CapsuleT: Innovation and New Technologies as Levers of Transformation in Conference Tourism

The 14th Panhellenic HAPCO & DES Conference, titled “Metamorphosis”, successfully concluded on March 10-11, 2025, at the Megaron Athens Concert Hall. The conference served as a meeting point for professionals in conference tourism and the business events sector, offering a platform for exchanging knowledge, innovation, and strategic thinking on the future of Meetings, Incentives, Conferences & Events (MICE) in Greece.

“Metamorphosis” was not just a thematic choice—it was the central focus of all discussions, showcasing how the industry is transforming through technology, sustainability, and new business models. The thematic sessions covered a wide range of topics, from the future of conference destinations to leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and digital tools in event organization.

CapsuleT Panel: Innovation – The Backbone of Transformation

One of the most dynamic sessions of the conference was the Capsule^T Panel, titled “Innovation – The Backbone of Transformation”, which took place on Monday, March 10. The discussion highlighted the crucial role of innovation in shaping the future of conference tourism, focusing on new technologies, digital solutions, and innovative business models.

The discussion was moderated by Ms. Katerina Saridaki, Director of the Hellenic Chamber of Hotels‘ Accelerator, and featured four innovative startups that provide technological solutions to challenges in the tourism industry.

The speakers, Charis Sfyrakis, Founder-CEO of Algomo, Andreas-Ilias Alexakis, Founder-CEO of Orbito Travel, Yannis Dinapoyias, Founder-CEO of Travelr, and Georgios Kontaksis, CEO of Vivestia, analyzed how innovation can contribute to improving participant experiences, increasing event efficiency, and optimizing cost management. Particular emphasis was placed on the importance of adapting to new technologies and digitalization to meet the evolving needs of the industry.

Analytically:

• Algomo – Uses AI personalization to offer tailored experiences. The discussion highlighted how artificial intelligence can enhance event management, from automating customer service to creating personalized recommendations for attendees.

• Orbito Travel – A startup dedicated to accessibility in tourism, which presented the challenges faced by individuals with mobility difficulties in business travel and the solutions offered by its platform. The discussions emphasized the importance of integrating technological solutions to ensure conferences are fully accessible before, during, and after an event.

• Travelr – As a business travel OTA system, Travelr discussed how digital booking solutions can make the process more flexible and cost-effective for organizers and companies. Special attention was given to how technology aids in expense management and reimbursements, ensuring that professionals travel with less bureaucracy and greater cost transparency.

• Vivestia – Presented the use of VR technology in accommodation and conference space experiences. The discussion demonstrated how 3D VR Tours can enhance the sale and preparation of conference venues, allowing organizers to provide a realistic preview of the space to potential clients, reducing uncertainty before an event.

In the final part of the panel, the startups shared case studies showcasing real-world applications of their solutions and how their technologies have already contributed to the conference industry.

Conclusion

The discussion demonstrated that innovation is not just a tool but a necessity for conference tourism. AI, VR, fintech solutions, and inclusivity are key factors that can transform the industry, making it more efficient, sustainable, and accessible.

Additionally, we had the honor and pleasure of speaking with Ms. Sissy Lygnou, President of the International Association of Professional Congress Organizers (IAPCO), and Mrs. Christina Tetradi, Vice President of the Hellenic Chamber of Hotels.

A Step Towards the Future of Conference Tourism

“Metamorphosis” was not just a conference but a dialogue about the future. The CapsuleT Panel reaffirmed that innovation and technology are catalysts for the transformation of the industry, offering practical solutions that can be implemented today.

See you at the next conference!