According to data released by the Hellenic Confederation of Professionals, Craftsmen & Merchants (GSEVEE) that constitutes the most massive association of Professionals, Craftsmen and Merchants all over the country, the total number of active businesses in Greece decreased by 230,000 thousand between 2008 and 2013, resulting in a loss of a total of 1,043,000 jobs during this period.

GSEVEE’s president Giorgos Kavvathas presented an alternative development blueprint for the country at the organization’s 46th general meeting which took place over the weekend. Based on this blueprint, specific sectors such as energy, construction and agriculture will act as “steam engines” for the economic revitalization of Greece.