2024 Signature Annual Holiday Lunch Recap

On Thursday, December 12, 2024, we hosted our Signature Annual Holiday Luncheon at the Ritz-Carlton Philadelphia. This year’s theme focused on building bridges—both physically and symbolically—celebrating the historic and future relationship between the United States and the United Kingdom. The BABCPHL is proud to honor the collaborative efforts between our region and the UK as we continue to forge new connections and strengthen existing partnerships. Our panelists addressed key issues within this special relationship, including mobility, environmental concerns, and business and trade policy. As we approach the 250^th anniversary of the United States, it is crucial to reflect on the enduring connections between the US and the UK, past and present, and how they continue to shape our shared future. Our region has fostered meaningful relationships impacting business and trade for over a century, and as a thriving business hub, we continue to strengthen these connections. The Luncheon highlighted this theme of bridge-building, celebrated international business, and ushered in the holiday season with enthusiasm.

Nearly 200 guests attended this highly anticipated annual program. Special thanks to BABCPHL President Howard Silverstone for hosting the event with exceptional energy and ensuring an engaging experience for all. We extend our gratitude to keynote speakers, Atif Saeed, Chief Executive Officer of Philadelphia International Airport, and Alan Gogbashian, Deputy Trade Commissioner for North America at the British Consulate in New York, who provided valuable insights into the evolving relationship between Philadelphia and the UK.

We also recognize our distinguished panel moderator, Oliver St. Clair Franklin, CBE, Honorary Consul, British Honorary Consulate Philadelphia, and panelists: Gideon Gradman, Managing Director, Baker Tilly; Jonathan Grode, US Practice Director & Managing Partner, Green and Spiegel LLC; Stephan Neuman, Vice President of Global Government Affairs, American Airlines; Kevin Ryan, Partner, Citrin Cooperman; and Zac Taormina, Plant Manager – Clean Air, North America, Johnson Matthey, Inc., whose expertise provided invaluable perspectives on the future of UK-US relationships across leading sectors.

Following the panel discussion, attendees participated in a raffle featuring over two dozen prizes generously donated by regional retailers, restaurants, bars, arts institutions, and sports teams. Guests also had the opportunity to participate in a silent auction and bid on American Airlines AAdvantage miles for a pair of roundtrip Business Class tickets on American Airlines’ award-winning non-stop service from Philadelphia International Airport to London.

Finally, a heartfelt thank you goes to our Exclusive Airline Sponsor: American Airlines; Lead Sponsors: Baker Tilly and Johnson Matthey, Inc.; and Premium Sponsors: Almac Group; Citrin Cooperman; Green and Spiegel LLC; J.S. Held LLC; Penn Medicine; Pennsylvania Department for Community and Economic Development; and Philadelphia International Airport. This event would not have been possible without their generous support. We are deeply grateful to all our members, including those who purchased corporate tables, for making this celebration a success.

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