BlueStar EMEA Sales Kickoff in Malta

Every great year begins with a great plan, and at this year’s BlueStar EMEA Sales Kickoff in Malta, that plan took shape through dynamic discussions, invaluable insights, and a shared commitment to raising the bar. With the theme “Up Your Game—Lead Without Limits,” the event set the stage for a year of innovation, growth, and strengthened partnerships.

Company-Wide Presentations: Looking Back and Moving Forward

Throughout the event, a variety of team members from different departments took the stage to share successes, provide company updates, and unveil exciting new initiatives for the year ahead. It was an opportunity to reflect on past achievements while setting sights on new goals, ensuring every team member is aligned with BlueStar’s vision for continued growth.

We also had the privilege of hearing from executive leadership beyond EMEA. Ryan Girvin, President & CEO from the US, kicked off the event with an inspiring message to the team. Michel Sirois, President of BlueStar Canada, emphasized the importance of relationship building in business success. Mark Fraker, CTO from the US, provided insights into emerging tech strategies, outlining key innovations shaping the industry. Dean Reverman, VP of Marketing in the US, shared compelling global marketing statistics—featuring some big numbers—and highlighted the global priorities that will drive our collective efforts this year.

Further deepening our strategic direction, Laurent Berger provided a detailed analysis of sales growth by region, segmentation, and top sales leaders, while Maurice Van Rijn examined growth by vendor, market share opportunities, and 2025 targets. Francisco Antona introduced new Demand Lab initiatives, social strategies, and event opportunities, reinforcing our marketing approach. Emma Edwards shared insights on POS activities, education, and growth strategy, and Emma Witty outlined the adoption of our new CRM, emphasizing its role in project and contact management, marketing actions, and the successes of the Services & Software teams. Carla Amorim and Bre Malott discussed our consolidated email newsletter, the Behind Blue initiative, and how our new CRM enhances transparency through HubSpot integration. Stijn Kroon showcased automation advancements, including the bin interface, packing station, and order picking improvements, while Nico Feyt provided insight into the market strategy for robotics. Finally, Richard Austin and Jamie Mitchel highlighted success stories in POS & Payment and shared strategies for continued growth. These presentations provided a comprehensive view of BlueStar’s ongoing progress and future opportunities.

Partner Presentations: Innovation at the Forefront

A highlight of the kickoff was the series of partner presentations, where industry leaders shared insights into the latest vertical and technology solutions shaping the future. Discussions covered key sectors including Government/Public Sector (Bluelight), Retail, Transportation & Logistics, and POS/Payments. Advancements in 5G, Fixed Industrial Scanning (FIS), and Robotics were also front and center, showcasing how emerging technologies are driving efficiency and transformation across industries. The knowledge exchange was rich with practical applications and forward-thinking strategies, reinforcing the importance of staying ahead of industry trends and leveraging innovation to create smarter, more efficient solutions.

Country Roundtables: Tapping into Local Expertise

Some of the most impactful sessions of the event were the country roundtables, where teams came together to discuss what’s needed in each market to help vendors grow their business. These conversations provided a deep dive into the challenges and opportunities within different regions, offering valuable feedback that will help refine strategies and drive localized success. By hearing directly from those on the ground, we’re able to craft solutions that truly align with market needs.

More Than Just Business: Strengthening Connections

Beyond the strategic discussions and presentations, the kickoff was also about coming together as a team—reconnecting with colleagues, meeting new faces, and sharing ideas in a collaborative environment. The value of these informal conversations cannot be overstated; they spark creativity, reinforce partnerships, and remind us that we’re all working toward a common goal.

The Perfect Setting: Exceptional Hospitality in Malta

Of course, no event recap would be complete without acknowledging the stunning backdrop of Malta. From breathtaking views to amazing cuisine, the island provided an unforgettable experience that complemented the energy and enthusiasm of the kickoff. The hospitality was second to none, making every moment—both in and out of the meeting rooms—one to remember.

As we move into the year ahead, one thing is clear: our collective commitment to leading without limits will drive success. With the insights gained, strategies refined, and connections strengthened, we’re ready to up our game and embrace the opportunities ahead.

Here’s to a great year of innovation, collaboration, and growth!