With Thessaloniki’s sparkling waterfront, rich cultural heritage, and renowned hospitality as its backdrop, the gathering united members from Southern Europe and the France-Benelux region. Together, they embraced a shared vision: to shape the future of the global meetings and events industry through deeper cooperation and a collective sense of purpose.
The meeting’s theme, “Mediterranean on the Move – France-Benelux on the Rise: Connecting People, Cities and Perspectives,” perfectly embodied the event’s vibrant spirit. Across three days, participants delved into how collaboration can boost destination competitiveness, spark innovation, build resilient event ecosystems, and deliver lasting value for associations and stakeholders worldwide. Lively discussions ranged from strategic partnerships and city alliances to mega-events, destination transformation, and the ever-evolving role of the meetings industry in today’s intricate global landscape.
One of Europe’s most dynamic and up-and-coming meeting destinations
For Thessaloniki, hosting this gathering was not only an honour but also a bold declaration of its ambitions. The city is rapidly cementing its reputation as one of Europe’s most dynamic and up-and-coming meeting destinations, drawing international attention with strategic investments, expanding connectivity, and an unwavering dedication to the business events sector. Industry leaders now see Thessaloniki as a place where world-class experiences meet the genuine warmth and accessibility that define Mediterranean hospitality.
The event’s success echoed a broader trend within ICCA: the growing importance of joint chapter meetings. By uniting diverse regional communities, these gatherings spark richer conversations, ignite new partnerships, and open doors to opportunities beyond traditional markets. Thessaloniki’s record-breaking attendance proved that members are eager for spaces where ideas, expertise, and perspectives truly connect.
As the largest Mediterranean Chapter gathering in ICCA history, the Thessaloniki meeting will be remembered not just for its impressive turnout, but for the vibrant energy, deep engagement, and shared ambition it inspired. It underscored that the future of the meetings industry belongs to those who join forces, bridge regions, and build stronger communities through collaboration.
In many respects, this achievement is shared not only by ICCA’s Mediterranean and France-Benelux Chapters, but also by a city that set the stage for connection, dialogue, and inspiration. Thessaloniki proved itself to be more than just a host; it became the spark that ignited one of the most significant chapter meetings in ICCA’s history.
Find out more about ICCA Med chapter here.
