0px !important;padding-right: 10px !important;padding-left: 0px !important;}&#8221;][vc_single_image image=&#8221;89120&#8243; img_size=&#8221;FULL&#8221; css=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;]<span data-teams=\"true\">Christos Dimas, Yannis Batsis, Magda Pistikou<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;]<span data-contrast=\"auto\">This was followed by a presentation from <strong>Iyad Kayali<\/strong> and <strong>Olga Skeepetari<\/strong> from Green Destinations, who discussed sustainability practices that can be implemented in HORECA businesses, showcasing successful case studies from the global market.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The final panel of the day focused on developments and challenges in the issuance of wholesale and retail invoices and how HORECA businesses can align with the new requirements. Participants included <strong>Nina Gerarchaki<\/strong>, Secretary of SKAMYGE and cash register systems supporter, <strong>Dimitris Katradis<\/strong>, President of the Association of Cash Register Importers &amp; Manufacturers, and <strong>Grigoris Giannoukos<\/strong>, Cash Register Software and Hardware Producer at SKAMYGE. The discussion was moderated by <strong>Dimitris Kamarias<\/strong>, President of SKAMYGE.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h4><strong>Friday 7th February<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>The Business Lab of HORECA 2025 kicked off dynamically, bringing innovative ideas, modern approaches, and engaging discussions to the forefront about the future of hospitality and the foodservice industry. With the participation of top market executives, marketers, and experts, the first day was filled with valuable insights and practical solutions for the challenges facing the industry.<\/p>\n<p>The day began with a panel on the Digital Work Card, where Mr. <strong>Vasilis Prassas<\/strong>, the General Director of Epsilon HR, presented solutions for workforce management and compliance with new legislative requirements. Following this, Dr. <strong>Philippos Kyrkitsos<\/strong>, President of the Ecological Recycling Society, highlighted the importance of sustainability in the industry, focusing on the implementation of modern practices and reducing the environmental footprint of HORECA businesses.[\/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner equal_height=&#8221;yes&#8221; gap=&#8221;3&#8243;][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/2&#8243; css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1707660220062{margin-right: 0px !important;margin-left: 0px !important;padding-right: 0px !important;padding-left: 10px !important;}&#8221;][vc_single_image image=&#8221;88767&#8243; img_size=&#8221;FULL&#8221; css=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;]<span data-teams=\"true\">Aigli Balamatsi<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/2&#8243; css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1707660268076{margin-right: 0px !important;margin-left: 0px !important;padding-right: 10px !important;padding-left: 0px !important;}&#8221;][vc_single_image image=&#8221;88769&#8243; img_size=&#8221;FULL&#8221; css=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;]<span data-teams=\"true\">Dimitris Serifis, Panos Kokalis, Alexandros Kosyvas<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;]Ms. <strong>Aspasia Taka<\/strong>, founder of Taka &amp; Partners, spoke about the significance of flexibility in the design of hospitality and foodservice spaces, showing how they can adapt to the needs of modern customers and become an integral part of their experience. This was followed by a speech from Ms. <strong>Aigli Balamatsi<\/strong>, CEO and Executive Strategy Director of Interweave, on the redefinition of wellness, which is emerging as a key element of hospitality, with new services and strategies enhancing the visitor experience.<\/p>\n<p>Next, the fireside chat with <strong>Dimitris Serifis<\/strong>, CEO of NELIOS, <strong>Panos Kokkalis<\/strong>, Digital Marketing Manager at Marketing Greece, and <strong>Alexandros Kossyvas<\/strong>, Digital Marketing Director and Partner at Sleed, focused on artificial intelligence and how it can contribute to personalized hospitality experiences, offering practical examples of data usage. Mr. <strong>Sotiris Varelas<\/strong>, Associate Professor at the Department of Tourism Studies at the University of Piraeus, spoke about localism and authenticity as competitive advantages in tourism, presenting how businesses can integrate local culture into their services.[\/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner equal_height=&#8221;yes&#8221; gap=&#8221;3&#8243;][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/2&#8243; css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1707660220062{margin-right: 0px !important;margin-left: 0px !important;padding-right: 0px !important;padding-left: 10px !important;}&#8221;][vc_single_image image=&#8221;88773&#8243; img_size=&#8221;FULL&#8221; css=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;]<span data-teams=\"true\">Aspasia Taka<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/2&#8243; css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1707660268076{margin-right: 0px !important;margin-left: 0px !important;padding-right: 10px !important;padding-left: 0px !important;}&#8221;][vc_single_image image=&#8221;88775&#8243; img_size=&#8221;FULL&#8221; css=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;]<span data-teams=\"true\">Lila Karapostoli, Yiannis Daveronis, Stratis Vagias, Dimitris Repoulios,Haris Nikolouzos, Stefanos Diamantopoulos<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;]The day concluded with an interesting panel on the future prospects of mass catering equipment. Ms. <strong>Lila Karapostoli<\/strong>, Public Relations Officer at SEEME, moderated the discussion among <strong>Giannis Daveronis<\/strong>, General Secretary of POESE and restaurant owner, <strong>Stratis Vagias<\/strong>, Board Member of SEEME, <strong>Dimitris Repoulis<\/strong>, Designer of Catering Units at EUROPSYKTIKI DESIGN SA, <strong>Charis Nikolaou<\/strong>, Chef and owner of the restaurant Jerar, and <strong>Stefanos Diamantopoulos<\/strong>, Pastry Chef and owner of LeVotre Piree, who shared their knowledge and experiences on new technologies and trends in the market.<\/p>\n<p>The first day of the Business Lab confirmed the industry&#8217;s dynamism, bringing technology, sustainability, and authenticity to the forefront as key pillars of success. 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