ICE Barcelona and iGB Affiliate 2026 increase their economic impact to €255 million, according to a study

The joint celebration of ICE and iGB Affiliate 2026 has once again consolidated Barcelona and Catalonia as the global epicenter of the gaming and digital entertainment industry, generating a total economic impact estimated at 255 million euros. This figure represents a growth of more than 33% compared to the 191 million euros reported in the 2025 edition.

According to the evaluation study carried out by the independent firm Equimore, the two internationally renowned B2B events mobilised an audience of more than 62,000 attendees, of which 86% were international. In total, the event generated 173,813 hotel overnight stays and directly benefited the Catalan business fabric, from the hotel and restaurant sector to transport services, audiovisual production and stand construction. Along these lines, more than 3,200 jobs were created during the days of the fair, including direct assembly professionals and auxiliary staff of the event, a figure that represents an increase of 3% compared to the 2025 edition.

According to the Equimore report, visitor spending represented the most important channel, contributing 129 million euros directly and indirectly, out of the total of 355 million euros in sectors such as hotels, restaurants, transport, shopping and leisure. On the other hand, exhibitors and sponsors contributed 86 million euros through the assembly of stands, marketing, hospitality and the generation of new business for Catalan companies.

Stuart Hunter, CEO of World Gaming, has assessed the results very positively: "We return in 2026 with the clear ambition to consolidate our long-term vision: to continue to evolve, strengthen our local partnerships and maximize the value we bring to both the industry and the community that hosts us.

This year's edition has once again demonstrated the immense potential of our union with Barcelona. The transversal collaboration with Fira Gran Via, the institutions and the local business fabric has been exceptional. The results show a greater attendance and participation of exhibitors, legislators and partners, as well as an extraordinary economic impact of 255 million euros. This growth represents a tangible and positive impact that is directly distributed to the economy and employment of the city and Catalonia. For our part, we are already working on the next edition and we are counting down the days until we meet again in January 2027."