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G e o r g e F i l i p p i d is , G e n e r a l M a n ag e r
a t A n d r o n is G r o u p o n t h e be a u t y o f S a n to r i n i

a n d w h a t h e e x pe c t s f o r t h e s umm e r s e a s o n .

Andronis Group offers a leading Greek tourism product Santorini has all the prerequisites for a longer tourist season
in what is undeniably one of the most sought after and and maybe in the distant future it could become a year-
successful tourist destinations in the country. round destination. There are many reasons to visit the island
What are your feelings about the Group’s General that are not directly dependent on the weather, there are
Management in recent years? the wineries, the enchanting landscape, the high level of
How the group has evolved and the reputation it has gained gastronomy that is constantly evolving as well as the island’s
fills me with great pride and such optimism about the future. historical and cultural monuments.
I feel very lucky to be located in such a destination with How much has the unique boutique experience offered
the appropriate dynamics that have allowed me to create a by the Andronis Group evolved, or even differentiated
modern, dynamic and progressive organization. itself, and how is it being promoted through the Group’s
Looking towards the future, what do you believe the portfolio of properties right now?
success of the Group will be based upon? What do you The Group’s hotels have a limited number of accommodations
see as new challenges and goals? as well as a 2.5 to 1 employee to guest ratio. We really
I would like the group to be based on a modern and creative know all our customers and deal with them on an entirely
work culture that always aims to provide special experiences personal level. We are constantly on the lookout for new
and one-of-a-kind emotions for its guests while offering our experience offerings and closely follow global trends. With
employees a sense of satisfaction in terms of the organization the development of technology, we have reached the point of
that they work for and its achievements. The company must giving our future customers many opportunities to decorate
remain a dynamic, ambitious and modern environment that their room before arrival by adding their favorite pillows,
promotes innovation while remaining flexible and sensitive perfumes and amenities, we have developed some of the
to the needs and desires of each guest. most important restaurants in the country in terms of haute
Is the Andronis Group targeting new markets in addition cuisine and have created one of the best overall non-invasive
to hospitality and catering? wellness products in Europe.
Our plans for future development in the near future include Are the hotels connected to the local economy? What other
only hotel projects and fun restaurants. With that being said, actions and initiatives characterize Andronis’ footprint
I am always on the lookout for new opportunities while we in Santorini?
continuously track market trends. Most of the products we use come from local suppliers. We
What are the predictions for this summer season? have made local donations - such as the construction of a
Everyone is talking about a sold-out season. What do square in the village of Oia, equipment for school students
you foresee? as well as social activities such as cleaning the path from
The signs so far are really very positive; at Andronis, we’re Oia to Fira, blood donations, etc. However, for us the most
looking to maintain the same high level of service in a season important project is building a residential complex for our
where we having added so many new faces to the team. employees thereby providing them with appropriate living
After the two years of the pandemic where we saw such a conditions on an island where the summer housing problem
contraction in terms of initiatives and growth, we’re really has up until now been significant.
pleased to have increased our number of employees; we What steps do you take in reflecting your respect for the
actually have more staff now than before the pandemic. We special identity of the island?
also want to lay the foundations for our future development We respect the architectural traditions of the island, we
as an organization. promote its unique products and we actively contribute to
“We really know all our customers and deal How can the tourist season be extended on the island? its social development.
Which phrase encapsulates Andronis’ philosophy with
Does the Andronis Group share this broader vision for
with them on an entirely personal level.” Greek tourism? What factors need to be in place in your which you identify?
opinion?
Express Your Nature.
There is a tendency for the season to grow every year by a Close your eyes and relax for a few seconds. Where would
few days. This was of course violently interrupted by the you like to be right now on the island?
George Filippidis, Andronis Group General Manager pandemic but this year we expect a slightly longer season. Barefoot in a fish tavern on Perivolos beach. •

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