News
WIB unite with the GFSB
Women in Business unites with the GFSB
On Thursday 12th December 2019 at our EGM the GFSB membership voted unanimously for changes to the GFSB constitution to include provision for the unification of Women in Business Gibraltar with GFSB. GFSB WIB would continue to focus on providing networking opportunities and support for professional women as well as enabling the GFSB to implement diversity and inclusion policies impacting its membership and Gibraltar businesses.
Women in Business Gibraltar was established in the 1990’s by Lydia Darham and Dr Diane Sloma, under the name “The Gibraltar Business Network”. The GBN supported many causes, including the abolishment of estate duty, and the equal responsibility of women as jurors in the judicial system.
In 2013, the Gibraltar Business Network re-launched as “Women in Business Gibraltar”, and by 2017 WIB had over 100 members and held regular breakfast meetings as well as hosting the annual International Women’s Day dinner.
In 2017, under the current Chair Janet Brear, WIB began to explore ways of modernising the network and aligning WIB’s profile with modern approaches to professional diversity and inclusion as highlighted on an annual basis by the International Women’s Day movement. In particular, the concern was that WIB needed to move away from being perceived as a women only network and to engage in dialogue at a professional level with all professional peers.
In 2018 WIB members voted for a WIB collaboration with the Gibraltar Federation of Small Businesses (GFSB) and in February 2019, five WIB members, who were also members of the GFSB in their own right, were elected onto the Board of the GFSB.
Of the unification, Janet said “We are often asked whether a ‘women’s business network’ is still necessary. At present, the issues and concerns affecting women in the workplace continue to require attention. There are still far fewer women in the boardroom and in politics than there are men, and there is still a considerable pay gap between men and women in like roles. Groups like the GFSB Women in Business still have work to do”.
Julian Byrne, chairperson of the GFSB said “The GFSB is very pleased with this next step forward, the unification of WIB and the GFSB makes perfect sense. We are all working towards the same goals of making Gibraltar a great place to do business, and support business owners along the way. With a greater diversity both on the board and in our membership, we can represent our society in a more balanced way. We look forward to working as one.”
SHARE THIS
OTHER NEWS
Brexit
News
Your Customs Playbook
Following the publication of HMGoG’s guidance on NIF and EORI registration requirements, the GFSB has produced a practical step-by-step playbook to help Gibraltar businesses navigate the process as clearly and confidently as possible. Over recent weeks, many members have contacted us with questions around whether they need a NIF or EORI number, what the process involves, and whether obtaining these registrations could create Spanish tax obligations.
Brexit
NIF & EORI Guidance
After weeks of questions, confusion and growing concern amongst Gibraltar businesses, HM Government has now published formal guidance on NIF and EORI registration requirements linked to the future customs arrangements under the treaty. This is the clearest explanation yet of what these registrations are, who actually needs them, and perhaps most importantly, what they do not mean.
Gibraltar may be entering a different phase of its development. The expected implementation of the UK-EU Treaty, together with anticipated changes to Gibraltar’s residency rules, could alter the profile of people looking at Gibraltar as a base. If financial thresholds rise, Gibraltar may attract fewer casual applicants and a more concentrated group of internationally mobile, high-value residents. That could include the ultra high net worth market.
Member Q&A
Meet Spirit of the Rock
This week’s ThriveEDIT member Q&A spotlights Gin on the Rock Ltd, trading as Spirit of the Rock, a micro distillery based in the heart of Gibraltar’s old town, producing world-class spirits and hosting the Gibraltar Gin Experience. With a focus on authenticity, sustainability and products actually made in Gibraltar, this is a business that brings together local craft, visitor experience and plenty of personality.
Opinion
The Residency Dilemma
As we approach the expected provisional application of the Treaty on 15 July 2026, one of the unresolved questions is: what happens to the businesses, entrepreneurs and economically active individuals who want to relocate here but cannot yet see a clear route through the residency system?