The SmartGreenEcos Working Conference in Thessaloniki brought together 22 delegates from 18 Greek dairy-sector companies to discuss real business needs and help shape the project’s digital, AI and green solutions.
SmartGreenEcos brought Greek dairy businesses and project experts together in Thessaloniki to discuss how digital tools, artificial intelligence and greener practices can respond to the real needs of the dairy sector.
On 23 September 2026, the Federation of Industries of Greece (SVE), in collaboration with URENIO Research of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTH), hosted the SmartGreenEcos Working Conference “Dairy Industry 4.0: Digital Tools, Artificial Intelligence and Green Transition” at SVE’s premises in Thessaloniki.
The conference aimed to better understand and document the needs of Greek companies interested in SmartGreenEcos and to create an open space for discussion between company representatives and the project’s expert consultants.
Participation across the dairy value chain
The event brought together 22 delegates from 18 companies, with 17 participating onsite and five joining online. The companies represented different parts of the dairy value chain, including dairy processors, primary producers, a co-operative, an equipment manufacturer and an animal feed supplier. This diversity allowed the discussion to reflect a broad range of operational needs and business perspectives across the sector.
Four platforms, one connected ecosystem
Following welcome remarks by SVE and AUTH, participants were introduced to the SmartGreenEcos approach and its ambition to support 100 companies across Greece, Cyprus, Tunisia and Jordan in their green and digital transition.
The project experts then presented the four SmartGreenEcos platform areas:
From AI to practical dairy-industry applications
The discussion focused on how specialised AI models and agents could support practical business needs such as demand forecasting, production planning, inventory and shelf-life management, energy and ESG monitoring, and waste reduction.
Participants also discussed the human side of AI and the potential for automation to reduce repetitive tasks, allowing employees to dedicate more time to creative and analytical work. The proposed approach also includes training materials, digital and green tools and guidance related to AI Act compliance.
What comes next?
Following the Working Conference, participating companies will complete an online questionnaire combining closed and open-ended questions. Companies will be able to indicate which platform services and functionalities are most relevant to them and describe additional needs and expectations.
Their feedback will contribute to shaping the four SmartGreenEcos platforms so that the services developed reflect the real priorities of dairy businesses. Participating companies will then have ongoing access to the platforms and consultant support within the growing Mediterranean SmartGreenEcos network.
Last Update
15/10/2026
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