By Leslie Krowchenko, Special to Hellenic News of America
Whether it was their first participation or their thirtieth, participants at the 32nd Hermes Expo were treated to an engaging and memorable experience. From making new connections to reconnecting with old friends, from collecting gifts to tasting delicious samples, everyone had a fantastic time. The event, held June 14 at the Grand Marquis in Old Bridge, New Jersey, brought together entrepreneurs, professionals and industry leaders for a day of networking, business opportunities and celebration. The Hermes Expo is a major event for Greek-American and Philhellenic professionals, as well as those interested in Greek culture.
Paul Kotrotsios, founder and president of Hermes Expo, warmly welcomed the participants, highlighting the unique opportunity to gain invaluable insights and connect with industry experts. Since its inception, the expo has served as a catalyst to foster business relationships, promote entrepreneurship and honor achievements within the community. It provides a platform for businesses to showcase their products and services, form strategic partnerships and increase their visibility in the market.
The exhibition brought together a wide range of exhibitors from various sectors, states and nations. Visitors were not only enticed by the aroma of Greek starters, main courses and desserts served in small bites, but also had the opportunity to explore services in the fields of healthcare, technology and finance . James Polos, executive director of the Middlesex County Improvement Authority, praised Paul Kotrotsios for his visionary approach in creating and growing the exhibit until it was a resounding success.
The exhibition began with a meaningful prayer and blessing of water by Bishop Apostolos of Medeia, accompanied by Father Nektarios Cottros and Deacon Konstantinos Loukas. The Parable of the Talents was read, reminding everyone of the importance of using the gifts God has given them in His service and taking risks for the sake of His Kingdom.
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Among the exhibitors, Grecian Delight/Kronos Foods and Hackensack Meridian Old Bridge Medical Center stood out as presenting sponsors. Fantis Foods, General Mills, Global Golden Spark, Kontos Foods, Megas Yeeros, Pocket King Foods, Sirob Imports and Terra Medi wowed guests with their delicious olives, cheese, grape leaves, flatbread and flaky phyllo desserts.
Angelo Valavanis, regional manager for Grecian Delight/Kronos Foods, highlighted the company’s extensive presence in the tri-state area and its ability to tailor products to meet the unique preferences of different retailers. Even if customers might recognize his Opaa! line of gyros, gyro kits, tzatziki, feta and other products, they may be surprised to learn that the company makes similar items for retailers like Costco.
Mediterranean Restaurant Equipment (MRE) showcased its kitchen fitout expertise, while Fresh&co impressed with its healthy and creative meal options prepared in collaboration with local farmers.
“We are a family business and this is our first time at the expo,” said George Kallas, owner of MRE. “Being here gives us new insights into the state of the industry. »
Fresh&co and its franchise system are two of the New York restaurant concepts owned and operated by Steve Tenedios, founder and CEO of ST Management Group and one of the evening’s honorees. The fast-casual restaurant partners with local farmers to prepare creative and healthy meals with an emphasis on local, seasonal fruits and vegetables. STMG is also the managing partner of New York’s Kyma Restaurants for those seeking the ambiance of an elegant Greek tavern. “I’ve known Paul (Kotrotsios) for years and I’m happy to be here,” Tenedios said. “The visibility of businesses at the exhibition is excellent and it’s also nice to see old friends again.”
The event also included a variety of drinks, including alcoholic options from Fantis Foods, Ktima Anagenesis, and non-alcoholic choices from Gia…giamas and Hydra.
First-time exhibitor Steve Foustanellas of Gia…giamas served numerous glasses of all-natural lemonade, strawberry lemonade, green apple, pomegranate, peach and pandasia juice. Some visitors were so taken with the taste of this homemade refreshment that they purchased bottles of the mash for later use, which can also be mixed with alcohol to enjoy on a hot summer day . “Well done to us,” he said. “We are just entering this market and some of our flavors, like green apple and pomegranate, are a new taste for Americans.”
Returning to the show for the second year in a row, Hydra’s Louis Skenderis touted the benefits of his product. Drawn from springs located in an ancient mountain range on the Greek island of Crete, the spring water is naturally filtered, has a pH of 8 and is bottled in high-quality plastic containers. “I met my business partner at last year’s Hermes Expo,” Louis shared.
Visitors were captivated by Gia…giamas’ all-natural lemonade flavors and Hydra’s premium spring water from the ancient mountains of Crete.
The inedible samples were equally appealing. Visitors filled free bags with brochures, pens, notebooks, sticky pads, candy, bottled water and, of course, business cards, from finance (CGV Solutions, CORPAY Global Payments, Linqqs, Soft Touch POS), energy (Brilliant Solar, Green Crown). energy), legal (Markou Global Legal Group), insurance (The Ariston Insurance Inc.), real estate (All Area Realty Services), healthcare (Veronis Health), travel and leisure (Celestyal Cruises, Lifetyme Photography), health care skin (Sea Minerals, VIP International), media (Hellenic News of America), printing (B&L Printing Company, Inc.), foundations (The Susanna Iacovelli Charitable Foundation, Greek Children’s Fund) and municipal (Office of Economic Development of Mayor Old Bridge, NJ; East Brunswick, Chambers of Commerce of NJ Middlesex, NJ and Queens, NY).
CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE HERMES EXPO PHOTO GALLERY
The event attracted hundreds of attendees who explored the stands and took the opportunity to interact directly with exhibitors eager to share their offerings, innovations and expertise. For individual owners, one-on-one conversations have proven particularly beneficial.
Maria Markou, a lawyer specializing in international, business, corporate and immigration law, appreciated the opportunity to connect with other professionals and explore potential opportunities.
VIP International, a distributor of premium skin care products, saw the opportunity to captivate a wider Greek-American audience with its exquisite line of skin care products imported from Greece. Among their notable offerings, they recently launched the highly acclaimed Anti-Wrinkle Eye Serum under their esteemed brand, EUPHORIE Cosmetics, now available for purchase on Amazon.
Insurance broker Marcia Myers and insurance salesperson Sunny Rubin appreciated the opportunity to build new relationships and expand their networks. They recognized the value of relationship building in the people-driven insurance industry.
Steve Kontos, owner of Kontos Foods and one of the evening’s honorees, expressed his gratitude to everyone involved and praised Paul Kotrotsios for his leadership and dedication to the Greek business community. “We have been participating in the exhibition since the beginning and we will continue to do so. Paul is a connector and leader in the Greek community, helping Greek business owners with their future development.
As the afternoon turned into evening, the Hermes Expo Awards dinner began with a sumptuous cocktail followed by a sit-down meal and Greek dancing accompanied by the Stavros Theodorou Orchestra. The evening celebrated the outstanding contributions of honorees such as Ernie Anastos, George Dangas, Fotis Farmakis, Aggeliki Hionis, Elias Iliadis, Steve and Nancy Kontos, Nikolai Y. Markov, Sam Matthews, George Siamboulis, Jenny Tsantilas and Steve Tenedios. These individuals were recognized for their exceptional leadership, achievements and dedication to the Greek American and Philhellenic communities.
Hosted by James Polos, the awards dinner featured keynote speaker Phil Kafarakis, President and CEO of the International Foodservice Manufacturers Association. Kafarakis provided insightful perspectives on the future of the food industry, which has been significantly impacted by COVID-19. He pointed to changes brought about by the pandemic, such as the rise of takeout, delivery and meal kit options, as well as the increasing offerings of food service at convenience stores.
Watch John Catsimatidis’ video message here
The enchanting evening ended with a heartfelt video message from billionaire John Catsimatidis. He expressed his sincere congratulations to Paul Kotrotsios for his exceptional contribution to the Hellenic community. From humble beginnings, Paul has grown this exhibition into a remarkable event, promoting trade for Greece and all companies participating in the Hermes Expo. John also congratulated Ernie Anastos on receiving well-deserved recognition and his return to WABC. Ernie’s outstanding career at WABC, coupled with his unwavering dedication to the community, made him a beloved figure among Greek-Americans.
In a burst of resounding success, the Hermes Exhibition and Awards Dinner transcended expectations, leaving exhibitors, sponsors and award winners empowered by the invaluable platform they provided. As dynamic threads of entrepreneurship, heritage and unity weaved through the event, it became a powerful celebration of the indomitable spirit of the Greek-American community. With hearts overflowing with pride, participants left with a renewed sense of purpose, strengthened bonds and a shared vision of a better future.
