Prodexpo North 2026: Eastern Macedonia & Thrace at the forefront of international investment
Kourtidis Group President, Nikos Kourtidis, unveils flagship projects for the coming decade
The 9th Prodexpo North, held on March 3rd at the Makedonia Palace Hotel in Thessaloniki, highlighted the significant investment opportunities and robust growth within the Region of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace. During the conference, the President and CEO of Kourtidis Group, Mr. Nikos Kourtidis, participated in the panel discussion titled “Eastern Macedonia and Thrace: The New Investment Case Study – New Investments, New Brands” emphasizing the region’s transition into a modern, multifaceted investment destination.
The panel also featured distinguished speakers, including Mr. Theodoros Markopoulos, Vice Governor of Kavala representing the Regional Governor of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace, Mr. Panagiotis Archontis, Vice Governor of Tourism for EMT & Regional Councilor of Thassos, and Mr. Stelios Samoladas, Regional Director & Owner of RE/MAX Greece. The discussion was moderated by Grigoris Avanidis, Project Manager of Dream Workers and Communications Manager for Kourtidis Group.
Major investments on the horizon
In his address, Mr. Nikos Kourtidis highlighted the pivotal role Kourtidis Group plays in shaping the new developmental map of Eastern Macedonia. He noted that the Group has delivered more than 3,500 residences over its 30 year history, with 1,820 residences currently under development in organized communities. With a focus on a sustainable growth model that avoids over-tourism and adopts a holistic approach, the Group is strategically planning for the next decade.
The standout announcement of the 9th Prodexpo North came directly from Kourtidis Group. Across land totaling 1,450,000 sq.m., five landmark investments have been designed to target diverse global audiences. Mr. Kourtidis introduced these large-scale projects, revealing their titles:
- Alexandrou Chora: Branded Resort, Branded Residences, Cultural & Events Center
- Alexandrou Chora Theme Park
- Glamping
- Longevity & Wellness Hotel
- Mega Project
Further details remain confidential for the moment, as these five projects will be officially presented by the Group’s Strategic Consultant and former President of the Greek National Tourism Organization and former Vice Minister of Culture, Tourism and Sports, Ms. Angela Gerekou, on March 11th in Cannes during MIPIM, the world’s premier real estate event.
Eastern Macedonia and Thrace: An Emerging Investment Brand
A common theme among the panelists was the steady upward trajectory of the Eastern Macedonia and Thrace Region, which has built a powerful brand name in recent years through coordinated investments, strategic planning, and a strengthened tourism sector.
Mr. Theodoros Markopoulos pointed out that while the Region is geographically distant from Greece’s major urban centers, it remains strategically close to international markets, with borders now acting as gateways for growth. He cited the momentum of Thassos island which welcomed approximately 1.5 million tourists in 2025, the operation of a regional office in Brussels, and the launch of an inter-regional water management network.
Significant attention was also given to the local real estate market. Mr. Stelios Samoladas underlined that between 2022 and 2024, approximately 8,500 property transactions took place, with average price increases reaching 30%. He stressed that continued investment is essential to maintaining this growth momentum, noting strong interest from the Balkans, Central Europe, the USA, and Australia.
Finally, Mr. Panagiotis Archontis highlighted the accolades received by the Eastern Macedonia and Thrace Region and Thassos island. He noted that arrivals and tourism revenue have seen steady growth over the past two years, emphasizing that tourism serves as a value-added multiplier for the local economy.
