Athens is preparing to host one of the most significant events for the conference and professional events sector, as the Annual Meeting of the Hellenic Association of Professional Congress Organizers – HAPCO & DES will take place on April 29 and 30, 2026. With the central message “Sync. Shift. Shape.”, the conference aims to be a substantial meeting point for dialogue and strategic thinking about the future of the industry, during a period of intense global transformations.
A Hub Conference for the Industry
In an international environment that redefines the role and importance of professional meetings, the HAPCO & DES Annual Meeting 2026 highlights the new priorities and challenges shaping our industry. The conference will function as a:
- Synchronization point (SYNC) for aligning the industry with international developments.
- Transition point (SHIFT) towards new business and operational models.
- Shaping platform (SHAPE) for the future of conferences and events.
This event confirms Greece’s strategic shift from classical tourism to the forefront of global professional events.
Thematic Axes and Content
Through a modern and multifaceted program, the conference will focus on critical issues affecting the industry, such as:
- The strategic extroversion and international positioning of Greece.
- The interconnection of bodies and the strengthening of collaborations.
- Sustainability and ESG practices in event design.
- Innovation and new technologies.
- The participant’s experience as a determining factor for success.
With an emphasis on knowledge, exchange of experiences, and the creation of new synergies, the conference aims to provide practical guidance and substantial tools to industry professionals.
High-Level Participation
The conference will be attended by leading representatives of the State, the international and Greek market, as well as leading personalities of the industry, creating a dynamic environment for exchanging ideas and strategic thinking. The presence of decision-makers, professionals, and bodies from the entire ecosystem of conferences and events enhances the conference’s role as a reference point for the industry.
Greece at the Center of Developments
The organization of the conference in Athens highlights the strategic importance of Greece as a destination for conferences and professional events, strengthening its international presence. At the same time, it confirms the dynamics of the Greek ecosystem and its ability to meet the contemporary demands of the international market.
More Than a Conference
The President of HAPCO & DES, Ms. Antonia Alexandrou, states: “In another period of intense international developments and challenges, the conference and events industry shows its resilience and its power to adapt and innovate. Despite the postponement of the event in Ioannina, this year’s HAPCO & DES Conference returns more dynamic than ever to Athens, at the emblematic Grand Hyatt hotel. Our message is clear: we are here, we are active, and we continue to shape the future of the Meetings Industry in Greece.
We invite our members, the new members of our community, all professionals in the industry, organizations, destinations, the academic community, students, and new talents to participate in a conference that is not limited to presentations but invests in meaningful dialogue, cooperation, and creation. With the central message ‘Sync. Shift. Shape.’, we do not merely seek to highlight trends, but to actively contribute to the formation of a more mature, resilient, and extroverted industry for Greece. This year’s conference is more than a meeting. It is a statement of presence. It is strength. It is our collective answer to the challenges. We want you all there. Active. Present. Protagonists of tomorrow.”
Source: https://startupper.gr/news/251015/sync-shift-shape-i-athina-kleidonei-ti-thesi-tis-stin-pagkosmia-elit-ton-synedrion
