IBTM World organisers say the 2025 edition of the show, which opens in Barcelona on 18 November, will take a long look at the meetings and events industry’s future and promise to showcase the world’s most advanced humanoid robot on the show’s Main Stage. Offering a glimpse into how AI can meaningfully enhance communication in public-facing environments, ‘Ameca’ is at the forefront of human-robot interaction.
Designed by Engineered Arts and powered by the WAIYS AI platform, the robot can understand context, interpret intent, and engage in free-flowing conversation in real time. Ameca will join the line up of speakers and co-host a session on day one of the show with founder of Boldpush, Julius Solaris.
Taking place on the Future Stage – which explores the trends, tools and transformations shaping the events of tomorrow – the conversation will take a deep dive into the future of human-AI interaction and ask the question, ‘Is AI ready to take over events?’ Over 12,000 event professionals are expected to attend IBTM World’s 2025 edition, 18-20 November.
Built around the idea of People. Power. Potential, the trade show will also feature behavioural science advisor and polymath, Nathalie Nahai, on day one. This will be followed by author, speaker and management advisor, B. Joseph Pine II, on day two. While performance coach and the founder of Pro Sport Lab, David Osgathorp, will open the last day of the show.
The conference programme this year will explore Event Tech and Innovation; Insights and Trends; Experience Design and Engagement; Sustainable Impact and Advocacy; People, Purpose and Wellbeing; Brand and Marketing; and Next Gen Talent and Careers. IBTM World this year has launched IBTM Ignite – an initiative giving more than 80 start-ups the opportunity to pitch their boldest ideas to an audience of seasoned industry advisors and investors.
Making a return to the show floor is Hotel Pavillion, a dedicated space for independent and small group hotels to spotlight their offer. Those making the most of this exclusive area for the first time include Wyndham Hotels, Seibu Prince Hotels & Resorts and The Kimberly Hotel.
Global titans
After its launch in 2024, the Forum for Advocacy will again unite senior leaders, policymakers and influencers from across the globe to amplify the immense social and economic value of business events. Created in partnership with global think tank, The Business of Events, this year’s forum will explore how the industry can work together to grow the global event economy.
Also returning for its second year is Exceptional Experiences. Designed to showcase groundbreaking solutions to help in-house event professionals and marketers create event experiences that fuel business growth, industry heavyweights including WeTransfer, Canva, Shutterstock, Amazon and UTA will be sharing their expertise in a series of education sessions.
International reach
Organisers say the show this year is set to welcome 2,479 exhibitors from over 140 countries, including a record number of new and returning exhibitors, as well as the largest African presence in over a decade. Among those making their debut are Norwegian Cruise Line, the Cayman Islands, and Singapore’s loft-inspired designer hotel, Millennium Hotel and Resorts.
Meanwhile, South Africa, Morocco, Egypt and Rwanda will all be returning with expanded stands. The Tunisia Convention Bureau will also be returning for the first time in more than 10 years.
IBTM has also launched a dedicated Event Tech & Services area. More than doubling the number of suppliers from this sector compared to 2024, exhibitors include Cvent, Newhotel Software and vFairs. Pre-booked meetings have increased, with 78,000+ confirmed.
Claudia Hall, IBTM World exhibition director, said: “IBTM World has always been a launchpad for new ideas, but this year we’re taking an even bolder step into the future. From exploring human–AI interaction on our Future Stage, to welcoming trailblazing start-ups through IBTM Ignite, our 2025 edition is all about unlocking the potential of what comes next for our industry. “I’m incredibly excited to welcome attendees and can’t wait to see the connections, conversations and breakthroughs that will shape the year ahead.”
Visitor registration is still open. Visit: https://www.ibtmworld.com/en-gb/registration-type.html