IBTM has announced first details of its online event, IBTM World Online, which will take place from 14–15 December 2021 as an enhancement to the in-person event in Barcelona. The IBTM World Online platform is being designed by the expert event technology and management agency who delivered the successful IBTM World Virtual event in 2020: Sector Global. The interactive platform will allow exhibitors, Hosted Buyers and visitors who aren’t able to attend IBTM World Barcelona the chance to network and do business with some of the world’s leading suppliers, buyers and destinations.
As well as pre-event matchmaking, one-to-one video meetings between buyers and suppliers, enhanced exhibitor directories and an exhibitor zone, IBTM World Online will feature a full schedule of on-demand educational content. This will include the complete IBTM World Barcelona Knowledge Programme of over 65 sessions from leading industry experts.
Hosted Buyers confirmed to attend IBTM World Online include those from long-haul destinations such as Canada, India, Brazil, New Zealand, Saudi Arabia, Singapore and the United States. A total of 38 countries have confirmed their attendance to date, with many more expected to sign up in the next few weeks. Agency, corporate and associate buyers will represent organisations including Sanofi, HelmsBriscoe, Cook Medical Europe, Mars, Jet Infosystems and Frosch Latam.
Paul Summers, CEO, Sector Global says: “The team at Sector Global is delighted to be working with IBTM again this year to provide attendees who are not able to travel to Barcelona the opportunity to make quality connections at IBTM World Online. Our bespoke and intuitive event networking framework empowers exhibitors and attendees with the tools they need to quickly locate, connect and pre-book high-quality meetings. Our concierge team will also be assisting participants to find the right connections and ensuring their meetings take place. We value the opportunity to work on events such IBTM World and look forward to another successful edition.”
David Thompson, Event Director, IBTM World comments: “We believe the best way to experience IBTM World is to be there in person, to maximise the many opportunities available at the live event, and to meet and connect with exhibitors and colleagues. However, we do understand that some people may be unable to travel, especially those from longer-haul destinations, so we have evolved our offering in line with the new business landscape to better meet the needs of all our customers. Combining online as part of the mix allows our community the opportunity to engage with new markets and offer additional flexibility and extra layers of engagement.”
IBTM World Online takes place from 14–15 December 2021 and will incorporate two full days of one-to-one business meetings and a comprehensive programme of content. In addition, Hosted Buyers will benefit from dedicated content tailored specifically for them with elements from the Association Programme, The Elite Corporate Programme and IBTM Accelerate available on demand.
