IUCAB Executive Committee Meeting in Stockholm: Filled with Insights, Exchange and Inspiration
On 21 November, the Executive Committee of IUCAB gathered for its autumn meeting in the vibrant and stylish city of Stockholm. Hosted by our IUCAB Member Association ATPS Sweden, the event was exceptionally well organised. IUCAB President Olivier Mazoyer expressed his sincere gratitude for the outstanding preparation and warmly welcomed the strong participation of ExCom members from across Europe, including Vice Presidents Eeva Pakkanen (FIN), Ricard Penas (ESP), Nicolas Philippou (CYP), Ralf Scholz (GER), Axel Sturmberger (AUT), and Secretary General Christian Rebernig, as well as Observers Tintti Ikonen (FIN), Matthew Tickle (UK & Ireland) and COACB Secretary Jordi Marti.
To introduce the Swedish Association and present their activities, Helena Waker (CEO), Anna-Karin Abdon (Federal Lawyer & Advisor), and Vanessa Leporati (Senior Advisor) from ATPS Sweden also participated.
This year’s meeting took place within the dynamic environment of the Stockholm Fashion District, a hub for fashion, innovation and trade. Participants enjoyed exclusive insights into the district’s activities as well as a guided tour of its headquarters, where the meeting itself was held. This behind-the-scenes look highlighted the impressive way Sweden connects its creative industries with strong commercial structures.
Keynote Highlight: The Global Influence of the ICC
A major highlight of the gathering was the keynote speech by Henrik Blomqvist, Secretary General of ICC Sweden. Under the title “Services and activities of ICC in Sweden and internationally”, he explored the growing relevance of the International Chamber of Commerce as a global advocate for international business.
His keynote provided strong impulses and valuable context amid today’s shifting global economic landscape. Sweden remains one of the most innovative economies in Europe – driven by a strong export sector, advanced digitalisation and a stable, business-friendly environment. Its blend of modern technology and long-term sustainable thinking reflects a forward-looking approach that increasingly shapes international trade and the work of commercial agents.
Communication & LUCA – Strengthening Skills and Exchange Across the Network
The ExCom reviewed ongoing communication activities, including SEO and website updates. As part of this process, whitepapers focused on manufacturers and other relevant topics were developed and will be forwarded to the IUCAB Member Associations for further distribution.
A key highlight for 2026: IUCAB will introduce webinars and online exchanges for all agents of the member associations, offering interactive sessions on selected topics and fostering cross-border knowledge sharing.
The two-year LUCA Erasmus+ project officially ended on 31 October 2025, and the ExCom discussed the next steps. The project aims to upgrade the digital competencies of commercial agents.
Working Together for a Strong Future of Commercial Agency
The meeting in Stockholm once again underlined how valuable personal exchange is within IUCAB. New ideas, constructive discussions and an inspiring setting contributed to a productive and successful meeting.
IUCAB now looks ahead to the coming year – united, forward-focused and strengthened as an international network.
