Date: Friday, 6 February 2026
Time: 12:30 – 13:15
Curator: Destsetters
Stage: Workshop Stage
The arrival of international hotel giants in Crete marks a new era for the island’s tourism industry, offering owners of existing properties the opportunity for a radical repositioning in the global market. This workshop provides a practical guide for transitioning from an independent local property model to being part of a global brand umbrella, analyzing the benefits for the property’s commercial value and access to international sales networks. Special emphasis is placed on the architectural and technical standards required to upgrade facilities, as well as on the strategic choice between Franchise and Management models. The goal is to demonstrate how partnering with international brands can safeguard the investment against future challenges while keeping Cretan hospitality at the heart of the guest experience.