Powering Networking & Engagement at IBIA Annual Convention 2019

Bringing the Global Bunker Industry Together in Istanbul

The International Bunker Industry Association (IBIA) Annual Convention is one of the most anticipated events in the shipping and bunker industries, drawing key decision-makers, regulators, and industry professionals from around the world.

For the 2019 edition, held from October 22–24 at the Ciragan Palace Kempinski in Istanbul, IBIA needed a seamless networking solution to help attendees connect, engage, and exchange insights—especially as the event took place just weeks before the implementation of the global 0.50% sulfur cap.

To achieve this, IBIA deployed the Presso Shared Platform, enabling attendees to network efficiently, participate in discussions, and maximise their event experience.

The Challenge: Facilitating High-Level Industry Networking

IBIA 2019 welcomed a diverse audience, including:

✅ Shipowners & Bunker Suppliers
✅ Traders & Brokers
✅ Port Authorities & Regulators
✅ NGOs, Surveyors, & Academics

With a packed two-day conference, exhibition, training courses, and workshops, IBIA needed a smart networking solution that would:

• Enable high-value connections between industry professionals.
• Encourage real-time engagement through Q&A and discussions.
• Provide data-driven insights into attendee interactions.

The Solution: The Presso Shared Platform

By implementing the Presso Shared Platform, IBIA 2019 enhanced the attendee experience with:

🔹 AI-powered networking: Attendees could discover and connect with relevant professionals.
🔹 Live Q&A & engagement: Users submitted real-time questions to panels and discussions.
🔹 Seamless event check-in: A frictionless process ensured high adoption.
🔹 Live feedback collection: Organisers gathered instant insights on event sessions.

The Impact: Key Engagement Metrics

📊 Networking & Connection Success

• Significant attendee adoption of the networking platform.
• High connection rates, allowing professionals to meet and exchange insights.

❓ Live Audience Interaction

• Dozens of live Q&A submissions to key panel discussions.
• Engagement in critical industry conversations, particularly around the upcoming 0.50% sulfur cap regulation.

✅ Event Feedback & Insights

• Live feedback helped organisers refine future editions.
• Positive attendee sentiment on networking opportunities and content relevance.

Beyond IBIA 2019: Strengthening Industry Collaboration

IBIA’s Annual Convention is more than just a conference—it’s a hub for global industry collaboration. By leveraging Presso’s networking technology, the 2019 event ensured that attendees didn’t just participate in discussions—they built lasting, high-value connections that extended beyond the event.

With the bunker and shipping industries facing significant regulatory changes, IBIA 2019 proved that the right technology can empower industry leaders to connect, engage, and navigate challenges together.

Want to enhance networking at your next industry event?

Let’s talk about how the Presso Shared Platform can drive meaningful connections and real engagement at your conference.

Final Takeaway

📌 Industry events are about more than just information—they’re about connections that shape the future. IBIA 2019 proved the power of smart networking.