Breaking news

Miltos Forozidis Named Interim CEO At Lidl Cyprus In 2026

Lidl Cyprus has announced significant management changes slated for early 2026, setting the stage for a transformative phase in its executive leadership.

Transition In The Executive Suite

According to the official company statement, Martin Brandenburger, the current Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of Lidl Hellas and Lidl Cyprus, will step down from his role at the end of February 2026 after four successful years at the helm. Brandenburger is set to embrace a new challenge as he assumes the position of Chief Executive Officer of Lidl Italy and Lidl Malta starting March 1, 2026, thus continuing his influential journey within the Lidl Group.

Miltos Forozidis Steps Up

Taking over as interim CEO is Miltos Forozidis, who currently serves as Chief Operations Officer of Lidl Hellas and Lidl Cyprus. Forozidis brings 15 years of dedicated service and a wealth of international experience from diverse leadership roles across Lidl Denmark and Lidl Germany, making him a well-prepared candidate to navigate the company through this strategic transition.

A Strong Future Built On Experience

The appointment of Forozidis not only marks a key milestone for Lidl Cyprus but also reflects the company’s commitment to leveraging seasoned leadership expertise in steering its expansion and operational excellence. His extensive managerial background underscores a robust trajectory for sustainable growth and market adaptation in the competitive retail landscape.

Cyprus Summer Bookings Fall Over 30% As Hospitality Sector Seeks Support

Pre-Bookings Decline In Cyprus Tourism Sector

Cyprus tourism stakeholders reported lower pre-bookings for the summer season compared with last year. Industry representatives, including hotel associations and unions, raised the issue during a meeting with Marinos Mousiouttas, Minister of Labor, noting that cancellations have stabilised while forward bookings remain below previous levels.

External Pressures And Travel Patterns

Several factors are affecting travel demand. Higher fuel costs have contributed to increased airfare prices, influencing travellers’ choices and shifting some demand toward alternative transport such as cruises, trains, and private vehicles. At the same time, adjustments in airline schedules, including route reductions, are affecting connectivity and booking flows.

Calls For Government Support

Against this backdrop, industry representatives requested an extension of wage subsidy schemes through April and May. They also pointed to the need for broader measures to support the sector, as early booking activity has slowed and booking patterns are shifting toward last-minute reservations. Current reservations are reported to be more than 30% lower than a year earlier, while average hotel occupancy is around 40%, compared with previous levels closer to 80%.

Coordinated Government Response And Future Prospects

Christos Angelidis, General Director of PASYXE, said Marinos Mousiouttas, Minister of Labor, acknowledged the situation and will consult with other ministers on possible coordinated measures. Angelidis added that extending wage subsidy schemes could support business continuity during the current period and help stabilise conditions in the sector.

At the same time, the government has introduced a strategic plan focused on how Cyprus is positioned internationally. The initiative, developed with Invest Cyprus, aims to align messaging across tourism and investment, with emphasis on consistency in external communication. Victor Papadopoulos, Director of the President’s Office, said the approach is intended to highlight key characteristics of the country in international markets.

Looking Ahead

Current booking data and occupancy levels indicate a slower start to the season, while demand patterns are shifting toward shorter booking windows. At the same time, discussions between industry representatives and government bodies point to potential measures aimed at supporting the sector as the season progresses.

Aretilaw firm
The Future Forbes Realty Global Properties
eCredo
Uol

Become a Speaker

Become a Speaker

Become a Partner

Subscribe for our weekly newsletter