After a successful debut in 2024, Exceptional Experiences is making its return at IBTM World 2025. From 18–20 November, the iconic Fira de Barcelona will once again host the leading global meetings and events trade show, where industry heavyweights including WeTransfer, Canva, Shutterstock, Amazon and UTA will share their insights and expertise.
Developed in partnership with The Thought Partnership, the programme is designed to inspire in-house event professionals and marketers with fresh ideas and solutions to create experiences that drive business growth.
Two-Part Format
As in its launch year, Exceptional Experiences will feature two distinct elements. On day one, senior executives, VPs and industry leaders from organisations such as Motorola, Uber, Smartly and Microsoft will gather for an exclusive, invitation-only workshop. On day two, the Exceptional Experiences Forum will open to all attendees, offering a series of dynamic education sessions led by international experts.
Inspiring Sessions
The Forum kicks off with a keynote by B. Joseph Pine II, co-author of The Experience Economy and author of the forthcoming The Transformation Economy: Guiding Customers to Achieve Their Aspirations. Pine will explore how the event industry is evolving towards a “transformation economy,” equipping professionals with tools to design meaningful, high-value experiences.
Other highlights include Jimmy Knowles, Global Head of Experiential at Canva, on engaging digital-native Gen Z and Alpha audiences; Lori Rodney (Shutterstock) and Jesse Gainer (C2) with It’s a Match! The psychology of meaningful connection; and Todd Hansen (Web Summit) and Berit Block (WeTransfer) on how executives can translate company values into authentic community-building events. Ella Weston, SVP Marketing at WPP, will present ten key B2B marketing trends in The most expensive selfie wall you’ll never build again.
The Forum will conclude with an interactive ‘inner mix’ session from Hesta Prynn – internationally renowned DJ, radio host and licensed therapist – blending music, psychology and neuroscience to help attendees recharge and reimagine the future of events.
Industry Collaboration
“At its heart, Exceptional Experiences is about unleashing the collective creativity of our industry. It’s a space for daring ideas, for learning from the brightest minds, and for discovering new ways to design experiences that inspire transformation and growth. Together, we’re building a future where events don’t just deliver impact – they create magic,” said Claudia Hall, Exhibition Director of IBTM World.
