IUCAB Executive Committee Meeting in Zagreb: Strengthening Strategy, Collaboration and Future Initiatives
On 10 April 2026, the Executive Committee of IUCAB convened for its spring meeting in Zagreb, Croatia. Hosted at the Croatian Chamber of Economy, the meeting brought together key representatives to discuss ongoing initiatives, strategic developments and future priorities.
IUCAB President Olivier Mazoyer warmly opened the meeting, welcoming Vice Presidents Eeva Pakkanen (FIN), Nicolas Philippou (CYP) and Axel Sturmberger (AUT), Observer Matthew Tickle (UK & Ireland), Secretary General Christian Rebernig, as well as guest Damjana Sever from the Slovenian Member Association ARAA.
A central part of the discussions focused on IUCAB’s communication strategy and digital development. The Secretariat reported on ongoing social media activities, as well as efforts in SEO/SEA and the development of targeted whitepapers to strengthen visibility and outreach.
Particular attention was given to the continued expansion of IUCAB’s digital ecosystem. Updates included the development of the new B2B platform for the Americas and the integration of the LUCA e-learning platform into the IUCAB website. In addition, Christian Rebernig informed the Executive Committee about ERCULES, a new upcoming Erasmus+ initiative, co-funded by the European Union, aimed at modernising and innovating sales education across Europe.
Together, these initiatives aim to enhance knowledge sharing, create new business opportunities and make it easier for commercial agents to connect with manufacturers across borders.
The Executive Committee also reviewed the current geopolitical situation, with particular attention given to the recent increase in fuel prices. The discussion highlighted the different regional measures being taken across the countries of the IUCAB Member Associations, with the aim of identifying best practices and sharing effective approaches throughout the network.
Further discussions addressed IUCAB’s business development strategy, including the successful launch of the first online exchange for commercial agents held in March 2026. This format marks an important step towards more regular, accessible and international dialogue within the network. Save the date: the next webinar for commercial agents will take place on Thursday, 22 October 2026 at 4:00 pm.
In addition, legal webinars are being further developed as a practical tool to provide members with relevant insights and guidance in an increasingly complex regulatory environment.
Insights from Croatia’s Economic Landscape
A highlight of the meeting was the keynote presentation by Silva Stipic Kobali, Director of Business Internationlisation Centre and Goran Saravanja, Chief Economist of the Croatian Chamber of Economy, who shared valuable insights into Croatia’s economic indicators and the performance of the national economy.
Croatia is currently one of the fastest-growing economies in the EU, with GDP growth well above the EU average and a stable economic environment.
The presentation offered a broader perspective on regional developments and underlined Croatia’s role within the European economic landscape, providing useful context for IUCAB’s ongoing activities and strategic positioning.
In addition, the Executive Committee reviewed key organisational topics, including financial developments and member association updates. These discussions ensure continuity, transparency and the long-term stability of the organisation.
Looking Ahead: Bordeaux and Beyond
Preparations for the upcoming Delegates Meeting, taking place from 14–16 May 2026 in Bordeaux, France, are well underway, with strong interest already from across the IUCAB network. The event will once again provide an important platform for exchange, networking and strategic discussions.
The meeting also included the selection process for the George Hayward Award 2026, as well as updates from the Secretarial and Legal Working Groups—highlighting the broad range of ongoing activities within IUCAB.
A Strong Network Moving Forward
The Executive Committee Meeting in Zagreb once again demonstrated the importance of personal exchange, strategic alignment and international collaboration within IUCAB.
With a clear focus on digitalisation, education and member engagement, IUCAB continues to strengthen its role as a forward-looking organisation. By supporting commercial agents and fostering connections with manufacturers worldwide, IUCAB actively contributes to shaping the future of international trade.
