Slovak business services confirm world-class excellence at the Warsaw awards

On February 25 - 27, 2026, Warsaw hosted the prestigious CEE Business Services Summit & Awards 2026, one of the most significant events for leaders in the shared services sector across Central and Eastern Europe.

The 14th edition of this exceptional conference and awards ceremony for top companies, managers, and cities was organized by the European Business Services Association (EBSA). The event serves as a platform connecting global investors with key regional players, aiming to strengthen CEE's position as a global destination for talent and investment in modern services. Each year, the summit provides an overview of the latest trends in shared and business services, technological innovation, automation, and talent development.

The current edition brought together 231 top executives from 97 shared service centers across CEE and the Baltic states. During the event, representatives from the Slovak Investment and Trade Development Agency (SARIO) held a series of bilateral meetings with shared service center representatives, consulting firms, law companies and other professional partners. Equally important were meetings with companies specializing in site selection and investment consultancy, which play a crucial role in investor decisions regarding new project locations. Discussions focused on expansion plans, assessments of the regional investment environment, the perception of Slovakia as a location for new GBS and technology projects, and SARIO’s services for foreign investors.

Two Major Awards for Slovakia

SARIO's involvement went far beyond a mere presence. By serving on the expert jury, the agency confirms its reputation as a leading authority on CEE investment and business services.

Ms. Andrea Mihaličková, Senior Consultant at SARIO’s Investment Projects Department, participated as a key member of the jury, evaluating the region's top shared service centers, managers, and investment projects in 24 award categories. Slovak companies received three nominations. 

The summit concluded with a gala awards ceremony recognizing industry excellence, where Ms. Mihaličková personally presented the award in the 'Most Vibrant Employer – Slovakia' category. 

Amidst strong competition, Slovak companies secured two prestigious awards:

• Most Vibrant Employer - Slovakia: Awarded to Holcim European Business Services based in Košice, recognizing employers who create inspiring, dynamic, and attractive work environments.
• Best University-Business Cooperation - Hungary & Slovakia: Awarded to IBM International Services Centre s.r.o. for its long-term, systematic cooperation with educational institutions and its support for young talent development.

Confirmation of the Quality of the Slovak Business Services Sector

The success of Slovak companies at this international forum confirms the growing quality, professionalism, and innovation potential of the sector in Slovakia. It serves as proof that Slovakia remains a stable and attractive destination for investments in shared service centers and the knowledge economy.