TIF-Helexpo Presents Redevelopment Plan for Thessaloniki’s International Expo Center

An impression of Thessaloniki’s expo center after its renovation. Photo source: TIF-Helexpo

TIF-Helexpo, Greece’s national exhibition organizer, on Wednesday presented its redevelopment plan for the international expo center in Thessaloniki to the city’s municipal council.

The presentation, which took place during a special council meeting, aimed to fully inform members about the new project, incorporating the municipality’s proposals.

The plan outlines the transformation of the expo center into a bioclimatic fair and conference center, set to become the most environmentally sustainable of its kind in Europe. The redevelopment will introduce an urban park spanning 113,616 square meters, featuring over 3,000 trees. As part of the project, the building areas will be reduced by 20 percent, from 67,000 square meters to 53,800 square meters.

TIF-Helexpo will be responsible for maintaining the park, which will remain open and fully accessible to the public.

Key features of the redevelopment also include the creation of 1,660 underground parking spaces in the city center, addressing significant traffic and parking challenges in Thessaloniki, Greece’s second-largest city.

Economic impact and job creation

Photo source: TIF-Helexpo

The redevelopment is expected to generate substantial economic benefits for Thessaloniki. During the construction phase, financial activity is estimated to reach between 70 and 80 million euros annually, while creating approximately 1,000 jobs each year. Upon completion, the new fair and conference center is projected to generate annual revenues of 350 to 400 million euros, supporting more than 1,500 permanent jobs.

TIF-Helexpo has described the project as emblematic and a “win-win-win” for the city of Thessaloniki, its residents, and the exhibition industry, given the region’s long-standing tradition in this sector.

A landmark for Thessaloniki

Photo source: TIF-Helexpo

The new expo facility will serve as a landmark for Thessaloniki, further solidifying the city’s role as a business hub in southeastern Europe and an increasingly important tourist destination. This project will enhance the city’s global prominence, along with TIF-Helexpo’s reach both locally and internationally.

A decade of planning

The redevelopment project is the result of more than a decade of careful planning, public consultation, and active involvement from local authorities, citizens’ groups, and professional organizations. It has been hailed as the largest urban regeneration project in Thessaloniki’s history. The project is being supported by Greece’s national Growth Fund, through its Project Preparation Facility (PPF).