The ITB Buyers Circle will mark its 15th anniversary in 2027, with applications now open for buyers seeking to join the exclusive business network at ITB Berlin, which will take place from 16 to 18 March 2027.
The network brings together senior buyers and decision-makers from across the international travel industry, offering opportunities to establish business contacts, explore market developments and build partnerships. Around 1,300 selected buyers are expected to participate in the 2027 edition, subject to an application and selection process.
The anniversary comes as ITB Berlin prepares to hold its annual travel trade show in mid-March for the first time. The event connects businesses and professionals across leisure travel, business travel and meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE), providing a platform for commercial discussions and industry networking.
The ITB Buyers Circle has developed into an international network with members from more than 20 countries. According to the organisers, approximately 35 per cent of its members are based in Germany, while the remaining 65 per cent come from other markets. These include the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Spain, France, Italy, Switzerland, China, Sweden and the United States.
Membership is not automatic. Applicants are assessed against defined criteria intended to reflect the range of products offered by exhibitors and the diversity of international travel markets. The selection process is designed to bring together buyers with significant purchasing responsibilities and budget authority.
China will return as the network’s sponsor for the third consecutive year in 2027.
Under the theme “Exclusivity for your business”, members will have access to a dedicated Buyers Circle Lounge at Marshall-Haus, which will serve as a meeting point during the trade show. The facility will provide spaces for business meetings and focused work, alongside Wi-Fi and refreshments.
Other membership benefits include early access to the exhibition grounds, fast-track entry to ITB Berlin and the ITB Berlin Convention, complimentary cloakroom service, exclusive networking events and access to market insights and industry reports. Members will also receive complimentary admission to the trade show and its accompanying convention.
The ITB Berlin Convention will bring together international experts, business leaders and other industry figures to discuss developments affecting travel and tourism. Its 2027 theme, “Setting travel & tourism in motion”, will focus on changes and challenges shaping the sector, with discussions intended to help participants assess market developments and identify potential business opportunities.
Gianna Nemitz, Senior Product Manager at ITB Berlin and the person responsible for the Buyers Circle, said the network had spent 15 years connecting selected buyers and decision-makers from across the industry.
With up to 1,300 carefully selected members, the network provides a setting for building business relationships and engaging with international market players, Nemitz said. She highlighted the combination of purchasing authority, international reach and targeted networking as important features of the programme.
The Buyers Circle is part of ITB Berlin’s wider role as a meeting place for travel companies, destinations, suppliers and industry professionals. The annual trade show provides a setting for businesses to present their offerings, discuss commercial opportunities and develop partnerships across different areas of tourism.
Applications for the ITB Buyers Circle 2027 are now open. Interested buyers can review the eligibility requirements and submit an application through the official ITB Buyers Circle website.
Online press accreditation for media representatives and content creators is scheduled to become available in early December 2026 through the ITB Berlin press service.
