November 23, 2022 | By Bronwen Largier
IBTM’s annual show in Barcelona, taking place from November 29 to December 1 is set to surpass the last pre-pandemic edition of the business events trade event, with over 10,000 visitors expected to meet with 2,200 exhibitors from more than 100 countries.
The number of pre-scheduled appointments at the show are already greater than 2019, with 60,000 meetings already locked in and more room to grow, as exhibitors are now able to invite buyers to appointments.
Visitor registration for the event is also trending above 2019 levels.
Hotels will have an increased presence on the show floor, with Accor buying back in for 2022, after some years away from the event.
Australia and New Zealand will both have a strong presence, with Tourism Australia sharing a stand with Melbourne Convention Bureau, BESydney, Business Events Perth, ICC Sydney, Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre and Hilton Sydney. Other Australian exhibitors at the show include Hyatt Regency Sydney and Ovation Australia.
Arinex, which was founded in Australia and is headquartered in Sydney, has joined the Tourism New Zealand stand, which also features Business Events Wellington, Te Pae Christchurch, the New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC), Destination Queenstown and Auckland Convention Bureau.
“The big numbers we are seeing ahead of this year’s show demonstrate that the industry is ready to do business again on a global scale,” said IBTM World’s event director David Thompson.
“This year we have an invigorated show with exciting new formats, exclusive buyer programmes and experiences and interactive knowledge programme sessions.
“We look forward to bringing the whole world together for three days of meetings, inspiration and connections.”
