New Year for British Chamber

On Tuesday 24 January 2023, the British Chamber of Commerce in Luxembourg (BCC) held its New Year Cocktail at the residence of the British Ambassador to Luxembourg, attracting around 120 members to the event.

The British Ambassador to Luxembourg, Fleur Thomas, talked briefly and mentioned the continued war in Ukraine as well as a number of visitors she is expecting to visit the Grand Duchy from the UK in the coming months, including an all-party parliamentary group plus two government ministers, one of whom she hopes may be available for an event with the chamber.

Dan Eischen, BCC Chairman, then welcomed everyone to the traditional New Year Cocktail, recollecting that last year’s event was help online. He said that it was great to be back at the Ambassador’s residence as he recalled the last two years of the pandemic. He stressed that it was important to remember what had happened and that 2022 was when we were able to meet again, for which he was very thankful. He recalled also that last year was when the chamber celebrated its 30th anniversary and explained how it met for business and for networking. He explained that, as he had presented a wrap-up of last year’s activities at the chamber’s Christmas Dinner, he would not repeat himself. However, he realised last year that the pandemic had prepared us all for the busy year, looking at new opportunities and thinking together.

Looking back on the last four years as Chairman, he thanked all the members, stressing that those who work in and around the chamber are the heart and soul of the chamber; he thanked the Ambassador and the embassy for their support and stated that it makes a difference for the chamber as a business enabler.

He concluded that here will be a new Chair in a few months time (at the chamber’s AGM, to he held in May); he stated that the team (around the Chair) ensures diversity and he said that he was looking forward to the year ahead.

He handed the microphone to Julia who explained that she was involved in social enterprise, and that she also coaches the Under 8s at Rugby Club Luxembourg (RCL). As well as doing a lot for the community, including Ukraine, the RCL operates a partnership with Kenya, by providing sports bras and menstrual cups so girls can play too. She stressed the importance of the project and confirmed the partnership with the British Chamber; in which they intend to find local partners and be able to support the local economy there.

The formal part of the evening was followed by a networking cocktail.