Nürnbergmesse hosted this autumn’s General Assembly of the European Major Exhibition Centres Association (EMECA) in Athens, Greece, to highlight its latest acquisition, the Greek organiser Forum and to put the growing Greek exhibition market into the spotlight. EMECA Board Members met and exchanged with the President and Vice President of the newly formed SOKEE, the Greek Exhibition Industry Association. The Members celebrated once more 30 years of EMECA.

“2022 is a good year in terms of number of exhibitions, that shows a quick recovery for our industry. Most EMECA Members will be soon approaching pre-pandemic results,” said Ricard Zapatero, EMECA President.
According to Zapatero, full recovery in terms of turnover will be reached already in 2023 for most members in Europe. Profits, however, will take more time to come back to pre-pandemic levels.

Roland Bleinroth, CEO of Messe Stuttgart was elected to lead the association for the two upcoming years. Maria Joao Rocha de Matos, General Director of FIL Lisbon Exhibitions & Convention Centre will join the Board as Vice President for Digital Business. The current President Ricard Zapatero, International Business Director at Fira Barcelona, will switch to be responsible for Strategy.

“It is a great signal that we can welcome a new Board Member and a new President for the next period. EMECA has a vivid membership with engaged members in the expert Working Groups and in the Board. It is important to rotate to bring in new views and ideas, and to share responsibilities over time,” said Ricard Zapatero.