Celebrating 20 Years of IPT

The IPT Story

Milestones and highlights from 20 years in the industry

We’ve been supporting the industry from the very beginning. Over 20 years on we continue to evolve with the needs of our members.

2001

Where we started - ‘International Computer Brokers’

The need for up-to-date information to better facilitate the trading of mobile phones and computer components was recognised and the web-based marketing portal ‘International Computer Brokers’ was born. As traders and brokers quickly realised the power of our websites, our trading community quickly grew.

Apple revolutionizes music listening by unveiling its iPod MP3 music player

2003

Stamping out Fraud - Formation of the FTI

IPT was integral in the formation of the FTI - the pressure group of the Industry. The FTI’s objective was to keep the industry alive and to safeguard its long term future by providing legal advice, VAT advice, vetting and best practice.

Blackberry launches first model with colour display

2005

The first IPT Marketplace launches @ CEBIT

The first-ever traders-only networking area was established by IPT at the internationally renowned Trade Show - CEBIT. Providing the industry with the first dedicated space to network more effectively and efficiently.

YouTube was officially launched

2007

IPT Marketplace launches @ IFA Berlin

Together with Global Fairs TT-Messe, IPT established and grew the networking ‘IPT Marketplace’ concept at another of the industry’s biggest events; IFA Berlin.

IPT & Global Fairs became the original force behind bringing trade companies together in a B2B reseller environment. Together we’ve supported 1000’s of trading companies to establish and promote themselves in the market and our partnership continues to this day.

Apple introduces a touchscreen cellphone called the iPhone

2010

IPT Marketplace celebrates the 30th Anniversary of GITEX Technology Week, Dubai

Marking the 30th Anniversary of GITEX Technology Week, IPT partnered with TradeFair to bring the ‘IPT Marketplace’ to GITEX Dubai. This created a networking and exhibition space that put the industry on the global stage at one of the biggest tech events in the world.

Apple releases its touchscreen tablet computer, the iPad

2011

IPT partners with CPAS, Orlando, U.S.A

The first trade show focused on the wholesale business of mobile and accessories in the U.S. CPAS served as the networking event of international wholesalers, traders, and retailers.

Through the partnership with IPT, CPAS maximized exhibitors’ exposure and presented visitors with opportunities to meet new and reputable suppliers.

Twitch streaming service launches

2012

‘Networking with a Difference’ @ ITC Malta

With such success of the IPT Marketplace at the biggest industry events, we further developed our networking concept to create a unique networking experience and ITC Malta was born. A three-day networking event on the island of Malta, ITC was created to provide the industry with a networking experience like no other, that put the focus on building solid business relationships with both existing and new partners in a relaxed atmosphere.

Oculus Rift development started

2015

IPT - Official Media Partner of ‘The Gadget Show Live’, UK

IPT partnered with the UK’s leading exhibition for consumer technology. A high profile event specifically for industry buyers. The industry had the opportunity to touch, test and compare the very latest in tech products and services while providing the perfect place for visitors to network and do business with key suppliers.

Apple launches the Apple Watch

2018

End of an Era - IPT Traders Party at the final CEBIT, Germany

The IPT CEBIT Traders Party marked the closing of the last-ever CEBIT event. It was an evening to be remembered with all of the biggest names in the mobile phone, IT & consumer electronics industry. Sponsored by Elite Mobile Ltd.

Facebook launches Oculus Go

2019

IPT x MobiHub Yacht Party @ GITEX Technology Week, Dubai

To coincide with GITEX Dubai 2019 - IPT took advantage of having our international membership in one place to host yet another unforgettable industry networking event. The evening was spent aboard the luxury mega-yacht, Lotus for a night of dining, dancing and soaking up the Dubai skyline by night with industry leaders who are making serious waves! Sponsored by APL Global Logistics.

Apple TV & Disney + Launch of 5G service by EE

2020

COVID Support

A challenging year for the trading industry, the Coronavirus pandemic disrupted lives and markets globally. IPT were quick to adapt to the new reality and went into member support overdrive. By making the crucial connections to assist in the trade of vital PPE equipment, developing creative solutions to the challenges our members faced and keeping up-to-date with the ever-changing global trade restrictions - we supported our members through the tough times.

Samsung launches the Galaxy Z Flip

2021

20 years of IPT - The Future

2021 marks IPT’s 20th Anniversary Year and as always we have big plans! The future with IPT looks bright - be part of it with us!

Apple launches AirTags