Hosted Buyers to Enjoy Enhanced Learning and Networking Opportunities
The Meetings Show 2026 has announced an exciting programme of exclusive masterclasses and a dedicated welcome reception for hosted buyers, offering valuable opportunities for learning, networking, and industry collaboration ahead of the main event. Taking place at ExCeL London from June 24-25, 2026, the show will once again bring together the global meetings and events community, with hosted buyers playing a central role in the experience.
Exclusive Masterclass Programme Begins Ahead of Main Event
Hosted buyers will gain access to a tailored masterclass programme on June 23, sponsored by Venues of Excellence, Imago Venues, and Preferred Hotels & Resorts.
Designed to provide deeper learning opportunities, the programme focuses on the evolving needs of the events industry. Sessions will explore emerging trends including artificial intelligence, automation, generational workforce shifts, attendee engagement strategies, and the future of live events.
SongDivision to Kick Off Learning Experience
The programme will open with a networking lunch hosted by SongDivision, renowned for its innovative music-driven team-building experiences. The session will combine creativity, collaboration, and networking to encourage meaningful connections among attendees.
Later in the day, SongDivision will return to deliver a live performance of a co-created “TMS Anthem,” inspired by key insights and discussions from the masterclass sessions.
Future-Focused Sessions Explore Industry Transformation
A major highlight of the programme will be a live research workshop led by Dr Graham Norris, The Meetings Show’s Conference Futurist. The interactive session will examine what the meetings and events industry could look like in 2036, exploring the major drivers of change expected to shape the next decade.
Hosted buyers will also participate in practical workshops including “From Gen X to Gen AI: Bridging Teams Across Time, Tech & TikTok,” which examines how different generations collaborate within modern event organisations. A hands-on AI workshop will provide attendees with practical tools and strategies that can be implemented immediately to improve event planning and delivery.
Networking and Engagement Take Centre Stage
Additional sessions will focus on improving networking experiences and attendee engagement. “Networking Without the Cringe” will explore more inclusive and effective networking formats, while “The New Rules of Engagement” will examine workplace pressure, behaviour, and performance within the events sector.
These discussions aim to provide event professionals with actionable insights that can be applied across a variety of event formats and business environments.
Welcome Reception Offers Informal Networking Experience
Ahead of the exhibition opening, hosted buyers will be invited to an exclusive welcome reception sponsored by Manchester Convention Bureau, part of Marketing Manchester.
The event will take place at Savage Garden Rooftop Bar, offering panoramic views of the Tower of London. The reception will feature live entertainment, Manchester-inspired cocktails, interactive cooking stations, and creative networking activities.
Attendees will also have the opportunity to participate in a collaborative Manchester-themed mural project with Paintillio and connect directly with supplier partners in a relaxed environment.
Marketing Manchester Highlights Importance of Buyer Connections
Victoria Braddock, Managing Director of Marketing Manchester, said the reception provides an ideal opportunity to bring industry professionals together while showcasing the experiences and hospitality that Greater Manchester can offer business event organisers and delegates.
The event is designed to create meaningful connections before the exhibition officially opens, helping attendees maximize the value of their hosted buyer experience.
Hosted Buyer Programme Reaches Capacity
The Meetings Show’s Hosted Buyer Programme continues to set a benchmark within the events industry by offering exclusive education sessions, networking opportunities, and participation in pre- and post-show familiarisation trips.
According to Jack Marczewski, Portfolio Event Director of The Meetings Show, the enhanced programme reflects the event’s commitment to delivering maximum value for busy event professionals through early access to education and networking opportunities.
Due to strong demand, the hosted buyer programme for 2026 has already reached capacity. Organisers have opened a waitlist for interested applicants, with places being allocated on a first-come, first-served basis should cancellations occur. Applications for the waitlist will remain open until June 18.
Visitor Buyers Can Still Attend The Meetings Show 2026
Industry professionals who do not secure a hosted buyer place can still attend as visitor buyers. Visitor attendees will have access to the extensive education programme, opportunities to network with exhibitors and industry peers, and the chance to discover new destinations, venues, technologies, and suppliers.
The Meetings Show 2026 will be co-located with Business Travel Show Europe and TravelTech Show, creating one of the largest gatherings of meetings, business travel, and event professionals in Europe.
