And with 76 conference talks, not to mention myriad networking events and so many stands to visit, it can be difficult to gauge what's what in terms of what to see. While the programme promises many tantalising talks, we've identified the ones worth making a bee-line for. Here's our round-up of our five must-sees for Tuesday - make sure to head back here shortly for the best of Wednesday and Thursday's offerings. C&IT will also be reporting directly from IBTM, so be sure to check for briefings. 

The IBTM World Trends Report 2025 

When it's on:  Tuesday, 19th Nov 10:30 - 11:15, IBTM Main Stage

What they're promising: Described by creator/panelist Alistair Turner (pictured) as 'a labour of love' he's said this year's report promises 'a reflection on 2024 as the most significant political year this century; not least the ramifications of the recent US elections.' 

It's also a look at the impact of AI, the challenges of recruitment and retention, including 'the global hunt for new, better, different, diverse talent', globalisation, as well as predictions on the macro trends that could define the global meetings, events, and experience industry in 2025 and beyond.

Why we're intrigued: Because it's as robust an oversight of the global MICE industry as it stands as you can find. Drawing on 12 months of data and empirical evidence, they provide measured insights into the major issues of the industry: sustainability, technology, personalisation, diversity and inclusion, and the emergence of AI. After a cheat sheet for talking points at networking events? This is it. 

Emerging Incentive Travel Trends: A Strong Future-Focused Foundation, or a Complete House of Cards?

When it's on: Tuesday, 19th Nov 14:45 - 15:15, IBTM Main Stage

What they're promising: A panel debate on whether or not the strengthening incentive travel industry is indicative of how the wider business events landscape is evolving, or a blip in an industry that's liable to eventually become obsolete.  

Why we're intrigued: Following a natural COVID slump, incentive travel is hitting its stride again, according to industry prognosticators: the IRF and Site Foundation projected huge growth for the incentive travel industry through to 2026, with 45% of buyers expecting incentive travel activity to be above or significantly above 2024 levels. We're going to be front row centre to see if these predictions are over-zealous. With a global panel, we can expect a broad-scale view of the likely future of incentives. 

Secret Cinema's Awe-Factor and How to Utilise it for Business Events

When it's on: Tuesday, 19th Nov, 12:15 - 12:45, IBTM Main Stage

What they're promising: Useful insights and key stats from Secret Cinema’s 2024 research into what audiences want from experiences and what motivates them to attend.

Why we're intrigued: Secret Cinema was at the vanguard of immersive experiences within the UK: starting as small-scale film screenings held in basements for friends in 2007, it has now grown into a global business and diversified into a full brand experience agency. Their journey has been impressive, but not without controversy: complaints about skyrocketing ticket prices, project delays, and a lockdown-related row over receiving almost £1m in government emergency aid.

How have they managed to evolve and remain relevant? As one of the OG UK immersive experience brands, we're curious as to what they do to continue to improve their experiences, and how they've applied their creativity to corporate event provision.

Overtourism: A Strategic Solution Impact Stage 

When it's on: Tuesday, 19th Nov 15:30 - 15:50, Impact Stage

What they're promising: To address the challenge of over-tourism in popular destinations, and how to use business events as a strategic solution for managing visitor flows to ensure sustainable tourism growth. They're also going to look at the difficulty of balancing economic benefits with the preservation of local cultures and environments. 

Why we're intrigued: The MICE industry relies on travel, obviously, and frequently to the world's most popular destinations, but it needs to be fully aware of the negative impact this can have not only in terms of carbon emissions but also on the locations people head to. As tourism numbers increase, the need for water, energy, and waste management increases and can outstrip resources, leading to shortages and higher prices for the inhabitants of popular destinations. 

Speaker Eloísa Urrutia (pictured), Head of Global Sustainability, Meetings & Events at Amex Global Business Travel is both cogent and ambitious in her approach to this challenge, and an authority on sustainability. It will be instructive to hear her offer solutions. 

The Importance of Common Consent, from a Hollywood Intimacy Coordinator

When it's on: Tuesday, 19th Nov 16:45 - 17:15, IBTM Main Stage

What they're promising: A look at how the issue of consent impacts the events industry, teams, and delegates. Intimacy coordinator Sam Murray will share how her experiences can support event organisers and their delegates in creating safer, more respectful, and inclusive spaces.

Why we're intrigued: Don't dismiss the notion that a sex-scene shaman doesn't bear relevancy to the MICE industry. Events can involve peculiar power dynamics, not to mention free-flowing alcohol, both of which can cause tension, if not worse. And as an industry with a workforce that is predominantly female - but upper management that is disproportionately male - learning how to ensure spaces are always respectful and safe is invaluable.