We’re excited to welcome Thauan (Ty) Albuquerque as our new sales manager at TravelTech Show. With a background spanning real estate, life sciences, AI, and events, Ty brings a fresh perspective on partnerships and an eye for connecting the right people. Ahead of TravelTech Show 2026, we sat down with him to hear what excites him about the industry, why TravelTech Show stands apart, and his advice for exhibitors preparing to showcase their solutions.

Can you tell us a little about your background and what drew you to the travel technology sector?

I’ve spent the last 8 years working in sales and partnerships across different industries like real estate, life sciences,  and, more recently, AI compute / data centers. Most of that has been on the events and media side — building sponsorships and helping companies connect with the right audience. What pulled me into travel tech is how fast it’s moving. Everything in travel is changing — from how people book to how companies manage data, payments, and AI — and I wanted to be part of that.

 

What excites you most about joining the TravelTech Show team?

The fact that it’s right at the heart of Europe’s biggest travel ecosystem. You’ve got TravelTech, Business Travel Show Europe and The Meetings Show all under one roof — so it’s where serious buyers come when they’re looking for solutions. For me, being able to work with companies that are pushing the industry forward and making sure they get real value out of the show is what I’m looking forward to.

 

How would you describe your approach to building relationships with exhibitors and partners?

I try to keep it simple — listen first, understand what they’re actually trying to achieve, and then figure out how the show can help with that. I don’t believe in just selling a package; it’s about building something long-term where they see the ROI and want to come back.

 

From your perspective, what makes TravelTech Show stand out from other industry events like WTM, ITB or Phocuswright?

WTM and ITB are huge — they cover everything. Phocuswright is great but can be very research-driven. Travel Tech Show is different because it’s laser-focused on tech. Buyers aren’t here to browse, they’re here to find the right technology partners. Plus, because it’s co-located with Business Travel Show Europe and The Meetings Show, you get cross overs with corporate buyers and planners, which you don’t really get anywhere else.

 

This year’s show brought together 700+ buyers from 53 countries, representing £467m in tech spend. Why do you think so many senior decision-makers prioritise TravelTech Show? 

Because it’s efficient. These people don’t have time to waste , they know when they come to Travel Tech Show, they’ll meet the right suppliers, see the latest innovations, and leave with new contacts and ideas. It’s two days well spent, and that’s why they keep coming back and why we're seeing lots of new enquiries.

 

What do you see as the biggest opportunities for exhibitors at the 2026 edition?

The big one is access to serious budgets. For 2026, demand around AI, automation, payments, and data is only going to grow. If you’ve got a solution in those areas, the show is the perfect place to be front and centre.

 

How do you think the 1-2-1 meeting platform and matchmaking tools help both buyers and suppliers maximise their time at the show?

It makes everything easier. Buyers can cut through the noise and go straight to the companies they need to speak to, and exhibitors don’t have to just rely on footfall , they can walk in knowing they’ve already got solid meetings lined up. It makes the two days way more productive for everyone.

 

Do you have a favourite travel experience or destination that inspires you in your work?

I grew up in sunny Brazil and I think it's a wonderful travel destination, it’s always a mix of culture, good energy, music, food and just a place where you can recharge. I think that balance is what good events are about too , making meaningful connections but also enjoying the experience.

 

If you could give one piece of advice to a new exhibitor joining the show for the first time, what would it be?

Plan ahead and don’t just turn up with a stand and hope people stop by. Make the most of the meeting platform, be creative, and work with our events team to get the best out of your experience. Bring us your ideas , whether it’s something you’ve done before or seen elsewhere and we’ll do everything we can to make it happen. Shout about your presence on social media, set up conversations in advance, and treat the show as more than just two days on the floor. The exhibitors who prepare and engage early are always the ones who see the best results.  

 

Finally, what are you most looking forward to at TravelTech Show 2026 at ExCeL London?

Seeing the show buzzing. The theatres packed out, the stands busy, and buyers actually finding the tech they need. For me personally, I’m looking forward to working closely with exhibitors, helping them make the most of it, and just being part of that atmosphere.

Book a meeting with Ty to learn more about him and to get involved in TravelTech Show 2026!