ASSOCIATION BUYERS JOIN THE CLUB IBTM WORLD 2016 – MORE OF WHAT YOU WANT FROM YOUR INDUSTRY EVENT

More benefits, more flexibility, more peer to peer networking and the opportunity to make even more personal connections, My Association | My Club is to return as part of this year’s Association programme for Hosted Buyers attending ibtm world 2016 with plenty of new initiatives.

As the leading annual event for the global meetings and events industry and the one attended by the biggest number of international Association buyers, ibtm world has upgraded the purpose of the Club to give the space and freedom for buyers to choose their own itinerary and industry experience at this year’s event ,which takes place in Barcelona from 29 November – 1 December.

Graeme Barnett, Event Director ibtm world explained the changes; “Our latest research among Association buyers tells us that having the flexibility to divide their time between appointments, education and networking is their preference. We asked for more feedback since the launch of the Club in 2014 and now it’s got a new look and feel to it – focused on peer to peer contact and networking. When every minute counts and has to be justified by our Buyers, this Club now gives them all of the opportunities, they just have to choose what is best for their schedule – it’s all about the buyer “.

My Association | My Club will offer a personalized approach with the choice of a fully hosted or semi hosted programme, with either complimentary travel and accommodation, or just the ability to make their own arrangements but take part in the pre-scheduled appointment system and every other aspect of the exhibition.

Every Association Buyer can participate in networking events, some of them personalized to their sector including the new Associations Connect (previously called ICCA Personal Connections) specifically for peer-to-peer engagement.

There will also be specific and general education sessions from the on-the-floor Knowledge theatre, individual onsite support and a simple registration process, an Association hub hotel, dedicated Hosted Buyer lounge areas with continual refreshments throughout the day and “huddles” – new for this year with interactive campfire education sessions to drop by.

Another important feature on the show floor supporting the work of Association buyers is the Technology, Services and Innovation Zones packed with new exhibitors showcasing the next generation of tech support for events. This area will also provide another peer to peer networking opportunity with tech suppliers.

Association planners can now apply for the programme and become members of My Association | My Club – free to all that qualify – at www.ibtmworld.com/associations