Olympia Electronics is known for developing innovative electronic safety and security systems with state-of-the-art technology. The company has been so successful that it has become a market leader in the Greek sector. International Sales Director Charalampos Karakidis explained to Hannah Barnett what makes Olympia Electronics tick.
As one of the most established manufacturers of electronic safety systems in Europe, Olympia Electronics has enjoyed four decades of continuous market presence, evolution and innovation.
“Olympia Electronics stands out thanks to the combination of in-house production, strong R&D, a human-centric philosophy and an extensive international partner network,” said Charalampos Karakidis, International Sales Director. “Designing and manufacturing our products in Greece ensures quality control, reliability and full compliance with European standards.”
A continuous investment in innovation has enabled the company to keep up with pioneering technologies and changes in the industry. At the same time, close relationships with partners in over 72 countries have ensured the business has always remained aligned with global market needs.
Looking back
Olympia Electronics was founded in 1979 and has continued to develop consistently ever since. During its first decade, the business focused on strategically expanding its portfolio with the development of a wide range of integrated safety solutions. In 1989, the company began exporting, laying the foundations for its international growth.
Since then, Olympia Electronics has focused on innovation and creating added value for international markets. This approach includes introducing IoT-enabled solutions, new certifications and the continued strengthening of its R&D capabilities. These days, the company continues to invest in sustainable export growth and long-term partnerships.
The Olympia Electronics headquarters and main production facilities are in Pieria, supported by a wholly-owned sales branch in Athens and modern R&D facilities in Thessaloniki. 99% of products with the Olympia Electronics stamp are manufactured at the Pieria factory, which has established a strong regional footprint.
Highlighting the same strategic emphasis on innovation and proprietary technology, approximately 25% of the company’s 210-strong workforce are in roles specifically dedicated to R&D.
Olympia Electronics ended 2025 with approximately 11% growth compared to 2024, while first quarter sales of 2026 increased by 22% against last year. Turnover for 2026 is estimated to reach €24 million. Exports increased by around 8% last year, with key markets including Scandinavia, the EU and the Middle East. Medium-term projections indicate steady growth, and the company is targeting a €30 million turnover by 2030.
Tech portfolio
Olympia Electronics consistently transforms technological expertise into solutions that meet the demands of modern buildings. For example, the company’s fire detection systems offer advanced communication and centralised management capabilities. Olympia Electronics’ emergency lighting systems, meanwhile, are based on wired and wireless technologies like DALI – the digital, internationally adopted language used to control and send information between lighting devices.
“These solutions provide installation flexibility, remote monitoring and intelligent operations,” said Mr Karakidis. “We are also implementing an internal investment programme focused on digitalisation, automation and the use of AI in production processes.”
One standout product is DYNAMIC, an innovative emergency luminaire that integrates smart technology and AI, allowing it to adapt its operation to real-time environmental conditions. A CMI graphical interface enables unified visualisation and centralised control of critical safety systems, while solutions such as the SOS button for vulnerable people highlight the company’s strong human-centric approach.
“DYNAMIC combines high lighting performance with contemporary architectural design, demonstrating that emergency lighting can be an integral part of building aesthetics rather than merely a regulatory requirement,” Mr Karakidis added.
Ultimately, this focus on innovation means Olympia Electronics is a highly-adaptable operation, capable of manufacturing in different conditions around the world. Continuous investment in R&D ensures high durability, smart management and operational reliability.
“Our product portfolio needs to be flexible,” Mr Karakidis explained. “For example, if something will be installed outside, it needs to work in -45°C in Finland and +65°C in Dubai. This means we are developing products according to local needs. It’s not one size fits all.”
Olympia Electronics’ experience producing equipment for such demanding environments also makes it ideal to tailor solutions to marine conditions. Shipping is, after all, a strategically important sector for the company. Olympia Electronics develops and manufactures emergency lighting and fire detection systems used in vessels, port facilities and supporting maritime infrastructure. All are, of course, fully compliant with strict international standards.
“Being based in Greece is a clear strategic advantage when it comes to the shipping sector,” said Mr Karakidis. “Greece is one of the world’s leading maritime nations, offering deep expertise, strong entrepreneurial activity and direct access to shipping companies. This environment enables us to develop products in close alignment with real market needs while serving as a springboard for international growth.
“In the last ten years, the Greek shipyards have been reborn, and a lot of new owners have come into the market. While we are exporting wholesale and have customers all around the world, being Greek does open doors a little easier on the sales side.”
A valued partner
Olympia Electronics’ success is, in part, thanks to the fact that the business views suppliers as integral elements of its value chain. Long-term relationships are built on transparency, reliability and a shared commitment to quality. Collaboration begins with a strict evaluation of technical specifications and compliance with European standards and evolves through continuous communication and knowledge exchanges. Suppliers often contribute indirectly to product development, too.
“We prioritise partners aligned with ESG principles, strengthening supply-chain resilience and sustainability,” Mr Karakidis said. “Supplier quality, technological capability and delivery reliability directly impact product performance and certification, making them critical to our success.”
Indeed, like much of the shipping industry, reducing environmental impact is a strategic priority for Olympia Electronics. Internally, the company focuses on optimising production processes, using modern, energy-efficient equipment and the responsible management of raw materials and waste.
“At a product level, we have similarly placed an emphasis on long service life, low maintenance requirements and reduced energy consumption,” Mr Karakidis explained. “Furthermore, the development of smart, interconnected systems enables remote monitoring, predictive maintenance and optimised operation, reducing unnecessary travel, resource consumption and overall energy use.”
Going forward, the company is focused on innovation, international growth and increased sustainable operations. Key priorities include further investment in R&D, smart and energy-efficient safety solutions and the continued modernisation of production facilities.
Always a sign of a healthy work environment, Olympia Electronics has a high rate of staff retention, with some employees retiring after 35 or 40 years of service to the company. But what makes the company such a great place to work?
“As International Sales Director, I am particularly motivated by connecting Greek technological expertise with the needs of diverse global markets,” Mr Karakidis said, in conclusion. “Each project presents unique challenges, making adaptation without compromising quality both demanding and rewarding. Contributing to growth, while delivering solutions that improve safety and quality of life, gives me strong personal and professional fulfilment.”