Day 1

Tuesday, June 3

19:30 - 21:30

Event Directors Summit Icebreaker

Event Directors Summit – Only Open to Event Directors

Event Directors Summit – Only Open to Event/Exhibition/Project/Portfolio Directors

Join the Ice-Breaker drinks for the Event Directors Summit.

The Event Directors Summit is an exclusive one-day programme for a maximum of 50 exhibition/portfolio/event directors, which takes place immediately prior to the UFI European Events Week.

• FREE to attend for UFI European Events Week delegates who qualify.
• Innovative programme consists of a mixture of interactive workshops, P2P learning, and experiential networking.
• Gives event/portfolio directors access to a powerful network of international colleagues to explore future partnerships.
• Delegates must be from exhibition organisers only (venue operators & service providers are not eligible).

The innovative programme consists of a mixture of interactive workshops, P2P learning, and experiential networking, and next year we are happy to welcome Hugh Jones, CEO, RX Global, and Geoff Dickinson, CEO, dmg events, who will be joining us to share their knowledge.

• You can express your interest in the Event Directors Summit in the registration form.

Day 2

Wednesday, June 4

09:00 - 16:30    conference room

Event Directors Summit

Event Directors Summit – Only Open to Event Directors

Event Directors Summit – Only Open to Event/Exhibition/Project/Portfolio Directors

The Event Directors Summit is an exclusive one-day programme for a maximum of 50 exhibition/portfolio/event directors, which takes place immediately prior to the UFI European Events Week.

• FREE to attend for UFI European Events Week delegates who qualify.
• Innovative programme consists of a mixture of interactive workshops, P2P learning, and experiential networking.
• Gives event/portfolio directors access to a powerful network of international colleagues to explore future partnerships.
• Delegates must be from exhibition organisers only (venue operators & service providers are not eligible).

The innovative programme consists of a mixture of interactive workshops, P2P learning, and experiential networking, and next year we are happy to welcome Hugh Jones, CEO, RX Global, and Geoff Dickinson, CEO, dmg events, who will be joining us to share their knowledge.

• You can express your interest in the Event Directors Summit in the registration form. 

09:00 - 12:00

Talent and DEI: At the Intersection Between Talent, Culture and Customers

Workshop – Open to all

Explore the intersection of Talent, Culture, and Customers, with a strong focus on how DEI drives industry cohesion and business value.

DEI: One factor that impacts talent strategy, company culture, and customer engagement.

How DEI connects to talent attraction, retention, and business strategy in events.

The UFI Leadership Insight Series are designed to create "change" for participants through interactive sessions and learning. Featuring expertise from both within and outside the exhibition industry, sessions are shaped by diverse perspectives, providing valuable knowledge for participants to take away.

09:00 - 12:00

Navigating the US Exhibition Ecosystem: Strategies for Success

Workshop – Open to all

This session offers a deep dive into the U.S. exhibition market, featuring insights from key industry leaders. Each speaker brings a wealth of knowledge across the exhibition ecosystem and the critical intersections where successful exhibitions are shaped in the U.S. The session will conclude with a panel discussion and Q&A, fostering dialogue across the industry and geographies.

The UFI Leadership Insight Series are designed to create "change" for participants through interactive sessions and learning. Featuring expertise from both within and outside the exhibition industry, sessions are shaped by diverse perspectives, providing valuable knowledge for participants to take away.

Vinnie Polito

12:00 - 13:00

Networking Lunch

Workshop – Open to all

13:00 - 16:00

Leadership Insight Series - Digital Innovation

Workshop – Open to all

The UFI Leadership Insight Series are designed to create "change" for participants through interactive sessions and learning. Featuring expertise from both within and outside the exhibition industry, sessions are shaped by diverse perspectives, providing valuable knowledge for participants to take away.

13:00 - 16:00

Net Zero Measurement: Establishing Data Benchmarks for the Exhibition Industry

Workshop – Open to all

The importance of measuring carbon emissions and collecting sustainability data from events is widely recognized: we need good data to make informed decisions, to benchmark progress, for transparency and accountability, to innovate and find areas for improvement, and for engagement. But there are challenges in reporting the right data and establishing relevant benchmarks. 

This session will present efforts at both the organizational and national levels, showcasing case studies from exhibition organizers and industry associations while highlighting considerations in addressing legislative requirements. Attendees will be encouraged to contribute to collective industry efforts to establish standardized data and benchmarks, fostering a more consistent and effective approach to sustainability measurement.

The UFI Leadership Insight Series are designed to create "change" for participants through interactive sessions and learning. Featuring expertise from both within and outside the exhibition industry, sessions are shaped by diverse perspectives, providing valuable knowledge for participants to take away.

16:00 - 16:30

First-timers Reception

European Conference track – Open to all

This session is designed to help newcomers navigate the event, fostering meaningful relationships and enhancing your experience. Don’t miss the chance to kickstart your journey in the exhibition industry!

16:45 - 17:30

Speed Networking I

European Conference track – Open to all

This session is designed to maximize your connections in just minutes! This dynamic format offers one-on-one meetings, allowing participants to engage and network with industry peers efficiently.

17:45 - 18:45

Europe Chapter Meeting

European Conference track – Open only to UFI Members

Exclusively for UFI Members, this session will provide valuable insights into UFI's ongoing actions and advocacy works.

19:30 - 22:00

Welcome Reception

European Conference track – Open to all

Join us for an evening of lively conversation, delicious refreshments, and the chance to connect with fellow attendees in a relaxed atmosphere. Don’t miss this perfect opportunity to forge new relationships and set the tone for a fantastic event!

Day 3

Thursday, June 5

07:30 - 08:15

UFI Sports Club

European Conference track – Open to all

Start your day in Thessaloniki with the UFI Sports Club's invigorating sunrise sessions. Industry movers DSV invite you to join the UFI & TIF-HELEXPO teams to start your day with a some exercise and a smile. We have different options for you to try, so hopefully there is something for everyone! Check back for more info.

08:30 - 10:00    netwroking room

Associations Committee Meeting (by invitation only)

Associations Committee

09:00 - 10:00

Networking Refreshments

European Conference track – Open to all

Join us at TIF-HELEXPO for some refreshments before the day begins. Visit the UFI 100 Year exhibition in the foyer and check out the sponsor and partners booths and activations. 

9:20 - 9:45 - Bate-papo Corner: Talks, Ideas, Exchange

We are excited to launch the Bate-papo corner at the European Conference this year – a side-stage where open talks and discussions can take place between delegates on a wide range of topics. They will take place during the networking breaks and lunches, and delegates can either sit and take part in the chat or can listen on “silent disco” style headphones while grabbing a coffee or checking out the UFI 100-year exhibition.  Something on your mind? Some sessions we have deliberately left empty for open-mic style sessions, the topics of which will be decided on the day. The Bate-papo corner will be hosted by former UFI Next Generation Leader Joe Kowalsky from CloserStill Media USA. We currently have a sponsor opportunity for the Bate-papo corner – contact ana@ufi.org for more details.

Joseph Kowalsky

10:00 - 10:15

Opening Performance & Welcome

European Conference track – Open to all

10:15 - 10:25

Welcome From the Moderators

European Conference track – Open to all

Chloe Richardson Nick Dugdale-Moore

10:25 - 10:55

European Market Update

European Conference track – Open to all

This session will provide a strategic overview of the global exhibition industry, with a particular focus on Europe. It will examine the economic landscape, country performance profiles, and the performance of leading organizations. Additionally, it will explore pricing trends across the region, offering insights into the key forces shaping the industry's future.

10:55 - 11:15

Doing Business in Greece - A Golden Opportunity

European Conference track – Open to all

Greece was one of the fastest economies to recover from the pandemic.  UFI Global Barometer data showed that in 2024 the Greek exhibition industry achieved 151% of 2019 revenues, the highest figure in Europe and second highest globally after India. With some world leading industries (maritime / shipping, agriculture, tourism etc.) and a mature exhibition infrastructure, this session will look at opportunities for organizers in Greece.

11:15 - 11:35

Viva Espana! Focus on Spain - Europe's Best Performer in 2025

European Conference track – Open to all

11:35 - 12:00

UFI 100 years - Founding Members Celebration & Quiz

European Conference track – Open to all

11:50 - 12:00

How Is the Industry Performing? Scores From Exhibitors and Visitors

European Conference track – Open to all

Both exhibitor & visitor satisfaction scores jumped significantly when we returned from the pandemic. Historically, NPS scores for exhibitors were only NPS -17. What does that picture look like now? Does the jump indicate a fundamental shift in the way our customers perceive the value of exhibitions? Or is that bump fading? Hear the findings from the latest UFI & Explori research, which we will present for the first time here.

12:00 - 12:25

What Is the ROI of Exhibitions? What Do Our Customers Want?

European Conference track – Open to all

Ewa Doromoniec Vieira Chloe Richardson

12:30 - 13:30

Networking Lunch

European Conference track – Open to all

Visit the UFI 100 Year exhibition in the foyer and check out the sponsor and partners booths and activations.

12:35 - 13:25 - Bate-papo Corner: Talks, Ideas, Exchange

We are excited to launch the Bate-papo corner at the European Conference this year – a side-stage where open talks and discussions can take place between delegates on a wide range of topics. They will take place during the networking breaks and lunches, and delegates can either sit and take part in the chat or can listen on “silent disco” style headphones while grabbing a coffee or checking out the UFI 100-year exhibition.  Something on your mind? Some sessions we have deliberately left empty for open-mic style sessions, the topics of which will be decided on the day. The Bate-papo corner will be hosted by former UFI Next Generation Leader Joe Kowalsky from CloserStill Media USA. We currently have a sponsor opportunity for the Bate-papo corner – contact ana@ufi.org for more details.

13:35 - 14:00    conference room

AI & the Digital Revolution

European Conference track – Open to all

Stephan Forseilles

14:00 - 14:10

Digital Innovation in Focus - Learnings From the Digital Innovation Leadership Insight Series

European Conference track – Open to all

14:00 - 14:25

Attracting Younger Audiences Through Digital Channels

European Conference track – Open to all

14:25 - 14:45    netwroking room

Conference Session

European Conference track – Open to all

14:45 - 15:00

Event Directors in the Hot Seat - Learnings From the Event Directors Summit

European Conference track – Open to all

The Event Directors Summit takes place the day before the Conference, bringing together an exclusive group from our organizer community - Exhibition Directors, Portfolio Directors etc. of some of Europe's leading exhibition brands. MCI's Oscar Cerezales will present the results from this workshop with some insights from this group, together with two of UFI's Presidents who took part in the course. More information about the Event Directors Summit here.

Oscar Cerezales Hugh Jones Geoff Dickinson

15:00 - 16:00

Networking Break

European Conference track – Open to all

Join us at TIF-HELEXPO for some refreshments between sessions. Visit the UFI 100 Year exhibition in the foyer and check out the sponsor and partners booths and activations.

15:05 - 15:55 - Bate-papo Corner: Talks, Ideas, Exchange

We are excited to launch the Bate-papo corner at the European Conference this year – a side-stage where open talks and discussions can take place between delegates on a wide range of topics. They will take place during the networking breaks and lunches, and delegates can either sit and take part in the chat or can listen on “silent disco” style headphones while grabbing a coffee or checking out the UFI 100-year exhibition.  Something on your mind? Some sessions we have deliberately left empty for open-mic style sessions, the topics of which will be decided on the day. The Bate-papo corner will be hosted by former UFI Next Generation Leader Joe Kowalsky from CloserStill Media USA. We currently have a sponsor opportunity for the Bate-papo corner – contact ana@ufi.org for more details.

15:00 - 15:45

Speed Networking Session II

European Conference track – Open to all

16:00 - 16:05

Welcome Back

European Conference track – Open to all

16:05 - 16:30

New Formats, Experiences and Revenue Streams - The Venues Perspective

European Conference track – Open to all

Organizers are making an increasing amount of their revenue through digital and non-traditional (sqm) sales. What does this mean for venue operators? How can they make sure to maintain and increase their revenues in the face of this trend? And what other types of events, experiences, and products can they offer to capitalize on this trend?

Carina Montagut

16:30 - 16:50

The CEOs View

European Conference track – Open to all

16:50 - 17:00

Open Mic - Let's Hear Your View

European Conference track – Open to all

17:00 - 18:30

Networking Activity

European Conference track – Open to all

20:00 - 23:00

Networking Dinner

European Conference track – Open to all

Join us for an memorable evening of conversation, live music, food and entertainment.

Day 4

Friday, June 6

08:00 - 09:00

Welcome Refreshments

European Conference track – Open to all

8:30 - 8:55 - Bate-papo Corner: Talks, Ideas, Exchange

We are excited to launch the Bate-papo corner at the European Conference this year – a side-stage where open talks and discussions can take place between delegates on a wide range of topics. They will take place during the networking breaks and lunches, and delegates can either sit and take part in the chat or can listen on “silent disco” style headphones while grabbing a coffee or checking out the UFI 100-year exhibition.  Something on your mind? Some sessions we have deliberately left empty for open-mic style sessions, the topics of which will be decided on the day. The Bate-papo corner will be hosted by former UFI Next Generation Leader Joe Kowalsky from CloserStill Media USA. We currently have a sponsor opportunity for the Bate-papo corner – contact ana@ufi.org for more details.

Joseph Kowalsky

09:00 - 09:45

Xchange Theatre Sessions

European Conference track – Open to all

The Xchange sessions are sponsor-driven short Ted-style presentations, where selected suppliers and partners can present their latest products and destinations.

10:00 - 10:05

Conference Reopens

European Conference track – Open to all

10:05 - 10:20

Hearing Our Voice: How Can the EU Support Exhibitions? 

European Conference track – Open to all

10:20 - 10:30

Learnings From the Leadership Insight Series on Sustainable Development

European Conference track – Open to all

10:30 - 11:00

Reduce Emissions with Reusable Stands

European Conference track – Open to all

“Better Stands by NZCE”  shall be officially released during this session. The "Better Stands" scheme was initiated by Informa, who, together with several other organisers, are running a pilot program. UFI and IFES joined the project to develop it and make it available to the industry, under the Net Zero Carbon Events initiative. Jörg and Ben will come back this journey and present this service, soon open to all exhibition organizers, services providers and venues.

Joerg Zeissig Ben Wielgus

10:50 - 11:00

Conference Session

European Conference track – Open to all

11:00 - 11:45

Networking Break

European Conference track – Open to all

Join us at TIF-HELEXPO for some refreshments before the day begins. Visit the UFI 100 Year exhibition in the foyer and check out the sponsor and partners booths and activations.

11:00 - 11:40 - Bate-papo Corner: Talks, Ideas, Exchange

We are excited to launch the Bate-papo corner at the European Conference this year – a side-stage where open talks and discussions can take place between delegates on a wide range of topics. They will take place during the networking breaks and lunches, and delegates can either sit and take part in the chat or can listen on “silent disco” style headphones while grabbing a coffee or checking out the UFI 100-year exhibition.  Something on your mind? Some sessions we have deliberately left empty for open-mic style sessions, the topics of which will be decided on the day. The Bate-papo corner will be hosted by former UFI Next Generation Leader Joe Kowalsky from CloserStill Media USA. We currently have a sponsor opportunity for the Bate-papo corner – contact ana@ufi.org for more details.

Joseph Kowalsky

11:45 - 11:55

Talent - Our most Precious Commodity? Learnings from the Leadership Insight Series on Talent

European Conference track – Open to all

11:55 - 12:20    conference room

Ascending Olympus - The Next Generation of Greek Talent

European Conference track – Open to all

12:20 - 12:30

Opportunities Across the Atlantic Ocean - Learnings from the Leadership Insight Series on the US market

European Conference track – Open to all

12:30 - 12:50

New Formats - The Organizers Perspective

European Conference track – Open to all

12:50 - 13:00

Conference Summing Up and Reflections

European Conference track – Open to all

13:00 - 14:00

Closing Lunch

European Conference track – Open to all

15:30 - 21:30

Special Networking Experience: UFI Olympic Games at the beach

European Conference track – Open to all

Day 5

Saturday, June 7

09:00 - 16:00

Post-Conference Tours

European Conference track – Open to all

Embark on an unforgettable adventure with our full-day excursions. 

Select one of four unique options to discover the stunning landscapes surrounding Thessaloniki and Northern Greece: one day tour in Thessaloniki through 2,400 years of history and culture, the stunning rock formations of Meteora, the ancient history of Vergina, or the natural beauty of the Althos Mountains. 

Choose your favorite tour:

• Tour 1: Discover Thessaloniki: A One-Day City Tour Through 2,400 Years of History and Culture
• Tour 2: Experience the Majestic Meteora: A Day Trip to the Monasteries in the Sky
• Tour 3: Discover the Spiritual Beauty of Mount Athos: A Unique Day Trip Experience
• Tour 4: Explore the Ancient Kingdom of Macedon: A Day Trip to Vergina and the Aigai Museums 

Learn more here.