ALDEMAR RESORTS S.A.

The Ilis Congress Center aims to become a modern landmark of conference tourism in Western Greece, filling the gap that existed along the country’s western axis for international-standard conference facilities. Its operation enhances the tourism development of Ilia and the wider region, positioning Western Peloponnese as a brand name for conferences, exhibitions, events, and leisure.

At the same time, it aligns with Aldemar Resorts Group’s strategy of extending the tourism season and strengthening competitiveness in the conference tourism sector, where the company already has decades of expertise. The Ilis Congress Center introduces a new model of sustainable entrepreneurship, being an energy-independent conference center powered by renewable energy sources, highlighting environmental responsibility and innovation as core values.

In this way, it contributes substantially at local, regional, and national level—supporting the local economy and employment, fostering cooperation with Greek businesses, and reinforcing Greece’s position on the international conference tourism map.

The Ilis Congress Center addresses a broad and diverse audience:

• Conference tourism professionals (event organizers, buyers, MICE companies).
• Businesses, organizations, and institutions—both Greek and international—seeking high-standard venues for conferences, exhibitions, and events.
• Conference and business travelers combining professional activities with leisure (bleisure tourism).
• High-demand tourists seeking quality infrastructure and comprehensive hospitality experiences.
• The local community, through enhanced employment, new collaborations, and the overall upgrade of the region’s tourism offering.

The creation of the Ilis Congress Center represents a strategic investment by Aldemar Resorts Group with the goal of establishing Western Greece as a hub for conference tourism. The rationale behind the initiative was to tap into the area’s untapped potential, cover the existing gap in international-standard conference facilities along the western axis of the country, and transform Ilia into a prestigious destination for both professional and leisure experiences.

The project was implemented with speed and strategic consistency: within six months, 9,400 m² of facilities and 15 halls were constructed, with the capacity to host up to 3,000 participants. Particular emphasis was placed on collaborating with Greek companies and employing local workforce, thereby supporting both the regional and national economy. At the same time, environmental sustainability was a central pillar of design and execution, ensuring compliance with modern standards for green and sustainable infrastructure.

What makes the Ilis Congress Center unique is that it is an energy-independent conference center in Greece. Its energy autonomy is secured through a 1 MW photovoltaic station, thermal facades, and heat pumps. The multifunctional design of the space allows it to host a wide range of events—from conferences and exhibitions to cultural happenings—with flexibility and adaptability.

This initiative goes beyond the creation of a conference venue; it is part of a broader vision: establishing the region as a brand name destination for sustainable tourism and development, emphasizing the integration of hospitality, professional activity, and local life.

The Ilis Congress Center is located in Western Peloponnese, in Ilia, just 30 km from Ancient Olympia. With easy access by road, sea, and air, and surrounded by rich natural and cultural heritage, it serves as a hub for international conferences and events.

Measurable Results

• 3,610 visitors during the first 6 months of operation.
• +1 additional month in the tourism season.
• 500% increase in the number of conferences compared to the past.
• +20 new collaborations with local businesses.
• +13.5% increase in employment (compared to 2023).

Impact on the Local Community

• During construction: approx. 300 workers involved from Ilia, Patras, and Athens, including 200 construction workers across all specialties.
• During operation: new jobs in tourism and support services.
• Support of local communities, cultural and academic initiatives.
• Creation of a hub for knowledge exchange and professional networking.

Environmental Impact

• Energy-independent conference center in Greece.
• Photovoltaic station 1MW with 1,000 solar panels.
• Use of thermal insulation materials, smart energy management systems, and water-saving technologies.
• Reduced energy footprint, alignment with international sustainable practices.

Overall
The Ilis Congress Center has strengthened Western Greece’s profile in the MICE sector, contributing to economic growth, tourism increase, new collaborations, and sustainable local development.

Impact on the Economic & Business of Aldemar

• Boost in bookings outside peak season, increasing total revenue.
• Attraction of large national and international conferences.
• Creation of new markets and sectors in the MICE industry.
• Growth of auxiliary revenues for the Group and the local economy.