Festive Fun at the British Chamber Christmas Lunch

On Friday 12 December 2025, the British Chamber of Commerce in Luxembourg (BCC) held its largest and most popular event of the year, its annual Christmas Lunch, at the Hémicycle in Luxembourg-Kirchberg, attracting over 260 members and friends.

After the aperitif in the building's foyer, and before the formal part of the event, a 20-strong choir from St George's International School sang a number of Christmas Carols, building a festive spirit, concluding with the upbeat "Santa Claus is Coming to Town".

Andrew Notter, BCC Chairman, welcomed everyone and stated: "Today’s British Chamber Christmas Lunch is the biggest ever with 265 people attending, with both familiar faces and new faces present; it was a wonderful opportunity to bring our community together and reflect on a year of growth for the Chamber, stepping away from our busy schedules... Luxembourg has demonstrated why it continues to punch above its weight."

He added: "In 2025, we achieved our highest-ever membership for the year and hosted a record number of high-quality events (30) - from partnerships with other International chambers, two events in London at the Luxembourg Embassy to initiatives such as Women in Finance and our new Emerging Leaders Group event".

In addition to mentioning collaborations with other international chambers and thanking the chamber's leadership groups, he stated: "The Chamber’s focus remains on building bridges - between the UK and Luxembourg, across sectors, and between long-standing members and new arrivals. None of this would be possible without the dedication of our council, working groups, sponsors and the outstanding support of our Secretariat".

He concluded by looking ahead to 2026, stating: "We will continue with the British Ambassador as the Honorary President to delivering engaging events and fostering deeper collaboration across Luxembourg’s international business community. I am confident the Chamber will remain a vibrant platform for connection, learning and growth in the year ahead."

The dinner comprised a beef carpacchio, roast turkey and stewed apple, with traditional Christmas Crackers provided to each table to add to the festive fun.

After the main course, the British Ambassador to Luxembourg, Joanne Olivier, was the Special Guest Speaker and stated that she was delighted to attend her first BCC Christmas Lunch since she arrived in Luxembourg during the year. She said that it was her "absolute pleasure" to become the Honorary President of the BCC, and thanked Andrew Notter and his team for their work over th past year. She then reflected on the strength of the UK-Luxembourg relationship, and explained that she fought for being posted to Luxembourg.

She added that the relationship is strong but has gone through hard times, referencing Brexit, and mentioned about the current UK government looking to reset the relationship with the EU. She confirmed that Luxembourg is the UK's 22nd trading partner showing a significant year-on-year increase, with the majority based on services. Both countries have very strong international financial centres, with both having common viewpoints in foreign policy and defence, amongst others. She mentioned the growing threats of geopolitical happenings and AI, meeting Luxembourg politicians and royals, referencing the recent "Trounwiessel" (throne change). She also talked about having meetings with ministries and companies in Luxembourg. Looking ahead, she said that that there are opportunities in the finance, defence and space sectors. She also mentioned the cultural side which she said that she has been enjoying. She concluded by thanking the various other British organisations that are present in Luxembourg, including the British Ladies Club, the British Luxembourg Society, the British Stand at the International Bazaar and the British & Irish Film Festival Luxembourg.

The chamber organised a raffle, with all attendees being entered automatically, with prizes including bottles of gin, a dinner for two at the Brasserie Alfa at the Hotel Marriott, an overnight stay for two at the Marriott Hotel, a bottle of champagne, artwork from Ben Carter and a flight voucher to Edinburgh with Luxair.

The traditional Gin Bar was again appreciate by many who stayed behind after the dinner, with Santa presenting gifts from Fortnum & Mason to all attendees when leaving.

ED