HOTCO is a premier hotel investment and hospitality real estate conference focusing on Central and Eastern Europe (CEE), the Middle East and Africa. This event brings together senior executives, investors, developers, private equity firms, hotel brands, and advisors to explore hospitality investment trends, financing strategies, development pipelines, and market opportunities.
Why should people attend?
Participants gain deep insights into regional hospitality markets, emerging investment destinations, risk management frameworks and growth strategies - as well as opportunities to connect with global capital, brands and operators in a focused forum.
Key Speakers & Topics
The 2026 program features a mix of strategic discussions and forward-looking hospitality technology:
- AI and Technology: Martin Stolfa (Founder of Aviaticus LLC) will present on "The Agentic Shift," exploring how intelligent agents and AI-driven automation will redefine customer interaction and product representation.
- Tourism Leadership: Oliver Csendes, CEO of Visit Hungary, will share insights on data-driven marketing and tourism strategy.
- Investment & Strategy:
- Lukas Koller (Co-owner of EST Hotels) on the practical exchange between owners and operators.
- Philip Bacon (Horwath HTL) on hotel ownership models.
- Alexandru and Nicoleta Manea (Monarc Development) are discussing large-scale branded residential and hotel projects.
- Sustainable & Nature-Based Hospitality: Peter Licen (Director of Lushna Cabin Hotels) will discuss architecture and smart investment in eco-luxury and cabin hotels.
Conference Highlights
- Structured Networking: The two-day event includes curated speed-dating sessions, hotel site visits, and closed-door strategic discussions.
- Sponsors: Major industry players like Wyndham Hotels & Resorts are confirmed sponsors.
- Regional Focus: Executives from prominent regional companies like Danubius Hotels, Ensana, and VERKEHRSBUERO are active participants.
