FOR Cardiff was proud to sponsor this year’s CBI Wales Annual Lunch, held at the Parkgate Hotel in Cardiff on 1 May 2025. The event brought together over 200 business leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders to mark the CBI’s 60th anniversary and explore the future of business in Wales.
As part of the event, Carolyn Brownell, Executive Director of FOR Cardiff, joined a panel discussion with First Minister Eluned Morgan MS, Joshua Western (CEO, Space Forge), and Tracy Black (Chief Commercial Officer, CBI). The conversation focused on the key challenges facing Welsh businesses and how the Welsh Government can work in partnership with industry to drive growth and innovation.
Carolyn used the opportunity to highlight the unique opportunities and challenges faced by businesses operating in Cardiff city centre. She called for targeted, place-based investment and a collaborative approach to ensure that central Cardiff can thrive as a commercial and cultural hub.
“It was fantastic to be part of such a timely and important discussion,” said Carolyn. “We know the potential that Cardiff holds — but we also know the pressures our businesses are under. We need meaningful support, bold investment, and strong partnerships between the public and private sectors to unlock that potential.”
The First Minister emphasised the need to shift global perceptions of Wales and promote it as a modern, dynamic economy — with strengths in renewable energy, digital, life sciences, and the creative industries.
FOR Cardiff remains committed to championing the needs of the city’s business community and ensuring that Cardiff continues to be a vibrant, inclusive, and prosperous place to work, live, and invest.