British Credit Unions Attend Record-Breaking World Credit Union Conference 2025

Friday 18 July 2025

The 2025 World Credit Union Conference (WCUC) concluded this week in Stockholm, Sweden, marking the largest European-based WCUC to date with over 2,000 participants from 55 countries. The conference brought together credit union leaders, professionals, and advocates from around the world for four days of collaboration, insight-sharing, and inspiration.

Representing Great Britain’s credit unions on the global stage, ABCUL Chief Executive Matt Bland and President Paul Norgrove were among those invited to speak at this landmark event.

For Matt, it was his first time attending WCUC as Chief Executive of ABCUL. Reflecting on the week, he said: “It was an honour to attend for the first time as ABCUL’s Chief Executive alongside so many dedicated colleagues from across GB. This conference was a fantastic opportunity to showcase our sector, build relationships, and learn from the rich diversity and innovation within the global credit union community.”

Matt took part in a session alongside Robin Fieth, CEO of the Building Societies Association, focusing on the newly formed Mutual and Cooperative Business Council.. Matt spoke about the opportunities and successes in uniting organisations under a shared vision – grounded in trust, values, and common purpose.

Meanwhile, ABCUL President Paul Norgrove contributed to a well-received session focused on advancing professionals and leaders in the credit union sector – a topic close to his heart as founder and former Chair of ABCUL’s Young Professionals Network. Drawing on his personal experience, Paul shared how credit unions can better support emerging talent and create inclusive pathways into leadership.

The conference featured over 30 keynote and breakout sessions with more than 50 speakers, covering vital topics such as regulatory innovation, responsible finance, and youth leadership. Among the highlights was a compelling closing keynote from Eric Termuende, who offered a vision for leadership and culture in the new world of work.

“Huge thanks to WOCCU’s CEO & President, Paul Treinen and the entire World Council of Credit Unions team for hosting such a well-organised, engaging, and inspiring event,” Matt added. “Their hard work and dedication made WCUC 2025 a true success.”

As WCUC 2025 draws to a close, the global credit union movement looks ahead to its next gathering in Australia in 2026.