Held under the motto “A Story That Continues”, the event was built around several main highlights: a historical reflection on the origins and development of the Chamber, a presentation of some of the most important initiatives and achievements of the past year, the presentation of membership certificates to newly joined members, and a festive programme followed by opportunities for meetings and informal networking.

An Evening with Historical Symbolism

The choice of venue for the anniversary celebration was no coincidence. The event took place in the building of today’s Lyuben Karavelov Regional Library, a space closely connected with the history of the Chamber and with the development of Ruse as an important commercial and public centre. This symbolism gave the evening additional depth and turned the event into a natural continuation of the memory of the entrepreneurial spirit with which Ruse has been associated since the late nineteenth century.

From the very first moments of welcoming the guests, the atmosphere was one of respect for history and a sense of community. Registration, the greeting of attendees, and the opportunity for guests to leave messages in the Chamber’s commemorative book set the tone for an evening in which institutional memory and personal engagement came together in a very natural way.

A Look Back at the Origins and Development of the Chamber

The official programme placed a strong emphasis on the historical journey of the Ruse Chamber of Commerce and Industry, from its establishment in 1890 as the first Chamber of Commerce in Bulgaria to its present-day role as an active partner of business, institutions, educational organisations, and international networks. At the heart of the evening was the idea that the history of the Chamber is not merely part of the archives, but a living link between generations of entrepreneurs, professionals, and public figures.

Within this historical focus, attention was also given to the connection between Ruse as a city with strong traditions in trade, industry, and international relations, and the Chamber’s role as a natural centre of economic life. In this way, the celebration became not only a commemoration of an anniversary, but also a reminder of the importance of continuity, vision, and shared responsibility for the future development of the region.

A Year of Activity, Partnerships, and Tangible Results

During the event, a review was presented of RCCI’s work in the period from the previous anniversary to the present day. Initiatives and participations were highlighted that demonstrated the Chamber’s active presence at the local, national, and international levels.

Among the key highlights were meetings and forums related to investment attraction, international cooperation, digital transformation, skills development, industrial security, and the connection between business and education. This overview placed the anniversary in a broader context, not only as a celebration of the past, but also as proof that the Chamber continues to develop activities with real significance for the business environment in Ruse and Northern Bulgaria.

New Members and the Growth of the RCCI Community

A particularly important moment of the evening was the ceremony for presenting membership certificates to companies that had joined the RCCI community over the past year or had renewed their membership. This was not merely a formal act, but a clear sign of the expansion of the Chamber’s network and of the trust that businesses place in its role.

The new members and their representatives were officially introduced, and the companies represented a wide range of sectors, including manufacturing, engineering, energy, infrastructure, logistics, consultancy, security, technological solutions, trade, and sustainable energy models.

It was precisely this diversity that demonstrated one of RCCI’s greatest strengths: its ability to serve as a common platform for companies of different scale, profile, and expertise, united by the desire to be part of an active, connected, and representative business community.

An Artistic Highlight and a Festive Finale

Following the official part of the programme, the evening continued with an artistic performance that brought a festive spirit and additional emotion to the anniversary celebration. This highlight gave the event a more informal and human conclusion, while also reinforcing the message of continuity between generations.

Among the specially acknowledged partners was the Ivan P. Pavlov Vocational High School of Tourism, whose staff and students contributed to the celebratory atmosphere of the evening. Their participation fit naturally into the overall concept of the event and highlighted the link between tradition, education, and the future.

A Space for New Contacts and Future Partnerships

After the official programme concluded, the evening continued with a cocktail reception and time for meetings, conversations, and informal networking. This part of the event gave participants the opportunity to continue the dialogue beyond the stage, exchange ideas, establish new contacts, and strengthen partnerships in an atmosphere that was more relaxed, yet still distinctly professional.

This too was an important part of the spirit of the event. Because the strength of a chamber is measured not only by its history, but also by its ability to connect people, companies, and institutions today.

A Story That Continues

The 136th anniversary of the Ruse Chamber of Commerce and Industry was not only an occasion for reflection, but also a clear sign that the institution continues to hold a meaningful place in the contemporary economic life of the region. The event showed that the link between tradition and development is not an abstract idea, but a real foundation for community, trust, and long-term efforts in support of business.

This is precisely the meaning of the evening’s motto: history does not remain behind us. It continues to be written by the people, the companies, and the partnerships that shape the present-day identity of Ruse.

An expert perspective from VIP Security

In the expert part of the programme, VIP Security presented an integrated approach to industrial security, treating it not as a set of separate measures but as a system in which physical guarding, control procedures, electronic systems, and incident management need to work in sync. The company positioned the topic in the context of industrial facilities, logistics bases, and environments with an intensive flow of people, materials, and external contractors.

Speakers on behalf of the event partner were Nikolay Manuilov, Director of Physical Guarding, and Krasimir Borisov, Director of Electronic Security Systems. In their presentation, they outlined typical weaknesses in security organisation, the importance of proper risk assessment, and the need for solutions to be aligned with the specific profile of each site rather than implemented in a fragmented manner.

A practical discussion with the business community

A key highlight of the programme was the panel discussion dedicated to industrial security in practice. It featured representatives of companies from RCCI’s business network, including Steiner Elektronik EOOD, FAAC Bulgaria EAD and NRJ Soft EOOD. The discussion focused on real situations from manufacturing, warehousing, and technology environments, where topics such as access control, protection of critical zones, movement of external persons, traceability, and incident response are directly relevant to business continuity.

The panel format made it possible to bring together two perspectives: the expert view of a provider of integrated security solutions and the practical perspective of companies that manage facilities, assets, teams, and processes on a daily basis. This was precisely what made the discussion particularly valuable for those attending the event.

From security as a cost to security as a management tool

One of the key conclusions of the event was that security is increasingly viewed not only as a protective function but also as part of overall risk and operations management. For companies, this means better traceability, clearer control over critical points, improved coordination between people and systems, and greater predictability in a dynamic working environment.

The event also highlighted specific benefits for businesses, including a better understanding of the connection between physical measures and technological solutions, guidance on how to prioritise measures according to the type of site, and opportunities to reduce losses and incidents through a more integrated management model.

Continuing with a practical focus

The event confirmed the interest of the regional business community in formats that go beyond general information and instead provide practice-oriented discussion, opportunities for questions, and the exchange of real experience. In this context, the informal networking part of the programme allowed discussions to continue beyond the official agenda.

The Ruse Chamber of Commerce and Industry will continue to develop initiatives and partnerships that support companies in the region through access to expertise, practical solutions, and current topics of direct relevance to their resilience and competitiveness.

Despite the general trend towards growth, the data reveals that individual countries are developing at different speeds and exhibit specific market characteristics:

Leaders in growth and digital maturity

• Hungary: The country is establishing itself as a regional leader, with impressive 75% from businesses are reporting growth in online revenues. The share of companies selling entirely online is significant (41,7%), which puts Hungary at the top of digital dependency.
• Romania: The market is in active expansion mode, as 61,6% of merchants report annual growth. Romanian business demonstrates a high level of digital maturity – nearly 35% are purely online businesses, while others 23% generate over half of their turnover online.

Stability and development potential

• Croatia: Stable, albeit more polarized, dynamics are reported. Around 60% of respondents are seeing growth, but the market is still divided between strong online players and companies relying primarily on physical sales (nearly 45% of businesses generate less than 1/4 of their revenue online).
• Greece: The results are moderate but positive – 52,8% annual revenue growth. Barely 15% of companies operate only online, which, according to analysts, opens up huge opportunities for future entry and development of e-commerce.

Bulgaria's profile

Our country closes the ranking with a more varied growth profile (45,7% of companies reporting a jump in revenue), but with a notable core of all-digital brands. Close 35% of the Bulgarian participants operate on 100% online, which is an excellent base for future scaling of operations.

The study finds that operational difficulties are similar across the region – marketing and customer acquisition remain a major obstacle, followed by logistical issues. In terms of technology, the mobile-optimized website with responsive design dominates, while mobile apps remain more of an exception.

An interesting point is that trade remains mainly internal. In Bulgaria and Greece over 401% of respondents do not sell abroad at all. Analysis shows that the appetite for international expansion usually comes after achieving digital maturity in the local market..

Opportunities for Ruse business

The data from the report will form the basis of discussions during the upcoming Balkan eCommerce Summit 2026 (April 28-29, Sofia). The event is of utmost importance for companies from our region, as it provides practical solutions for overcoming marketing barriers and tools for international expansion.

As a partner of the event, the Ruse Chamber of Commerce and Industry provides its members with preferential conditions for participation. You can take advantage of 15% discount on ticket prices, by using a promo code rcci15.

Recognition for young leaders

The search for the ten most outstanding young Bulgarians between the ages of 18 and 40 begins in early 2026. The initiative aims to recognize professionals with proven achievements in key areas of public life who serve as an example and inspiration. Nominations can be submitted both personally and for acquaintances or public figures you admire. The deadline for participation is February 28, 2026.

Nomination categories

We are looking for young and ambitious individuals with exceptional contributions in one of the following 10 categories:

• Business, Economics and Entrepreneurship;
• Political, legal and government affairs;
• Academic leadership;
• Cultural achievement;
• Moral leadership and environmental protection;
• Contribution to children, world peace and human rights;
• Humanitarian and Volunteer Leadership;
• Science and technological development;
• Personal development;
• Innovations in medicine.

Those honored by an independent jury at the national level receive an automatic nomination for the global format of the program – „"The Outstanding Young Persons of the World".

Bulgaria has a strong tradition in the international format. Since the program began in our country in 2015, a number of Bulgarian finalists have received global recognition, including Sofia Kalinova (2015) and Valentina Milanova (2024), who entered the top 10 in the world. In 2024, three of the distinguished Bulgarians ranked among the top 30 on the planet, which is further evidence of the high potential of human capital in our country.

About the organizer

Junior Chamber International (JCI) is a global non-governmental organization with over 100 years of history, uniting nearly 150,000 leaders in 115 countries. The organization has been operating in Bulgaria since 2011, actively working for positive change in society through the development of business, social and international projects.

More information about the criteria and nomination form can be found on the official website of the TOYP Bulgaria program.

RTIK invites the business community and citizens of Ruse to support successful young people by nominating them and publicizing their successes.

Categories and honors

The projects will be evaluated by a special jury based on criteria including the significance and scale of the investment, jobs created, contribution to regional development, implementation of innovations, sustainable business practices and market success.

Five main statuettes will be awarded within the competition. „"Golden Bull"“ in the following categories:

• „"Investor of 2025";
• „"Green Investment";
• "Investment in business expansion";
• "Investment in innovative business";
• „"Investment in human capital".

Six honorary awards will also be presented – plaques, in the following categories:

• An investment with a high contribution to regional development;
• Successful startup;
• Municipality with the most investments;
• Sustainable business;
• Low carbon footprint investment;
• Innovative product.

Deadline for nominations

The deadline for submitting nominations in the competition is February 25, 2026.

Both Bulgarian and foreign companies that have made investments or expanded their activities in Bulgaria in 2025 can participate in the competition.

Why participate?

Participation in the "Investor of the Year" competition provides an opportunity to:

• national recognition of investment achievements;
• strengthening the corporate image before partners, institutions and investors;
• promoting good practices in the field of sustainable and innovative development.

Companies from Ruse District have already successfully participated in the national competition "Investor of the Year". In the framework of a previous edition Bader Bulgaria was awarded in the category "Sustainable business" – recognition of the company’s consistent efforts in implementing sustainable production practices, investing in energy efficiency, reducing its carbon footprint and developing human capital. The distinction establishes Bader Bulgaria as an example of responsible investing and long-term contribution to the economic development of the region.

The Ruse Chamber of Commerce and Industry calls on companies from Ruse and the region that have implemented significant investment projects in 2025 to submit their applications and present their achievements at the national level.

Participation of Deloitte Bulgaria

From Deloitte Bulgaria, the following participated in the meeting:

• Dimitar Dimitrov – Senior Manager (Technology Strategy & Transformation)
• Stoyan Danin – Senior Consultant (Technology Strategy & Transformation)

Dimitar Dimitrov is an expert with over 19 years of experience in the Bulgarian ERP market, with a strong profile in management and business development, as well as in the implementation of complex digital transformation programs. He has practical experience with platforms such as SAP S/4HANA and Microsoft Dynamics 365, as well as with various ERP solutions, and is also an active lecturer on topics related to ERP, CRM and digital transformation.

Profile of Attending Companies and Representatives

The event brought together representatives of RCCI’s business community with a clear practical focus on manufacturing and investment decision-making. The audience included managers and experts who:

• are responsible for manufacturing, operations and engineering
• manage technologies, automation and digitalization
• are working on process efficiency, quality and production control
• participate in investment planning, modernization and organizational transformation

This audience profile enabled the discussion to focus on real-world cases, implementation prerequisites, and typical barriers on the path to a “smart factory.”

Virtual Connection with The Smart Factory by Deloitte @ Wichita

The highlight of the program was the virtual connection with The Smart Factory by Deloitte @ Wichita, where participants were introduced to the concept of a demonstration environment where "the digital, the physical and the experimental" meet to assist companies in planning sustainable investments and taking the first steps in digital transformation.

During the inclusion, participants had the opportunity to ask questions directly to the general manager of the factory, which turned the demonstration into a real dialogue about applicability, expected results, and organizational prerequisites.

Presentation of RCCI Initiatives and Projects

Within the meeting, the RCCI team presented two key focus areas related to regional skills and technological readiness:

Digital Twin (digitaltwinproject.eu)

The project was presented by Svetoslav Minchev, Membership and ICT Projects Manager, with an emphasis on the role of digital twins for better modeling, training, and implementation of smart manufacturing approaches.

In addition, attention was drawn to the project’s learning platform (mooc.digitaltwinproject.eu), which provides self-assessment of skills and access to modular online courses on key topics such as Digital Twin, Virtual Commissioning, Virtual Maintenance, Business Intelligence and Cybersecurity.

The platform also includes introductory modules on core prerequisites (e.g., 3D CAD, PLC, IoT, and Python), as well as a Virtual Labs section designed for practice-oriented learning in a digital environment. Content is available in multiple languages, including Bulgarian, making it suitable both for individual upskilling and for structured team development aligned with specific needs.

SkillsBridge: Cross-border Academy for Competences in the Smart Industry

The project was presented by Stella Dionisieva, Programs and Projects Expert. The initiative aims to create Cross-border Academy for Industry 4.0, which will offer accessible and practical training and support employment and competitiveness in the ROMANIA - BULGARIA cross-border region through:

• joint training program with 6 thematic modules
• 6 virtual workshops
• construction of Smart Industry Laboratories in Ruse and Craiova (in areas such as pneumatics and electropneumatics, mechatronics, industrial controllers and robotics, hydraulics, electric motors)
• hybrid language courses in Bulgarian and Romanian
• cross-border exchange visits under the program Experience Multiplier
• digital training platform SkillsBridge for distance and hybrid learning

The lead partner of the project is The Ruse Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and partners are ARoTT (Romania) and Bulgarian-Romanian Chamber of Commerce, with associated partners Angel Kanchev University of Ruse and University of Craiova.

Next Steps

The event confirmed the regional business community’s interest in practical digital transformation models, as well as in accessible formats for workforce training and development. RCCI will continue to expand partnerships and initiatives that connect industry, education, and technology solutions in support of companies’ competitiveness.

In this article, we will look at the three key pillars that define commerce this year, and invite you to an event that will give you the practical tools for success.

1. From „Tool“ to Strategic Partner: The Evolution of AI in Sales

AI has evolved from a support tool to a strategic partner for sales departments. Until recently, technology was mainly used to automate routine tasks, but today artificial intelligence is entering the heart of the sales process. In 2026, we are no longer just talking about chatbots or automated emails. The big leap is the transition to autonomous systems that do not just generate content, but perform actions: schedule meetings, update CRM systems in real time, and even qualify potential customers.

According to reports of Gartner on strategic technology trends, up to 2027. 95% of marketers' research workflows will start with artificial intelligence – a huge jump from less than 20% in 2024. To get the most out of AI at this stage, companies need to focus first on the direct benefits – increasing productivity, rather than directly on instant revenue growth. AI takes the brunt of research and analysis, but the success of the deal depends on the marketer’s ability to turn dry data into a personalized engagement strategy.

2. The hybrid model is the new standard

The hybrid sales model is now the standard, not a compromise. Customers want the initial contact to be easy and fast—via email, video call, or automated presentation—but they also expect the opportunity for in-depth live discussions when the decision moment approaches. This leads to entirely new demands on salespeople: they must be able to be persuasive online, manage attention through a screen, use digital tools during meetings, and seamlessly transition from remote to physical communication.

The days of „only live meetings“ or „only Zoom“ are over. The studies of McKinsey & Company from the last year („The B2B Pulse“) clearly show that B2B buyers use an average of 10 different channels while interacting with suppliers – from social networks to in-person meetings to finalizing large contracts.

The successful strategy in 2026 is the hybrid. Sales leaders today are those who remove the friction between these channels. If a customer has to repeat information they have already given to an AI chatbot to a human salesperson, the deal is at risk.

3. Why modern sales teams need a new type of trainedя

In view of this transformation, it is clear that classic sales training, entirely oriented towards theory and general advice, is no longer enough. Modern salespeople need to develop specific skills: using AI tools, leading hybrid meetings, analyzing customer data, arguing in competitive conditions, and the ability to personalize offers in real time.

After just a few days, January 22, 2026., in Interpred – WTC Sofia, will be held Sales Advanced Masterclass. This full-day training is designed specifically for sales directors, managers, and business owners who want to synchronize their strategies with the reality of 2026.

What you will learn during the masterclass:

• How to integrate AI tools into the sales process without losing the human touch.
• Negotiation techniques in a hybrid environment.
• Building profitable sales funnels (pipelines) in a highly competitive environment.
• New generation team management.

As a strategic partner of the event, RTIK recommends its members to take advantage of the opportunity for direct contact with leading speakers and networking with professionals from all over the country. We also provide you with the opportunity to take advantage of 20% discount from the standard ticket price with promo code rcci20.

4. Practical tips: How retailers can adapt to the 2026 model.

Here are specific recommendations that sales professionals can start implementing immediately to successfully adapt to the new market context.

• Invest in digital skills and tools
  Using CRM systems, AI analytics, and automated platforms is now a must, not an „added benefit.“ The most successful marketers are those who know how to work with data, not just feelings.
• Practice hybrid presentations
  Record yourself presenting online and analyze your behavior: tone, pace, visuals. The ability to convince a client through a screen is critical for 2026.
• Personalize each offer
  Use the customer information you already have: industry, stage of development, challenges. Personalized offers increase conversion rates many times over, according to Forrester.
• Develop a „value-based“ argument“
  Focus on measurable results, not features. Customers are interested in returns, savings, and efficiency.
• Be consultants, not salespeople
  Today, the winners are the salespeople who understand the client's business and act as advisors, not just solution providers.

2026 brings with it changes that are now irreversible: digitalization, AI automation and hybrid sales are the new standard. Salespeople who manage to adapt quickly will be some of the most sought-after professionals in the market. And companies that invest in training such as Sales Advanced Masterclass, will have a strategic advantage – more flexible teams, better conversion and more sustainable results in a global competitive environment.

The global context – from Asia to the world

This type of sales is emerging in Asia, mainly in China, where leading platforms such as Taobao, Douyin (an alternative version of the other Chinese app TikTok) and JD have targeted the model towards mass markets. Data from McKinsey & Company show that live sales now represent around 10% of all online sales in the country. In Europe, the trend is taking off more slowly but steadily, supported by the TikTok Shop campaign, expanded commerce capabilities on Instagram, and the first attempts at Amazon Live. Market analyses suggest that social commerce could reach between 1 and $1.2 trillion globally in the next three years, making it a major growth factor.

The new reality for Bulgarian business

For Bulgarian businesses, this development means new opportunities. Live sales allow building trust through natural communication and product demonstrations without pre-processed videos. The customer sees real use, asks questions and receives quick answers. This enhances the sense of transparency, which is critical in online shopping. At the same time, social commerce removes some of the steps in the consumer journey – for example, the need to leave the platform to complete the order. Commerce becomes part of the daily digital habit.

Successful examples from the international market show that companies that invest in trained live sales presenters, well-structured product demonstrations and integration of fast payment methods achieve significantly higher returns than traditional advertising. This is especially evident for brands in cosmetics, fashion and consumer electronics. For Bulgarian companies, the biggest challenge remains consistency – live sales require planning, regularity and content that engages the audience, not just shows a product.

However, the local market is in a favorable position. Bulgarian consumers are active on social networks, and the younger generations are already accustomed to the format of short videos, improvised reviews and personalized communication. This allows businesses to use the model not only for local sales, but also to enter new markets in the region, especially through platforms that facilitate cross-border logistics and payments.

Balkan eCommerce Summit 2026 – where vision meets practice

The Balkan eCommerce Summit, the leading e-commerce forum in the region, bringing together companies, experts and partners from Eastern Europe, will take place in April 2026. This year's edition will take place on April 28-29, 2026 at the Inter Expo Center in Sofia and will be themed "Your Next Market", highlighting the need for regional cooperation and practical preparation for entering new markets.

Among the first announced speakers are:

• Jesper Tubbøll from LEGO Group, who works in the field of operational innovation;
• Andy Jarvis, known for analyzing marketing trends
• Barbara Slade Yagodich, expert in brand visibility in a digital environment
• Lenard Adanov, organizational systems specialist
• Harry Olavinsilta, a strategist with experience in building brands using data

Each of them contributes a specific perspective on the future of e-commerce, emphasizing the integration between technology, content, and user experience.

What to expect from participants

The forum will offer a large-scale and extremely practical program:

• 4 stages with over 60 international speakers
• Area for pre-organized B2B meetings
• Expanded expo area with leading companies in eCommerce and digital marketing
• Mobile networking app, chill-out area and VIP spaces
• The iconic Balkan Party – for informal creation of partnerships

Tickets and more information about the event are available here:

RTIK is a partner of Balkan eCommerce Summit for another year, as the event provides valuable practices, contacts and opportunities for digital transformation of local businesses. In the context of rapidly developing social commerce and live sales, companies that adapt strategies in a timely manner, build a strong digital identity and create content in dialogue with the customer will be more competitive on the regional and international market - an opportunity that Bulgarian businesses should not miss.

Award for the Ruse Chamber of Commerce and Industry

In the category “Regional Chamber of Commerce and Industry”, the distinction was awarded to the Ruse Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) for its significant business activities and consistent support for enterprises in the region over the past decade. The award was presented by the BCCI leadership and received by RCCI’s Executive Director, Milen Dobrev.

The distinction reaffirms the role of RCCI as the first chamber of commerce in Bulgaria, founded in Ruse in 1890 and restored after the democratic changes. Throughout its more than 135-year history, the Chamber has been a key partner of the local business community, actively involved in the development of the industrial and investment environment, and working in close cooperation with BCCI and European business networks.

Express Service – National Recognition for Ruse’s Industry

A special place among the awardees was given to the Ruse-based company Express Service Ltd. In the category “Companies with a Long History and Sustainable Presence in Bulgaria’s Economy”, the company received a bronze “Hermes” statuette and a certificate. Express Service is the successor of the locomotive workshop that serviced Bulgaria’s first railway line Ruse–Varna, with a history dating back to 1866, and continues the traditions of the “Vasil Kolarov” Locomotive and Wagon Works.

Today, Express Service is a recognised national leader in locomotive repair and manufacturing and one of the examples of a modern industrial company from Ruse that successfully combines deep manufacturing roots with investments in technology, modernisation and exports.

Other Awardees and the Message of the Jubilee

During the ceremony, awards were also presented to other companies with a long-standing presence in the Bulgarian economy – Arsenal JSC, LB Bulgaricum PLC and Mondelez Production Bulgaria Ltd. In the categories for individuals and partner organisations, recognition was given to figures with a key contribution to the development of BCCI and to international economic cooperation, as well as to the International Organisation of Employers. In the “Media” category, the Bulgarian News Agency and the Bulgarian National Radio were honoured for their longstanding and objective coverage of the Chamber’s positions and those of its members.

The jubilee event highlighted BCCI as one of the oldest and most resilient business institutions in Bulgaria and in the region, while the recognition of the Ruse Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Express Service underscored the importance of Ruse as a historical and contemporary industrial centre. For RCCI, the award is a strong incentive to continue developing services and initiatives in support of local businesses, to expand international partnerships and to promote entrepreneurship and innovation in the region.

Business-focused results

• Employer participation: within the framework of the edition were engaged over 50 companies from Ruse and Northern Bulgaria. Individual stands and the opportunity to present specific positions and internships were provided for all exhibitors.
• Interested in candidates: on the date of opening 100+ young people had applied for participation, for which the organizers prepared profiled guidance to suitable employers and individual meetings.

What did employers get?

• Concentrated access to prepared candidates – students, recent graduates and young professionals, with the opportunity for quick screening and pre-selection on the spot.
• Employer brand visibility – individual booth, face-to-face meetings and presentation of real cases, positions and internship programs.
• Optimized coordination – pre-registration allowed profiling of candidates' interests and directing them to the relevant stands during peak hours.

How the day unfolded

The official opening was at 10:00 a.m. with opening remarks by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Desislava Atanasova, Rector of the University of Ruse “Angel Kanchev”, Ioana Terzieva, Director of the Directorate “Labor Bureau” – Ruse, Milen Dobrev, Executive Director of the Ruse Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Daniela Yordanova, Head of the Career Development Center. Other representatives of the university and the Municipality of Ruse also delivered greetings. The working meetings continued until the early afternoon in the halls of the Kaneff Centre, and the “stands + direct conversations” format maintained the dynamics throughout the day and facilitated the negotiation of follow-up interviews.

The role of RCCI

RCCI supported the preparation, communication to the business and logistical coordination of the participating companies (stands, technical requirements, schedule), as well as the promotion of the initiative through the Chamber's network. Media coverage of the forum in regional and national channels highlighted its practical benefit for the labor market in Ruse and the region.

Event gallery

Included below photo gallery with moments from the employer-candidate meetings, company presentations and the atmosphere in the halls of the Kaneff Centre.

Forward perspective

The Chamber, together with partners, will summarize the feedback from companies (interest in internship programs, profiles sought, follow-up interviews) and will use it in planning subsequent formats for direct meetings between business and young talents. Companies that were unable to participate this time will be invited to upcoming RCCI initiatives.