IBTM World Barcelona confirms first exhibitors and hosted buyers

i By September 10, 2021 No Comments

IBTM World Barcelona, IBTM’s flagship event, has revealed the first details about the in-person event, taking place November 30 to December 2, 2021, at Fira Barcelona.

Under the theme of “New Business, New Tech, New World,” IBTM World Barcelona will focus on one-to-one business meetings, educational content, and networking opportunities to help attendees reconnect and thrive in the MICE industry’s next chapter.

Association buyers who have already confirmed their attendance include the International Association for the Protection of Intellectual Property (AIPPI), the European Union of Medicine in Assurance and Social Security, China Electronics Chamber of Commerce, and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Corporation buyers will attend from Engie, Oriflame Cosmetics, Knauf, Citigroup Inc., BBVA France, and Saudi Aramco. Agency buyers attending include representatives from HelmsBriscoe and HPN Global – World, and First Incentive Travel.

Global suppliers and destinations attending include Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, Melia Hotels & Resorts, Conference Compass, Bahrain Tourism & Exhibitions Authority, Munich Convention Bureau, Latvia Tourism and Flanders Meeting, and Convention Centre.

IBTM World Barcelona will offer an education program exploring four topical themes: trends and technology, gamification and engagement, the future of event planning (including discussions around sustainability, safety and security, and government support); and career and personal development. There will also be separate buyer-led Association and Elite Corporate education programs.

“We’ve had an incredibly positive response to IBTM World so far, which shows there is a huge appetite from the industry to return to in-person meetings and events,” said David Thompson, event director, IBTM World Barcelona. “We have received an exceptionally strong response from exhibitors, many of whom are returning with larger stands than before or additional sharers. We have a fantastic event planned and cannot express just how excited we are to see the community come back together for the first time in two years!”

RX, the organizer of IBTM World, reports that it has worked with industry peers to create a safe working standard called “All Secure” for holding events in a COVID-impacted world. It is also working closely with the local authorities and Fira Barcelona to implement all necessary precautions.