The fatwa issued by the CEO of Lopesan, José Alba, for total control of power in the largest tourism company in the Canary Islands resulted in the departure in 2026 of Zoilo Alemán Falcón (ZAF), who was MICE director of Lopesan Hotel Management and director of the Expomeloneras Congress Palace, in the middle of a high-stakes and high-risk operation: the celebration of Audi's annual summit at Expomeloneras, in the south of Gran Canaria, in September 2026.
Under his leadership, the group's MICE division consolidated its position as a key element in diversifying the accommodation business, establishing Expomeloneras as an international benchmark. His management was characterized by a thorough dedication to acquiring major accounts and a personalized service that raised the destination's quality standards. Audi's event in September 2026 in southern Gran Canaria will bring thousands of executives, major clients, and specialized automotive press to the south of the island, generating two things: revenue and promotion.
ZAF's trajectory was marked by a constant effort to professionalize the events segment within the company. Its ability to forge alliances and its technical expertise allowed Lopesan to successfully compete for global events, such as the recent confirmation of the Audi Partner Convention 2026. This positioning work proved fundamental in maintaining occupancy rates at the luxury hotels in the Meloneras area outside of the peak holiday season.
The final stage of his tenure was marred by growing tension with the chain's general management. José Alba, CEO of Lopesan, criticized Alemán for his overzealous management of the Expomeloneras business. While ZAF championed an autonomous management model based on exclusive industry contacts, Alba's management prioritized centralizing information flow and direct oversight of all business units. The revenue potential of Lopesan's MICE business hinges on the Audi international meeting in Gran Canaria in the summer of 2026.
