IBTM World surpasses 2023 event with surge in pre-scheduled meetings

With only days to go before the global business events community comes together in Barcelona for IBTM World 2024, organisers of the leading international trade show have revealed that more than 72,000 meetings have already been scheduled between exhibitors and buyers.

A substantial increase of 20 per cent compared to last year, it means the average number of meetings per exhibitor will also rise. 72,147 meetings have been scheduled so far, not including those that will take place spontaneously during the show, or those that will continue to be booked in the final lead-up to the event.

Visitor numbers are expected to rise by 10 per cent this year, and the number of buyers in attendance will also grow significantly. The show is set to open its doors to 21 per cent more buyers than last year. This includes 63 per cent of buyers who are new to the event.

Poised for partnership
Returning to the iconic Fira de Barcelona from November 19 to 21, IBTM World 2024 will champion People Power Potential. Shining a spotlight on the belief that what people need to succeed is other people, the exhilarating three-day event will exemplify the power of teamwork and the potential that can be achieved when, alongside the very latest technological developments, event professionals work together.

Demonstrating the appetite there is for collaboration from around the globe, IBTM World 2024 is set to welcome close to 100 new exhibitors. Those poised to make their debut this year include China’s capital city, Beijing, the East African nation of Mauritius, and Inter MICE Asia, the first ever exhibitor from Uzbekistan. The Emirate of Ajman in the Middle East and Birmingham & West Midlands from the UK will also be making their inaugural appearances.

Laying the foundations for cooperation
Facilitating an environment ripe for teamwork, IBTM World has introduced a plethora of new features to this year’s show designed to empower event professionals. From the Hotel Pavilion, a dedicated space for independent and small group hotels to showcase their offer, to the Forum for Advocacy, an initiative bringing together senior leaders, politicians, policymakers, industry associations and academics. Taking place on November 18 and created in partnership with leading global think tank for the events sector, The Business of Events, the forum will amplify the existing conversation around advocacy issues.

This is as well as Exceptional Experiences, a programme specifically designed to support in-house event professionals and marketers create experiences that fuel business growth. Following an exclusive workshop for senior executives, VPs and influential leaders from different sectors on day one of the show, day two will see speakers from industry giants such as Amazon, Tik Tok and Canva take to the Main Stage for a series of dedicated education sessions.

Knowledge is power
Also gracing the Main Stage this year are five incredible keynote speakers. Five-time British Paralympic athlete, Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson, will open the stage on day one, followed by human connection specialist, Simone Heng, on day two. On day three, Julius Solaris, Founder of Boldpush, will be joined by Goc O’Callaghan, Global Experience Lead at Buro Happold, and Louise O’Connor, Managing Director at Seen Presents Ltd, in a joint address. All keynotes will use their addresses to speak to the fascinating tracks running throughout IBTM World’s market-leading conference programme. This year, that includes Insight, Innovation, Experience Design, Social Responsibility, Marketing, Careers and Advocacy.

Combining business with pleasure
2024 will also mark the 20th anniversary of IBTM World in Barcelona. To celebrate this historic milestone, the show floor will welcome delicious tapas food trucks, a showcase of artists, and much more. This is alongside the extravaganza that is IBTM World’s famous Welcome Party, which will take place on the show floor at the end of day one.

Claudia Hall, IBTM World Exhibition Director, said: “What a show we have in store for our fantastic attendees this year. From our pioneering speakers and enterprising exhibitors to our inspiring conference programme and ingenuities new features, this year’s show is overflowing with insight, passion and potential.

“Every year we think carefully about how we can provide utmost value, and I know the enhancements we’ve made to this year’s show will enable even greater connections, endless opportunities for working together and, ultimately, better business results for all. I can’t wait to see you next week and welcome you to our best edition yet.”

Visitor and press registration is still open for IBTM World 2024. Register before November 18 to avoid the onsite registration fee.