VISION, STRATEGY, AND STRUCTURE

In 1981, the Greek advertising industry was experiencing a period of significant growth and increasing professionalism. ADEL (Anaptyxiaki Diafimistiki Etairia Laikis) stood out as one of the leading advertising agencies of the time, with a strong market presence and innovative approach.

Professionals and Key Contributors

ADEL is a prime example of a successful advertising strategy of that era. It was staffed by highly skilled professionals across all areas of advertising, including creative directors, designers, and copywriters. Among them were some of the most notable figures in the field: M. Karagatsis, Vangelis Goufas, Nikos Politis, Giannis Efstathiadis, and Dionysis Charitopoulos—many of whom collaborated closely with Eleni Matharikou—alongside experienced producers.

Eleni Matharikou worked in the creative department for 29 consecutive years, playing a key role in the development and production of advertising materials for major brands such as Tide, Izola, Peiraiki-Patraiki, Nounou, and Marinopoulos, among others.
As the only woman in the agency responsible for the final layout and execution of ad mockups, her work highlights the vital role of creativity in the advertising sector.
Under the leadership of the influential Chrysostomos Papadopoulos, ADEL evolved into what was widely regarded as a “University of Advertising.”
From its ranks emerged two generations of top-tier professionals—24 of whom went on to establish their own agencies, spanning the entire spectrum of the communication industry.
Founding Figures of Greek Advertising.

They are rightfully considered the "founding fathers" of advertising in Greece, their names synonymous with the industry’s early growth and success:
Chrysostomos Papadopoulos, Takis Theofilopoulos, Philemon Papapolyzos, and Kostas Chochlakidis.

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       the founding 1981

"Frontistirio" Advertising Studio – Eleni Matharikou

After the script is written and before the film begins shooting.
After the draft and before the final layout.
The "Frontistirio" is where the artists’ imagination comes to life.

In 1981, drawing on her extensive experience in the creative department of ADEL, Eleni Matharikou founded the "Frontistirio" advertising studio. The studio operated in the service sector, specializing in the realization of creative ideas and scripts—both involving live action and inanimate objects.

The name Frontistirio (literally meaning “preparatory studio”) was carefully chosen to reflect the meticulous attention given to every detail before any concept was brought to life—whether a client brief or a brand vision. It stood for thoughtful preparation and care, from props to people, right before the photographer’s final click or the director’s action in a commercial shoot. 

Growth and Innovation 

The company’s success continued with steady momentum and bold evolution.

It soon became the only child model agency in Greece. That same year, the inaugural issue of Lilliput (Autumn–Winter 1983–1984) was released, featuring a cover photo by acclaimed photographer Giorgos Depollas. The magazine, dedicated to children’s fashion, brought together manufacturers and designers from across Greece. Its photography, pioneering for the time, stood out for its sophisticated, international aesthetic.

From 1987 to 1992, Studio Ena marked a bold and innovative chapter in advertising film production. Conceived as a hybrid creative space—a “studio-home”—it was designed to produce photographic, commercial, and television films. With modular sets and exceptional flexibility, it enabled groundbreaking creative expression. Many iconic advertising campaigns were produced here for major Greek companies such as PITSOS, FΙLKERAM JOHNSON, BOSCH, SHELMAN, DELTA, AMITA, and others.

Between 1990 and 1992, a landmark international collaboration was formed with UK-based agency LOOKALIKES, which specialized in celebrity impersonators. This partnership led to high-impact advertising campaigns for Ethnos newspaper, Tachydromos magazine, and the grand openings of Marks & Spencer stores in Thessaloniki, among others.

 

M FRANTZI BROTHERS 7

From One Generation to the Next – 1995

A Legacy of Passion and Purpose

The story continues from mother to daughter—carrying forward values, knowledge, strength, and the invaluable tools that foster growth and success.
In 1995, the agency was renamed Matharikou Models Kids, as it passed into the hands of Gelly Matharikou, who embraced her mother’s vision with the same dedication and passion. Gelly brought with her academic expertise in Marketing and Communication from the Communication Advertising and Marketing (CAM) Education Foundation, as well as a specialization in Advertising through the International Advertising Association (IAA) educational program.

The Heart of the Business

With over four decades of continuous presence, the Matharikou name has become synonymous with authenticity, dedication, and specialization in the fields of entertainment, advertising, and children’s modeling. A family business built on determination, care, and love—values passed down from Eleni Matharikou to her daughter Gelly Matharikou, and now shared by the new generation of professionals who make up the agency today. Our journey has always been marked by steady progress, constant evolution, and a deep understanding of market needs.

Our Expertise

At Matharikou Models Kids, expertise means unwavering commitment to the child’s experience in the world of entertainment. It is more than just an activity—it is an opportunity for each child to explore and express their talents, to discover how the creative industry works, and to be part of a nurturing and inspiring environment.

Families in the Spotlight

Turning our focus to the most enduring foundation of society—the family.
Since 2016, the launch of our Family Division has left its mark on major campaigns for brands such as AB Vassilopoulos, Vodafone, and international projects like the 2022 Toyota electric vehicle campaign.

Families who participate in these productions embrace the experience as a unique journey—one that transforms into a treasured memory.

The Evolution – 2023

Quality & Relationships Built Over Time

Our commitment to delivering high-level services has cultivated a dynamic and expanding client base. We prioritize long-term partnerships rooted in flexibility, trust, and a deep understanding of each project's unique needs. With roots going back to 1981, we continue to grow the vision of Eleni and Gelly Matharikou, aligning creativity, technical expertise, and a people-first philosophy with the demands of today’s market. This journey has led to the renewal and clear definition of our two core agency divisions.

THE BRAND

Today, the Matharikou Models brand consists of two distinct branches:
Matharikou Kids – our core children’s division
Matharikou Agency – our newly launched adults' division
We remain true to our mission: to discover, nurture, and promote talent with professionalism, aesthetic sensibility, and human respect.

Two Evolving Sub-Brands.Two New Professional Identities.

Matharikou Kids
The heart of our agency.
This division continues to spotlight talented children and teens across advertising campaigns, television, radio, film productions, and editorial photoshoots.

Matharikou Agency
Our new division exclusively for adults. We represent professional actors, athletes, artists, musicians, performers, and individuals with distinct charisma. Matharikou Agency specializes in connecting exceptional talent with high-profile projects in Greece and abroad—offering full support at every stage of their creative journey.

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Today


In 2025, the production of advertising content for a brand involves a multi-layered chain of professionals, all collaborating to deliver across diverse media—TV, social media, digital banners, radio, outdoor, and more.
This production flow typically includes the following key players and stages:

Advertising Production Flow in 2025:

→ Brand / Client
→ Advertising Agency
→ Production Company
→ Casting Agency
→ Talent & Modeling Agencies
→ Media Agency
→ Digital & Social Media Team
→ Legal Support


The Role of Modeling & Talent Agencies

Modeling and talent agencies are an essential link in the commercial production chain, contributing on multiple levels:

Talent Matching: They propose models and performers who align with the creative and demographic needs of the campaign.

Contract & Rights Management: They handle usage rights, appearance agreements, and ensure legal compliance.

Cross-Team Coordination: They help ensure smooth collaboration between advertisers, producers, and talent, bridging the creative and logistical aspects of a campaign.