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Month: March 2025

HSBC Malta Foundation promotes biodiversity and conservation

Posted on by Mel Chamber

HSBC Malta Foundation has partnered with the Foundation for the Conservation of the Maltese Honey Bee (KNM) to support pollinatives for School Gardens, an initiative aimed at enhancing biodiversity and educating students on the importance of indigenous flora and pollinators. The event, held at Sacred Heart College (Saint Julians) and St Michael’s School (Pembroke), saw the planting of native and melliferous plants that provide essential resources for pollinators, including Malta’s National Insect, the Maltese Honey Bee.

Through this initiative, students were actively involved in selecting and planting indigenous shrubs such as Myrtle (Myrtus communis), Maltese Stocks (Matthiola incana melitensis), and Mediterranean Buckthorn (Rhamnus alaternus). This hands-on approach not only enriched the students’ knowledge of local plant species but also emphasised the importance of preserving Malta’s natural ecosystem. The plants, sponsored by HSBC Malta Foundation, were placed directly into the ground to promote sustainability and reduce maintenance requirements.

The activity was organised with the guidance of Johann Gatt, National Coordinator of the LEAF (Learning about Ecosystems and Forests) international programme, managed locally by Nature Trust FEE Malta. His role in educating students on habitat selection and planting methods helped foster a deeper understanding of Malta’s biodiversity and conservation efforts.

A group of Slovenian beekeepers also participated in the event, sharing their expertise on the conservation of native bee species. They highlighted the threats posed by hybridisation with imported bee strains and reinforced the significance of protecting Malta’s endemic Apis mellifera ruttneri.

Speaking on behalf of HSBC Malta Foundation, Glenn Bugeja stated: “Educating young minds about biodiversity and sustainability is an investment in the future. By engaging students in conservation efforts, we inspire a generation that values environmental responsibility and preservation.”

Abner Joe Buttigieg, Administrator of KNM, added: “Beyond protecting the Maltese Honey Bee, we must also safeguard its habitat. By enhancing school gardens with indigenous plants, we create vital spaces for pollinators to thrive, even in urban environments.”

To commemorate their participation, all students received limited-edition postcards, designed by HSBC Malta Foundation and KNM Foundation, featuring the Maltese Honey Bee on local flora. This symbolic gesture further reinforces the significance of native species and the role they play in maintaining ecological balance.

Through this initiative, HSBC Malta Foundation continues to demonstrate its commitment to environmental sustainability, biodiversity, and education, fostering a greener and more informed future for Malta.

BOV strengthens its merchant services as digital payments continue to grow

Posted on by Mel Chamber

Bank of Valletta is reinforcing its commitment to digital banking innovation and merchant services, ensuring both personal customers and businesses have access to seamless, secure and innovative payment solutions.  During a recent visit to the eBanking teams, BOV CEO Kenneth Farrugia, together with Simon Azzopardi, Chief Personal & Wealth Officer, and Chris Degabriele, Head of eBanking, discussed the Bank’s ongoing digital transformation and the customer benefits of enhanced payment solutions. The CEO also personally thanked the teams for their efforts in driving the Bank’s digital transformation.

As consumer behaviour shifts towards digital-first payments, businesses need efficient, reliable, and secure solutions to meet customer expectations. BOV is enhancing its merchant services by offering more advanced payment acceptance options, improving transaction security, and ensuring businesses can process payments effortlessly – whether through contactless, mobile, or online channels.

Kenneth Farrugia praised the eBanking teams for their dedication in delivering top-tier merchant services. “Our merchants are at the heart of the economy, and our role is to ensure they have the right payment tools to grow and succeed. The way customers pay is changing, and BOV is committed to providing businesses with smarter, faster, and more secure solutions,” he said.

Chris Degabriele outlined how the Bank is scaling its teams to provide dedicated support to merchants. “We are scaling up to meet the increased demand for digital payment solutions. More businesses are embracing contactless and mobile transactions, and we are here to make that transition seamless for them,” he explained.

Simon Azzopardi reinforced the Bank’s vision for a stronger card acceptance business in today’s market. “Businesses require more than just a payment terminal – they need a partner who understands their needs and helps them adapt to changing customer trends. We are continuously refining our services and evolving to ensure businesses can offer faster, more secure, and more versatile payment options,” he noted.

With digital transactions continuing to grow, BOV continues to invest in its merchant services to ensure businesses can operate smoothly and thrive. By strengthening its Card Acceptance business, expanding its digital capabilities, and growing its expert teams, the Bank is setting the stage for a future of smarter, more efficient payment experiences.

EY Malta and The Malta Chamber Renew their Gold Sponsorship Agreement

Posted on by Mel Chamber

EY Malta has once again reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Malta’s business community by renewing its Gold Partnership Support Agreement with The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise, and Industry. This ongoing collaboration highlights EY Malta’s and The Malta Chamber’s dedication to fostering economic growth, innovation, and policy development in Malta.

Through this renewed agreement, EY Malta will leverage its extensive expertise to provide consultancy services, supporting The Malta Chamber in shaping national policy positions and recommendations. These contributions will focus on key areas addressed by the Chamber’s Business Sections and Horizontal Thematic Committees, ensuring that the private sector’s interests are well-represented in national discussions.



“EY Malta is honored to continue our Gold Sponsorship with The Malta Chamber. Our commitment to Malta’s business community remains unwavering, and we look forward to fostering further economic growth and innovation through this valuable partnership,” noted Ronald Attard, EY Malta Country Managing Partner, ahead of the signing.

The Malta Chamber, as the leading voice of the Maltese business community, plays a pivotal role in advocating for policies that enhance competitiveness, sustainability, and innovation. With EY Malta’s continued support, the Chamber will further strengthen its efforts to address key economic and industry challenges.

“EY Malta’s continued support as a Gold Partner is invaluable in ensuring that The Malta Chamber remains at the forefront of national policy discussions,” said Chris Vassallo Cesareo, The Malta Chamber President. “Their expertise and strategic insights greatly enhance our ability to put forward well-informed and impactful policy recommendations,” he emphasised.

HSBC Malta Supports Digitisation of Maltese Modern Art at the Victor Pasmore Gallery

Posted on by Mel Chamber

The HSBC Malta Foundation is honoured to support Fondazzjoni Patrimonju Malti’s digitisation project at the Victor Pasmore Gallery, an innovative effort aimed at preserving and promoting the Maltese Modern Art Movement. This year’s sponsorship highlights HSBC’s ongoing commitment to safeguarding Malta’s rich artistic and cultural heritage.

The Victor Pasmore Gallery has become a leading hub for artistic research, exhibitions, and educational programs dedicated to celebrating Pasmore and his Maltese contemporaries. In 2024, the gallery unveiled a cutting-edge digitisation studio to create a comprehensive digital archive of the 20th century Maltese Modern Art Movement. This ambitious project will preserve invaluable materials, making them accessible to researchers, students, and art enthusiasts around the world.

Geoffrey Fichte, CEO of HSBC Malta, commented: “Preserving cultural heritage is central to HSBC Malta’s sustainability efforts. By supporting the Victor Pasmore Gallery’s digitisation project, we aim to ensure that Malta’s rich artistic legacy is not only protected but also shared with future generations.”

As part of this initiative, Fondazzjoni Patrimonju Malti is encouraging the public to contribute to the growing archive by sharing documents, photographs, videos, and other materials related to Malta’s 20th century artistic legacy. This collective effort will expand the gallery’s research and foster deeper connections with Malta’s cultural identity.

Michael Lowell, CEO and artistic director of Fondazzjoni Patrimonju Malti, remarked: “The Victor Pasmore Gallery is becoming a leader in artistic innovation. This digitisation initiative will not only protect our artistic heritage but also offer new opportunities to engage with and understand Malta’s modern art history.”

HSBC Malta Foundation’s backing of this project is part of its wider commitment to education, culture, and the arts, further solidifying the bank’s role as a vital partner in ensuring Malta’s cultural sustainability.

Election Notice 2025-2027

Posted on by Mel Chamber

Elections 25, 26 and 27 March 2025: March 2025 – March 2027

The following is the list of candidates for election to the Executive Boards of Economic Groups and Council for the years March 2025 to March 2027 circulated for the information of members in accordance with Article 6.2 of the Statute.

IMPORTERS, DISTRIBUTORS AND RETAILERS ECONOMIC GROUP

CandidatesProposed BySeconded By
BAJADA MARK (Bajada New Energy Co. Ltd.)K. RapinettN. Spiteri Paris
BUTTIGIEG VELLA ALISTAIR (Universal Industrial Expertise Ltd.)M. BajadaK. Rapinett
MIFSUD MARCEL K.     (Associated Drug Co. Ltd)C. Meli BugejaG. Attard Montalto
RAPINETT KEVIN  (Halmann Vella Group)M. BajadaM.K. Mifsud  
SPITERI PARIS NICK (Bigbon Group [Carant Trading Ltd])M. BajadaK. Rapinett
ZAMMIT CUTAJAR SARAH (P. Cutajar & Co Ltd)K. RapinettM. Bajada
ZAMMIT LA ROSA CHRISTINA (Zammit La Rosa Footwear Ltd)M. BajadaK. Rapinett  

MANUFACTURERS AND OTHER INDUSTRIES ECONOMIC GROUP

CandidatesProposed BySeconded By
AQUILINA NORMAN (Simonds Farsons Cisk plc)M. FauserM. Hignett
AZZOPARDI AARON (Delta Malta Ltd)R. CuschieriP. Seifert
CUSCHIERI RUBEN (R3Vox Ltd)N. AquilinaL. Caruana  
DEBONO REUBEN (Maypole)T. ZammitD. Sciberras
MUSCAT BRIAN (Multipackaging Ltd)P. SeifertR. Cuschieri  
SCERRI ETIENNE (Silvercraft Prod Ltd)P. SeifertA. Tua
SEIFERT PHILIPP (Seifert Systems Ltd)B. MuscatA. Azzopardi  

SERVICES PROVIDERS ECONOMIC GROUP

CandidatesProposed BySeconded By
ARRIGO ALAN (Robert Arrigo & Sons Ltd)W. Spiteri BaileyL. Barbaro Sant
ATTARD KEVIN (Attard Holdings/Customs Freight Agency Ltd.)P. SullivanA. Fenech
BONNICI REBECCA (BELS Ltd)W. Spiteri BaileyK. Spiteri Bailey
BUSUTTIL DELBRIDGE CHRIS (Evolve Ltd)W. Spiteri BaileyH. Arrigo
CREMONA THOMAS JULIAN (idisav)F. VellaI. Casolani
GALEA DANIEL (easyJet Enginieering Malta)P. GrechJ.K. Spiteri
MIFSUD SILVAN (EMCS Advisory Ltd)W. Spiteri BaileyS. Mallia
SPITERI BAILEY WILLIAM (Independent Consultant)A. ArrigoS. Mifsud

The following are the links to information about each candidate:

Importers, Distributors and Retailers Economic Group

Manufacturers and Other Industries Economic Group 

Services Providers Economic Group                              –        

The election of six members from the Importers, Distributors and Retailers Economic Group, six members of the Manufacturers and Other Industries Economic Group and six members from the Services Providers Economic Group will take place as follows:

Physical voting will take place at the Exchange Buildings, Valletta, on: Tuesday, 25th March 2025  –  immediately after the AGM up to 7.30 p.m. (or as directed by the Electoral Commission) ONLY. Members voting physically at the Chamber are reminded that in order to be entitled to vote at the elections, an identification document (a valid ID Card, Passport or Driving Licence) must be produced on the day of voting.

Electronic voting will open on Tuesday, 25th March 2025 at 7.30 pm and will remain open until Thursday, 27th March 2023 at 3 pm. 

Members may cast their electronic vote online through the link which will be sent to them on Tuesday, 25th March 2025, the day of the AGM.   This link will be specific to each member.  

Members may cast 1 vote: either electronically or physically. 

Members are asked to ensure, in advance, that they have their login access to The Malta Chamber Members’ Gateway with their username and password which will allow them to cast their vote.  Members requiring assistance with their login details are asked to contact Ms Roberta Pisani at: roberta.pisani@maltachamber.org.mt or by telephone on +356 22032304. 

In accordance with the Statute, immediately after the close of the voting, the Electoral Commission shall proceed to count the votes cast in person which will be added to those votes cast electronically.

The persons elected will form the Council of the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry for the period March 2025 to March 2027. 

SERVICES PROVIDERS ECONOMIC GROUP (ELECTIONS 2025)

Posted on by Mel Chamber

CANDIDATES FOR ELECTION OF THE EXECUTIVE BOARD OF THE ECONOMIC GROUPS AND COUNCIL OF THE MALTA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, ENTERPRISE AND INDUSTRY
MARCH 2025 – MARCH 2027

Arrigo Alan

Alan has been actively involved in supporting Malta’s tourism industry through his roles on the Board of Management and Council of the Malta Chamber and as a former Chairperson of the Tourism Operators Business Section. He is passionate about promoting quality experiences within a sustainable tourism framework with broad experience across tourism, hospitality, and transport, he is committed to fostering strategic growth, innovation, and a more competitive, sustainable future for Malta’s economy. Alan has been involved in his family’s business, Robert Arrigo & Sons, which has been a leading player in the Maltese tourism industry for several decades.

Attard Kevin

Kevin Attard, the sole owner and Managing Director of Customs and Freight Agency Limited, K Shipping Agency Limited, and Seba Ltd, all part of Attard Holdings, established in 1995.  He partners with the international trailer transport company Passalacqua Trasporti and C srl. With over 30 years of experience in the shipping, logistics, and customs brokerage industries, Kevin pioneered customs brokerage services in Malta and has successfully managed various high-profile projects. He holds ISO 9001 certifications and continues to lead innovative solutions within the industry. Kevin has also served as an acting Philippine Honorary Consul General to Malta for 4 years and as Vice President of Santa Lucian Football Club. He is committed to supporting the Malta Chamber’s goals.

Bonnici Rebecca

Rebecca Bonnici is the CEO of BELS, a pair of English language schools in Malta and Gozo. With a strong background in business development, she has actively contributed to Malta’s tourism and education sectors. She has served on The Malta Chamber Tourism Operators Committee for two years, advocating for industry growth and innovation. Rebecca is also a board member of the Malta Tourism Authority and an active participant in international education networks. Passionate about sustainable business practices and strategic partnerships, she is committed to driving positive change and strengthening the voice of service providers in Malta.

Busutill Delbridge Chris

Christopher Busuttil Delbridge is the Managing Director of Evolve Ltd, part of Attard & Co group. He has built the company from scratch, to a leading trading company in the life science business and transformed it into a professional services provider with projects in 8 countries on 3 continents. 

His visionary approach always challenged the status quo and in his current doctoral studies with Cranfield University in the UK he focused exclusively on SME internationalisation for professional service organisations. Chris has created and chaired a new committee and business section within The Malta Chamber in the past, namely, Quality Committee and the Medical Cannabis Operators. He is also the Chamber representative on the Post-Doc research scheme award. 

Cremona Thomas

Thomas Cremona is a professional accountant specialising in exit planning and M&A. His career spans from working with the Big Four to founding and selling his own company to a listed entity. Committed to fostering business excellence, he champions a collaborative eco-system that supports start-ups, executive development, and mature enterprises. He advocates for smaller, more adaptive government that listens to and responds to the evolving needs of Maltese businesses within a broader international eco-system. Thomas’ expertise, strategic vision, and leadership make him a valuable candidate for The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry.

Galea Daniel

With more than a 20-year journey in the aviation industry, driving operational excellence that shaped his career, today Daniel Galea is the Managing Director of easyJet Engineering Malta, which offers an MRO service to the easyJet fleet of approximately 346 aircraft. Daniel holds a master’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Malta and was awarded the Aviation Leader of the Year Award by Malta Aviation Outlook in 2019.

Throughout his career Daniel has held various managerial positions, and was key in the business development and significant growth of the companies he worked for. He commenced his career within aircraft maintenance as a licensed engineer back in 2000. Before joining SR Technics in 2019, he was Chief Operating Officer at Mediterranean Aviation Company Limited (Medavia). Daniel was a visiting lecturer at MCAST’s Aviation, Engineering and Transport Department, where he enjoyed contributing to shaping the upcoming generation of aircraft technicians.

Mifsud Silvan

Silvan holds a degree in Banking and Finance and an MBA from the University of Reading. Silvan has been involved in various sectors of the economy holding various managerial and directorship roles.  He is presently a Director for Advisory Services at EMCS, whereby he specialises in economic and business advisory to various family businesses. Silvan is the Chairperson of the Family Business Committee and a Council member within The Malta Chamber.  He writes a weekly economic analysis column on the Malta Business Weekly. Silvan represents The Malta Chamber on the Retail Price Index Advisory Committee and supports The Malta Chamber with various economic analysis and input.

Spiteri Bailey William

William Spiteri Bailey, a Certified Public Accountant and registered auditor, serves as an independent Non-Executive Chairman and Director and consultant to Boards, Practices, and Family Businesses. A retired partner of a Big 8 Firm, he currently holds the position of Vice President of The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise, and Industry. Additionally, he is a past president of the Malta Institute of Accountants. William possesses extensive experience in servicing and advising clients across a diverse array of industry sectors. He is a seasoned auditor and proficient Business Development Professional, with a substantial track record of leading Boards, meetings, and Committees.

MANUFACTURERS AND OTHER INDUSTRIES ECONOMIC GROUP (ELECTIONS 2025)

Posted on by Mel Chamber

CANDIDATES FOR ELECTION OF THE EXECUTIVE BOARD OF THE ECONOMIC GROUPS AND COUNCIL OF THE MALTA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, ENTERPRISE AND INDUSTRY
MARCH 2025 – MARCH 2027

Aquilina Norman

Norman Aquilina is the Group Chief Executive of Simonds Farsons Cisk Plc. Mr Aquilina is a former chairman of the Chamber’s Manufacturers and Other Industries Economic Group.  Previously he had the post of Senior Vice-President of the Chamber where he was actively involved in the merger between the Chamber and Federation of Industry (FOI). He also served as chairman of the Chamber’s EU Steering Committee for the years leading up to Malta’s EU accession.  Mr Aquilina is a past president of the Malta Business Bureau.

Azzopardi Aaron

Aaron Azzopardi is a mechanical engineer, graduated in 2006, from the University of Malta, with a master’s degree in engineering management from Brunel University in London. His is also a qualified Six Sigma Black Belt, demonstrating a consistent commitment to process optimization. Aaron started his career with a solid foundation of five years as a design engineer at Methode Electronics, followed by seven years at De La Rue by leading quality, planning, operations, and strategic development, honing expertise across diverse and challenging functions. For the past six years, these skills have served him as a General Manager at Delta Malta Ltd to drive operational excellence and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. In the meantime, Aaron has been actively contributing to the Malta Chamber since April 2021, first in the Electrical and Electronics Business Section, then as a member of the Manufacturing Economic Group (MEG).

Cuschieri Ruben

Ing. Ruben Cuschieri is an Electrical Engineer, having graduated from the University of Malta in 1992.  He has since occupied various management roles in leading local and international companies, gaining vast exposure and experience in the international sphere, particularly in the manufacturing and related industries sector. Over the years, he has also provided consultancy to several local and foreign companies.   Since 2021 he has been heading the setting up of a cutting-edge technology manufacturing company R3Vox Ltd, a leading hydrographic survey equipment company with a global reach, in the role of Managing Director.  Since 2019 he has served as Council Member of the Chamber and for the last two years as the Chairperson of the Manufacturing and other Industries Economic Group.  Ing. Cuschieri also represents The Malta Chamber on the Board of Directors of Indis (Malta) Ltd, Jobs Plus, the Employment Relationships Board and the Low Wage Commission.

Debono Reuben

Reuben Debono joined Maypole Group, a family-run business, as a Non-Executive Director in 2017 and became an Executive Director in 2019. Maypole operates a vertical business model, running a bakery and food factory while selling almost exclusively through its branded retail shops. As a Certified Public Accountant and Auditor (FCCA) and MBA holder, Reuben contributed to shaping the Group’s strategy, supporting business development, and overseeing Finance, IT, and HR. He has been fortunate to play a role in strengthening the company’s direction and operations, ensuring its continued growth while staying true to its family values and commitment to quality.

Reuben is interested in joining the Manufacturers and Other Industries Economic Group of The Malta Chamber because the Chamber is a prestigious institution that plays a crucial role in voicing business concerns and shaping the economic landscape. As an Executive Director at Maypole Group, he understands the challenges and opportunities faced by manufacturers, particularly those operating within a vertical business model. With his experience in strategy, finance, and governance, he believes he can contribute to policy formulation that supports sustainable growth, strengthens the sector, and ensures that businesses remain competitive while upholding high standards of quality and innovation.

Muscat Brian

Managing Director at Multi Packaging Limited, manufacturers of corrugated board and boxes and a subsidiary of the M. Demajo Group.

Brian Muscat has been working in the manufacturing sector for the past 36 years. He began his career at Playmobil Malta in 1988, spending a decade in the Printing and Sub-contracting departments before transitioning to Multi Packaging Ltd in 2006 as Operations Manager. In 2013, he was promoted to General Manager and currently serves as Managing Director.

In 2015, he was co-opted as a member of the Manufacturers and Other Economic Group within The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry. He was elected as a Council Member and Chairperson of the same group in 2021. In 2023, he was elected to the Council and also appointed as a Board of Management Officer. He represents The Malta Chamber as a Director on the boards of Malta Enterprise, the Malta Business Bureau, and the Foundation for the Promotion of Entrepreneurial Initiatives.

Since 2019, Mr. Muscat has served as Chairperson of the Bulebel Industrial Estate Tenants Association (BIETA), advocating for the interests of businesses within the estate.

Scerri Etienne

Etienne Scerri is a dedicated family man and entrepreneur with extensive experience across manufacturing, aviation, pharma, hospitality, and education. As the Executive Director of Silvercraft Products Ltd., a leading fiberglass composite manufacturer in Malta, he is committed to innovation and industry growth. Passionate about the manufacturing sector, Etienne advocates for quality and efficient employment and aims to develop further its reputation through his support of The Malta Chamber. He strongly believes in the untapped talent within the industry, emphasizing the need to harness these strengths for future success in this economic group. He is also spearheading a spin-off project on composite transmission poles in collaboration with the University of Malta. Beyond business, Etienne is deeply involved in community service, contributing as a committee member of Puttinu Cares Foundation and mentoring pre-marriage couples with his wife through Cana Movement.

Seifert Philipp

Philipp joined Seifert Systems, the family business founded by his grandfather and now led by his father, in 2018. Today Philipp serves as the General Manager for Seifert Malta. Philipp is a graduate in Management and Economics from the Isenberg School of Management, University of Massachusetts, Amherst. Over the past 2 years, Philipp was an elected member of the Council of The Malta Chamber, Chairman of the German Maltese Business Council, director at the Malta Business Bureau, and member of the National Productivity Board. Focus areas include sustainability in industry and Malta’s role as a manufacturing hub.

IMPORTERS, DISTRIBUTORS AND RETAILERS ECONOMIC GROUP (ELECTIONS 2025)

Posted on by Mel Chamber

CANDIDATES FOR ELECTION OF THE EXECUTIVE BOARD OF THE ECONOMIC GROUPS AND COUNCIL OF THE MALTA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, ENTERPRISE AND INDUSTRY
MARCH 2025 – MARCH 2027

Bajada Mark

Mark Bajada is an accomplished entrepreneur with over 35 years of experience. As the founder of The Bajada Lyons Group, he has pioneered renewable energy solutions in Malta, developing 14 solar farms through Bajada New Energy. His leadership has expanded the group into healthcare (Lyons Care, Casa Paola), engineering (Proenergy), hospitality (Palazzo Ignazio), and innovation (Connected Care, Digital Brain, MyMama, GRNR). Awarded the 2022 EY Entrepreneur of the Year, Mark is known for being mindful and driven by the purpose of doing things right—not just for financial gain. He serves as Vice President of The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry, advises on key councils, and has participated as an investor in all three editions of Shark Tank Malta.

Buttigieg Vella Alistair

Alistair Buttigieg Vella’s engagement with The Malta Chamber began in 2020. In 2021 he was given the opportunity to serve as Chairperson for the Young Chamber Network during the presidency of Ms. Marisa Xuereb, where a balance structure between network and educational events was created allowing for more tangible and meaningful interaction with the younger members.  Alistair is also a member of the Family Business Committee and has been a member of the German Maltese Business Committee for the past two presidencies which this year resulted in the culmination of the first trade mission to Munich, Germany, assisting businesses to navigate the waters Germany.

Professionally Alistair has been Director and CEO for Universal Industrial Expertise Limited and Jetho Limited since 2019. Both companies through consultancy, supply and hands on servicing assist the industry by providing solutions in various aspects of their operations.

Mifsud Marcel K.

Marcel K. Mifsud is a business consultant with extensive experience in the healthcare, pharmaceutical, and retail sectors. Previously a co-owner and company director of a family business established in 1973 and sold in 2023, he has a deep understanding of market access, business development, regulatory frameworks, and good governance.

He serves as Chairperson of the Importers, Distributors, and Retailers Economic Group within The Malta Chamber, where he advocates for the sector’s interests and contributes to shaping policies that impact importers, distributors, and retailers. Marcel is also committed to promoting good governance, ethical business practices, and regulatory compliance to ensure a fair and competitive market environment. With over 35 years of engagement in The Malta Chamber, including leadership roles in the Healthcare Business Section and the Medical Devices Task Force, Marcel continues to play a key role in addressing industry challenges and fostering business growth in Malta.

Rapinett Kevin

Kevin J. Rapinett was appointed Group Chief Executive Officer of Halmann Vella Group plc in March 2020, following a rewarding 33-year career in the banking and finance industry. Throughout his journey, he held senior positions at HSBC Bank Malta p.l.c., including Head of Global Markets and Investment Banking, Managing Director and Stockbroker of HSBC Stockbrokers (Malta) Ltd, and Head of Wholesale Credit Risk and Deputy Chief Risk Officer. In 2012, Kevin was appointed Head of Corporate Banking, during which time he was also seconded to HSBC Commercial Banking in London. Beyond his executive roles, Kevin actively participates in the business community. He has been a member of the Council of the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry for the past four years and a member of its Board of Management for the past two years. Additionally, he serves as a non-executive director on several corporate boards.

Spiteri Paris Nick

Nick Spiteri Paris has been CEO of Bigbon Group since May 2021, bringing with him over 15 years of experience in fashion retail. He has played a pivotal role in expanding the company’s footprint and driving operational excellence.

With expertise in operations, marketing, human resources, and property management, Nick has a deep understanding of franchising and market dynamics, positioning Bigbon Group in the forefront of Malta’s retail sector. Leading a team of over 200 employees, he oversees the operations of top fashion brands while championing seamless omnichannel experiences and retail innovation. His leadership is built on practical innovation, talent development, and a dynamic workplace culture that fosters adaptability and success.

Zammit Cutajar Sarah

Sarah Zammit Cutajar joined P. Cutajar & Co Ltd in 1995, working her way up to CEO through dedication, leadership, and a commitment to excellence. Passionate about strategic growth and innovation, Sarah strives to foster professionalism and strong values across the organization. Her role has also led her to serve on other boards, including BCRS and GreenPak COOP. Sarah is driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact, embracing new challenges and opportunities that contribute to progress and sustainable growth. With a forward-thinking mindset, she is always eager to explore initiatives that create lasting impact.

Zammit La Rosa Christina

With a background in psychology and business, Christina Zammit La Rosa brings a unique, people-first approach to strategy and decision-making. As an importer and retailer, she understands the evolving challenges of the industry, from sustainability to digital transformation. Her experience in fostering and parenthood has strengthened her adaptability, problem-solving, and empathy—qualities essential for effective leadership. Having successfully navigated market shifts, including the COVID-19 crisis, Christina is committed to advocating for innovative, resilient, and forward-thinking solutions for the sector. She looks forward to contributing her insights to support the interests of importers, retailers, and distributors.

BOV opens first financial well-being centre in Gozo

Posted on by Mel Chamber

Bank of Valletta’s former Agency in Ta’ Sannat has been renovated and transformed into a fully-fledged Financial Well-being Centre, with a refreshed look and an exclusive, personal and welcoming environment.

The official launch of the new Financial Well-being Centre at Ta’ Sannat follows the opening of the first such Centre in Floriana last summer. It adopts the same holistic approach to service delivery, with customers able to apply for new products and services in an environment that offers full privacy and comfort. Services offered by the Centre include personal loans, home loans, insurance and investment products, financial planning and retirement planning.

During the official opening, Bank of Valletta CEO, Kenneth Farrugia spoke about the Bank’s commitment to continue strengthening its services in Gozo. “The opening of the Financial Well-being Centre in Gozo builds on the success achieved by our Floriana outlet. This new Centre continues to drive our level of service upwards to meet the high levels that our customers have come to expect from us. From this location in Ta’ Sannat, we can now offer our customers residing in Gozo the privacy and flexibility necessary to help them meet their financial goals. Introducing further service enhancements to the Gozitan community is an integral part of our strategy. Apart from this new Centre, we also introduced a new ATM, bringing the total number of ATMs in Gozo to nine.”

BOV Chief Personal and Wealth Officer, Mr Simon Azzopardi encouraged the Bank’s customers in Gozo to take full advantage of the newly opened Financial Well-being Centre. “We understand that on a small island like Gozo, nowhere is too far. The Ta’ Sannat Financial Well-being Centre can easily be reached and is a great place to act as a one-stop shop for all our customers residing in Gozo. While our main Branch in Victoria and the Agencies in Nadur, Xagħra and Xewkija will keep offering customers day-to-day services, Ta’ Sannat will cater for service by appointment. Customers can choose to be served by the Relationship Officer they are accustomed to but opt to specifically meet at one of the meeting rooms in this newly refurbished Centre, privately and confidentially during their preferred time slot.”

Apart from the new ATM in Ta’ Sannat, the Bank also introduced another deposit-taking ATM in Xagħra. The Bank now has nine ATMs located in Victoria, Mġarr, Marsalforn, Nadur, Xagħra, Xewkija and Ta’ Sannat.

Together with the CEO and the Chief Personal and Wealth Officer, present for the official opening, were Chief Commercial Officer Mr Simon Grech and Ta’ Sannat Mayor Mr Philip Vella.