IBTM World reveals first details of its Barcelona plans

Organisers of IBTM World, a global event for the MICE industry, have revealed the first details for the show, due to take place in-person at Fira Barcelona, 30 November-2 December 2021. Under the theme of ‘New Business, New Tech, New World’, IBTM World Barcelona will focus on quality one-to-one business meetings, inspiring educational content and rewarding networking opportunities to help attendees re-connect and thrive in the next chapter in meetings and events, organisers say. Association buyers who have confirmed their attendance include the International Association for the Protection of Intellectual Property (AIPPI), European Union of Medicine in Assurance and Social Security, China Electronics Chamber of Commerce, and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Corporate buyers will attend from Engie, Oriflame Cosmetics, Knauf, Citigroup Inc., BBVA France and Saudi Aramco. Agency buyers include HelmBriscoe 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’s Knowledge programme will this year explore four topical themes: Trends and technology; gamification and engagement; the future of event planning (to include discussions around sustainability, safety and security and government support); and career and personal development. There will be separate buyer-led Association and Elite Corporate Programmes. David Thompson, event director for IBTM World, said: “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. 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.” Show organisers Reed Exhibitions say they are working to the ‘All Secure’ working standard for holding events in a Covid-impacted world, and its IBTM team is working closely with the local authorities and the Fira Barcelona to implement all necessary precautions. For further information, visit here.