With just one day to go before the global business events community gathers in Barcelona for IBTM World 2024 , organisers of the leading international trade show have revealed that more than 72,000 meetings between exhibitors and buyers have already been scheduled.
A substantial increase of 20 percent compared to last year, meaning that the average number of meetings per exhibitor will also increase. So far, 72,147 meetings have been scheduled, not counting those that will take place spontaneously during the fair or those that will continue to be booked in the run-up to the event.
This year, the number of visitors is expected to increase by 10 percent and the number of buyers is also expected to grow significantly. The fair is expected to open its doors to 21 percent more buyers than last year. This includes 63 percent of buyers who are new to the event.
Ready for partnership
Returning to the iconic Fira de Barcelona from 19-21 November, IBTM World 2024 will champion the potential of people power. Underlining the belief that what people need to succeed is other people, this exciting three-day event will exemplify the power of teamwork and the potential that can be realised when, coupled with the latest technological advancements, event professionals work together.
As a sign of the interest in collaboration from around the world, IBTM World 2024 will welcome close to 100 new exhibitors. Among those making their debut this year are China’s capital Beijing, the East African nation of Mauritius and Inter MICE Asia, the first exhibitor from Uzbekistan. The Middle East Emirate of Ajman and the UK’s Birmingham & West Midlands will also make their first appearances.
Laying the foundation for cooperation
To facilitate an enabling environment for teamwork, IBTM World has introduced a host 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 offering – to the Advocacy Forum – an initiative bringing together senior leaders, politicians, policymakers, industry associations and academics. Taking place on 18 November and created in partnership with the world’s leading think tank for the events sector, The Business of Events, the forum will amplify the existing conversation on advocacy issues.
This is just like Exceptional Experiences, a program specifically designed to help event professionals and in-house marketers create experiences that drive business growth. After an exclusive workshop for senior executives, VPs, and influential leaders from different sectors on the first day of the event, the second day will see speakers from industry giants such as Amazon, Tik Tok, and Canva take to the main stage for a series of dedicated educational sessions.
Knowledge is power
This year, the Main Stage will also be headlined by five incredible keynote speakers. Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson, a five-time British Paralympian, 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 Director at Buro Happold, and Louise O’Connor, Managing Director of Seen Presents Ltd, in a joint keynote. All keynote speakers will use their keynotes to talk about the fascinating topics running across IBTM World’s market-leading conference programme. This year, that includes Insight, Innovation, Experience Design, Social Responsibility, Marketing, Careers and Advocacy.
Combining business and pleasure
2024 will also mark the 20th anniversary of IBTM World in Barcelona. To celebrate this historic milestone, the exhibition hall will host delicious tapas stands, an artist showcase and much more. All of this will be accompanied by the grand IBTM World welcome party, which will take place in the exhibition hall at the end of the first day.
Claudia Hall, IBTM Global Exhibition Director, said: “We have a great show in store for our fantastic attendees this year. From our pioneering speakers and entrepreneurial exhibitors to our inspiring conference programme and inventive new products, this year’s exhibition is bursting with knowledge, passion and potential.
“Every year we think carefully about how we can deliver maximum value and I know that the improvements we have made to this year’s show will enable even greater connections, endless opportunities to work together and ultimately better business outcomes for everyone. I look forward to seeing you next week and welcoming you to our best edition yet.”
Source: IBTM World.