Western Greece Announces Film Office Plans to Attract Audiovisual Projects

Deputy Regional Governor, Charalampos Bonanos, ADDMA CEO, Ioannis Georgizas, Film Officer, Theano Vourtsi, Head of the Athens Film Office, Stathis Kalogeropoulos. Photo source: Athens Municipality

The Region of Western Greece aims to position itself as a global destination for audiovisual production by launching its first film office in collaboration with the Athens Development and Destination Management Agency (ADDMA) of the Municipality of Athens.

As part of this partnership, the municipality’s Athens Film Office (A.F.O.) will assist in developing the corresponding office in Western Greece, sharing its expertise and experience to ensure effective operation.

Further details were discussed in a meeting in Athens between Deputy Regional Governor Charalampos Bonanos, film officer Theano Vourtsi, ADDMA CEO Ioannis Georgizas, and the head of the Athens Film Office, Stathis Kalogeropoulos.

Deputy Regional Governor, Charalampos Bonanos, ADDMA CEO, Ioannis Georgizas. Photo source: Athens Municipality

During their meeting, the municipality’s representatives shared their experiences with the successful operation of A.F.O. and revealed the promotional strategies they use to highlight Athens as a film destination.

“The municipality’s film office is dedicated to fostering balanced growth in the audiovisual production sector throughout the country, playing a pivotal role in the evolution of the ecosystem,” said Ioannis Georgizas.

Regional authorities from Western Greece highlighted the unique features of their homeland that can enhance its appeal as a film destination. These features include natural landscapes, urban and industrial areas, and professionals with experience from the Patras Carnival, according to officials.

“It is our priority to place the Region of Western Greece on the map of destinations chosen by domestic and international audiovisual productions,” Bonanos stressed, adding that with the expertise of the Athens Film Office, the region’s goal will be achieved.

Since its launch in 2020, the A.F.O. has contributed to a threefold increase in jobs in the audiovisual market. This growth was achieved by leveraging incentives established by Creative Greece (formerly the National Center of Audiovisual Media and Communication, EKOME), which are a crucial factor in selecting the country as a film destination.