Fife Chamber of Commerce says it is proud to mark a major milestone as it celebrates its 200th anniversary – two centuries of championing the region’s business community, driving economic growth, and bringing organisations of all sizes together. Founded in 1825, the Chamber has played a pivotal role in shaping Fife’s commercial landscape, supporting businesses through industrial change, global shifts, and periods of challenge and opportunity.
The Chamber will be marking the historic occasion with a special 200th Anniversary Dinner, on Friday 30th January 2026 at the Fairmont, St. Andrew, that will bring members, partners and supporters together to honour the Chamber’s legacy and look ahead to its next chapter.
Jamie Smith-Anderson, Smith Anderson Group Ltd, one of our oldest members who will be attending said,
“Smith Anderson Group Ltd have been active members of Fife Chamber of Commerce for many decades. The family run paper mill and packaging business, established in 1859, began its membership at Fettykil Paper Mill, based in Leslie and has maintained a close bond through a transition to a Falkland factory and finally the Kirkcaldy site at Rosslyn Commerce Park. As the UK’s largest paper bag supplier, now employing 250 locals, producing over 10 million paper bags every day. It has always been important for Smith Anderson to engage with and give back to the local communities in which it operates, both in commercial and social terms.
“A good chamber delivers value for its members, a great chamber provides the basis for enhanced profit in a way that also benefits a member company, within its own community.
“Smith Anderson remain very happy to support Fife Chamber of Commerce, a great chamber in so many ways. Congratulations on 200 fabulous years.”
The Chamber is delighted to confirm Gordon Smart as the host of the 200th Anniversary Dinner. Gordon is a respected journalist, broadcaster, and presenter, known for his sharp wit, warm presence, and distinguished career spanning print, TV, and radio. With a background that includes senior editorial roles and high-profile presenting work, Gordon brings a dynamic mix of professionalism and personality, setting the tone for an unforgettable evening.
Joining Gordon Smart on stage are two exceptional keynote speakers whose stories of resilience and innovation will take centre stage.
Sean Rose was involved in a freak skiing accident that left him paralysed from the ribs down in February 2000, while serving in the Royal Air Force. Despite the huge challenges that followed, he developed simple but powerful mental strategies to help him rebuild, refocus, and chase dreams many thought impossible. Since then, Sean has lived an extraordinary life – becoming a three-time World Disabled Water Ski Champion, Britain’s first World Cup Gold Medal Alpine Ski Racer, Winter X Games medallist, Double Winter Paralympian, and the world’s first Disabled Snow Kite Adventurer. He’s also a licensed pilot, TV presenter, business owner, and a sought-after guest speaker.
With honesty, humour, and heart, Sean will share how we can all overcome the “Speed Bumps of Life” – and turn setbacks into incredible journeys filled with purpose, passion, and possibility.
The Chamber will also welcome Dex Hunter-Torricke, one of the world’s leading thinkers on AI and society, with two decades of experience at the intersection of technology and global power. His career includes key roles advising top leaders, including Elon Musk at SpaceX, Mark Zuckerberg at Facebook, and Eric Schmidt as Google’s first executive speechwriter. Most recently, he rebooted global communications for Google DeepMind and launched Gemini, the world’s most powerful AI system. He is a New York Times-bestselling ghostwriter and frequent public speaker, and Advisor to the Hunter Foundation in Scotland.
A Night Designed to Inspire and Celebrate
The 200th Anniversary Dinner will bring together business leaders, partners, and community stakeholders for an evening that reflects on two centuries of commerce and collaboration in Fife – while looking confidently toward what lies ahead. Guests will enjoy a premium dining experience, thought-provoking keynote sessions, and the opportunity to connect with peers from across the region and beyond.
Tickets Now On Sale
Local business owners are being encouraged to join the special event and be part of shaping the future of Fife’s business community.
Tickets can be secured now via the Fife Chamber website.
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