Case Study: International Academy of Oral Oncology

Following a successful bid application, in partnership with Liverpool Convention Bureau and ACC Liverpool, Worldspan was appointed as the Professional Congress Organiser for the IAOO World Congress 2025.

The International Academy of Oral Oncology (IAOO) is a global community dedicated to advancing the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of oral cancer. Its biennial World Congress is the only international forum uniting specialists across surgery, oncology, and allied fields. The 2025 edition in Liverpool was a world-class scientific and social gathering, designed from the outset with accessibility, sustainability, and legacy at its core.

IAOO 2025 was a major success, delivering impact across science, society, and the economy:

• Global reach: Over 1,100 attendees from 54 countries took part, with 64% travelling from outside the UK. Top inbound countries included the US, India, Japan, the Netherlands, and Hong Kong.
• Scientific programme: 435 abstracts submitted, 188 e-posters presented, 327 presentations delivered, and 183 hours of content across plenaries, panels, keynotes, and workshops.
• Sponsors and exhibitors: 25 sponsors and exhibitors supported the event.
• Economic impact: Liverpool benefitted significantly through delegate spending on hotels, dining, transport, and retail, with ACC Liverpool and local suppliers reporting strong demand.
• Sustainability and inclusivity: A fully paperless congress, zero single-use plastics, discounted train travel, accessible facilities, and funding for underrepresented delegates set a new benchmark for future IAOO events.
• Legacy and reinvestment: A post-congress surplus is being reinvested by IAOO into scholarships and training, ensuring benefits long after the event.

Delegates described IAOO 2025 as “a melting pot of ideas and innovation” that fostered meaningful connections and practice-changing outcomes.

Starting from the ground up, Worldspan delivered a financially sustainable, globally inclusive, and environmentally responsible IAOO World Congress.