Business Events Industry Aotearoa (BEIA) has confirmed that MEETINGS, New Zealand's premier business events trade show, will remain at the New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC) for the next three years, providing long-term certainty for the industry as the event approaches a major milestone.

The announcement was made by BEIA Chief Executive Lisa Hopkins during the official opening of MEETINGS 2026 on 16 June, attended by 750 industry professionals at Auckland's newly opened convention centre.

The decision follows a strategic review of the event's future and reflects a commitment to providing continuity, stability and long-term value for New Zealand's business events sector.

BEIA Board Chair Martin Snedden said securing the NZICC as MEETINGS' home for the next three editions creates a strong platform for future growth.

“The board wanted to ensure MEETINGS continued to evolve and grow. Staying at the NZICC for the next three years establishes long-term continuity. We can now plan for the future with confidence,” he said.

The announcement comes as MEETINGS prepares to celebrate a significant milestone in 2027, marking 30 years since the trade show was first launched.

According to Hopkins, the event has played a pivotal role in connecting buyers and suppliers while generating substantial economic benefits for New Zealand over the past three decades.

“Next year, we will be recognising MEETINGS' 30th anniversary. That is significant for an event which has welcomed thousands of event decision-makers, organisers and planners, resulting in billions of dollars being pumped into New Zealand's economy over the past three decades.

“Knowing that MEETINGS will be anchored at the NZICC means we can continue to ensure the trade show remains fresh and relevant, while at the same time enhancing the elements that we know are important to the industry.

“Supported by the New Zealand Convention Bureau network, the popular regional familiarisation programme will remain an important part of MEETINGS, offering a deeper understanding of the destinations, people and experiences across the country," she said.
 

Celebrating Auckland's diversity

The official opening featured a specially commissioned performance supported by Auckland Convention Bureau, a division of Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, and created by Oystar Creative.

Entitled Kotahitanga – One People, Many Cultures, the production showcased the cultural richness of Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland through music and dance, celebrating connection, identity and community while welcoming delegates to the city.

International buyers gather in Auckland

Across the two-day event, more than 600 hosted buyers from New Zealand, Australia, North America, China, India, Japan and Southeast Asia are meeting with exhibitors representing more than 220 organisations from 18 regions across New Zealand.

The show remains the country's most important marketplace for business events, providing a platform for destinations, venues, hotels and suppliers to connect with key decision-makers from domestic and international markets.
 

Looking ahead

Following MEETINGS 2026, BEIA's attention will turn to Christchurch, where the organisation's next major industry gathering will take place later this year.

The BEIA Annual Conference 2026 and The Bizzies Awards are scheduled for 27-29 October at Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre, bringing together industry leaders from across New Zealand for three days of learning, networking and celebration.

With a new long-term home secured and its 30th anniversary on the horizon, MEETINGS enters its next chapter with renewed confidence, reinforcing its position as the cornerstone event for New Zealand's business events industry.
 

Published by Meeting Media Company, the publisher of Headquarters Magazine (HQ) – a leading international publication based in Brussels, serving the global MICE industry and association community.

With just over a week to go before its doors open at Excel London, The Meetings Show 2026 is gearing up for what organisers expect to be one of its most ambitious editions yet.

Taking place on 24-25 June, the UK's flagship event for the meetings, incentives, conferences and events sector will bring together almost 6,000 professionals, more than 550 exhibitors and representatives from over 80 destinations worldwide for two days of business meetings, education, networking and industry insights.

Now in its 14th year, the show will be officially opened by Martin Rhodes MP, Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Events, who will tour the exhibition floor and meet buyers and exhibitors from across the industry.

Future-focused education programme

A major draw for attendees will once again be the show's extensive education programme, designed to help event professionals navigate emerging trends, evolving client expectations and new business opportunities.

Across 63 sessions taking place on three stages, delegates can expect a mix of keynote presentations, workshops, panel discussions and interactive Q&As featuring some of the sector's most respected voices.

Among the headline speakers is Emma Henderson MBE, one of fewer than 500 female airline captains worldwide until 2020, who will share leadership lessons drawn from more than three decades in aviation. Joining her is John Vincent MBE, co-founder and former CEO of LEON, who will explore the principles behind purpose-led brands, resilient leadership and meaningful customer engagement.

Sustainability, inclusivity and future event design will also feature prominently. Sessions include Anna Abdelnoor's The sustainability excuses killing progress (and a blueprint on how to shut them down fast) and Creating neuroinclusive networking: designing events where everyone can connect, which will examine how networking experiences can better support neurodivergent participants.

Elsewhere, David Osgathorp from Red Bull Technology Campus will discuss leadership and performance in Lead like an elite athlete, while The Meetings Show Conference Futurist Dr Graham Norris will invite participants to imagine what the events industry could look like in 2036.

The programme will also showcase emerging industry voices through a session curated by this year's Tomorrow's Talent winners, challenging established thinking and exploring what the next generation believes must change within the sector.

Returning by popular demand is The Reckoning, a candid debate featuring Paul Harvey, Editor of M&IT, James Lancaster, Editorial Director at AMI, and Paula Rowntree, Founder of The Business Events Network. This year's discussion will focus on the growing influence of artificial intelligence and its impact on how event professionals work, create and connect.

Global destinations and suppliers under one roof

As one of the largest gatherings of its kind in Europe, The Meetings Show continues to offer buyers direct access to destinations, venues, hotels and suppliers from around the world.

Among the established brands exhibiting this year are Minor Hotels, Destination Toronto, Radisson Hotel Group, Cubex Centre Prague, Oman Convention Bureau and Visit Costa Rica.

They will be joined by a range of first-time exhibitors, including BESydney, Rainbow Tourism Group, Ras Al Khaimah, Wynn Al Marjan Island, Macdonald Hotels & Resorts, Cameron House on Loch Lomond, The Met Hotel, National Parks of Georgia and Somerset County Cricket Club.

Accessibility moves centre stage

Inclusivity remains a major focus for the organisers, with several new initiatives being introduced for 2026.

Notably, The Meetings Show will become the first trade exhibition in the meetings and events sector to provide a fully staffed on-site crèche for attendees with families. Delivered in partnership with childcare specialist Nipperbout, the service will also include dedicated breastfeeding and baby-changing facilities.

Additional wellbeing and accessibility measures include The Calm Hub, a Sensory Calm and Quiet Room, EventWell Buddies offering personalised support across the exhibition floor, and AI-powered live captioning across all education stages.

Enhanced experiences for hosted buyers

Hosted buyers attending the event will benefit from an expanded programme beginning on 23 June, ahead of the main exhibition.

A series of specialist masterclasses will explore topics such as AI and automation, generational shifts, engagement design and the human experience of live events. Sessions will be led by industry experts including Gerrie Hawes of Remotely Human and Luke Goetting of LTG Strategy.

Hosted buyers will also be invited to an exclusive welcome reception at London's Savage Garden rooftop bar. Sponsored by Manchester Convention Bureau, the evening will feature live music, Manchester-inspired cocktails, interactive cooking stations and a collaborative ‘sip & paint’ experience developed with Paintillio.

Throughout the two-day event, attendees will also have access to a packed networking programme, including a morning running tour, a waterfront drinks reception hosted by Liverpool Experience Campus and ICC Wales' immersive The ignite red dragon experience.

Event app launches this week

To help visitors plan their schedules and maximise their time at the show, The Meetings Show app will launch later this week.

The platform will allow attendees to manage appointments, explore exhibitors, navigate the venue and build personalised agendas, making it easier to identify opportunities and connect with the right people throughout the event.

Commenting ahead of the show, Jack Marczewski, Portfolio Event Director, The Meetings Show, said: "We can’t wait to welcome the industry back to Excel London this June. The Meetings Show is where the global events community comes together to connect, learn and do business and 2026 is set to be one of the most feature-rich editions yet, with an extensive exhibitor line-up, a packed and forward-thinking education programme and a range of new and returning highlights for attendees.”

The Meetings Show 2026 will once again be co-located with Business Travel Show Europe and TravelTech Show, creating one of the largest annual gatherings of business events and travel professionals in Europe.
 

Published by Meeting Media Company, the publisher of Headquarters Magazine (HQ) – a leading international publication based in Brussels, serving the global MICE industry and association community.

The Meetings Show will become the first trade show in the global meetings, incentives, and events industry to introduce a fully staffed on-site crèche for attending families, marking a significant step forward in accessibility and inclusion across business events.

The initiative, delivered in partnership with specialist childcare provider Nipperbout, reflects a broader industry conversation around attendee wellbeing, work-life balance, and the changing realities faced by modern event professionals.

Available during the 24–25 June 2026 edition of the show at Excel London, the service will cater to children of all ages — from babies and toddlers through to teenagers — while also providing dedicated breastfeeding and nappy-changing facilities for parents attending the event.

Located in the Gallery Rooms on the venue’s north side, just moments away from the main exhibition floor, the Ofsted-accredited crèche will be fully staffed by qualified Nipperbout childcare professionals and is expected to accommodate between 10 and 15 children throughout the event.

This year’s themed experience, ‘Epic Play Quest’, will transform the childcare space into a live-action adventure environment inspired by popular children’s games, featuring creative workshops, active play zones, imaginative challenges, and social activities designed to encourage interaction and engagement.

For organisers, the move represents more than an additional attendee service; it signals a growing recognition that accessibility and inclusion must increasingly be designed into events from the outset.
 

ESCRS Partners with Nipperbout to Provide a Crèche for its 2024 Annual Conference

Jack Marczewski, Portfolio Event Director, The Meetings Show, said: “Today’s event professionals are balancing busy careers alongside family life and other real-world responsibilities, and we wanted The Meetings Show to reflect that reality. Introducing an on-site crèche is about making it easier for people to attend, participate and get the most from the show without having to choose between professional opportunities and caring responsibilities. We know accessibility and inclusivity mean different things to different people, and this is one way we can better support our community and create an event experience that works for modern attendees.”

Nipperbout, which has specialised in event childcare services for more than three decades, sees the partnership as part of a wider evolution in how live events are being designed and experienced.

Janthea Brigden, CEO and Director of Childcare, Nipperbout, said: “For over 34 years, we’ve supported organisers to create environments where families are considered an integral part of the attendee experience and not an afterthought. Providing childcare within live events requires specialist expertise to deliver safely and effectively in busy, fast-paced environments. We’re proud to be partnering with The Meetings Show on this initiative, which reflects a growing recognition across the industry that accessibility and inclusion need to be embedded into event design from the outset, and we look forward to talking to organisers about our services on stand F52.”

Parents and carers wishing to use the service will be able to pre-book spaces until 10 June using the dedicated event code, while limited drop-in availability will also be offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

Now entering its 14th edition, The Meetings Show continues to position itself as one of the UK’s leading gatherings for meetings and events professionals. The 2026 edition is expected to welcome more than 550 exhibitors and representatives from over 80 international destinations, alongside its co-located events Business Travel Show Europe and TravelTech Show.
 

Read our exclusive interview with Nipperbout here in HQ #117 (page 47)
 

Published by Meeting Media Company, the publisher of Headquarters Magazine (HQ) – a leading international publication based in Brussels, serving the global MICE industry and association community.

From 4 to 6 June 2026, Danish DMC Congress Consulting Management Group (CCMG) will host a highlycurated event at Hotel Ottilia (cover photo) in Copenhagen’s Carlsberg district. The Nordic MICE Summit will bring together around 40 suppliers and 40 buyers in an intimate and compact setting, featuring a programme centred on sustainability, innovation and human connection. Lonni Gulliksen (right side), CEO/Managing Director of CCMG, describes the event as a place to build ‘meaningful and lasting connections’ while showcasing best operational practices.

At its heart, the Summit prioritises quality over quantity: suppliers – from destinations and hotels to venues and DMCs – will take part in pre-booked, one-to-one speed meetings so they can “directly engage with Nordic and European MICE Buyers.” That format reduces noise and accelerates productive conversations, allowing sellers to present focused offers and buyers to assess fit quickly and efficiently. The emphasis on structured encounters is intentional: “it turns a tight programme into an engine for genuinely actionable leads,” she says.

At a time when global demand for MICE is once again expanding, the Summit doubles as a laboratory for event design. Recent editions have foregrounded sustainability, environmental responsibility and social impact, positioning content and showcases around practical standards. As Gulliksen observes, “in the last two editions, the summit’s themes have always included sustainability, environmental and social responsibility.” Presentations and site showcases put pioneering venues and regenerated neighbourhoods, such as Hotel Ottilia (below on the right) and Carslberg (below on the left), in the spotlight, showing how place-based storytelling can be a commercial advantage.

More than rhetoric, sustainability is operational. Organisers “explicitly commit to reducing the Summit’s environmental footprint and [use] the Summit venue (or host) as a ‘living case study’ of sustainable operations.” That means the chosen host is asked to demonstrate measured practices – waste management, low-carbon catering, energy optimisation and local procurement – so delegates can see sustainable choices in action. The effect is twofold: “credibility for the Summit and practical templates suppliers can replicate.”

Networking activities are intended to cement trust and create long-term partnerships. The Summit’s ‘workshop/summit’ formula combines curated social events with learning sessions so that formal meetings are reinforced by informal rapport. Building those human connections is strategic: cross-border partnerships often begin over a coffee in a social programme and end in co-bids or joint service offers. As Gulliksen puts it, “the event is as much about building trust as building business, even if it is still unclear how many relationships-built turn into booked events.”

Branding and visibility are obvious outcomes for participating destinations, as associations are once again booking larger in-person congresses. The Summit gives smaller or newly renovated venues a platform to be seen by decision-makers; case studies and destination experiences become tangible proof points in later RFP processes. Gulliksen notes the long-term benefit: involvement in the Summit lets destinations “position the Nordic region as a hub for high-quality, sustainable MICE events,” and that reputational credit translates into enquiries and invitees long after the final drink.

Learning is embedded throughout the programme. Sessions combine trend watching with hands-on examples: by instance, delegates will explore how districts, architecture and culture can be woven into meeting design and guest experience. The Summit’s curated content emphasises replicable solutions – how to package a neighbourhood, how to integrate local suppliers, and how to embed sustainability in the guest journey. These concrete takeaways, Gulliksen says, “are what delegates can bring back and implement at home.”

Practical outcomes reported from past editions reinforce the Summit’s value: destinations and suppliers commonly cite increased enquiries, new buyer contacts and a strengthened pipeline resulting from high-quality meetings. Buyers benefit, too, because the setting reduces search costs and enables side-by-side comparisons of destinations’ eco-friendly credentials and product depth. DMOs across the Nordics have doubled down on targeted events marketing, virtual buyer workshops and quality positioning to protect demand. The combined effect is measurable: “more targeted leads and a shorter path from first contact to procurement,” she adds.

Another strand is the Summit’s role as an advocacy and policy forum. By gathering practitioners, policymakers and community stakeholders, the event helps articulate the wider social value of meetings – knowledge transfer, local impact and urban activation – not just immediate visitor spending. The Summit therefore becomes a vehicle to promote supportive public policy, from streamlined licensing to incentives for green event infrastructure. “Events leave behind expertise, knowledge benchmarks, and training that strengthen local industries, while the inclusion of schools and marginalised communities in their programmes helps promote cohesion and opportunities for social integration,” Gulliksen states.
 

From Social Purpose to Economic Value

The economic logic is straight-forward: a compact, well-curated summit converges purchasing power in a short window, creating direct bookings for hotels, logistics and local suppliers. Gulliksen is forth-right about the local benefit: “Events of this scale can leave a real footprint, not just socially but economically.” Beyond immediate spend, the Summit’s post-tour to Helsingborg extends impact regionally by exposing buyers to cross-border product collaborations.

The Summit’s format also encourages destinations to be proactive. Gulliksen’s advice is clear and actionable: “bring new products and services (hotel, venue, partners) to show; develop a sharp sustainability or innovation story; have representatives who can answer buyer questions in depth.” That approach – preparing concise evidence and case studies – maximises the ROI of the trip and ensures that suppliers convert visibility into business. Besides, she says, “better yield management and transparency in surcharges are needed, with clearer contractual clauses that reduce disputes and preserve margins.”

For suppliers, the Summit model reduces wasteful selling activity and raises conversion rates. With fewer but better matches, sellers avoid scattergun approaches and can focus on depth. Buyers, in turn, access verified partners with demonstrable sustainability practices; the combination raises willingness to pay for quality and lowers the risk of procurement mismatches. This is the economic payoff that justifies the Summit’s selective scale. All in all, the Nordic example shows that “sustainability equals economic strategy, not just compliance,” reinforcing the idea that it can become a durable competitive advantage. Especially now that inflation is a reality, and “many venues are implementing dynamic pricing, add-on charging, and minimum spend policies to protect margins.”

Finally, the Summit leaves reputational legacies. Participating destinations enhance their positioning among buyers and media, while suppliers gain credibility that converts into longer-term contracts. As Gulliksen summarises, the Nordic MICE Summit offers a compact but powerful platform where “value on both sides” is created – buyers discover reliable partners, and suppliers justify their investment through leads and contracts that often materialise after the event. However, “hybrid is still expected; digital participation remains a baseline expectation as organisers now look for ‘in-room impact’ combined with digital reach. Venues that packaged hybrid services win higher-margin bookings,” she concludes.
 

Published by Meeting Media Company, the publisher of Headquarters Magazine (HQ) – a leading international publication based in Brussels, serving the global MICE industry and association community.

The Meetings Show has unveiled its 2026 education programme, introducing a more immersive and interactive format aimed at sparking ideas, encouraging open debate and delivering practical insights that attendees can apply immediately.

Taking place at Excel London on 24–25 June 2026, this year’s edition places a stronger emphasis on participation, with expanded opportunities for discussion, collaboration and hands-on learning throughout the programme.

Building on the success of last year’s content, the refreshed approach has been shaped directly by attendee feedback, evolving an already well-received experience to focus even more on what audiences value most: honest conversations, inspiring speakers and actionable ideas.

Designed to support professionals at every stage of their careers, the programme responds to a period of significant transformation across the events industry.

Across 63 sessions and three stages, attendees can expect a diverse mix of formats from panels and presentations to workshops and Q&As, bringing together a strong line-up of speakers sharing practical insights, forward-looking perspectives and tools ready for immediate use.

Among the headline speakers, brought by LAI International, is keynote Emma Henderson MBE, one of fewer than 500 female airline captains worldwide until September 2020. Drawing on more than three decades of experience, she will share lessons from the flight deck to the boardroom, delivered with authenticity, compassion and humour.

Also headlining is John Vincent MBE, co-founder and former CEO of LEON, who will present a candid session, From LEON to Live Events: Building Brands People Love. Reflecting on his journey, from reshaping the fast-food sector to launching Feed NHS during the pandemic, he will offer practical insights into building purpose-led brands, leading with resilience and creating meaningful audience connections.

The programme also brings together a wide range of industry voices. Amy Wood, Accessibility Manager at Salesforce, will explore how to embed accessibility into event planning in her session, ‘Revolutionising event accessibility: a person-first approach’. She will share lessons from large-scale events, highlighting what has worked (and what hasn’t) alongside practical ways to scale inclusive planning.

Amy will also join The Corporate Conversation, a fast-paced, ask-me-anything session designed to tackle the questions professionals rarely get the chance to ask. Accessibility remains a core focus across the programme, with captions and AI-supported features ensuring full engagement for all attendees.
 

Sustainability will also take centre stage, with Anna Abdelnoor, CEO and Founder of isla (check our HQ interview on the #124 edition), leading ‘The sustainability excuses killing progress (and a blueprint on how to shut them down fast)’. This direct and practical session will challenge common industry barriers, from “it’s too expensive” to “clients aren’t asking for it”, and replace them with actionable strategies that protect margins, reputation and relationships.

Ahead of the show, isla is inviting event professionals to share the sustainability challenges they encounter via a short survey. The results will help shape the session and contribute to a practical, industry-backed framework that attendees can implement immediately, with participants also entered into a prize draw.

Looking further ahead, Dr Graham Norris, The Meetings Show Conference Futurist, will lead a live research workshop as part of the Hosted Buyer Masterclasses, exploring what events could look like in 2036. This highly interactive session will encourage participants to challenge assumptions, collaborate and co-create a shared vision for the future. Insights gathered will be presented alongside a panel of industry experts and developed into a white paper, with attendees receiving priority access.

Returning features include The Reckoning, a candid, no-holds-barred industry debate, as well as the ever-popular Hot Wings session, alongside a range of new interactive formats designed to stimulate conversation and fresh thinking.

The Meetings Show’s knowledge director, Samme Allen, said: “We listened closely to all feedback received and, building on an already solid base, have set out to make our conference programme the best in the industry. We know attendees are looking for candid voices, more interaction and debate, and fresh, future-focused ideas that will see them through the next stages of their careers. We’ve delivered an innovative programme that ticks all the boxes, with speakers who can connect and empower delegates with insight, spark meaningful conversations and contribute to real progress across the meetings and events community.”

Overall, the 2026 programme for the two-day Northstar Meetings Group show is designed to deliver meaningful, actionable learning, combining hands-on workshops, data-driven insights, immersive storytelling and lively debate.

To extend the value beyond the event itself, an enhanced digital playbook will be produced post-show in partnership with Lim, capturing key insights and ensuring the learning continues long after the doors close.
 

The full education programme can be viewed here. To find out more about the buyer, hosted buyer and visitor registration options, please sign up here.

Published by Meeting Media Company, the publisher of Headquarters Magazine (HQ) – a leading international publication based in Brussels, serving the global MICE industry and association community.

IBTM has announced the launch of IBTM Asia Pacific, a new marketplace for the business events industry, set to take place from 9–10 June 2027 at Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition Centre (BITEC). Positioned in the heart of Thailand’s capital, the new tradeshow aims to become a future-focused meeting point for the Asia-Pacific region, designed to drive high-value connections and unlock new business opportunities.

The event will bring together corporate, association and agency buyers from across Asia-Pacific with global destinations, venues, hotels and suppliers. Leveraging IBTM’s Hosted Buyer model and smart matchmaking, the platform is designed to turn introductions into meaningful partnerships and meetings into measurable impact.

Asia-Pacific has emerged as the world’s third-largest business events market — and continues to grow rapidly. Valued at $231.49 billion in 2026 and forecast to expand at an annual rate of 12.6% through 2029, the region presents a significant opportunity for a large-scale, connection-driven industry platform.

Research conducted by IBTM among exhibitors and buyers points to strong demand for a dedicated regional event. Key brands and buyer groups have already signalled their intention to attend, drawn by IBTM’s reputation for delivering high-quality meetings and tangible ROI.

Bangkok provides a compelling host city, combining world-class venues, extensive hotel capacity and strong international connectivity. The event will also benefit from the institutional support of the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB). With e-visa and visa-free access available to travellers from multiple markets — including China, India, the UK, the EU and the USA — Thailand is well positioned as a hub for both regional and global exchange.

The conference programme will feature IBTM’s signature mix of interactive formats, including collaborative problem-solving sessions, wellbeing experiences and practical workshops. Designed to help the industry adapt and evolve, the programme will deliver both strategic insight and actionable takeaways. A Welcome Party on the first day will further support networking and celebrate local culture.

Claudia Hall, Exhibition Director, IBTM World and IBTM Asia Pacific, comments: “We are delighted to be launching a new event for the region, opening the door to a market with immense potential and introducing our proven model to a dynamic region with a strong appetite for growth.

“Our vision is to build the region’s most influential event, offering a premium platform that brings together industry leaders through high-quality meetings, an inspiring conference programme, and measurable commercial impact for both exhibitors and buyers.”

Mrs. Supawan Teerarat, Ph.D., President of Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), said: “Thailand is honoured to welcome IBTM Asia Pacific 2027 and global MICE partners to Bangkok. This landmark event is more than a regional gathering. It is a bold statement of Asia’s rising influence in the global business events industry. As the Official Host Destination Partner, the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau looks forward to working closely with RX BITEC to create a dynamic platform that connects the international business events community while showcasing Thailand’s world-class capabilities and inspiring experiences.”

IBTM is a world-leading showcase for the meetings and events industry with a portfolio of events and products offering business solutions across four continents.

On of the protfolio brands, IBTM Asia Pacific, is a new two-day event which will act as a future-focused meeting point for business events across the Asia-Pacific region and is designed to drive high-value connections and new business opportunities. IBTM World, the leading global event for the meetings and events industry, is the must-attend three-day event for the worldwide meeting, incentives, conference and events industry. Thousands of meetings and events buyers, suppliers and international trade media visit Fira Barcelona every November for IBTM’s flagship show. 

Further details will be announced in due course.
 

Powered by Meeting Media Company, publisher of Headquarters Magazine (HQ) – a leading international publication based in Brussels, serving the global MICE industry and association community.

Visitor registration is now open for The Meetings Show 2026, taking place at Excel London on 24–25 June.

As the UK’s leading exhibition for event, meeting and conference professionals, the show brings together hundreds of global suppliers and a diverse mix of high-level buyers for two dynamic days of inspiration, networking and discovery.

This year’s exhibitor line-up reflects the full breadth of the events ecosystem, spanning destinations, DMCs, hotels, venues and technology providers. Confirmed participants include Visit Portugal, Visit Bath & Bristol, Philadelphia Convention Bureau, Bournemouth International Centre, Copenhagen Convention Bureau, The Q Hotels Collection, Hilton Hotels Worldwide and EventMobi, alongside first-time exhibitor Philadelphia Convention Bureau.

At the core of the show is its hosted buyer programme, designed to connect suppliers with senior planners from across corporate, agency and association sectors. Attendees include representatives from organisations such as Gartner, Chartered Institute of Housing, NASUWT – The Teachers’ Union, Helmsbriscoe, AMEX GBT, Oliver Wyman, Top Banana and IQPC, creating valuable opportunities for meaningful business exchange.

Education remains a central pillar of the event. Following strong feedback from last year, the 2026 programme – curated in partnership with The Attendee Experience Company (atex) – will feature more than 60 sessions, including panels, workshops and talks. The content is designed to deliver practical insights, fresh perspectives and actionable strategies to help professionals create smarter, more engaging and more impactful events.

Jack Marczewski, Portfolio Event Director of The Meetings Show, said: "With this year’s incredible mix of exhibitors, hosted buyers, and our highly anticipated education programme – featuring an exciting line-up of speakers, including some truly inspirational headliners – The Meetings Show 2026 is where the future of the events industry comes alive. We can’t wait to welcome you this June – it’s an experience not to be missed!"

The Meetings Show 2026 will be co-located with Business Travel Show Europe and TravelTech Show. A range of attendance options is available, including buyer, hosted buyer and visitor passes – interested participants can register to find out more.
 

Published by Meeting Media Company, the publisher of Headquarters Magazine (HQ) – a leading international publication based in Brussels, serving the global MICE industry and association community.

Association Focus at IMEX Frankfurt

IMEX Frankfurt 2026 is sharpening its focus on the future of the global meetings and events industry, introducing two major initiatives that reflect shifting priorities across destinations and associations alike. From the launch of the IMEX Place Leaders Forum to the evolution of Association Focus, this year’s programme highlights a clear direction: deeper collaboration, stronger strategic alignment and a growing emphasis on long-term impact. Together, these initiatives position IMEX not only as a marketplace, but as a platform shaping how destinations compete and how associations evolve in an increasingly complex environment.

A new era of place leadership and destination strategy

At the heart of this shift is the launch of the IMEX Place Leaders Forum, a reimagined platform designed to bring together senior decision-makers from across the destination ecosystem. Taking place on 19 May, the Forum builds on the legacy of the IMEX Policy Forum but expands its scope to reflect the growing importance of integrated place leadership and the destination economy.

The new format responds to a fundamental change in how cities and countries operate. No longer siloed, areas such as economic development, talent attraction, investment, culture and liveability are increasingly interconnected –and business events are now recognised as a key driver across all of them.

As Natasha Richards (on the left), IMEX’s Director of Impact & Industry Relations, explains: “We’ve enhanced the Forum to align with how destinations function and compete today. New governance models are emerging and decision makers need clearer evidence, deeper insight and stronger cross sector partnerships.

“Cities and countries now operate in complex environments where economic development, talent, investment, culture and liveability all overlap. Business events play a critical role in this mix—not just economically, but by delivering multiple positive impacts within research, innovation, health, sustainability and community well-being. The Forum brings together place leaders and event strategists to unlock this shared value.”

This repositioning reflects a broader industry trend: destinations are no longer competing solely on infrastructure or capacity, but on their ability to deliver measurable, multi-layered value. In this context, business events are increasingly viewed as strategic tools that contribute to innovation ecosystems, knowledge exchange and community outcomes.

Supporting this ambition is a new white paper developed in partnership with Professor Greg Clark CBE and The Business of Cities. Titled The Destination Economy, Place Leadership and the Strategic Role of Business Events, the report aims to provide a framework for understanding how events can support long-term destination competitiveness.

Greg Clark highlights the urgency of this shift: “Global mobility, knowledge-driven economies, and competition between places have elevated the importance of convening, collaboration and narrative. Business events are uniquely positioned to contribute to these dynamics, provided the sector is willing to evolve its role, invest in new capabilities, and engage seriously with the long-term future of the places it serves.”

By inviting destination leaders to contribute real-world case studies, IMEX is also signalling a move towards evidence-based strategy—one where the impact of events can be clearly articulated to policymakers, investors and stakeholders.

Association Focus: navigating disruption through purpose and AI

Running alongside this destination-led agenda is Association Focus, a dedicated pre-show programme taking place on 18 May at Kap Europa. Designed as a full day of learning and strategic exchange, the initiative addresses the evolving challenges facing associations, from member engagement to technological transformation.

With disruption accelerating across sectors, associations are being forced to rethink their role, value proposition and operational models. Association Focus responds directly to these pressures, with a programme centred on purpose-driven leadership, the impact of artificial intelligence and the changing expectations of members and stakeholders.

A key theme is the strategic adoption of AI – not as a threat, but as an enabler of more effective and personalised engagement. As Michelle Mason, President and CEO of ASAE, explains: “Associations today face continuous disruption, tighter margins and rising expectations,” explains Michelle Mason. “Resilience means more than managing through change; it means using tools like AI strategically to extend our reach, improve efficiency and personalize engagement.

“The real task for association leaders now is to move beyond experimentation and adopt AI intentionally, in ways that strengthen mission, governance and long-term sustainability.”

This perspective underscores a broader shift within the association landscape. Rather than focusing solely on operational efficiency, organisations are being challenged to align technology with purpose – ensuring that innovation supports long-term mission and member value.

At the same time, the programme recognises the growing importance of impact-led event design. A dedicated track for planners explores how associations can embed societal impact into their events while securing stakeholder buy-in, reflecting a wider industry move towards more meaningful and measurable outcomes.

As Martin Sirk, who curated the planner track, explains: “With the help of our pre-event survey, we’ll be giving association innovators a chance to showcase what’s new and impressive at their events—in only 90 seconds each!

“Attendees will also be all hands-on-deck during our provocative take on what networking really is all about, led by meeting design guru Bo Krüger, and we’ll be helping associations identify their own unique “impact-opportunities” in a workshop-style session led by Meet4Impact’s Genevieve Leclerc.”

By combining strategic insight with practical application, Association Focus aims to equip professionals with the tools and frameworks needed to navigate an increasingly complex operating environment.
 

Association Focus at IMEX Frankfurt

A unified vision for the future of business events

Taken together, the Place Leaders Forum and Association Focus illustrate a clear evolution in IMEX Frankfurt’s positioning. No longer just a platform for business exchange, the show is increasingly acting as a catalyst for strategic thinking across the global events ecosystem.

On one side, destination leaders are being encouraged to integrate business events into broader economic and social strategies. On the other, associations are being supported in redefining their purpose, embracing technology and delivering greater value to their communities.

What connects both is a shared emphasis on collaboration, evidence and impact. Whether through cross-sector partnerships at the destination level or through more intentional leadership within associations, the message is consistent: the future of the industry depends on its ability to adapt, align and demonstrate relevance in a rapidly changing world.

As IMEX Frankfurt 2026 approaches, these initiatives signal a maturing industry – one that is moving beyond traditional metrics and embracing a more holistic understanding of value, where business events are not only drivers of economic activity, but enablers of innovation, resilience and long-term progress.
 

Published by Meeting Media Company, the publisher of Headquarters Magazine (HQ) – a leading international publication based in Brussels, serving the global MICE industry and association community.

Independent post-show research following AIME 2026 projects a record-breaking AUD $425 million in business transactions between exhibitors and buyers over the next 12 months, underlining the event’s position as Asia Pacific’s leading business events trade show.

At the core of AIME’s model is a focus on quality over quantity. The event combines human expertise with AI-powered scheduling to match vetted global buyers with targeted exhibitors, creating a highly curated environment designed to generate meaningful connections and tangible business outcomes.

This approach is reflected in strong satisfaction scores. Exhibitor Net Promoter Score (NPS) reached 32.6—well above the industry benchmark of 9.6—while visitor NPS climbed to 59.4, significantly exceeding the benchmark of 30.6.

Talk2 Media & Events CEO Matt Pearce said the results reflect the strength of AIME’s curated approach: “AIME is uniquely built around the quality of the connections we create,” he said. “Our event is carefully curated to ensure the right people are meeting each other, which leads to stronger conversations, better partnerships and real commercial outcomes. The projected $425 million in business shows the value of those meetings and the role AIME plays in supporting destinations, venues and suppliers across the Asia Pacific region.”

Melbourne Convention Bureau CEO Julia Swanson added: “AIME continues to shine as the premier business events trade show in our region and MCB is incredibly proud to own such an impactful event. The ongoing success of AIME reflects the strength of our local business events industry as well as the capacity for Melbourne to host large-scale trade shows that draw exhibitors and buyers from around the world and generate record-breaking amounts of business. We look forward to the continued growth and success of the show as we continue to innovate and provide further opportunities for strong partnerships and excellent outcomes.”
 

AIME Event Director Silke Calder (above) also highlighted the event’s growing global reach: “AIME continues to grow in both scale and impact, with more of the global industry coming together each year to meet, connect, learn and do business,” she said. “The strong satisfaction scores from exhibitors and visitors show the quality of the meetings taking place and the importance of AIME as a platform for building new partnerships and future events.”

Delivered by Talk2 Media & Events, AIME 2026 marked the largest edition to date, setting new records across size, hosted buyers, exhibitors and overall attendance—reflecting sustained global demand for in-person engagement.

Held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) from 9–11 February 2026, the event welcomed more than 1,500 vetted buyers, over 765 exhibitors from 36 countries and territories, and more than 5,000 attendees. Across the two-day trade show, more than 25,000 pre-scheduled meetings took place.

As Asia Pacific’s largest and longest-running business events exhibition and learning platform, AIME continues to connect a global community of professionals with industry suppliers through a seamless blend of human expertise and advanced technology.

Owned by the Melbourne Convention Bureau and delivered by Talk2 Media & Events, AIME remains the first major tradeshow on the international business events calendar.

AIME 2027 will take place from 15–17 February 2027, followed by AIME 2028 from 14–16 February 2028, both at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.
 

Published by Meeting Media Company, the publisher of Headquarters Magazine (HQ) – a leading international publication based in Brussels, serving the global MICE industry and association community.

Hosted buyer registration is now open for The Meetings Show, returning to ExCeL London from 24–25 June 2026.

Event professionals from across the UK, Europe, and — for the first time — a limited number from the US are invited to apply for one of the industry’s most sought-after hosted buyer programmes. Decision-makers responsible for organising incentives, meetings, conferences, and events are encouraged to secure their place early.

Last year, nearly 1,500 buyers attended, taking part in over 9,000 pre-scheduled meetings, creating two days of focused conversations, fresh ideas, and real business opportunities.

Applications are carefully pre-qualified to ensure every meeting counts. Buyers are assessed on the size and frequency of the events they deliver, their purchasing authority, and the geographic reach of their programmes — creating a curated environment where suppliers meet planners with genuine briefs.

Once accepted, hosted buyers can schedule one-to-one appointments with more than 700 UK and international hotels, venues, and destinations. Confirmed exhibitors already include Visit Portugal, Netherlands Board of Tourism and Conventions, Marketing Manchester, Tourism Ireland, QEII Centre, NEC Group, CrowdComms, The Q Hotels Collection, Hilton Hotels Worldwide, alongside Preferred Hotels, exhibiting at the show for the first time.

Hosted buyers for 2026 so far include representatives from Deloitte, AbbVie, Principal Global Events, Bray Leino Events, and First Event — representing a diverse mix of corporate, agency, and association planners.

Tasha Strange, Senior Sourcing Manager at Principal Global Events, said: “The Meetings Show is a key event for Principal Global Events each year because it brings our worldwide supplier network together under one roof. It’s a unique opportunity to reconnect with trusted partners while also discovering new venues and suppliers to support our upcoming event requirements. Having these conversations face‑to-face in one place is invaluable, and I’m really looking forward to exploring fresh ideas and building the relationships that help us deliver exceptional events at The Meetings Show this year.”

The experience goes beyond the show floor. Hosted buyers receive complimentary travel and accommodation, access to exclusive networking events, and a bespoke educational programme on the eve of the show.

Pre-show, buyers can join a FAM trip to Bristol or Bath. Post-show, there are opportunities to experience Madrid or Q Hotels’ Norton Park Hotel, Spa, and Manor House in Winchester, extending connections and inspiration beyond London.

Graham Angus, Head of Hosted Buyer Operations, said: **“Our hosted buyer programme is built for event professionals who want to make their time matter. It’s two days of purposeful meetings, inspiring conversations, and meaningful connections — all in one place.

As the largest hosted buyer programme of any UK industry event, we focus on quality, energy, and creating an experience that feels genuinely valuable. If you’re looking to discover new venues, destinations, and suppliers and build relationships that will elevate your events, this is where it starts.”

Published by Meeting Media Company, the publisher of Headquarters Magazine (HQ) – a leading international publication based in Brussels, serving the global MICE industry and association community.

Pictured: Robin Mack, Tourism Australia Managing Director; Silke Calder, AIME Event Director; Julia Swanson, Melbourne Convention Centre CEO; Matt Pearce, Talk2 Media & Events CEO; Natalie O’Brien, Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre CEO

AIME has officially opened its 2026 edition, reporting record growth in buyers and exhibitors while demonstrating significant progress toward long-term sustainability goals under the Net Zero Carbon Events initiative.

Delivered by Talk2 Media & Events, this is the largest show staged to date under Event Director Silke Calder and her team, reinforcing AIME’s standing as the leading business events trade show in Asia Pacific.

The opening was marked this morning by an official press conference featuring Matt Pearce, CEO of Talk2 Media & Events; Julia Swanson, CEO of Melbourne Convention Bureau; and Robin Mack, Managing Director of Tourism Australia.

Pearce said the event’s expansion reflected strong industry confidence and a focus on meaningful outcomes. “AIME 2026 is the biggest show our team has delivered to date, and the continued growth in buyers, exhibitors and international participation reflects the confidence our industry places in the event,” he said.

He also provided an update on sustainability progress under the Net Zero Carbon Events initiative. “AIME signed up to the Net Zero Carbon Events initiative several years ago, with a milestone target of reducing the emissions we can directly control by 50 percent by 2030. I’m pleased to share that we are well on the way to achieving that target,” he said.

“Our venue emissions, which represent a significant component of what we can directly influence, have been reduced dramatically, largely due to the strong sustainability credentials of the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.” Pearce added that AIME’s next phase will prioritise collective industry action.

Over three days, AIME 2026 will host more than 1,500 vetted buyers, welcome over 5,000 attendees and feature more than 750 exhibitors from across the global business events sector. Participants from 36 countries and territories will attend, with South Africa, the United Arab Emirates and Uganda appearing on the show floor for the first time alongside strong representation from Australia, New Zealand, Asia Pacific, Europe, the Americas and the Middle East.

Exhibitors span convention bureaux, convention centres, hotels and resorts, unique venues, event technology providers, production and AV companies, destination management companies, airlines and cruise operators. Across the two-day trade show, more than 25,000 pre-scheduled meetings will take place between buyers and exhibitors.

The event builds on recent momentum, including more than $400 million of business generated following AIME 2025, further cementing its role as a primary meeting place for the international business events community in Asia Pacific.

AIME is owned by Melbourne Convention Bureau and managed by Talk2 Media & Events, with 2026 marking the fifth edition delivered by Silke Calder’s team.

Opening day also features Knowledge Monday, the event’s professional development programme, welcoming more than 1,500 attendees. Under the theme “Expertise Matters!”, the programme explores the credibility, clarity and strategic influence of business events professionals. Keynotes Dan Haesler, Milo Wilkinson and Kristina Karlsson headline the day, followed by 20 breakout sessions across five content streams.

Curated with El Kwang and BEAMexperience and guided by an industry advisory committee, the programme continues to position AIME as a global platform for learning and leadership.

The day concludes with the Welcome Event, Aimagination, bringing together more than 2,000 attendees dressed in white at Evoqué in Melbourne’s CBD.

The trade show runs Tuesday 10 and Wednesday 11 February, featuring enhanced zoning, expanded networking areas and an enlarged Ideas Academy presented by Spice magazine. AIME is complemented by a series of co-located events including ICCA Regional Business Exchanges and Bid Workshop, the Oceanic Members Breakfast Meeting, the Australian Business Events Association Leaders Forum, the ABEA Bureau Chapter Meeting, SITE ANZ Young Leaders Get Together, SITE NITE After Party, PCMA APAC Members’ Networking Breakfast and the return of AIPC with a focused summit for convention and exhibition centre leaders.
 

Published by Meeting Media Company, the publisher of Headquarters Magazine (HQ) – a leading international publication based in Brussels, serving the global MICE industry and association community.

New Zealand is bringing its strongest team to date to AIME 2026 in Melbourne – including an All Black and Black Fern.

In partnership with Tourism New Zealand, the All Blacks Experience is coming to Asia-Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event (AIME) with an immersive activation featuring former All Blacks Ian Jones, Josh Kronfeld, and Black Fern Monalisa Codling.

Attendees can feel the power of the haka, witness the dedication behind excellence, and connect with New Zealand’s sporting and cultural heritage in an unforgettable way.

Tourism New Zealand Global Manager Business Events Penelope Ryan says: “The All Blacks Experience is not only a unique attraction; the team’s deep cultural roots and emotional connection to New Zealand translate into a transformational experience.” 

All Blacks Experience General Manager and former All Black Ian Jones MNZM adds: “Legacy, leadership, and belonging are at the core of the All Blacks’ global success. The stories of discipline and teamwork offer powerful insights that resonate far beyond the rugby field.”

AIME visitors who explore the experience can enter the draw to win a trip for two to Auckland with flights sponsored by Air New Zealand.

Next to the activation on the show floor, Tourism New Zealand’s 100% Pure New Zealand stand will feature 41 business events partners – New Zealand’s largest ever contingent at AIME.

Ryan adds: “With the New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC) opening, and new flights making New Zealand even more accessible from Australia, it’s a great opportunity to showcase New Zealand's excellent events offering.”

Join the team for kōrero and kai (a chat and a snack) to discuss the support, including funding, available to deliver conferences or incentives in New Zealand. There will be nibbles and wine on stand from 2pm including Much Moore ice cream, plus Air New Zealand is bringing a variety of in-flight New Zealand snacks.

Meet with Auckland Convention Bureau, New Zealand International Convention Centre, Auckland Conventions, Venues & Events, RotoruaNZ, Hamilton & Waikato Tourism, Destination Queenstown & Lake Wānaka Tourism, ChristchurchNZ Business Events, Venues Ōtautahi, Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre, Business Events Wellington, Tākina Events, and Venues Wellington.

Discover the unique event experiences available at Shotover Jet and Dart River Adventures, Explore Group, Auckland War Memorial Museum, Hobbiton Movie Set, AJ Hackett Bungy NZ, Oxbow Adventure Co, KJet Queenstown, and the All Blacks Experience.

New Zealand accommodation providers Sudima Hotels, Cordis Auckland, Pullman Auckland Hotel and Apartments, IHG Hotels & Resorts, EVT Hotels & Resorts, Rosewood Hotels, Millennium Hotels & Resorts NZ, and Millbrook Resort will also be on stand.

DMCs and suppliers attending include Attend New Zealand, Time Unlimited, Team Up Events New Zealand, The Production Agency, Exhibition Hire Services New Zealand, NW Group, Urban Gourmet, Delegates Discover New Zealand, RealNZ, TomTom Productions, ROAM, and NZ Bespoke.

Representatives from flagship airline Air New Zealand and national industry association Business Events Industry Aotearoa will also be on stand.

Published by Meeting Media Company, the publisher of Headquarters Magazine (HQ) – a leading international publication based in Brussels, serving the global MICE industry and association community.

Conventa, the most recognisable regional MICE brand in Central and Southeast Europe, is bringing its first Try Before You Buy Experience of 2026 to Belgrade. With 18 years of experience connecting leading event industry suppliers with key organisers from across Europe and beyond, Conventa has firmly established itself as the region’s premier B2B platform for the meetings and events industry.

Held annually at the beginning of the year, Conventa has become a key meeting point for showcasing emerging trends, facilitating strategic networking and generating tangible business opportunities. Beyond its flagship event, Conventa extends its impact throughout the year by offering selected destinations the opportunity to host carefully curated groups of hosted buyers through its exclusive Try Before You Buy Experience format, designed to allow planners to truly experience a destination before making decisions.

The first Try Before You Buy Experience of 2026 will take place in Belgrade, a city rapidly emerging as one of the region’s most exciting MICE destinations. The event will be held from 11 to 14 March 2026 at Ložionica, a brand-new venue located at the heart of Belgrade’s ongoing urban transformation.

Over four days, participants will be immersed in a programme that combines destination discovery, business meetings and high-value networking. The experience will include a dedicated day focused on exploring the city and its surroundings, alongside a day of pre-scheduled one-to-one meetings with leading local suppliers.

A strong social programme will complement the business agenda, creating opportunities for meaningful connections in an inspiring and relaxed boutique-event atmosphere. Hosted buyers will benefit from VIP status, with full travel arrangements included, within an experience that seamlessly blends business, education and celebration.

Belgrade stands out for its singular identity, where East meets West and heritage intersects with innovation. The city is undergoing a significant transformation, driven in part by the upcoming EXPO 2027, which is set to be a global game-changer for the destination. Rich cultural experiences, vibrant river life and a dynamic culinary scene are matched by high-quality venues, conference facilities and hotels, all underpinned by a reputation for genuine hospitality.

The hosted buyer programme is open to meeting planners representing event agencies, associations or corporate buyers who are responsible for planning, organising, recommending or making financial decisions for events held outside their home country. Participation is limited to 25 hosted buyers, ensuring a highly focused and personalised environment. Applications are open until 5 February 2026, and registration is free of charge.

Published by Meeting Media Company, the publisher of Headquarters Magazine (HQ) – a leading international publication based in Brussels, serving the global MICE industry and association community.

Europe Congress is opening their 2026 event season with MCE Central & Eastern Europe in Sofia, Bulgaria from 8–10 February 2026. Specifically tailored to MICE service providers in Central & Eastern Europe, this highly focused B2B forum facilitates meetings with high-quality buyers with upcoming business in the region.

Held at the Grand Hotel Millennium Sofia, a luxury 5-star hotel in the city center boasting 30-storey views and a world-class spa, MCE Central & Eastern Europe will also be a chance to showcase what the city of Sofia has to offer the MICE industry. Four city tours, organised by event partner Visit Sofia, will take participants through the streets on a Sofia City Walking Tour, Graffiti and Street Art Tour, Ancient Sofia Tour, and a Communist History Walking Tour. 

“Hosting Europe Congress 2026 at Grand Hotel Millennium Sofia is more than an honor — it’s a defining moment for all of us in the meetings and events industry in the Bulgarian capital,” said Adriana Angelova, Cluster Director of Business Development at Grand Hotel Millennium Sofia. “Our city is ready to tell its story of culture, innovation, and hospitality. At the heart of it stands Grand Hotel Millennium Sofia, offering panoramic views, versatile spaces, and experiences that go beyond the ordinary.”

Over the course of 2.5 days, participants will engage in pre-scheduled, match-made meetings of their choice to kickstart collaborations with potential business partners. Bringing together 140+ selected participants, MCE Central & Eastern Europe is a hub for the MICE industry in the CEE region. Networking lunches and intentional coffee breaks provide additional time to network outside of the meeting room.

“We are honoured to welcome the MCE Central & Eastern Europe 2026 forum to Sofia, a key moment for our city to further establish itself as a dynamic and forward-looking MICE destination,” said Anton Penev, Director of Visit Sofia (Sofia Tourism Administration). “We look forward to demonstrating Sofia’s rich cultural heritage, vibrant business ecosystem and warm hospitality to all participants.”

An opening dinner at the Grand Hotel Millennium Sofia will begin the event, encouraging participants to network and meet new potential business partners in a relaxed, elegant space. The second dinner, hosted at the iconic Sofia Balkan Palace, will be a festive night of entertainment and dancing in an opulent venue, and one of Sofia’s architectural gems.

Limited spots are still available for event planners and MICE service providers interested in joining this exclusive event. Europe Congress will be hosting five more events in 2026 in Budapest, Copenhagen, Düsseldorf, Prague, and Valencia.

For more information or to register, visit the website 
 

Published by Meeting Media Company, the publisher of Headquarters Magazine (HQ) – a leading international publication based in Brussels, serving the global MICE industry and association community.

The Meetings Show is on the hunt for the UK’s most exciting emerging event professionals with the return of Tomorrow’s Talent 2026, the programme that shines the spotlight on the industry’s future leaders. 

Now in its eighth year, and delivered in partnership with M&IT, Tomorrow’s Talent is designed to celebrate and champion the rising stars working in the UK’s meetings, incentives and events sector. The initiative provides an invaluable platform for up-and-coming professionals to gain exposure, build meaningful connections, and take their careers to the next level.

Each of the 10 winners will receive a year of exclusive opportunities, including VIP access to The Meetings Show 2026, invitations to leading industry events such as the M&IT Awards, and mentorship and networking with senior leaders. Winners will also be featured across The Meetings Show and M&IT channels, raising their profile and influence within the sector.

They will have the chance to design and facilitate a future talent-themed education session at The Meetings Show, contributing to a panel celebrating the next generation of industry leaders.

All winners will also be offered a complimentary four-hour ‘Confidence in Communicating’ training programme with The Attendee Experience Company (atex), covering presentation skills, intros and outros, handling challenging situations, and body language tips. Completion of the training provides the opportunity for the winners to host an education stage as an emcee at The Meetings Show 2026.

Samme Allen, Knowledge Director at The Meetings Show, said: “Tomorrow’s Talent was one of my standout highlights of the 2025 show. Offering what is essentially a life skill through our masterclass made a genuine difference to this year’s cohort. We saw them grow in confidence, capability and presence, and what made it even more rewarding was how much they gave back, from curating a brilliant session to sharing thoughtful feedback that helped shape the programme. It was a wonderful experience to witness, and I’m excited to see the impact our 2026 winners will make.”

Tomorrow’s Talent is open to UK-based event planners and buyers who are aged 30 or under, or who have up to three years’ experience in the meetings and events industry.

Applicants can nominate themselves or be nominated by a colleague, by submitting either a short video (up to two minutes) or a written nomination (up to 500 words) explaining why they, or their nominee, deserve to be recognised. Entries should highlight achievements, challenges overcome, and the individual’s potential to shape the future of the industry.

A panel of six respected industry leaders will once again select the 10 most promising applicants:

• Paul Harvey, editor, M&IT
• Leigh Cowlishaw, managing partner, Black Box Partnerships
• Patrick Delaney, managing partner, SoolNua
• Priya Narain, co-founder, Event First Steps
• Gracia Kabongo, senior associate, stakeholder engagement and events lead, Ofwat, and Tomorrow’s Talent winner 2019
• Hannah Elston, marketing and communications manager, Event Leaders Exchange (ELX), and Tomorrow’s Talent winner 2025 and newly appointed judge 

Jack Marczewski, portfolio event director, Northstar Travel Group, said: “Tomorrow’s Talent continues to be one of the highlights of The Meetings Show each year. The programme is all about recognising and empowering the incredible professionals who are shaping the future of our industry. We’ve already seen so many of our past winners go on to achieve amazing things, and we can’t wait to uncover the next 10 names to join this inspiring community.”

Iulia Zorzoana, Events Coordinator at Step, and last year’s Tomorrow’s Talent winner commented: “Being a Tomorrow’s Talent winner came with so many valuable opportunities. One of the biggest highlights for me was receiving a complimentary place and completing The Sustainable Events Course, produced by The Meetings Show and isla. It gave me a huge amount of knowledge and made me much more mindful and responsible when it comes to sustainability in events. It also provided me with the tools to start introducing sustainability practices within my current organisation, which I’m really proud of.

“Most importantly, being a Tomorrow’s Talent winner feels like a real badge of honour, a sign that the judges recognised my hard work and passion for the industry. It’s something I’ll be proud of for the rest of my career, and I’m confident that winning this award will have a lasting, positive impact on my growth and future opportunities."

Applications for Tomorrow’s Talent 2026 are open now and will close on 23 January 2026. To nominate yourself or a colleague, please apply here. The Meetings Show takes place 24-25 June 2026 at Excel London and is co-located with Business Travel Show Europe and Travel Tech Show.
 

Published by Meeting Media Company, the publisher of Headquarters Magazine (HQ) – a leading international publication based in Brussels, serving the global MICE industry and association community.

The Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event (AIME) has revealed the full agenda for its expanded 2026 Knowledge Monday program.

Opening AIME 2026 at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) on Monday 9 February, the program is built around this year’s theme, Expertise Matters! , highlighting the credibility, clarity and strategic influence that business events professionals bring to a rapidly changing global landscape.

Curated by AIME in collaboration with BEAMexperience Founder El Kwang and guided by an Advisory Committee of respected industry leaders from across Asia Pacific, Knowledge Monday will feature high-impact keynote presentations and an extensive series of breakout sessions designed to sharpen skills, elevate strategic thinking and strengthen industry capability.

Attendees can select from 22 breakout sessions across two 60-minute streams, each designed to deepen expertise across five core content categories: Business Strategy & Leadership; Event Management & Experience Design; Technology, AI & Data; Humanity, Talent & Skills Development ; and Sustainability & Legacy.

Topics span the full spectrum of contemporary industry priorities, such as navigating AI-enhanced environments, designing for authentic human engagement, elevating leadership effectiveness, creating legacy-driven event strategies, mastering chaos with confidence, and transforming creativity into measurable commercial outcomes.

Across formats including workshops, panels and presentations, more than 30 industry experts and specialists will lead the sessions. Speakers include Anna Glynn, Dr Danny Davis, Jess Turnbull, George Hawwa, Ian Jones, Andy Sharpe, Winitha Bonney OAM, Stephanie Tranquille, Dave Chauhan and Anna Patterson, and content partners including SITE ANZ, PCMA APAC, AIPC, AuSAE, EarthCheck with ICCA APAC and IAPCO.

Before the breakout sessions begin, delegates will be guided by three standout keynote speakers who set the tone for the day’s exploration into the art and science of expertise:

• Dan Haesler, Performance and Leadership Coach (presented by Saxton Group), will explore how mindset and environment shape authentic engagement and professional impact.
   
• Milo Wilkinson, Behavioural Scientist and Futurist (presented by ICMI Speakers Bureau), will uncover the neuroscience behind decision-making, attention and trust, decoding how subconscious drivers influence strategic event design.
   
• Kristina Karlsson, Founder of kikki.K and Dream Life, will share a powerful and personal account of resilience, reinvention and lived expertise, offering practical tools for purpose-driven leadership.

AIME Event Director Silke Calder says Knowledge Monday continues to grow in scale and significance, setting a powerful educational foundation for the three days of AIME.

“We are thrilled to welcome an extraordinary group of keynote presenters and breakout speakers who bring deep expertise, fresh ideas and real-world experience to the program,” Calder says. “Their collective insights will challenge, uplift and equip our community with practical tools to lead with confidence and clarity in the year ahead.”

Calder says the thoughtful and diverse program reflects extensive collaboration across the advisory committee and BEAMexperience.

“Congratulations to El Kwang and the Content Advisory committee, who have curated an inspiring and highly relevant lineup that encourages delegates to think boldly, act with purpose and harness the power of their expertise.”

Knowledge and ideas will continue to flow across the show floor on 10 and 11 February, with the Ideas Academy presented by Spice returning as a dynamic space for fast, thought-provoking discussions throughout the event.

The AIME 2026 Knowledge Monday program brings together AIME Hosted Buyers and Exhibitors, while Visitor Buyers can upgrade their tickets to attend.

AIME 2026 will run 9-11 February 2026 at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC).

​Returning for its biggest edition yet delivered by Calder and her team, the event will feature over 4,500 attendees including 700 exhibitors, 700 hosted buyers and more than 20,000 pre-scheduled appointments.
 

Published by Meeting Media Company, the publisher of Headquarters Magazine (HQ) – a leading international publication based in Brussels, serving the global MICE industry and association community.

The Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event (AIME) is celebrating dual honours after being named Best Event in 2025 and Best Trade Show in 2025 at the Australian Business Events Association Awards last night.

The awards cap off a year of growth, innovation and influence for AIME, as the team prepares for a record-breaking event in 2026.

AIME connects international and local buyers with world-class exhibitors from Asia Pacific and around the world. Next year’s three-day event will be held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC), 9-11 February 2026.

AIME Event Director Silke Calder says the awards recognise the collective effort that drives AIME forward: “To be recognised as Best Event of the Year is a remarkable honour for AIME. It reflects the strength of our industry and the collaboration that underpins everything we do,” she says.

“I want to thank our partners and participants for their ongoing support, and our exceptional team whose passion is the key to this success. This award motivates us to keep raising the bar.”

The Australian business events community gathered in Melbourne on Thursday 4 December for the Australian Business Events Awards 2025, celebrating the partnerships, achievements and industry leadership driving impact across the sector.
 

Hosted during the ABEA Conference at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, the event recognised outstanding work across exhibitions, conferences, incentives, venues, teams, innovation and sustainability, highlighting the breadth and strength of Australia’s business events industry.

AIME 2026 will be the biggest event yet delivered by Event Director Silke Calder and her team from Talk2 Media and Events, which manages the show on behalf of Melbourne Convention Bureau (MCB).

Talk2 Media & Events CEO Matt Pearce says he is delighted AIME's role in the business events industry has been recognised by the ABEA. 

"AIME has always been driven by the industry it serves, and its success comes from that shared ownership. The event has become a place where ideas take shape and new connections fuel professional growth. It is an honour to have that work acknowledged.”

AIME 2026 will feature over 4,500 attendees including 700 exhibitors, 700 hosted buyers and more than 20,000 pre-scheduled appointments.

Powered by Meeting Media Company, publisher of Headquarters Magazine (HQ) – a leading international publication based in Brussels, serving the global MICE industry and association community.

Hosted buyer applications are now open for MEETINGS 2026 at the New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC) in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland.

New Zealand's largest and longest running annual business events industry tradeshow will be held for the first time at the NZICC on 17 and 18 June 2026.

MEETINGS is run by Business Events Industry Aotearoa's (BEIA) and its hosted buyer programme is open to key decision makers and organisers of business events, including conferences, tradeshows and travel incentives from Australia and New Zealand.

BEIA Chief Executive, Lisa Hopkins says business events professionals from across the Tasman and around the world are eager to be part of MEETINGS 2026 at the NZICC, and hosted buyer applications are opening earlier this year to reflect this interest. “We can't wait to debut the NZICC and Auckland city's new infrastructure to the who's who of the business events industry and show them first-hand the dynamic changes in the heart of New Zealand's largest city,” she says.

“They include an extensive upgrade programme for Auckland Airport, one of the largest infrastructure investments in the country, plus the new City Rail Link project, and 18,000 hotel rooms in the region.”

Hosted Buyers receive complimentary travel, accommodation, invitations to premium networking events, including the MEETINGS' official Opening and Celebration, and catering throughout the tradeshow across three days in the multi-functional spaces at the NZICC.

Fully-hosted buyers can book a curated selection of 32 appointments over two days from a choice of over 250 exhibiting organisations and 18 different regions. For New Zealand business event organisers, both one and two-day hosted buyer options are available. “This year's appointment schedule gives hosted buyers flexibility to expand their availability to ensure a greater chance of meeting preferred exhibitors.

“Across one show floor and two days we have the best suppliers in the business events industry in New Zealand, including regional bureaux, hotels, venues, event management companies, activity and other creative and innovative service providers,” Hopkins says.

Hosted buyers also have the chance to join Auckland and regional familiarisation programmes, including a one-day famil of the host city with Auckland Convention Bureau on Tuesday 16 June. Access to the latest information at the Tourism New Zealand Destination and Knowledge Hub, and the Celebrity Speakers Showcase will be drawcards for hosted buyers too.

Conference organisers visiting the 100% Pure New Zealand stand at the PCOA25 conference in Christchurch this December can apply to be fully hosted to MEETINGS next year.

Powered by Meeting Media Company, publisher of Headquarters Magazine (HQ) – a leading international publication based in Brussels, serving the global MICE industry and association community.

IBTM World, the leading international trade show for the meetings and events industry, is preparing to return to Fira de Barcelona from 18–20 November 2025 with one of its most dynamic editions to date.

Building on the momentum of its successful 2024 show, this year’s event will combine record-breaking international exhibitor participation, groundbreaking technological innovation, and a future-focused conference programme that reflects the evolving expectations of the global business events community.

A Surge of New Global Destinations and Exhibitors

The 2025 show floor will welcome a wave of new international destinations, including the Cayman Islands, West Hollywood, and Fiera Milano, alongside debut appearances from Sarajevo and Sofia. After several years’ absence, Kazakhstan’s capital Astana will also return, as do VisitScotland and Buenos Aires. Abercrombie & Kent DMC joins the line-up for the first time, expanding the show’s global DMC representation.

Africa will present its strongest IBTM World showcase in more than a decade, with South Africa, Morocco, Egypt and Rwanda all returning with larger stands. They will be joined by new and returning partners from across the continent, including Rainbow Tourism Group (Zimbabwe), Business Class (Morocco), the Uganda Convention Bureau with 10 partners, and the Tunisia Convention Bureau—participating for the first time in over ten years.

Cruise brands will strengthen their presence too, with Norwegian Cruise Line, City Cruises and Century Cruises making their debut.

The expanded Hotel Pavilion will once again serve as a dedicated platform for both international chains and boutique hotels, with newcomers such as Wyndham Hotels, Seibu Prince Hotels & Resorts, The Kimberly Hotel and Impulsive Group joining the offer.

Innovation at the Heart of the 2025 Edition

Reflecting the industry’s accelerating digital transformation, IBTM World 2025 will welcome a significantly expanded Event Tech & Services area, featuring exhibitors such as Cvent, Newhotel Software and vFairs. MESA (Meetings & Events Support Association) also returns with a larger stand and an expanded group of suppliers.

This focus on innovation will come to life on the Future Stage, where the world’s most advanced humanoid robot, Ameca, will make her IBTM World debut. Designed by Engineered Arts and powered by the WAIYS AI platform, Ameca will join industry thought leader Julius Solaris for a live session exploring the future of human–AI interaction and the provocative question: “Is AI ready to take over events?”

People. Power. Potential. — A Conference Programme for a New Era

More than 12,000 event professionals are expected to attend the 2025 edition, centred around the theme People. Power. Potential. Keynote speakers include renowned behavioural science expert Nathalie Nahai, influential author and experience economy pioneer B. Joseph Pine II, and high-performance strategist David Osgathorp.

The conference programme will span Event Tech & Innovation, Insights & Trends, Experience Design and Engagement, Sustainable Impact, Purpose and Wellbeing, Brand and Marketing, and Next-Gen Talent.

To support emerging innovators, IBTM World has launched IBTM Ignite, giving over 80 start-ups the opportunity to pitch their solutions to industry leaders and investors across sectors including sustainability, event tech and inclusive talent sourcing.

Returning for its second year, the Forum for Advocacy will unite global policymakers and senior leaders to champion the economic and societal impact of business events. Meanwhile, Exceptional Experiences brings together leading companies such as WeTransfer, Canva, Shutterstock, Amazon and UTA to showcase transformative tools for event design and engagement.

Unmatched Global Reach and Business Opportunities

This year’s edition will welcome nearly 2,479 exhibitors from more than 140 countries, with pre-booked meetings already surpassing 78,000, reinforcing IBTM World’s position as the most efficient place to generate a year’s worth of business connections in just three days.

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.”

Powered by Meeting Media Company, publisher of Headquarters Magazine (HQ) – a leading international publication based in Brussels, serving the global MICE industry and association community.

IBTM World, the leading international trade show for the meetings and events industry, has announced a further wave of exciting new international exhibitors for this year’s event, which is due to take place at Fira de Barcelona from November 18 to 20. Building on momentum from its successful 2024 edition, the latest exhibitors reinforce IBTM World’s position as the must-attend event for the global business events community.

A world of new destinations

Newcomers joining the IBTM World show floor for the first time include West Hollywood, the Cayman Islands and Fiera Milano, as well as European capital cities, Sarajevo and Sofia. Meanwhile, Astana, capital of Kazakhstan, returns after several years absence, alongside VisitScotland and Buenos Aires, both rejoining the show’s global line-up. Abercrombie & Kent DMC is also making its debut, further expanding the international DMC representation at the event.
 

Africa’s largest showcase in over a decade

This year’s edition will feature the strongest African presence at IBTM World in over 10 years, with South Africa, Morocco, Egypt, and Rwanda all returning with expanded stands. They will be joined by Rainbow Tourism Group from Zimbabwe, and a host of new and returning partners from across the continent. Among them are Business Class, a new Moroccan DMC; the Uganda Convention Bureau with 10 partners, returning after a year’s break; and the Tunisia Convention Bureau, also joined by 10 partners, marking the country’s first participation in more than a decade.
 

Cruise sector to make waves

The 2025 show will also welcome several cruise line exhibitors for the first time, including Norwegian Cruise Line, City Cruises (offering unforgettable events on the River Thames), and Century Cruises, offering river and coastal experiences across China, Japan and Vietnam.
 

Increased hotel representation 

After a successful launch in 2024, IBTM World’s Hotel Pavilion will see an expanded presence from both international chains and boutique groups this year. Wyndham Hotels, Seibu Prince Hotels & Resorts, The Kimberly Hotel, and Impulsive Group will all make their debut appearances, alongside returning independents such as The Muse New York, Regnum Carya, The Ritz-Carlton Tenerife, Abama, and Viceroy at Ombria Algarve.
 

Innovation in event services

In the event technology and services sector, Newhotel Software, vFairs, and Cvent join the exhibitor line-up for the first time, underscoring the industry’s ongoing digital evolution. MESA (Meetings & Events Support Association) will also return with a significantly expanded stand, more than doubling the number of participating suppliers compared to last year.

Claudia Hall, IBTM World Exhibition Director, said: “We’re thrilled to see the continued growth and diversification of our exhibitor community. The addition of new destinations, hotel brands, and event service providers - alongside the largest African presence in more than a decade - highlights the strength and global reach of our industry. IBTM World 2025 is shaping up to be one of our most dynamic editions yet, and we look forward to bringing the world together once again in Barcelona.”
 

For more information about IBTM World 2025, please visit the website 
 

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(L-R Mike Seaman, Group CEO at Raccoon Media Group, Doug Emslie, Chairman Raccoon Media Group, Stefan Rummel, Co-CEO at Messe Munchen and Harald Kirchschlager, Executive Director Corporate Strategy & Development at Messe München)

A new era is dawning for ISPO - the world’s most influential trade event for the sporting goods, outdoor and winter sports industries. The next chapter will bring a renewed sense of purpose: to unite the global sports and outdoor industries, inspire meaningful connections and reignite the passion that makes this community extraordinary.

Led by Raccoon Media Group, in partnership with Messe München, the event will combine insight, innovation and heart to set a new standard for the global trade fair.

From 2026, ISPO will enter a new chapter with a refined strategic concept, taking place on an earlier dateline, 3–5 November, at the RAI, Amsterdam. The new concept addresses the cost base to make attendance more affordable, aligns the event with global buying cycles, and ensures accessibility for a broader international audience.

Situated in a globally connected hub and home to many leading brand headquarters, Amsterdam also strengthens ties with the North American market, supporting renewed engagement from US-based associations and brands - reaffirming ISPO’s position as the global gathering place for the sports and outdoor community.

To deliver this transformation, the partners have announced a €3 million investment programme designed to strengthen both the commercial and cultural foundations of the event:

• €1 million into advocacy, supporting non-profit organisations that protect the places we play, increase participation and safeguard the grassroots of sport
• €1 million into a global hosted buyer programme, bringing globally significant retailers and brands into the room to ensure strong ROI for exhibitors and driving meaningful international business connections for manufacturers and ingredients, brands and retailers, and commerce and experience markets
• €1 million into a world-class content programme, beginning with the new ISPO Leaders’ Summit - an exclusive C-suite forum uniting senior executives, policymakers and changemakers from across the ecosystem. The Summit will be shaped around three shared pillars that unite the sporting goods, outdoor and winter sports industries; Participation, Sustainability and Fair Trade.

Confirmed Summit attendees already Jimmy Chin (Filmmaker and Mountaineer), Hap Klopp (Founder, The North Face), Professor Laura McAllister (Vice President of UEFA), Andy Rubin (Deputy Chair, Pentland Group), John Lacy (CEO, Burton) and Pia Heidenmark Cook (Former Group Chief Sustainability Officer Ingka/IKEA).

The new joint venture combines the heart, agility and entrepreneurial spirit of Raccoon Media Group with the competence, scale, and global reach of Messe München. Together, they will deliver a reimagined ISPO that blends data-driven decision-making with community-driven purpose - ensuring the event once again serves as the beating heart of the industry it represents.

“We are incredibly proud to take ISPO into its next chapter,” said Mike Seaman, Group CEO of Raccoon Media Group. “By combining ISPO’s heritage with our community-driven approach, we are creating an event that not only reflects the future of sport and the outdoors, but actively shapes it. For too long, ISPO has been led by the head and lost some of its heart. We’re rebalancing that — making smart, strategic choices while restoring the passion, purpose and community that made it great. The industry needs a platform that unites voices, protects the places we play, and inspires the next generation of brands, leaders and businesses. That’s exactly what we intend to deliver.”

“With the strategic realignment of ISPO, we are purposefully and effectively evolving our long-established flagship trade fair. There is a strong demand for a platform that fosters innovation, exchange, and business opportunities. By joining forces with Raccoon Media Group, we are strengthening this vision — ensuring that this transformation continues to be guided by the needs of our customers and the entire sports and outdoor industry”, says Harald Kirchschlager, Executive Director Corporate Strategy & Development.

The 2025 event will mark a dignified and memorable ISPO show in Munich under Messe München’s stewardship. This year’s edition will define the first strategic cornerstones for the future – a milestone event that provides the ideal launchpad for the next chapter. Following this remarkable event, the leadership team of the newly established joint venture company will take the helm post-2025. For the first time, onsite rebooking for ISPO 2026 will be available, providing exhibitors with a seamless transition into the new era.

Powered by Meeting Media Company, publisher of Headquarters Magazine (HQ) – a leading international publication based in Brussels, serving the global MICE industry and association community.

Exhibitor applications have opened for New Zealand's leading business events industry showcase, MEETINGS at the New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC) from 16 to 18 June 2026.

The NZICC will be showcasing its multi-functional capabilities when it hosts MEETINGS 2026 in Auckland. Across three days, NZICC will transform its spaces to encompass the official opening, two-day expo, and a finale celebration extravaganza.

Run by Business Events Industry Aotearoa (BEIA), the most important event on New Zealand's business events calendar will be a must-attend for exhibitors looking to meet qualified hosted buyers, grow brand visibility, and make invaluable face-to-face connections.

BEIA Chief Executive, Lisa Hopkins says having a presence at MEETINGS 2026 at the brand new NZICC for the first time is a huge opportunity for exhibitors.

“To secure floor space at this much-anticipated show, we are encouraging exhibitors from across New Zealand to apply early. More than 1,200 people attended this year's MEETINGS with over 6,000 pre-scheduled appointments on a record 250 stands representing 18 regions of New Zealand.

“Building on last year's success, 2026 is shaping up to break new ground, with a larger footprint, more buyers coming from more countries, and in excess of 1,500 attendees.

“We are excited to be partnering with Auckland Convention Bureau and the wider business events community to ensure MEETINGS 2026 is the place to grow and develop new business, as well as to nurture existing relationships for future success,” Hopkins says.

Again this year, first-time exhibitors or those returning after a five-year break can secure a cost-effective presence at MEETINGS 2026 with a limited number of entry-level spaces available. There are also a limited number of shared-stand opportunities for two organisations to share a space and an appointment stream.

Earlybird rates are available for all exhibitors until 12 December 2025.

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The agenda for IBTM World’s Forum for Advocacy, taking place on the eve of IBTM World in Barcelona has been unveiled, with advancing the global event economy as the central theme.

Presented in partnership with The Business of Events, the Forum will gather a group of senior leaders, policymakers and influencers to the Hotel Miramar Barcelona on Monday 17th November to debate the most pressing questions facing the industry. There will be representatives from Canada, Iceland, Japan, New York, United Kingdom, Glasgow, Ireland and Estonia at this year’s event.

Themes on the agenda include how to effectively work together to grow the global event economy, what policies could encourage policymakers to help unlock the potential of the industry, and finally, how to successfully advocate for the value of the events sector among politicians and policymakers. 

This year’s event builds on the success of the inaugural Forum for Advocacy which brought together 80 senior leaders and policymakers from around the world in 2024.The outcomes of the Forum’s discussions will be presented on the Main Stage at IBTM World on Tuesday at 1.20pm. 

Opening the forum will be IBTM World’s Exhibition Director, Claudia Hall. Claudia comments: “The Forum for Advocacy is more than an event - it’s a rallying call. It sits at the heart of IBTM World, ushering in each edition with a bold conversation about elevating the events sector’s impact on society and economies alike. At IBTM, our theme is People. Power. Potential. - and the Forum embodies that belief fully.

It is our shared platform to ignite possibilities, amplify voices, and chart a stronger, more empowered future for our industry. I am honoured to be part of this moment, to listen, to learn, and to bring the Forum’s insights forward into IBTM World itself.”

The IBTM World Forum for Advocacy is supported by seven leading organisations including ICCA, PCMA, IAPCO, Events Industry Council, Joint Meetings Industry Council, City DNA and SANCBE.

Sherrif Karamat CAE, President and CEO, ​​​​PCMA, comments: “Remember this date - Monday 17th November 2025.  It is the second edition of the IBTM Forum for Advocacy in partnership with The Business of Events. Being a part of this Forum is much more than gaining valuable insights on the major issues of the day.  It is where industry, government and community leaders intersect to influence policy makers on what is impacting our industry and why it should matter to them.”  

Martin Boyle, CEO, IAPCO, says: “Whilst it remains a key strategic pillar of IAPCO, our advocacy initiatives focus primarily on the value that an accredited PCO brings to clients and the value that IAPCO plays in raising the professionalism of our industry. It is of vital importance that leaders from across the many global meetings industry associations and organisations have appropriate opportunities to share views, objectives and data so that, together, we can advocate the value of our diverse industry with a clear, unified message. The IBTM World Forum for Advocacy is a platform to support this.”

Dr Senthil Gopinath, CEO, ICCA, adds: “IBTM isn’t just another industry gathering, but a strategic moment for us to help shape policy, amplify the value of business events, and drive global change. 

“I'm looking forward to helping to ensure that governments understand and support the full value chain of business events, not just venues, but associations, destinations, and suppliers. I'm dedicated to driving advocacy in business development and technology so our industry can thrive. And finally, I'm excited to join with fellow leaders to set a united agenda: where policy, investment, and strategic action follow the vision we share."

Following the Forum, guests will have an opportunity to continue informal talks at the Meetings Leadership Network Reception.

Published by Meeting Media Company, the publisher of Headquarters Magazine (HQ) – a leading international publication based in Brussels, serving the global MICE industry and association community.

The Penang International Travel Exchange (PITE) 2025 returns for its 8th edition from 29 September to 1 October 2025 at the Setia SPICE Convention Centre, once again positioning Penang at the forefront of global business events and travel trade.

Introduced in 2018 by the Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB), PITE has grown from a pioneering local initiative into a premier international platform that bridges cultures, fosters partnerships, and drives economic opportunities for Penang and beyond.

This year’s edition brings together 48 exhibitors and over 80 international buyers and media from Asia, the Middle East, and Europe, representing 13 countries and regions in total. Their presence not only highlights the global confidence in Penang as a thriving hub for tourism and business events but also underlines the strategic importance of PITE as a marketplace where ideas, collaborations, and future opportunities are forged.

For the first time in its history, PITE 2025 will feature exhibition booths, a significant milestone that provides exhibitors with greater exposure and enhanced opportunities to connect with buyers. These booths serve as a vibrant showcase of Penang’s diverse offerings while enabling exhibitors to engage in curated business-to-business matchmaking sessions through a dedicated programme designed to ensure impactful and lasting connections.

The three-day programme of PITE 2025 has been thoughtfully designed to strike a balance between commerce and culture. Over the first one and a half days, buyers and exhibitors will engage in structured B2B meetings aimed at sparking partnerships and unlocking new markets.
 

Ashwin Gunasekeran: "PWCC will Complement our Built Infrastructure Along with Setia SPICE"

The following one and a half days will immerse delegates in a carefully curated familiarisation tour around Penang, where they will experience first-hand the island’s rich cultural tapestry, culinary excellence, and world-class attractions. Alongside these core activities, networking events will create further opportunities for meaningful exchanges, fostering not just business deals but also enduring professional relationships.

Reflecting on the journey of PITE, Mr. Ashwin Gunasekeran, CEO of PCEB, shared, “From a homegrown launch in 2018 to this milestone 8th edition, PITE has flourished through vision, resilience, and collective effort. The introduction of exhibition booths this year demonstrates how far we have come and how PITE continues to evolve in response to the needs of the industry. More importantly, PITE generates significant value for Penang, not only by showcasing our strengths as a business events destination but also by creating tangible economic impact across tourism, hospitality, and cultural sectors.”

The significance of PITE 2025 lies not only in the scale of participation but also in the unique role it plays as a gateway to Penang. It is more than just a trade event; it is a celebration of connections, a platform for innovation, and a showcase of Penang’s ability to blend heritage and modernity seamlessly.

With its UNESCO World Heritage charm, vibrant street food culture, and cutting-edge infrastructure, Penang stands ready to welcome the world once again and reaffirm its position as one of Asia’s most compelling destinations for business and leisure. As the 8th edition unfolds, PITE 2025 promises to be a landmark event that deepens international collaboration, drives industry growth, and highlights the enduring appeal of Penang. With each edition, PITE continues to cement its reputation as a high-value, high-impact platform that elevates Penang on the global stage.

For more information, visit here

Published by Meeting Media Company, the publisher of Headquarters Magazine (HQ) – a leading international publication based in Brussels, serving the global MICE industry and association community.

The Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event (AIME) has today revealed the theme for the 2026 Knowledge Monday programme, along with the updated Advisory Committee that will help shape the event’s highly anticipated learning platform.

In 2026, the programme theme “Expertise Matters!” will shine a spotlight on the credibility, clarity and strategic importance of the business events industry. The theme champions professionals who bring deep expertise — recognising patterns before problems arise, navigating complexity with composure, and uniting people with purpose and precision.

Building on the success of 2025’s “We Matter!” theme, where the focus was on self-acknowledgement and self-leadership, “Expertise Matters!” continues the conversation by elevating the role of industry expertise in driving progress, creating impact, and transforming how people connect and grow.

Curated by BEAMexperience Founder El Kwang, Knowledge Monday will open AIME on 9 February 2026, featuring keynote speakers, thought-leaders, and industry innovators who will inspire and empower more than 1500 global event professionals. Kwang says the new theme is a natural evolution of the journey begun in 2025.

“The success of ‘We Matter!’ in 2025 laid the essential groundwork. With ‘Expertise Matters!’ we evolve the conversation, because in the age of AI, being deeply human has never been more relevant. What sets our industry apart is not just what we know, but how we express and apply that expertise,” he says.

Guiding the development of the topics and speaker line-up is the Knowledge Monday Advisory Committee, made up of eight leaders from across the Asia Pacific business events industry. The Committee works collaboratively to ensure the program sparks interest, stirs debate, and engages all areas of the sector.
 

El Kwan with Silke Calder

The 2026 Advisory Committee comprises:

• Ashleigh Cooper, Events Manager, Charter Hall
• Maggie Diasinos, Account Director, MCI Australia
• Max Jantasuwan, Founder & CEO, Events Travel Asia Group
• Ronald Lim, Business Events Strategist, Think Event by Think Tank Productions
• Sarah Markey-Hamm, CEO, ICMS
• Denise Sorrell, Director of Events, Australian Dental Industry Association
• Felicity Zadro, Founder & Managing Director, Zadro
• New for 2026: Anna Patterson, Founder & Chief Amazement Officer, Sight Agency

AIME Show Director Silke Calder says the theme underscores the vital role of expertise in shaping the industry’s future.

“At AIME, our mission is to provide a platform that reflects the credibility and confidence of our industry, bringing together the best minds, the most innovative ideas, and the leaders who are redefining what’s possible,” she says.

“With the guidance of El Kwang and BEAMexperience, and the dedication of our esteemed Advisory Committee, we are able to shape a Knowledge Monday programme that truly reflects the strength and insight of our industry. ‘Expertise Matters!’ highlights the knowledge and insight that drive meaningful outcomes for businesses and communities worldwide. Knowledge Monday in 2026 will empower our attendees to step forward as leaders, confident in the impact they create.”

The Knowledge Monday programme is attended by Hosted Buyers, Hosted Media and Exhibitors, while Visitor Buyers may purchase a ticket upgrade to attend.

AIME 2026 will take place at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, 9–11 February 2026. Returning with its biggest edition yet delivered by Calder and her team at Talk2 Media & Events, the show will span 11 bays and host more than 700 exhibitors, 700 hosted buyers, and over 20,000 pre-scheduled appointments.

The trade show floor, open on days two and three, is where business happens, featuring a dynamic program of pre-scheduled appointments, networking opportunities, and experiential showcases from across the global events sector.
 

For more information and hosted buyer applications, visit the website

Powered by Meeting Media Company, publisher of Headquarters Magazine (HQ) – a leading international publication based in Brussels, serving the global MICE industry and association community.

IBTM World has announced the launch of IBTM Ignite – a new initiative that connects start-ups with industry advisors and investors, and provides space for early ideas, creativity, and fresh thinking.

Over a hundred new start-ups representing sectors including event technology, sustainability, new event agency concepts, and inclusive talent sourcing businesses will take part in the programme. Each will have the opportunity to showcase their emerging ideas to an audience of around 30 experienced industry advisors and motivated investors during IBTM World in Barcelona.

IBTM Ignite will feature a mix of engaging formats. The Future Stage will host 30 lightning talks from emerging innovators, followed by investor feedback. The BEFuture Pavilion will offer a dedicated space on the show floor for 30 start-ups to showcase their products and services to investors. On day two, the Ignite Lounge will provide an informal setting for one-to-one investor meetings, with expert advice available on marketing, financial planning, fundraising, and sales.

IBTM Ignite will be run in partnership with BEFuture, a project dedicated to driving positive change in the Business Events sector across Europe. IBTM Ignite advisors include Eva Lopez Alvarez, PUNTO MICE; Lori Pugh, MPI (Meeting Professionals International); Max Fellows, allpoints; Sonia Serracarbassa, Catalunya Convention Bureau / BEFuture; Richard Morris, Active Media Events; and Julius Solaris, Boldpush.

Claudia Hall, IBTM World Exhibition Director, said: “The business events industry is entering a new era of transformation and innovation, and start-ups are leading this charge. It’s up to us as an industry to ensure they have the platform and the resources needed to develop their ideas, and to connect them with investors and advisors who can help them on their journeys.

“Our new IBTM Ignite programme does just this. It is a destination for serious business growth, providing a platform for under-represented voices and creating new opportunities and connections. We are thrilled to play our part in fuelling the future of business events and look forward to seeing what this year’s cohort will achieve.”

Sonia Serracarbassa of BEFuture and Director of Catalunya Convention Bureau, said: “At BEFuture, we work to future-proof the business events sector by advancing sustainability, inclusivity, resilience, and competitiveness through research, innovation, and cross-ecosystem collaboration. Our acceleration programme has supported 81 SMEs and start-ups that are at the forefront of this transformation. Partnering with IBTM Ignite further strengthens this effort, providing these initiatives with the visibility, mentorship, and strategic connections necessary to scale their impact and shape the future of business events.”

Published by Meeting Media Company, the publisher of Headquarters Magazine (HQ) – a leading international publication based in Brussels, serving the global MICE industry and association community.

The official launch of the China International MICE Exchange (CIMX) in Beijing marks a milestone for the global MICE industry. Backed by a new strategic partnership, CIMX will debut from November 3-5, 2026, as the key platform linking China’s dynamic market with international players. 

The China International MICE Exchange (CIMX) was officially launched on September 11 in Beijing, with its inaugural edition scheduled for November 3-5, 2026. The announcement was made at the MICE Meeting Point, organised by ITB China at the Hyatt Regency Beijing Wangjing, where industry leaders, buyers, and media from around the world came together. 

Preceding the launch, Zheng Fang, Deputy Director-General of Beijing Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism, and David Axiotis, Managing Director of Messe Berlin (China), signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to strengthen international collaboration and accelerate the development of China’s MICE sector. 

The MOU outlines long-term collaboration between the two partners, including: 

• advancing the launch of CIMX in Beijing;
• highlighting Beijing as “Guest City of Honor” to showcase its international profile;
• working jointly on global promotion and hosted buyer recruitment;
• and strengthening the integration of global MICE resources with the Chinese market. 

This partnership will support the high-quality growth of China’s MICE industry and raise its global influence. 

© Messe Berlin China

Official Launch of CIMX 2026 

On the evening of September 11, Messe Berlin (China) officially launched the CIMX at the Hyatt Regency Beijing Wangjing, officially kicking off preparations, while more than 120 honored guests joined peers from the industry to witness the creation of this new platform and celebrated together with the organiser. 

The inaugural CIMX will be held in Beijing from November 3–5, 2026, alongside the CIMX Conference. With its core focus on “Innovation, Connection, Business Opportunities”, CIMX will cover the full MICE value chain. It will bring together global suppliers, industry experts, and leading enterprises to foster international collaboration and business growth. With qualified hosted buyers, precisely matched one-to-one meetings, and tailored networking activities, CIMX will help participants unlock new business potential and build long-term partnerships.

• Global resources: Over 200 exhibitors are expected, including destinations, venues, hotel groups and resorts, airlines and cruise operators, travel and DMC services, PCOs, and event tech providers. 
• Buyers, visitors, and business matching: More than 350 qualified buyers from China and overseas, along with 5,000 trade visitors, will attend. Over 9,000 pre-scheduled and precisely matched one-to-one business meetings will facilitate effective deal-making.
• Conference and insights: The CIMX Conference will feature global and Chinese industry leaders sharing market insights, best practices, and innovations, covering areas such as revenue models, sustainability, and technology.
• Networking and social events: Various networking opportunities will provide a productive yet relaxed environment for building valuable long-term business ties. 

CIMX sets out to become the annual gathering point of China’s and the global MICE industry, driving deeper cooperation and sustainable development across the business events sector. 

David Axiotis, Managing Director of Messe Berlin (China), said: “The launch of CIMX marks the start of a new international MICE platform. Through CIMX, we aim to build more efficient and meaningful connections between China and the global MICE industry, fostering collaboration, innovation, and sustainable growth. Hosting CIMX in Beijing reflects both our local commitment and global vision. We look forward to welcoming industry leaders from around the world to Beijing in November 2026 for the inaugural CIMX, and to shaping the sector’s future together.” 

Guo Huaigang, Director General of the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism, said: “As China’s capital and a hub for politics, culture, and international exchange, Beijing offers unique strengths for high-end MICE development. With abundant resources, strong infrastructure, and a vast market, we are committed to fostering an increasingly international, professional, and competitive environment. This partnership with Messe Berlin (China) and the launch of CIMX provide Beijing with a new platform to connect globally and open new channels for two-way exchange. We welcome more international resources to China and Beijing through CIMX and look forward to working with global partners to promote openness, cooperation, and high-quality growth.” 

With the signing of the MOU and the official launch of CIMX, the MICE Meeting Point has become a launchpad for dialogue between China and the global MICE industry. Looking ahead, ITB China and Messe Berlin (China) will continue to work with partners worldwide to further integrate China’s MICE sector into global markets and open new opportunities for cooperation. 

Exhibitors of CIMX 2026 can now register HERE and benefit from a 15% discount on their booth package until October 31, 2025. 

Powered by Meeting Media Company, publisher of Headquarters Magazine (HQ) – a leading international publication based in Brussels, serving the global MICE industry and association community.

IBTM World has revealed the themes and speakers for its 2025 Association Leaders Forum, which gathers together senior association professionals to explore bold, practical solutions to today’s most pressing challenges.

Designed in partnership with ESAE (European Society of Association Executives), this year’s Association Leaders Forum examines the role of Association events in building strong communities, with a focus on the key role of strategic thinking to engage delegates and energise teams.

Taking place on day one of IBTM World, the forum will offer a full and interactive programme of provocative debates, real-world case studies, and expert insights on AI, sustainable destinations, event innovation, impact, and technology.

Speakers will include Sven Bossu, CEO, AIPC; Amy Hissrich, Vice-President, International Affairs ASAE; Angela Guillemet, Executive Director, INCON; and Stylianos Filopoulos, CEO, Association by Design.

The day’s sessions will be punctuated by networking sessions where attendees can make valuable new connections and meet with existing industry colleagues.

Claudia Hall, IBTM World Exhibition Director, said: “Our Association Leaders Forum has evolved since its inception in 2022 to become the go-to yearly meeting point for association professionals. With a packed programme of topical and engaging sessions designed in partnership with the prestigious ESAE, our forum is the platform for association leaders to exchange ideas, learn, and advance knowledge and best practice. It offers a crucial peer-to-peer setting that supports the sector’s advancement, and future prosperity.”

Liesbeth Switten, ESAE Vice-President, said: “We are delighted to be partnering with IBTM World on its Association Leaders Forum for the third year running. As a key date in the global events calendar, it is the ideal setting for Association professionals to come together to discuss the important topics shaping the future of the industry. We have an inspiring and thought-provoking programme planned for this year and we look forward to welcoming some of the leading voices in the Association sector.” 

The ESAE is the leading organisation in Europe for Association professionals. It facilitates the exchange of best practice among peers and ensures that current and future leaders understand Association business and strategy.

For more information on IBTM World, please visit the website

Published by Meeting Media Company, the publisher of Headquarters Magazine (HQ) – a leading international publication based in Brussels, serving the global MICE industry and association community.

AIME 2026 is already shaping up to be a standout event, with more than 80% of exhibition space sold or reserved and hosted buyer applications now officially open for Asia Pacific’s premier business events trade show.

Taking place at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) from 9–11 February 2026, AIME will return with an expanded footprint across 16,500 sq m to accommodate more than 700 exhibitors, 700 hosted buyers, and more than 20,000 pre-scheduled appointments — marking what will be the biggest edition yet delivered by Event Director Silke Calder and her team at Talk2 Media & Events.

Applications are now open for both international and domestic hosted buyers to take part in the AIME 2026 Hosted Buyer Programme — a three-day experience designed to spark commercial connections, uncover new destinations and suppliers, and deliver real business outcomes. Participants will benefit from a curated appointment schedule of high-value meetings, access to the Hosted Buyer Lounge, flexible free-flow meeting options, and immersive live activations across the trade show floor.

The AIME Hosted Buyer Programme is renowned for its industry-leading approach to business matching, offering buyers cutting-edge technology to connect with exhibitors that best meet their event needs — from leading destinations and venues to AV providers, boutique spaces, caterers, airlines, tour operators, and more.

Prior to AIME, hosted buyers will also take part in the Uncover Melbourne Experience on Sunday 8 February — an inspiring, experiential showcase led by the Melbourne Convention Bureau, designed to immerse guests in the city’s unique potential for creative and memorable business events. While optional for domestic buyers, the experience offers valuable insight into what makes Melbourne a standout destination for business events. Places in the programme are limited and early applications are advised.

AIME continues to set the benchmark in the region, connecting the global business events community with best-in-class suppliers through a curated programme of pre-scheduled meetings, high-impact networking, and innovative event experiences.

“AIME 2025 was an incredible success, and we’re confident 2026 will raise the bar even higher,” says Silke Calder. “The early demand from exhibitors highlights the essential role AIME plays in driving business outcomes across Asia Pacific.”

Managed by Talk2 Media & Events on behalf of the Melbourne Convention Bureau (MCB), AIME is the longest-running and most influential business events trade show in the region. AIME combines human connection with cutting-edge event tech that delivers measurable ROI for buyers and exhibitors alike.

Julia Swanson, CEO of the Melbourne Convention Bureau says: “We are incredibly proud of the ongoing success of AIME, which has become a key event for the global business events community. AIME brings people together from around the world to our amazing city of Melbourne, and as always we look forward to the new partnerships, connections and opportunities that will come out of the 2026 event.”

Held on days two and three, the AIME trade show floor is where the business happens, featuring a dynamic programme of pre-scheduled appointments (PSAs), networking opportunities, and experiential showcases from across the global events sector.

For more information and hosted buyer applications, visit the website

Published by Meeting Media Company, the publisher of Headquarters Magazine (HQ) – a leading international publication based in Brussels, serving the global MICE industry and association community.

Registration is now live for IBTM World 2025, which will take place from 18 - 20 November at Fira Gran Via in Barcelona. This year’s event introduces an enhanced experience for Visitor Buyers, designed to offer greater flexibility, improved meeting efficiency, and exclusive VIP benefits.

In response to attendee feedback, Visitor Buyers now have the autonomy to choose how many meetings they schedule, giving them complete control over their time at the show. The new self-scheduling system allows them to book meetings directly with exhibitors and view priority time slots, offering a more personalised and convenient way to connect with the people and products that matter most.

In addition to tailored meeting flexibility, Visitor Buyers will benefit from exclusive perks, including entry to The Lounge, which provides a quiet place to work, network with peers and have meetings, as well as daily lunch from an enhanced selection of food vendors in the IBTM Food Court. This is in addition to access to the show floor, the full three-day education programme and networking events that IBTM World is known for. A cost has been introduced to cover this change, with Visitor Buyer tickets priced at €399 (€499 if purchased after September 16th).

As per previous events, Hosted Buyers can access the full range of event experiences, including admission to the show floor, conference programme, networking and VIP extras (lounge access and daily lunch vouchers). Hosted Buyers will receive a personalised appointment diary featuring matchmade meetings and the opportunity to request meetings directly with exhibitors via a sophisticated matchmaking system. They also benefit from a contribution towards the cost of flights, airport transfers and a 4–5-star hotel stay.

Trade visitors will receive full access to over 2,350 exhibitors on the show floor, the conference programme and networking events. Trade visitors can attend free of charge if they register before 20th October, after which tickets will be €100.

Features at IBTM World 2025 include:

• Exceptional Experiences returning after a successful launch in 2024, Exceptional Experiences will showcase ground-breaking strategies to help in-house event professionals and marketeers create experiences that fuel business growth. Brands across a wide range of different industries have already been confirmed including TikTok, Canva, Grazia and PWC.
• Hotel Pavilion, also returning for its second year, the Hotel Pavilion is a dedicated space for independent and small group hotel businesses to showcase their offer in an environment that has a luxury hotel feel and amenities. Hotels in attendance include Obvio Hotels, Millennium Hotels & Resorts, Regnum Hotels and The Palm Experience Hotels.
• The Future Stage, designed for event planners, buyers, and strategists who want to stay ahead of the curve, this stage explores the trends, tools, and transformations shaping the events of tomorrow. The Tech and Innovation Sessions, hosted by Julius Solaris, will feature world-class speakers, disruptive technologies, and tangible solutions. 

IBTM World’s 2024 edition hosted over 73,000 pre-scheduled business meetings. Coming to do business with 2,350 exhibitors, the leading global trade show opened its doors to an incredible 22% more Hosted Buyers in 2024 than in 2023.

IBTM World is the leading global event for the business events and experiences industry. Designed by event planners, for event planners, IBTM World brings together over 12,000 exhibitors, buyers and visitors to do business, learn from inspirational speakers, and network with peers. Further details of exactly what to expect from this year’s event will be released in the coming weeks.

Please register for IBTM World 2025 via the following link
 

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