03
Feb 26

UK Chamber of Shipping Reflects on Industry Resilience and Future Challenges at Annual Dinner 2026

The UK Chamber of Shipping hosted its flagship Annual Dinner on 2 February at the JW Marriott Grosvenor House Hotel, welcoming over 650 guests from across the maritime industry, government, and partner organisations. The event celebrated shipping’s vital role in the UK economy and reaffirmed commitments to collaboration and innovation for the future.

Guests heard from Maritime Minister, Keir Mather MP, UK Chamber President JB Rae-Smith, and CEO, Rhett Hatcher. Their remarks highlighted the industry’s contribution to UK growth and employment, key strategic priorities, and the importance of partnership between industry and government both domestically and internationally.

In his keynote address, Aviation, Maritime and Decarbonisation Minister, Keir Mather said:

I was delighted to join the UK Chamber of Shipping to celebrate the important contribution the industry makes to our country. The maritime sector is vital to our economic prosperity, keeping the UK safe and secure and connecting people with loved ones and key services.

“We want to future proof the industry and see it grow, which is why we’re investing £448 million in the sector, helping to revitalise coastal communities across the UK, supporting jobs, and cutting carbon emissions.

UK Chamber CEO, Rhett Hatcher, welcomed the remarks, commenting; 

The Chamber’s Annual Dinner is a testament to the breadth and diversity of the shipping community - from industry leaders and innovators to policymakers and partners who share our vision for the future.

The Minister’s support reflects the importance of shipping to the UK and global economy, and the role of collaboration in delivering our shared objectives. 

We will continue to work with Government as we strive to deliver solutions to national and international challenges, drive sustainable growth, and create an industry fit for the future.

In his final address as President, JB Rae-Smith highlighted the challenges and opportunities facing the sector. On decarbonisation, he acknowledged the industry’s ambition and investment in future-ready vessels but warned that infrastructure and fuel availability remain critical bottlenecks:

We are building extraordinary ships, but without green fuels and grid capacity, we cannot unlock their full potential. Partnership with government is essential for delivery.

Citing recent global events, Rae-Smith also underscored the growing importance of maritime security and called for continued collaboration to ensure resilience:

Shipping matters – to our economy, to our security, and to the UK’s future. Tactical success does not always translate into commercial confidence, and partnership with government and solidarity within our industry are more important than ever. 

The evening also celebrated the people behind the industry, with awards presented to Norman Hawkes, Careers at Sea Ambassador of the Year, and the MCA Officer Trainee of the Year, Alfie Allen, recognising their dedication to the industry and inspiration to future talent.

Funds raised during the event will support the Chamber’s nominated charity for the year, Stella Maris, whose work supporting seafarers and their families is invaluable in times of crisis. Find out more about Stella Maris here.

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Annual Dinner Sponsors:

The dinner was made possible by the support of our Sponsors:

Gold Sponsor:  Northern Marine
President's Reception Sponsors: Swire Shipping and Swire Bulk
Silver Sponsors: ABS, The Denholm Group, Lloyd's Register and V Group
Bronze Sponsors: Range Shipping and Shell
Programme Sponsors: Bachmann Group