Events
Annual Dinner 2025
The GFSB’s Annual Dinner took place just hours before the long-awaited political agreement on Gibraltar’s future relationship with the EU was finally announced in Brussels. While the announcement came a day later, the themes of the evening could not have been more timely.
Chairperson’s Address
In his keynote remarks, Chairperson Owen Smith struck a forward-looking tone, reminding guests that “this is not a talking shop” and that the GFSB exists “to act, to influence, and to push for a better environment for Gibraltar’s business community.”
He acknowledged that the agreement could present major shifts:
“There is a recognition that there will be opportunities, but also very significant challenges, particularly for those in the retail and wholesale sectors.”
His message to Government was; “Decision makers must support those at the sharp end, ensuring there is a level playing field for those operating into Gibraltar, and for those looking to trade out.”
A space for business
Owen Smith used the opportunity to reaffirm the GFSB’s strategic direction and reflect on recent wins:
- The launch of the GlueUp membership platform
- Refurbished member facilities, now renamed the Gibtelecom Conference Hall, justbank Boardroom, and TTMS Meeting Room
- New long-term partnerships with Gibtelecom, justbank and TTMS
“These partnerships will strengthen the GFSB’s ability to deliver value and improve the business environment in Gibraltar,” he said.
The evening
The dinner brought together GFSB members, strategic partners and notable guests from across Gibraltar’s business and political communities. It also featured a keynote from Olympic gold medallist Amy Williams MBE, who spoke about performing under pressure and finding resilience through setbacks.
A charity raffle helped raise funds for the GFSB’s work, with generous prizes donated by local businesses.
Why it matters
This year’s dinner happened on the eve of major political news. It offered members a chance to reconnect, reflect, and prepare for a future that is now starting to take shape.
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