London International Shipping Week (LISW) has grown within little more than a decade into one of the most influential events on the maritime calendar. First staged in 2013, it now brings together thousands of participants, more than 300 events, and international delegations from across the globe. The week positions London as a central hub for maritime finance, regulation, and strategic dialogue.
In the latest episode of HANSA.newscast, Janne Silden speaks with the two founders, Sean Moloney and Llewellyn Bankes-Hughes, about how the concept took shape and why it has become a global success story. Both recall the early skepticism after the financial crisis — and how calling in favours, building partnerships, and insisting on London’s role as a maritime cluster laid the foundation for the event’s rapid rise.
Unlike traditional trade fairs, LISW does not revolve around exhibitions. Its focus is on thought leadership, high-level networking, and government-to-industry engagement. This unique format has made it a magnet for policymakers and decision-makers alike.
For 2025, discussions will centre on geopolitics, decarbonisation, digitalisation, crew welfare, and innovation. Delegations from Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa are expected, alongside bilateral meetings with UK government departments. Social highlights such as the gala dinner and after party ensure LISW remains both a serious platform and a place for genuine connection.
As Moloney and Bankes-Hughes emphasize, LISW has become more than a UK initiative: it is now a stage where the international shipping community comes together to shape the industry’s future.
LISW 2025 takes place from 15–19 September 2025. The full programme is available at lisw.com.
