catalonia Archives - Barcelona Catalonia

Barcelona is the eighth most attractive city in the world to work

Posted on 4 de December de 20243 de December de 2024 by Barcelona Catalonia

The Barcelona Observatory 2023, an initiative of the Barcelona City Council and the Barcelona Chamber of Commerce, has certified that the city remains among the top cities in the world for professionals and entrepreneurs to live, work or establish a start-up.

According to the Observatory, which compiles data from various benchmark global reports, including Decoding Global Talent 2024, World’s Best Cities Report 2024 and Global Power City Index, among others, Barcelona is the eighth most attractive city in the world to work (ahead of Tokyo, Los Angeles and Paris) and tenth in the world for digital and tech professionals.

In this sense, the Barcelona Observatory 2023 shows that the Catalan capital has consolidated its place as one of the leading cities in tech, science and research.

Additionally, Barcelona is ranked eighth in the world and third in Europe for entrepreneurs, professionals and residents, is among the top 25 cities in global competitiveness and eleventh on the European ranking, ahead of Brussels, Geneva and Milan.

Finally, looking at foreign investment, Barcelona had the best strategy to attract foreign investment projects for the third year in a row, according to the FDi Cities and Regions of the Future 2024FDi Cities and Regions of the Future 2024 report, ahead of London and Berlin.

The Observatory has become a reference for measuring Barcelona’s competitiveness and its business, innovation and cultural fabric. The study aims to provide benchmarks for institutions and multinational corporations interested in doing business or setting up in Barcelona, and to attract talent and support bids to host events or open headquarters in the city.

Catalan exports up 3.4% year-on-year in September

Posted on 4 de December de 20243 de December de 2024 by Barcelona Catalonia

Catalan exports rose 3.4% year-on-year in September, recovering from the 7.3% drop in August and marking the second highest figure for the month of September, according to data published recently by the Spanish Ministry of Industry, Trade and Tourism. In total, Catalonia sold goods abroad valued at €8.0898 billion.

This increase was mainly due to the good results in the capital goods and chemicals sectors. On the other hand, however, the food and automotive sectors sold less abroad. In any case, from January to September, exports were still down 2.9% year-on-year, with €74.1829 billion. It should be noted that the automotive sector experienced a noteworthy drop in exports, down 16.1% to €1.0018 billion.

By sectors, chemicals (up 6.7% to €2.3692 billion) remained the biggest exporter. Overall, the sector with the most growth in sales abroad was capital goods, up 11.9% in exports for €1.3336 billion. The increase in sales abroad of energy products is also worth noting, with €413.8 million (+57.2%).

Looking at cumulative sales for 2024 between January and September, the sector with the most exports was also chemicals (€22.4876 billion), while food and beverages, up 2.4%, was ranked second with €11.3589 billion in exports.

Barcelona’s ICFO to lead €380 million European project to create photonic chips

Posted on 4 de December de 20243 de December de 2024 by Barcelona Catalonia

The Institute of Photonic Sciences (ICFO) will lead and coordinate the PIXEurope programme across the continent. This programme aims to boost creation of photonic chips and make Europe a global leader. The project, promoted by the European Commission, is endowed with €380 million and will bring unique technological capacities to the industry, creating European-owned technology in a sector that is extremely important for technological sovereignty.

In this regard, the global market for photonic chips (PIC) will grow more than 400% over the next 10 years and the global photonics market will hit more than €1.5 billion. This impressive growth is due to the incessant and growing demand for these devices for various applications in the telecommunications, artificial intelligence, automotive and mobility sectors, as well as medicine and healthcare, defence and security, plus a wide range of consumer goods.

The European Commission, which has selected this programme as its 5th pilot line, has chosen ICFO to coordinate it on a continental level, with a consortium that will include organisations from Austria, Belgium, Finland, France, Ireland, Italy, Poland, Portugal, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. Leading this Photonics Chip Pilot Line will attract talent to Catalonia and boost business competitiveness.

ICFO is a research centre that belongs to the Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), founded by the Government of Catalonia and the Polytechnic University of Catalonia (UPC). It is located at the Mediterranean Technology Park and currently has more than 500 people working in 26 research groups in 80 cutting-edge labs.

Chinese firm Shining 3D opens Southern Europe headquarters in DFactory Barcelona

Posted on 4 de December de 20243 de December de 2024 by Barcelona Catalonia

This year, Shining 3D, which specialises in research and development of high-precision 3D digitalisation technologies and 3D printing, focusing on three areas (metrology, professional 3D scanning and digital dental tools) has joined the DFactory Barcelonaglobal benchmark industry 4.0 ecosystem promoted by the Consorci de la Zona Franca de Barcelona (CZFB).

The multinational corporation, founded in 2004 and based in China, has consolidated its place as a key stakeholder in 3D digital technology, with global influence and a commitment to spreading the use of digitalisation technologies. The company has more than 1,000 professionals on staff around the world, with strategic headquarters in China, Germany and the United States, so far.

DFactory Barcelona continues working toward the goal of becoming the factory of the future, encouraging and developing industry 4.0, new talent and new technologies and investment, in an unparalleled location, with technologies such as 3D printing, robotics, cybersecurity, blockchain and artificial intelligence. Its facilities are roughly 17,000 m², home to nearly 30 companies, and it expects to add 72,000 m² more in the coming years to house 1,500 direct employees and 5,000 indirect ones.

Former Nissan plant in Barcelona reactivated to make first Ebro model

Posted on 4 de December de 20243 de December de 2024 by Barcelona Catalonia

Ebro has recently relaunched production at the former Nissan factory, where the last vehicle came off the line in December 2021. The company aims to become a benchmark in the automotive sector in Spain and Europe. EV Motors has chosen to relaunch the historical Ebro brand, which disappeared in 1987.

Three years ago, EV Motors and Chinese multinational corporation Chery signed a deal giving the Chinese company control of 40% of EV Motors to reactivate the facilities, which will initially manufacture the S700, a 4.5-metre long SUV. Then Ebro will start manufacturing a second model, the S800, and in the last quarter of 2025, the Omoda 5.

In mid-2025, the company expects to have three shifts up and running with 350 workers. And in 2026, Ebro will reach its commitment to the administrations and trade unions to employ 1,250 former Nissan employees.

In a first phase, the vehicles will arrive in parts and be assembled at the plant, which is known as CKD assembly. The factory expects to manufacture nearly 1,400 vehicles in 2024 and more than 30,000 in 2025.

Barcelona Supercomputing Center (BSC) to develop next-generation supercomputers

Posted on 4 de December de 20243 de December de 2024 by Barcelona Catalonia

The Barcelona Supercomputing Center (BSC) will be part of a partnership with NEC Corporation, a Japanese multinational electronics and information technology corporation, and Openchip, a public-private engineering company based in the Catalan capital. Their goal is to develop a new vector computing accelerator for use in supercomputing data centres.

With this partnership, the BSC is taking another big step forward. Some months ago, the centre launched the MareNostrum 5 supercomputer, which is the largest investment Europe has ever made in a scientific facility in Spain, with a total cost of €202 million. The new vector computing processor will benefit from the Barcelona Supercomputing Center’s design experience and NEC Corporation’s leadership in supercomputing architectures.

Additionally, it is important to note the Barcelona Supercomputing Center’s role in developing artificial intelligence. Currently, the top supercomputing research centres are the ones using artificial intelligence to tackle problems that would otherwise be impossible to resolve.

The Barcelona Supercomputing Center-Centre Nacional de Supercomputació is a public consortium of the Spanish Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities, Government of Catalonia and Polytechnic University of Catalonia. Founded in 2004, it now has more than a thousand employees and offers supercomputing facilities and services.

Swiss dermatology multinational corporation Galderma establishes European ICT and research centre in Barcelona

Posted on 4 de December de 20243 de December de 2024 by Barcelona Catalonia

Galderma has established the offices for its Global Capacity Centre in the Colonial building on Avinguda Diagonal in Barcelona. The new facilities, with 1,500 square metres of space, will support business growth in its areas of activity, including research and development (R&D) and ICT, among others.

This space will also be used as a centre to attract and manage talent in the group globally, this Swiss multinational corporation’s only one in Europe. Roughly 150 people will work at the centre and Barcelona was chosen for the city’s ecosystem of start-ups, ability to attract highly educated local talent and quality of life.

Galderma has three lines of business: therapeutic dermatology, injectable aesthetics and dermatological skincare. The company has more than 6,500 professionals on staff, is present in 100 countries and has factories in Canada, Sweden, France and Brazil, where it produces more than 300 million product units each year.

The decision to establish this centre in Barcelona reinforces the city’s position as a hub for foreign companies in the life sciences sector, which is highly strategic and currently makes up 8% of the Catalan GDP.

Record number of foreign companies established in Catalonia: over 9,600

Posted on 18 de November de 2024 by Barcelona Catalonia

Nearly 350 new multinational corporations have come to Catalonia in the past year, up 3.7%, for a new record of foreign companies established here: 9,602. These figures were published recently by ACCIÓ, the public agency for business competitiveness that has been working to attract foreign investment and help Catalan companies abroad for the past 40 years.

It is important to highlight, in this regard, that the number of new foreign companies arriving has increased 68% over the past ten years, and the figures show this growth has been steady and even accelerated in the past decade. These companies generate one in ten jobs in Catalonia, 30% of turnover and 47% of exports.

If we look at the turnover of these foreign companies by sector, the most noteworthy are automotive (17%), food and beverages (11%) and chemicals (9%). Nevertheless, by number of companies, technology makes up more than 20% of the total, as Barcelona is a hub that attracts many multinational corporations in this sector.

On the other hand, looking at country of origin, the largest share of subsidiaries established in Catalonia are from the United States (15%), followed by France (14%), Germany (12%), the United Kingdom (10%) and Italy (8%). In total, more than 90 countries are represented by companies established in the region. US and French companies have the strongest growth, 6% per year, although they are behind the notable growth of Canadian companies (12%).

The presentation of the Report highlighted that Catalonia, as a generator of talent, has traditionally been a country open to foreign investment that contributes to the people’s wellbeing by creating quality jobs, green energy and international connections, and they are spread throughout the territory. A good part of the projects identified for future investment are associated with the green and digital economies.

Real estate investment in Barcelona recovers, hitting €1.5 billion for year through September

Posted on 18 de November de 2024 by Barcelona Catalonia

Real estate investment in Barcelona continues its progressive recovery and hit more than €1.5 billion for the months between January and September, which is 12% higher than the same period in 2023. These figures are from real estate consultancy CBRE.

By sectors, hotels secured €141 million in investment in the third quarter of this year for €426 million so far this year. This figure, however, is 21% less than the same period for 2023 and 12% under the average for the past 10 years. Nevertheless, Barcelona has consolidated its place as a preferred destination for hotel investment, with 25% of the national total.

Next we have the living sector, with a 25% share of the Catalan market and €377 million so far this year, up 29% from 2023. The consultancy attributes this to a boom in halls of residence for students, with €276 million, or more than double the amount in 2023. This sector continues dominating due to the lack of supply to meet growing demand.

Additionally, the office sector has consolidated its place with the third-highest investment, €357 million, up 44% from last year, while the retail sector saw €90 million, up from €76 million in 2023. Finally, the industrial and logistics sector posted €80 million, far below the €199 million invested in the same period the previous year.

Catalonia now has 340 deep tech start-ups, 6% more than last year

Posted on 18 de November de 2024 by Barcelona Catalonia

Catalonia has 340 deep tech start-ups, 6% more than last year, according to a study carried out by the Catalan Government through the public agency for business competitiveness ACCIÓ. Deep tech companies have roots in science, technology or engineering and require STEM expertise to address global challenges.

In this regard, Catalan deep tech start-ups currently have 2,735 employees (up 17% from 2023) and turnover of €166 million (up 3%). Compared to the data from the first edition of the study published two years ago, the number of deep tech start-ups has grown roughly 17%, but their turnover is up 34% and number of employees, 58%.

According to the study, deep tech firms make up 16% of the Catalan start-up ecosystem. They mainly work in biotechnology (37%), artificial intelligence (28%), sustainable and frontier materials (11%), clean energy and batteries (6%) and robotics (6%). Other fields that stand out include photonics, blockchain, supercomputing, semiconductors and quantum physics.

Finally, the ACCIÓ study shows that Barcelona is the top hub in southern Europe in funding secured for deep tech start-ups, with €544 million between 2019 and 2024. In Europe as a whole, the Catalan capital is ranked ahead of Copenhagen, Madrid and Amsterdam, among others.

Catalan economy grows 0.9% in third quarter and year-on-year GDP is up 3.8%

Posted on 18 de November de 2024 by Barcelona Catalonia

The Catalan GDP grew 0.9% in the third quarter of 2024, showing solid growth of 3.8% year-on-year. This is 0.4% higher than the Spanish economy as a whole for the same period (3.4%). This data is from the Statistical Institute of Catalonia (Idescat).

This growth in the GDP for the third quarter is due to positive results in all sectors, particularly services (4.4%) and industry (4.3%). Additionally, construction is up 2.9% and agriculture continues with its recovery that started earlier this year, up 14.4%.

Regarding the services sector, its growth has been thanks to the hospitality sector, followed by retail, computer services, legal services, transport services, motor-vehicle sales and insurance services. In terms of industry, growth is mainly from the pharmaceutical and food and beverages industries.

Chinese AI company Coovally establishes European headquarters in Barcelona

Posted on 18 de November de 2024 by Barcelona Catalonia

The Chinese company Coovally, which specialises in artificial intelligence (AI) services, has opened its new European headquarters in Barcelona. From here, the firm aims to expand business throughout Europe and into Latin America. The Coovally central headquarters was previously located in Vienna.

The company, founded in Shanghai in 2021, has a support platform for companies and individuals interested in adding artificial intelligence to their processes. Their services help accelerate implementation of projects that use AI and boost the company’s productivity in carrying them out, with solutions such as automated data management and internal processes.

Coovally explained they have chosen Barcelona for its great connections with other markets in the world, growing ecosystem of start-ups and large corporations, and capacity to generate and attract all sorts of talent.

Cargo traffic through Port of Barcelona up 11.3% for the year through September, with more than 53 million tonnes

Posted on 18 de November de 2024 by Barcelona Catalonia

The total traffic through the Port of Barcelona was more than 53 million tonnes from January through September, up 11.3%. Container traffic is noteworthy, with nearly three million TEU, up 21.4% from the same period last year.

In this regard, liquid bulk cargo continues to post good results, with 10.5 million tonnes, up 11.2%. Additionally, the number of ITU (intermodal transport units) has increased 2.6% for a total of 328,918 lorries and trailers. The number of new vehicles, 509.255 units, continues to decrease (-13.8%), reflecting the state of the European automotive market.

On the other hand, a total of 4,317,304 passengers travelled through the Port of Barcelona between January and September, up 4.2% from the same period last year. Ferries had 1.4 million passengers (1.1%) and cruise ships, 2.8 million (6%).

Port of Barcelona traffic with the main markets has increased for both imports and exports. It is important to remember that the port facility generates €4.213 billion in gross value added (GVA), which is 2% of the GVA of Catalonia and 0.4% of Spain.

First year of Norrsken House Barcelona with over 140 start-ups, 250 companies and 20 accelerators

Posted on 18 de November de 2024 by Barcelona Catalonia

Swedish non-profit organisation Norrsken is celebrating its first year in Barcelona with a community of 1,200 members. It has consolidated its place as a European technology and impact hub, connecting entrepreneurs with the resources, knowledge and networks they need, and driving businesses that help make this world a better place, according to sources inside the foundation.

Norrsken has emerged as an ecosystem that is already driving the growth of over 140 start-ups and 280 companies, which co-exist with roughly 20 venture capital firms and accelerators. In addition to welcoming 15,000 visitors and hosting 244 events, Norrsken House Barcelona has also become a catalyst for impact initiatives in its first year, raising over €30 million.

The Swedish foundation is now tackling new challenges in Barcelona, including building bridges with the main local entities, such as ACCIÓ and Barcelona Activa, as well as the ecosystems in other major European cities. Their goal is to attract new international investors to the Catalan capital and foster solutions in areas such as climate technology, healthcare, biotechnology and other emerging sectors.

Catalan exports reached a historic peak in July with a growth of 9.4%.

Posted on 1 de October de 2024 by studiogenesis

Catalan exports reached a historic peak in July with a growth of 9.4%

Exports from Catalonia marked a new historical milestone by registering an increase of 9.4% in July, according to the latest published data. This growth is a reflection of the solidity of the Catalan productive fabric and its ability to compete in the international market, placing the autonomous community as one of the main economic locomotives in Spain.

Growth factors

Among the factors that have driven this historic peak is the diversification of markets. Catalan companies have expanded their presence in destinations such as Latin America, Asia and Africa, which has made it possible to mitigate the effects of economic slowdown in some European markets. In addition, the increase in investment in innovation and technology has allowed Catalan companies to improve the competitiveness of their products.

Another key element has been the commitment to sustainability and the green economy, which has opened up new business opportunities in emerging markets and in those with a high demand for ecological and sustainable products.

Challenges in the future

Despite the good results, Catalan exports face several challenges. Global inflation, fluctuating energy prices and geopolitical tensions are factors that could affect growth in the coming months. In addition, international competition continues to be fierce, so it will be crucial for Catalan companies to continue investing in innovation, digitalisation, and sustainability in order to maintain their position in the global market.

In conclusion, the historical record of Catalan exports in July is a sign of the strength and competitiveness of the region’s economy. This 9.4% growth shows that Catalonia has been able to adapt to changes in the global market, diversify its markets and products, and bet on innovation, which predicts a promising future for the export sector. However, it will be key to continue to face external challenges with a solid and sustainable strategy.

Equinix opens a new data center in Barcelona with a total investment of 52 million euros.

Posted on 1 de October de 2024 by studiogenesis

Equinix, global leader in digital infrastructure, has opened its first data center in Barcelona, with an investment of 52 million euros. The new center, called BCN1, has been built with the aim of promoting connectivity and digital services in the region, consolidating Barcelona as one of the most important technological hubs in southern Europe.

This data center offers placement, interconnection and connectivity services for local and international companies, especially in the telecommunications, finance, e-commerce and health sectors. The aim is to facilitate the expansion of companies into new global markets thanks to a secure and efficient infrastructure.

Barcelona has been chosen for its strategic position between Europe, Africa and Latin America, as well as for its growing technological ecosystem. According to Charles Meyers, CEO of Equinix, “Barcelona is a key center for digital transformation in Europe, and this center will help boost the digital growth of the region.”

One of the strengths of BCN1 is its commitment to sustainability. The centre uses advanced technologies to minimize energy consumption, with the aim of reducing the carbon footprint and making operations 100% neutral in emissions in the near future.

The construction of this data center has had a positive impact on the local economy, generating numerous jobs. Equinix hopes that BCN1 will become an essential pillar for the digital development of Catalan companies, supporting both large corporations and SMEs that need high-level connectivity services.

With the inauguration of BCN1, Barcelona reinforces its position as a hub of technological attraction, attracting new investments and companies that want to take advantage of digital infrastructures and the innovative environment of the city. This investment by Equinix is added to other technological projects that place Barcelona as a benchmark in the global connectivity map.

The Catalan economy exceeds the average for Spain and the EU in growth in the second quarter.

Posted on 1 de October de 2024 by studiogenesis

The economy of Catalonia has recorded a significant growth during the second quarter of the year, exceeding both the Spanish and European Union average, according to the latest published data. This acceleration of growth consolidates Catalonia’s role as one of the most powerful economic engines in Spain and shows a solid recovery after the impact of the pandemic and other recent global crises.

Growth above average

During this period, Catalan GDP has grown by 3.2% in year-on-year terms, while the average in Spain stood at 2.7%, and that of the EU at around 1.8%. These figures show that the Catalan economy has been able to better withstand international economic uncertainties, driven by key sectors such as industry, services, and tourism.

Economy Minister Natàlia Mas Guix highlighted that this growth is the result of policies focused on innovation, attracting investment and adapting local companies. “Catalonia has shown great resilience and a firm commitment to modernization and digitalization,” said Mas.

Promoting factors

Several factors explain this good progress of the Catalan economy. On the one hand, the export of goods and services has continued to grow at a solid rate, especially thanks to the promotion of sectors such as the automotive industry and the chemical industry. On the other hand, tourism has had a strong recovery, especially in coastal areas and the city of Barcelona, one of the main attractions for international visitors.

In addition, foreign investment has been key, with multiple projects by technology companies that have chosen Catalonia as the basis for their operations in Europe. These investments have helped to create jobs and strengthen emerging sectors such as digital technologies and renewable energies.

Conclusions

The Catalan economy has once again demonstrated its ability to overcome the average growth of Spain and the European Union, driven by dynamic sectors and a clear commitment to modernisation. Despite the challenges, Catalonia remains one of the economic engines of southern Europe, with a solid recovery that places it in a good place to face the challenges of the future.

The blue economy adds up to one thousand companies and 5.5 billion turnover in Catalonia.

Posted on 1 de October de 2024 by studiogenesis

The blue economy, linked to the sustainable exploitation of marine resources, is growing strongly in Catalonia. According to the latest data, this sector already has more than 1,000 companies that generate a total turnover of 5.5 billion euros. This figure consolidates the blue economy as a key piece for the economic and environmental development of the territory.

An expanding sector

The blue economy includes activities such as fishing, aquaculture, coastal tourism, shipbuilding and marine renewable energies. In Catalonia, this sector has not only grown in number of companies, but has also become an important engine for job creation, creating thousands of direct and indirect jobs.

The sustained growth of this sector responds to the growing demand for sustainable solutions and the commitment of companies to the protection of the marine environment. It is also the result of the impulse of the Catalan Government and European institutions, which are committed to developing a green and circular economy.

Opportunities and challenges

The Minister for Climate Action, Food and Rural Agenda, David Mascort, stressed the importance of the blue economy for the sustainability of the region. “We must take advantage of the opportunities offered by this sector, without compromising marine resources,” he said. However, he also pointed out the need to continue investing in technology and innovation to ensure long-term sustainable growth.

With a privileged location in the Mediterranean, Catalonia has great potential to continue leading this sector and generate new economic opportunities linked to the marine environment.

British investment in Catalonia grows with the implementation of 936 companies, 20% more than in 2019.

Posted on 1 de October de 2024 by studiogenesis

British investment in Catalonia has experienced remarkable growth, with 936 companies established, 20% more than in 2019. This increase is significant, especially in the post-Brexit context, where trade relations have been subject to change.

Sectors of Interest

British companies have shown particular interest in several sectors:

Information Technologies: It includes software development, cybersecurity and artificial intelligence.

Renewable energy: Especially in wind and solar energy projects.

Life Sciences: Biotechnology and pharmaceuticals have been key areas for investments.

Economic benefits

This growth has generated more than 15,000 direct jobs and has contributed significantly to Catalan GDP. British companies not only contribute capital, but also knowledge and innovation to the local market.

Futurist perspectives

With a favourable policy towards foreign investment, Catalonia is positioned as an attractive hub for British companies. The Catalan authorities are working to maintain this pace of growth, adapting to global changes and improving the infrastructures necessary to sustain this development.

INCASÒL announces the competition to regularize the cultivated land within the scope of the Gallecs Natural Interest Area Park.

Posted on 1 de October de 2024 by studiogenesis

The Catalan Soil Institute (INCASÒL) has announced the call for a public competition to regularize the farmland within the scope of the Gallecs Natural Interest Area Park. This initiative aims to guarantee the sustainable use of agricultural spaces, while preserving the ecological and landscape value of this protected area, located between several municipalities of the Vallès Oriental.

Protection of the environment and promotion of agriculture

With this call, the INCASÒL aims to establish a legal framework that regulates the use of agricultural land within the park, ensuring that agricultural activity is compatible with the conservation of natural ecosystems. Gallecs is a key space for biodiversity and the preservation of native flora and fauna, but it also has strong agricultural roots, with crops that are part of its landscape and heritage.

The competition allows local farmers to access contracts for the use of land, always under sustainability criteria. The Minister of Territory, Juli Fernandez, stressed that this measure will promote “environment-friendly agriculture, which will contribute to the protection of the area and its natural value”.

A commitment to the territory

The Gallecs Natural Area has been consolidated as an example of coexistence between human activity and the protection of the natural environment. With this contest, INCASÒL reaffirms its commitment to ensuring the balance between the preservation of biodiversity and sustainable rural development, supporting local farmers who contribute to keeping this unique space alive.

The District brings together in Barcelona the main real estate actors with a focus on housing.

Posted on 1 de October de 2024 by studiogenesis

The District, one of the most influential real estate events in Europe, brought together the main actors in the sector this week in Barcelona, with special emphasis on housing problems. The event, held at Fira de Barcelona’s Gran Via venue, has served as a key meeting point for investors, promoters and public administrations, who have discussed the future of the real estate market and investment opportunities in a context of growing demand for affordable housing.

Among the most outstanding participations, Barcelona Catalonia and the Catalan Soil Institute (INCASÒL) have played a fundamental role. Barcelona Catalonia, the brand that brings together the Generalitat, Barcelona City Council and the Barcelona Metropolitan Area for the promotion of the territory as an investment destination, has highlighted the opportunities offered by the city in terms of housing and sustainable urban development. During their interventions, they have highlighted Barcelona’s potential as an attractive hub for investors looking for projects aligned with sustainability and innovation criteria.

INCASÒL, for its part, has presented several initiatives to promote the mobilization of public land with the aim of promoting the construction of affordable housing in Catalonia. With its intervention, the entity has highlighted the importance of public-private collaboration to respond to the growing demand for social housing, especially in densely populated urban areas such as Barcelona. According to INCASÒL managers, the promotion of these projects is already giving tangible results, with the creation of new affordable homes that respond to the needs of the population.

The representatives of Barcelona Catalonia and INCASÒL also stressed that collaboration between the private sector and administrations is key to the transformation of the territory. Sustainability, energy efficiency and social inclusion have positioned themselves as central factors in the new real estate projects promoted in the city and the metropolitan area.

The success of The District reaffirms the role of Barcelona as the European epicenter of real estate activity, and consolidates its position as a pioneering city in urban innovation and housing solutions. The event has attracted the eyes of international investors who see the city as a space conducive to the development of projects with high added value, paving the way for new investments that will help transform the Catalan urban landscape in the coming years.

ConstruNext begins construction of a new circular economy hub in Barcelona

Posted on 22 de August de 2024 by studiogenesis

The construction of an innovative circular economy hub in Barcelona begins, led by the University of Mondragón and TeamLabs Barcelona.

This project, located in front of the La Mercedes eco-district, extends over 3,405 square meters. The complex, developed by ConstruNext S.L., is designed to fulfill the mission of Mondragon Team Academy (MTA), which seeks to create an international community.

The hub will become a dynamic space for entrepreneurship, bringing together companies and startups with the aim of promoting collaboration, the exchange of knowledge and the creation of synergies. Innovation, circular economy and sustainability are the pillars that support this project.

The design of the hub has been carried out in collaboration with the architectural studio Blossom Barcelona and follows the Level(s) sustainability standards of the European Union. Additionally, the project adopts a circular design strategy that includes the renovation of an old industrial warehouse with a green facade and the use of cradle to cradle certified materials.

To ensure fast and efficient construction, ConstruNext will employ the Lean Design & Construction methodology, which optimizes the process by reducing waste and continuous improvement. Key methodology to ensure that the project is executed within the stipulated period.

The hub will also be distinguished by its focus on technology and creativity, with facilities that go beyond traditional energy efficiency. An example of this will be the 3D printed lamps made from recycled plastic, a reflection of the project’s commitment to the circular economy.

This new space not only aims to be a catalyst for a more sustainable economic model in Barcelona, but also a tangible example of how construction and design can be attractive, accessible and respectful of the environment.

Industry and construction drive GDP growth in Catalonia with 2.9% year-on-year

Posted on 21 de August de 2024 by studiogenesis

According to information shared by the Statistics Institute of Catalonia, the Catalan economy experienced growth of 0.8% during the second quarter of the year, with a year-on-year increase in GDP of 2.9%.

These figures coincide with those of the Spanish economy as a whole, and exceed the average of the European Union, which registered a growth of 0.7% in the second quarter, and an increase of 0.3% compared to the first three months. of the year.

The industrial sector, with an increase of 4.9%, was the main driver of this growth, followed by construction, which grew by 3.8%, agriculture with 2.4%, and other sectors with 2. 3%.

Barcelona moves towards affordable housing and urban development

Posted on 23 de July de 2024 by studiogenesis

Barcelona takes a decisive step towards the urban future with an agreement between the City Council and the Consorci de la Zona Franca from Barcelona (CZFB). This protocol marks the beginning of multiple key projects for the city of Barcelona. Among them, the construction of almost 2,000 officially protected homes (VPO) in the districts of Sant Andreu and Sants-Montjuïc stands out, accompanied by various municipal facilities.

The CZFB grants strategic land in the Cuarteles de Sant Andreu and in the Marina del Prat Vermell for this ambitious housing plan. In total, 1,878 homes will be enabled in an area of 185,000 m², with another 97,000 destined exclusively for community services.

In addition, the agreement includes the revitalization of the emblematic La Escocesa manufacturing site, in San Martín, to turn it into a nerve center for creative industries and innovative projects in gastronomy and food. The CZFB joins this transformation project, committing to the rehabilitation of old industrial warehouses.

Finally, the City Council acquires the Mediatic and Creatic buildings in 22@, thus consolidating a hub of municipal services focused on education, citizen service, economic development and technological training.

This pact not only responds to the urgent need for affordable housing in the city, but also boosts key sectors such as creative industries, technology and innovation. Barcelona is moving towards a more inclusive and sustainable urban model, committed to balanced development and the quality of life of its citizens.

Catalonia exceeds 3.8 million workers in May and reduces unemployment to the lowest level since 2008

Posted on 18 de June de 2024 by studiogenesis

The month of May marked a turning point in the Catalan labor market, registering a new record of more than 3.8 million workers. This historic milestone anticipates a summer period full of dynamism and opportunities in the regional labor market. According to data provided by the Ministry of Labor and Social Economy of Spain, there is a notable increase of 90,131 workers compared to the same period of the previous year, reflecting a growth of 2.43%.

Furthermore, the decrease in unemployment continues, with a reduction of 6,248 people on the list of job seekers compared to April 2024. This decrease of 1.85% compared to the previous month places the unemployment rate at its lowest level for a month of May since 2008.

The Secretary of Labor of Catalonia, Enric Vinaixa, highlighted the magnitude of these achievements as “unprecedented figures”, highlighting Catalonia’s leadership role in reducing unemployment at the national level. Although he recognized the need to continue improving, especially with regard to the quality of employment, Vinaixa celebrated the significant reduction in youth unemployment and in people over 45 years of age. Regarding the seasonality of employment, he noted a notable improvement compared to previous years, which suggests greater stability in the labor market throughout the year.

Catalonia’s airports exceed pre-pandemic levels with record passengers

Posted on 29 de May de 2024 by studiogenesis

According to Aena, Barcelona Airport received more than 4.6 million passengers in April, which represents an increase of 9.5% compared to the same month last year, surpassing figures that have been in a streak for 6 months.

Of the total, 4,600,973 passengers flew on commercial flights, 3,411,915 on international flights (an increase of 11.8% compared to 2023) and 1,181,226 on domestic flights (an increase of 3.3%). Compared to April 2019, the pre-pandemic period, passenger numbers increased by 1.7%.

The rest of the airports in Catalonia, managed by Aena, also experienced significant activity. Girona-Costa Brava, the second busiest in the region, registered 170,688 passengers in April 2024, 88.0% more than last year but 2.7% less than in 2019.

Reus airport, located in the south of Catalonia, registered 101,970 passengers in April, 31.5% more than the previous year and 87.6% more than in 2019.

Sabadell airport had 4,502 operations in April 2024 but only 455 passengers, 23.4% less than last year but 87.2% more than before the pandemic.

Overall, Catalonia’s airports are experiencing a strong recovery, surpassing pre-pandemic levels and setting new records.

Green light for the Biopol PDU that will regenerate 96 hectares with an investment of 230 million

Posted on 22 de April de 2024 by studiogenesis

The Urban Development Master Plan (PDU) Biopol-Granvia of L’Hospitalet de Llobregat has been definitively approved by the Urban Planning Commission of the Government of Catalonia after years of procedures and legal disputes. This ambitious urban and economic project covers 8% of the city’s territory, with an estimated investment of 230 million euros.

The main objective of the PDU is to create a new center of economic activity focused on biomedical research and health sciences, with the construction of more than 556,000 square meters of space for economic activities. The project includes changes such as the undergrounding of the Granvia de L’Hospitalet and improvements to access to the Llobregat River, as well as the rehabilitation of historic buildings.

Biopol, a hub of companies related to biomedicine, will be the core of this development, with the participation of institutions such as the Bellvitge Hospital and the University of Barcelona. It is expected that this biomedical cluster will have a significant impact on the labor market and the Catalan economy.

Although it has received political support, some local entities have expressed environmental concerns and have initiated legal actions to stop the project. However, it is expected that the PDU will come into force once it is published in the Official Gazette of the Government of Catalonia (DOGC).

Companies dedicated to AI in Catalonia will triple in 5 years

Posted on 22 de April de 2024 by studiogenesis

The study “Artificial Intelligence in Catalonia”, conducted by the Generalitat through Catalunya Trade & Investment (ACCIÓ), reveals a significant increase in the number of AI companies in the region.

In the last five years, these companies have nearly tripled, reaching 488. This represents a 60% increase in revenue, reaching almost €2.2 billion, and the creation of 14,525 jobs.

Albert Castellanos, CEO of Catalunya Trade & Investment, emphasizes that AI is creating jobs instead of replacing them.

In Catalonia, AI companies are only outnumbered by cybersecurity ones, totaling 495. Additionally, 44% of these companies are startups. AI contributes to 0.8% of Catalonia’s GDP, and the region ranks fifth in Europe in attracting foreign investment, with €475 million. Barcelona leads in startup financing in Southern Europe.

The use of AI in companies allows for cost reduction, improved efficiency, and competitiveness, according to Imma Rodríguez from ACCIÓ.

An annual growth rate of 35.5% is projected for AI, with a global market value of $1.85 trillion by 2030. However, challenges such as increased resource consumption and job changes are posed, and warnings about its geopolitical use are issued.

Catalonia attracts foreign investments worth 880 million euros in 2023

Posted on 25 de March de 2024 by studiogenesis

The Minister of Business and Labor of Catalonia, Roger Torrent, announced in a press conference that the Catalan Government, through ACCIÓ-Catalonia Trade & Investment, attracted 880 million euros in foreign investment in 2023 and 2,955 million euros in the last five years. This achievement marks a 42% increase over the previous year and is the highest figure recorded since 1985.

The Annual Report of Catalonia Trade & Investment reveals that during 2023, 112 projects by foreign companies were formalized, with the creation of 4,533 jobs, 31% more than in 2022. Of the 112 projects, 42% were greenfield investments.

Regarding greenfield investments, Albert Castellanos pointed out that “We are immersed in the transformation of the production model and diversification of investments,” emphasizing the attraction of companies that contribute to the green and digital transformation of companies.

On the other hand, the Minister highlighted that “These record figures demonstrate the competitiveness of Catalonia in the business world and the confidence of international investors in our country” and stressed that “These figures help us position ourselves internationally and accompany the economic and business transformations from the country”.

If we talk about the distribution based on its nature, in 2023, 67% of foreign investment was of an industrial nature, 26% in technology sectors, 14% in life sciences, 12% in automotive, 11% in video games and 10% in food. This diversification is also reflected in the origin of the investments, coming from more than 30 countries, led by the US (21%), France (13%) and the United Kingdom (9%).

Currently, Catalonia has almost 600 projects in development, and close to 50% of the companies that invested in Catalonia in 2023 plan to reinvest in the future, demonstrating the solid prospect of economic growth in the region.

Talus Real Estate consolidates its presence in Catalan logistics with an acquisition of 47,000 square meters

Posted on 25 de March de 2024 by studiogenesis

Talus Real Estate has taken a significant step by securing a strategic plot of more than 47,000 square meters in the Catalan Metropolitan Region, thus consolidating its position in the logistics sector. Located at the crossroads of the A-2 and the AP-7, this location further reinforces its presence in the region’s first logistics ring.

This acquisition marks a milestone for Talus by driving the development of a 17,000 square meter logistics warehouse, equipped with 20 truck docks, ESFR sprinkler systems and BREEAM Excellent and Net Zero Carbon Emissions certifications. In addition, the facility will have solar panels for self-consumption, LED lighting, parking areas for more than 176 vehicles, as well as charging spaces and patios designed for electric vehicles.

Construction is expected to be completed by the end of 2024, at which time the asset will be available for lease. Angel Ovejas, Head of Asset Management at Talus, emphasized the company’s continued commitment to the expansion and consolidation of its presence in the real estate market.

At MIPIM, Barcelona Catalonia positions the Catalan capital and its metropolitan area on the world map of Life Sciences and the innovation economy

Posted on 12 de March de 2024 by studiogenesis

Barcelona Catalonia attends the real estate fair in Cannes MIPIM 2024 which starts today and runs until this Friday, March 15.
The delegation has once again incorporated public and private partners to offer a joint offer to the foreign investor.
Projects such as Parc de l’Alba, 22@Nord or the GranVia Biopol project stand out.

Barcelona Catalonia, formed by the Generalitat de Catalunya, through INCASÒL, the Barcelona City Council and the Barcelona Metropolitan Area (AMB), will attend the MIPIM 2024 real estate fair, the 17th edition in which it will participate. This year the real estate fair, one of the largest trade fairs for property and investment in Europe, takes place in Cannes (France) from March 12 to 15.

In this year’s edition, MIPIM wants to influence and accelerate the transformation of the urban environment. It also wants to become a space where concrete solutions can be proposed and the international real estate community connected to create more sustainable, livable and prosperous places for people. In this context, the fair is an opportunity to explain the strategic projects that are being developed in Barcelona, in the metropolitan area and throughout Catalonia.

Under the motto Making IT happen!, Barcelona Catalonia will present projects from all over the Catalan territory with different investment opportunities for all sectors, presenting Barcelona and Catalonia as an ideal area for investments and new projects while reaffirming the its commitment to inclusive, sustainable and cohesive development models.

Barcelona Catalonia Conference: The Science & the City

Within the framework of MIPIM and as a conference of the official program, Barcelona Catalonia is organizing, for the sixth time, a meeting to discuss the recruitment of talent and reindustrialization linked to innovation. On this occasion, the conference will explore the dynamic intersection of scientific innovation and urban development in Barcelona, its metropolis and in Catalonia. It will present investment opportunities at the forefront of innovation, from life sciences to semiconductors, promoting the reindustrialization of the territory and the development of sustainable urban ecosystems. The session will be led by Mercè Conesa, CEO of Barcelona Global, and will have the participation of José Luis Garrido, ICREA research professor and @ICN2 group leader, and Eva Jodar, senior director of Client Care & Client Solutions at CBRE Spain.

Barcelona City Council’s Commissioner for International Relations and City Promotion, Pau Solanilla, will participate in the Political Leaders Summit 2024, which brings together city leaders from all over Europe and the world to share perspectives to achieve urban improvements. The attraction of investments in the current macroeconomic and geopolitical environment, decarbonisation and net zero, the economy of innovation, transforming infrastructures, or affordable housing will be the focus of the round tables.

Apart from the official program of the fair, the Barcelona Catalonia stand organizes a series of meetings, talks and presentations to discuss Barcelona and Catalonia as a space for innovation, for investing and for settling down. In this edition, Barcelona City Council wants to highlight its profile as a city for science and innovation with areas such as the 22@ nord, and projects such as Port Olímpic, focused on the blue economy sector, or that of the Ciutadella del Coneixement, with more weight in the life sciences sector. On the part of INCASÒL the presentation of the Parc de l’Alba de Cerdanyola del Vallès project, located around the Sincrotró Alba, a new urban district that is designed to host the most advanced platforms at a scientific, technological and entrepreneurial level, as well such as the creation of more than 5,300 homes in a sustainable, balanced and connected environment.

The AMB’s Economic Development Agency participates for another year in the fair accompanying eight metropolitan municipalities to promote municipal urban developments on an international scale: Cerdanyola del Vallès, Cornellà de Llobregat, Esplugues de Llobregat, Gavà, L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, Sant Adrià de Besòs, Sant Boi de Llobregat and Viladecans. Under the slogan ‘Discover the Metropolitan Projects’, the Barcelona Catalonia stand will present the investment opportunities of Gavà (Els Joncs project, Sector Ponent), Esplugues de Llobregat (Porta Barcelona project), Sant Adrià de Besòs (Les tres xemeneies project), Sant Boi de Llobregat (Casernes project – District Z) and Viladecans.

Public-private collaboration as a claim for the foreign investor

Barcelona Catalonia consolidates its model of public-private collaboration that combines the proposals of the different administrations and the projects of private companies in the sector. In this sense, the MIPIM stand brings together companies with an international vocation and municipal, metropolitan and supra-municipal administrations that collaborate on urban planning projects in Catalonia. On this occasion, the B-Tec Foundation of the Diagonal-Besòs Campus, Catalonia Trade & Investment and the University of Barcelona are collaborating with Barcelona Catalonia. The town councils of Cerdanyola del Vallès, Cornellà de Llobregat, Esplugues de Llobregat, Gavà, L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, Sant Adrià de Besòs, Sant Boi de Llobregat and Viladecans are also present. As well as more than 30 private partners, made up of engineers, architects, lawyers and real estate services based in Catalonia.

Barcelona awarded as the best city in Europe for attracting investments

For the third year in a row, Barcelona will receive the prize for the best European city in terms of future investment attraction strategy at MIPIM. fDi Magazine, from the Financial Times group, has ranked Barcelona as the city that deploys the best promotion and investment attraction strategy in Europe, ahead of London, Berlin and Dublin. The ranking highlights Barcelona’s work in promotion to grow clusters in supercomputing, artificial intelligence, health and biotechnology.

Catalonia leads the panorama of technological hubs

Posted on 26 de February de 2024 by studiogenesis

Catalonia leads the panorama of technology hubs with 140 centers in 2023, marking an increase of 11% compared to the previous year, according to the Tech Hubs Overview report by Mobile World Capital Barcelona, supported by the Catalan Government and Barcelona City Council.

Catalonia has inaugurated fourteen new hubs in 2023, especially in areas such as health, mobility and entertainment. Investment has grown significantly in technologies applied to health, while video games represent close to 20% of the Catalan ecosystem. Barcelona concentrates 76% of the hubs, with 22@ being its epicenter, attracting companies due to its multidisciplinary talent, high local level, business and industrial ecosystem, and strategic geographical location.

These hubs employ more than 26 thousand people, an increase of 5%, with an average workforce that has gone from 168 to 203 people in one year and an increase in business volume of 25%, reaching 2.5 million euros annual.

It is expected that by 2026, the sector will exceed 36 thousand professionals and 3.6 million euros in turnover.

Industrial sheet metal manufacturing acquires key land in Sallent thanks to INCASÒL

Posted on 26 de February de 2024 by studiogenesis

INCASÒL has sold a plot of 11,363.04 m2 in the Plans de la Sala sector, Sallent (Bages), to Planxisteria Industrial M. Vidal, SL. With this operation, INCASÒL exhausts the available land in the sector.

Planxisteria Industrial M. Vidal together with Mecanizados Gumer SLU, they form a group specialized in industrial sheet metalworking, laser cutting, folding, welding, machining and assembly. With an investment of approximately four million euros, they will build a warehouse to expand operations and create 10 new jobs.

The Plans de la Sala sector is connected to important roads such as the C-16 (Eix del Llobregat) and the C-25 (Eix Transversal), promoting the economic activity of Bages with companies such as Top Cable, Climesa, Holding Grupo MTA, Ferros Puig, Casa Mas, and the LOGIS Bages logistics center.

Freudenberg invests 11 million euros in Catalonia to modernize automotive production

Posted on 26 de February de 2024 by studiogenesis

The German industrial group Freudenberg has renewed its commitment to Catalonia through an investment of 11 million euros to modernize its automotive components factory in Parets del Vallès, Barcelona.

The new facility, recently inaugurated, operates with renewable energy and cutting-edge technology, including artificial intelligence. With 6,800 square meters and 171 employees, it specializes in shock absorber seals and steering components.

The modernization will increase production by 15%, generating about 30 million euros annually. The project received 200,000 euros of aid from the Government through ACCIÓ. The president of the Generalitat, Pere Aragonès, and the Minister of Business, Roger Torrent, attended the inauguration.

Based in Baden Wurttemberg, the family-owned company had a global turnover of 11,753 million euros in 2022, operating in 60 countries with more than 51,000 employees. Apart from the automotive industry, Freudenberg owns the Vileda brand and is present in lubricants, chemicals and medical devices. Its Spanish subsidiary had a turnover of 342 million in 2022 through various subsidiaries.

Shanghai Jingqingrong Garment chooses Catalonia for its first plant outside China

Posted on 29 de January de 2024 by studiogenesis

The Chinese textile company Shanghai Jingqingrong Garment will open its first production plant outside China, located in Catalonia, with an investment of 3 million euros and the creation of approximately 30 jobs. This project has the support of the Government through ACCIÓ. The plant, located in Barcelona (Ripollet), is in the process of adaptation, and the production of knitted products is expected to begin in the first half of 2024.

Roger Torrent, Minister of Business and Labor, highlights the strategic choice of Catalonia by Chinese companies for their expansion, with more than 1,000 million euros invested in the last five years and generating 2,000 jobs. In this context, Shanghai Jingqingrong Garment, founded in 2004 and specialized in global clothing design and distribution, is an example of growing Chinese investment in Catalonia, contributing to a total foreign investment of 1,164 million euros.

The Catalan Strategy to Promote the Semiconductor Industry: Heading to European Leadership

Posted on 29 de January de 2024 by studiogenesis

The Catalan Government has presented the Strategy for the Promotion of the Semiconductor Industry in Catalonia, promoted by Semiconductor and Chip Alliance of Catalonia. The objective is to consolidate Catalonia as a leading center for the semiconductor industry in Europe. The initiative, framed in the National Pact for Industry 2022-2025, seeks to develop valuable industrial policies and support actions that improve the competitiveness of the sector in the region.

The strategy is divided into five pillars, aligned with European and international standards, with a total of 23 specific actions. It includes measures to strengthen the semiconductor ecosystem, attract international investments, develop advanced infrastructure, foster talent and facilitate technology transfer. Actions such as financial support through specific funds and the creation of cutting-edge infrastructure stand out, such as the Innofab project for the construction of a chip prototyping plant.

Catalonia aspires to be an international center for semiconductors, seeking to become a hub of talent in this field. Educational programs will be implemented, such as a master’s degree in Semiconductor Engineering, Microelectronic Design and the application of the Industrial Doctorate Plan for companies in the chip sector. The strategy also encourages collaboration between research and business to boost the competitiveness of Catalan knowledge in semiconductors.

According to the study “Semiconductors in Catalonia” by ACCIÓ, the current ecosystem has 86 companies and 4,400 professionals, the majority being SMEs and startups. The Semiconductor Alliance is positioned as essential for coordination between industry actors and the implementation of key projects for digital and social transformation. All companies and agents are encouraged to participate in the collaborative construction of this ecosystem.

Catalan exports boost regional economic leadership

Posted on 27 de December de 2023 by studiogenesis

In October, Catalan exports amounted to 8.57 billion euros, registering a year-on-year increase of 8.3%, according to the Spanish Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Tourism.

The main export sectors were chemicals (2,450 million euros, +8.8%), capital goods (1,340 million euros, -1%), and food, beverages and tobacco (1,290 million euros, +9.7 %). Despite the general drop in Spanish exports by 2.4%, Catalonia represented 26.5% of the national total.

Catalan exports accumulated from January to October reached 85,000 million euros, reflecting an increase of 9.7% compared to the previous year.

Catalonia reinforces its digital leadership with a digitalization index of 63.96%

Posted on 27 de December de 2023 by studiogenesis

Catalonia reaffirms its outstanding position in digital transformation, according to the Digital Economy and Society Index (DESI Catalonia 2022). The report, led by the Department of Business and Labor of the Generalitat de Cataluña and prepared by the Technological Circle of Catalonia, confirms that the region remains the fifth most digitally advanced in Europe for the fourth consecutive year, with a digitalization rate of 63.96%, exceeding the EU average by 11.69 points. Despite improvements in all dimensions, the emphasis on advanced skills training and stagnant growth in electronic commerce among small and medium-sized businesses stands out.

Catalonia stands out in connectivity, occupying second place, and leads in fixed broadband. In the integration of digital technology, it advances to seventh position, highlighting the level of digitalization of Catalan companies. In digital public services, it maintains fourth position, but there is still room for improvement in the position of users within electronic administration and open data in Catalonia.

The UPC positions Catalonia at the forefront of green hydrogen

Posted on 29 de November de 2023 by studiogenesis

The Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya has inaugurated its hydrogen laboratory and pilot plant for the production of green hydrogen. These state-of-the-art facilities represent a laboratory dedicated to advancing research and innovation in technologies related to hydrogen, a crucial energy component on the path to decarbonization.

The rector of the UPC, Daniel Crespo, highlights the uniqueness of this infrastructure, being unique in Spain and one of the few currently operational in the European Union.

This achievement places Catalonia at the forefront in the development of green hydrogen and in the transition towards more sustainable energy sources.

Record employment in Catalonia in the third quarter, with more than 3.71 million people in work.

Posted on 31 de October de 2023 by studiogenesis

The unemployment rate stands at 8.5%, with a total of 345,000 people looking for work at the end of September.

According to the latest Labour Force Survey (EPA) report by the national statistics institute, Catalonia closed the third quarter with a new employment record: more than 3.71 million people in work between July and September, more than 62,400 new jobs compared to the previous quarter.

The only sector in which the number of unemployed has increased is industry (from 4,100 to 25,400). The services sector still accounts for more unemployed than any other sector, with 131,700.

Catalunya Trade & Investment has supported 26,000 internationalisation projects of Catalan companies over the last 35 years.

Posted on 31 de October de 2023 by studiogenesis

Mr. Pere Aragonès, the current president of the Generalitat, announced last Tuesday that ACCIÓ has supported more than 26,000 projects over the last 35 years.

Today, it is the government’s main tool for promoting economic growth abroad. The first offices in international territory were opened in 1988, with Tokyo, Hong Kong, Milan, and New York being the selected cities.

The global network of Trade and Investment Offices is an essential resource for promoting the internationalization of companies in Catalonia. In fact, since 1995, when the historical series began, Catalan exports have experienced a remarkable increase of 5.3 times, reaching a total of 94,926.7 million euros in 2022. This increase exceeds the average growth of exports worldwide, which recorded an increase of 4.8% during the same period.

The Chinese multinational WANHUA will open an innovation centre in Catalonia.

Posted on 31 de October de 2023 by studiogenesis

The current Minister of Enterprise and Employment, Roger Torrent, has announced from Yantai (China) the successful operation of the Chinese multinational company WANHUA in Catalonia.

WANHUA is currently one of the largest chemical companies in the world, with more than 27,000 employees worldwide, and until now it has only been present in Hungary and the Czech Republic.

According to Roger Torrent, this is the company’s first investment in Southern Europe and it has chosen Catalonia as the location to develop this major project.

The large project is planned to be established in Cornellà (Barcelona) at the end of 2023. The main objective of this center is to support the company’s business development in Europe.

In the last five years, foreign investment from China to Catalonia has reached 1,164 million euros, which has been transformed into 2,100 new jobs and 114 subsidiaries of Chinese companies in Catalonia.

Catalan exports reach 6.9 billion euros

Posted on 31 de October de 2023 by studiogenesis

During the month of August, Catalan exports experienced an increase of 1.7%, reaching a value of 6,941 million euros, according to data provided by the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and Tourism of Spain.

Over the course of the year, sales abroad have accumulated a total of 68,612 million euros. Compared to the same period in 2019, before the pandemic, exports have experienced a significant increase of 45%. Chemical products top the list of exports, representing 27% of the total, with a value of 1,871 million euros. They are followed by food, beverages and tobacco, with 1,213 million euros, equivalent to 17.5% of the total, and the automotive sector, with 1,124 million euros, corresponding to 16.2%.

When we compare these data with the previous year, automobile sales have experienced an increase of 58.8%, those of chemical products by 5.3%, while exports of food, beverages, and tobacco have decreased by 4.5%.

Catalonia promotes the creation of 5,000 social rental homes

Posted on 31 de October de 2023 by studiogenesis

In 2023, the Government of Catalonia has promoted the creation of more than 5,000 social rental homes through public subsidies, as part of an ambitious plan to increase the number of these homes in Catalonia by 10,000 in the next three years. These subsidies, coming from both European funds and specific resources from the Generalitat, have resulted in the construction of a total of 5,337 homes, exceeding initial projections.

The Minister of Territory, Ester Capella i Farré, highlighted the relevance of collaboration between government entities and private actors with a social commitment to improve access to housing in Catalonia. Likewise, she called on the Government to comply with the State Housing Law, which would allow rental prices to be regulated in Catalonia.

This comprehensive plan contemplates various strategies, such as subsidies for housing promotion, the transfer of public lands and the direct construction of housing by the Generalitat.

UNESCO selects Barcelona as the world capital of architecture for 2026.

Posted on 24 de July de 202324 de July de 2023 by studiogenesis

Barcelona has been officially selected as the world capital of architecture in 2026 by Unesco and the International Union of Architects (UIA). This initiative seeks to highlight the role of architecture and urbanism in culture, the identity of cities and their sustainable development.

As the World Capital of Architecture, Barcelona will host a series of events and activities throughout 2026 in collaboration with the Higher Council of Spanish Colleges of Architects (CSCAE) and the Official College of Architects of Catalonia (COAC). Barcelona City Council will facilitate an extensive program that will include exhibitions, activities and companies to highlight the value and importance of architecture and urban design in the sustainable development of the city.

With this designation, Barcelona became the first city to host the UIA World Congress twice, having hosted it in 1996, four years after the Olympic Games. This opportunity will allow the city to once again highlight its international architectural importance and its commitment to sustainable development.

HMM launches its own line to connect Valencia and Barcelona with India and the Far East.

Posted on 24 de July de 2023 by studiogenesis

The South Korean ship HMM (Hyundai Merchant Marine) will start its own transport service between the Far East, India and the ports of Valencia and Barcelona that will consist of 26 calls to ports in 11 countries.

This service will start on August 6 in the port of Busan (South Korea) with a duration of 84 days in total. Company sources have predicted that the ship will arrive to Valencia and Barcelona, approximately, in September.

From its departure, it will also pass through the ports of Kwangyang (also South Korea) and continue its route through China, Malaysia, India, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia to later reach the African continent and pass through Egypt, and finally, enter Europe and pass through the ports of Greece, Italy and the APM Terminals facilities in Valencia and Barcelona (Spain).

“With the introduction of the FIM (Far East – India – Mediterranean) service, we hope to expand our reach to India and the Mediterranean trade,” sources from the shipping company said.

The “good rhythm” of the Catalan economy: resilience, return of tourism and more exports.

Posted on 24 de July de 2023 by studiogenesis

The Catalan economy has closed 2022 with a “good rhythm” and a growth of the gross domestic product (GDP) of 5.5% thanks to the resilience of the Catalan economy. Catalonia, to face the increase in prices and the energy crisis, has relied on three fundamental pillars: the resilience of household consumption, the recovery of foreign tourism and the increase in exports of goods.

To define 2022, we should look at five global shocks, of which the cost of financing and core inflation levels are the only ones that have not improved. For Carme Poveda, director of the Economic Memory of Catalonia, they are the following:

The spread of the omicron variant of covid-19
Supply chain problems
Rising energy prices
Core inflation
The cost of financing

It should also be noted that an important point has been the attraction of foreign investment in industry and in the ICT sector, which represents 52%. On the other hand, we also find considerable changes in the occupational structure, for example, with the increase in workers in the public sector, although the loss of purchasing power of wages in Catalonia in 2022 was 5.5%.

One of the priorities of the Catalan economy at present is the importance of increasing R&D on a European scale, since the European average exceeds 2% while here we remain at 1.64%, a figure that could become the Historic opportunity to lead digital and sustainable transformation with the support of Next Generation funds. Another of the priorities still pending is the volume of public debt, which remains at very high rates.

For 2023, a good evolution is expected in the first semester with tourism, employment, the moderation of inflation and European funds. A slowdown is also expected at the end of the year with the impact of interest rates and weakness in Europe, but we can conclude that what will determine economic growth in the coming years will be monetary policy.

The Generalitat forecasts that 60% of Catalan companies will innovate this 2023, 4 points more than last year.

Posted on 24 de July de 2023 by studiogenesis

Approximately 60% of Catalan companies foresee an innovation process during 2023, 4% more than last year (56.4%), according to the Barometer of Innovation in Catalonia prepared by ACCIÓ.

Among the different objectives established, the most noteworthy, and therefore, that want to be achieved are: improving efficiency, increasing billing and productivity or cutting the average costs of your products or services.

The main explanation for the increase in innovative activity, explains the Secretary for Business and Competitiveness and CEO of ACCIÓ, is due to “the end of the crisis caused by Covid-19, the tractor effect of the Next Generation and Horizon Europe funds ”, but also, justified by the growth of the internationalization of Catalan companies.

Based on these and other data obtained, the ACCIÓ document finds a marked correlation between the growing international character of the Catalan business ecosystem and the search for new and better products and services, thus verifying that according to the barometer, 58% of companies who say they innovate will also export, while the 30% that come to Catalonia will dedicate resources to innovation in 2023.

Mainly, there has been innovation in the field of the product (almost 60%) and in information and communication systems (50%), but importance has also been given to production processes (37.2%), process development business (35.1%), administration and management (28.4%), among others.

In fact, according to the forecasts of the companies and the data obtained, the impact of this innovative activity would mean an increase in efficiency of 61.9%, on turnover of 54.5%, productivity of 50.5%, the reduction in the average cost of the product or server by 32.3% and the increase in workers by 16%. These statements lead Albert Castellanos to ensure that: “innovation is the main lever for companies to grow, export, be more productive and create new jobs”.

The Semiconductor Aliance was created with the aim of turning Catalonia into a reference point for the sector in Europe

Posted on 24 de July de 2023 by studiogenesis

On the 29th of June, the public-private initiative, announced in May: “The Semiconductor and Chip Alliance of Catalonia” was definitively established. This initiative will bring together the agents of these ecosystems to lead the transformation and consolidation of Europe.

In addition to this project, the Government has already been promoting other actions in this field on semiconductors, such as the deployment of support programs for business and technological projects to reinforce the result that is to be achieved.

It is currently in the development phase, but it has great growth potential, since it has 86 semiconductor companies in Catalonia, as well as 3,700 researchers involved in research projects in this field. 81% of the companies in the sector in Catalonia are SMEs and 8% are startups.

The objective of the Alliance is promoting the growth and consolidation of the semiconductor, microelectronics, photonics and quantum ecosystem of Catalonia in order to achieve a competitive, innovative and sustainable economy. To achieve this, the Alliance focuses on the strategic axes for the Government: strengthening the chip value chain in Catalonia, its international connection, the creation and attraction of productive investment and the promotion of talent and research.

Together, what is also sought is to strengthen relations and the positioning of Catalonia, promoting the participation of the country in European initiatives for the development of this ecosystem.

The act served for the integration of the Board of the Alliance, the governing body of this new initiative, to the Department of Business and Labor. The project has also been promoted by other departments, such as Economy and Finance and Research and Universities, and with the participation of the Presidency and Foreign Action and European Union departments. In addition, through ACCIÓ, the technical and administrative support necessary for the development of the functions of the Board will be provided.

Olvan prepares for economic growth with the opening of the new sector driven by INCASÒL

Posted on 19 de June de 2023 by studiogenesis

The Institut Català del Sòl, INCASÒL, starts the commercialisation of the economic activity sector of Rocarodona-Olvan, located in the municipality of Olvan (Berguedà).

A total of 14 plots are for sale, for different uses, mainly industrial, commercial and offices. The plots have different surface areas and range from 13,000 m2, the largest, to 1,800 m2, the smallest. A total of 5 are already developed and the remaining plots are expected to be completed by the beginning of 2025.

The deadline for acquiring one of the plots was 22 June of this year and the application was made online and then the proof of purchase was presented to INCASÒL

It has a total surface area of approximately 53 hectares. They are located in a strategic place, near the Gironella Nord exit of the Eix del Llobregat (C-16), Eix Europeu E9 of communication between Barcelona and Tolosa de Llenguadoc and connected with the Vic – Gironella regional road (C-154).

The Catalan Government is promoting these sectors, generating jobs in Catalonia. They will facilitate the economic growth of Berguedà and will respond to the demand for industrial land.

Inflation falls to 3.2% in Catalonia in May

Posted on 19 de June de 2023 by studiogenesis

In May, inflation in Catalonia was 7 tenths of a percentage point lower than in the previous month. This is mainly due to lower fuel prices and the slowdown in the rise in food and non-alcoholic beverages prices. The latter have been falling for two months in a row, although the current CPI is 11.5% more expensive than a year ago.

At first glance, this figure may not seem very relevant, but if we compare these numbers with inflation over the last two years, it is the lowest figure ever recorded in Catalonia.

Also in Spain as a whole, inflation fell by 9 tenths of a percentage point to 3.2.

Tarragona is chosen by Covestro for its new chlorine plant with an investment of around 200 million euros

Posted on 19 de June de 2023 by studiogenesis

The German company Covestro inaugurated its new chlorine production plant in Tarragona this June, a project that represents an investment of around 200 million euros and the creation of 50 new job opportunities.

Pioneers in the start-up of this new chlorine production plant in the world based on ODC (oxygen depolarised cathode) technology, it will provide Tarragona with an efficient, independent and permanent supply of chlorine and caustic soda, two essential materials in the chemical industry. In addition to being a raw material for many other sectors.

Covestro’s growth project in Tarragona received the backing of ACCIO-Catalonia Trade & Investment, the agency in charge of promoting business competitiveness of the Department of Enterprise and Employment.

The inauguration of the project was attended by Pere Aragonès, President of the Generalitat de Catalunya, Àngel Xifré, the Secretary for Enterprise and Competitiveness and Director General of ACCO-Catalonia Trade & Investment, Sucheta Govil, Covestro’s Global CCO and Andrea Firenze, Managing Director of Covestro and General Manager of the company in Spain.

In relation to the importance of industry for the country, Pere Aragonès emphasised the need to promote the reindustrialisation of Catalonia with an ambitious, innovative vision and an unwavering commitment to sustainability and the environment. In this sense, he stated that this approach will allow Catalonia to regain its position as one of the most industrialised regions in Europe.

The political leader expressed his gratitude and satisfaction at Covestro’s new investment in Catalonia, highlighting the clear commitment that the company has shown to the country over the years. Pere Aragonès also took the opportunity to recognise the four centres that Covestro has in Catalonia, which employ more than a thousand people. He also assured that the government will stand by the company on its path towards generating shared prosperity.

In summary, Pere Aragonès stressed the importance of promoting the reindustrialisation of Catalonia with an ambitious and sustainable mindset. He thanked Covestro for its investment in the country and highlighted the company’s commitment to Catalonia over time. He also reaffirmed the government’s support for the goal of generating joint prosperity.

Construction completed on the 21,000 square metre, 21-storey building located in L’Hospitalet de Llobregat

Posted on 19 de June de 2023 by studiogenesis

The building, owned by Colonial and Inmo, located in Torre Plaza Europa 34, was completed last June. The location of the offices is strategic, as they are located in one of the areas with the greatest development in the metropolitan area of Barcelona.

The project developed by Albert Viaplana between 2007 and 2008 aims to create a new centrality in the area that connects El Prat airport and the city of Barcelona. To achieve this, a comprehensive transformation was proposed involving the redevelopment of roads, the incorporation of green spaces and the construction of mixed-use buildings.

The completion of this project represents an important milestone for the business fabric of Plaza Europa. With the construction of the last office tower of the urban plan, the presence of companies in this area is consolidated and strengthened.

The architectural conception of both towers brings a remarkable dynamism to the urban landscape. The Puig Tower, designed by GCA Architects in collaboration with Rafael Moneo and Lucho Marcial, presents a spiral ribbon that generates an effect of upward movement. On the other hand, the Plaza Europa 34 Tower, designed by Josep Riu, achieves visual impact through a displacement of volumes that gives it a sense of lightness and movement.

In addition to its aesthetic appeal, the Plaza Europa 34 Tower has been designed with a focus on sustainability and energy efficiency. Low energy consumption and easy maintenance technologies have been prioritised, contributing to the reduction of the building’s environmental footprint. In recognition of these efforts, the building has obtained LEED Gold certification, a prestigious award that distinguishes the most sustainable and environmentally friendly buildings.

The International Logistics Exhibition (SIL) in Barcelona has ended with a 20% growth in the number of visitors

Posted on 19 de June de 2023 by studiogenesis

More than 15,000 people took part in the event, during the three days of its 25th edition. In addition, the organisation counted the participation of 650 companies, 40% of which were international, and more than 250 events held within the framework of the sectoral fair. It had an economic impact in Barcelona of 50 million euros, exceeding the initial estimate of the Zona Franca de Barcelona.

The profile of the vast majority of the participants is that they are decision-makers in their companies, said the director general of the Zona Franca de Barcelona, Blanca Sorigué. She also stated that the organisation’s wish was to continue the success of the event for at least another 25 years. She also announced the dates for the next edition to be held in 2024, which will take place on the 5th, 6th and 7th.

The special delegate of the State in the Zona Franca of Barcelona, Pere Navarro, highlighted the satisfaction of the companies participating in the event, who closed business deals and established high quality contacts throughout the three days. Navarro highlighted the growth of the fair in terms of internationality, business impulse, networking and market knowledge.

The organisation emphasised the use of its digital platform to encourage networking, revealing that 8,317 digital contact exchanges, nearly 3,000 meeting requests and 7,106 messages were made between attendees, according to official sources. In addition, a marketplace for recruitment was set up in collaboration with the public platform Barcelona Activa, which resulted in 107 job interviews out of the 374 applications submitted. Among the companies offering vacancies were Alquimia Fruits, Cargobici, Cargo-Partner, Decathlon, DHL Supply Chain, Grupo CTC, Mail Boses, Torrella Ingeniería-Arquitectura and Vanapedal, according to the event organisers.

Catalonia’s logistics market will add more than 650,000 m2 by 2025

Posted on 19 de June de 2023 by studiogenesis

In total, the Catalan logistics market will add more than 650,000 square metres over the next three years.

There are currently 412,000 square metres under construction, with delivery scheduled for 2023. To this amount, the 27,000 square metres planned for next year and 211,000 square metres under construction will be added.

This year, 203,000 square metres located in the second ring and 193,000 square metres located in the third ring will be delivered. In the area of the first logistical arch, with an availability of 0.4%, 17,000 square metres will be delivered.

The 41,000 square metre warehouse, owned by Scannell Properties, in Constantí (Tarragonès), will be the first project to come onto the market in 2023. Other projects will also be launched, such as Bentall Green Oak’s 40,000 sqm warehouse in Santa Margarida i els Monjos (Alt Penedès) or Clarion Partners’ project in Esparraguera (Baix Llobregat), with a 22,000 sqm warehouse.

According to the Associate Director of Research at CBRE Spain, Arancha González, availability rates are expected to rise slightly in Barcelona this year, due to the fact that despite the good pace of business, deliveries are being concentrated more in the second and third ring, where, at present, there is not so much demand.

Berry establishes its new global centre of excellence and circular innovation in Barcelona, boosting the city’s circular economy

Posted on 2 de June de 20232 de June de 2023 by studiogenesis

Berry Global, a leading developer of sustainable and revolutionary packaging solutions, is excited to announce the upcoming opening of its Centre of Excellence and Circular Innovation in Barcelona. The opening of this centre is scheduled for the third quarter of 2023 and will mark an important milestone in the company’s global expansion.

The main objective of the centre of excellence will be to foster innovation in the design of products that meet customers’ sustainability objectives. Berry Global is committed to delivering a new generation of circular products, giving its international customers access to advanced and sustainable solutions. This revolutionary approach will drive the adoption of more environmentally friendly practices in the packaging industry.

With the opening of this centre of excellence, Berry Global will also generate new job opportunities in the vibrant city of Barcelona. The company intends to recruit local talent, taking advantage of the cultural diversity and rich supply of talent that characterises this European metropolis.

Berry Global’s centre of excellence will focus on developing innovative circular solutions that improve recyclability and reduce waste. It will also provide a collaborative space where customers will be able to work closely with Berry experts on customised projects tailored to their specific circularity needs. In addition, visitors will be able to explore an interactive learning area that will allow them to get an up-close look at Berry’s latest sustainable product developments, as well as learn about the design, manufacturing and recycling processes.

Berry Global’s new centre in Barcelona will be staffed by a team of more than fifty committed professionals. These talented individuals will work in a state-of-the-art environment, supporting the company’s vision of building and maintaining a diverse and highly skilled workforce. In addition, Barcelona’s strategic location, with its international airport, will provide an ideal platform for global collaboration with clients around the world.

With this initiative, Berry Global reinforces its commitment to leading the sustainable packaging industry and contributing to a greener future. The Circular Centre of Excellence and Innovation in Barcelona represents a significant milestone in the company’s journey towards creating more sustainable and efficient packaging solutions.

Toyota’s logistics division boosts employment in Catalonia with the creation of 300 new jobs in its new centre

Posted on 2 de June de 2023 by studiogenesis

In an exciting event, Toyota Material Handling España, the world-renowned logistics subsidiary, has broken ground on its innovative new headquarters in Sabadell, Barcelona. Toyota Material Handling Spain’s managing director, Joan Catalán, was present at the ceremony, highlighting the company’s commitment to growth and sustainability.

Scheduled for completion in 2024, the new centre will occupy an impressive 16,500 m2 on a 37,247 m2 plot of land. There, a team of 225 professionals, in addition to on-site associates, will work closely together to provide exceptional service to Toyota Material Handling España’s customers.

This significant development will enable the company to further enhance its ability to deliver efficient logistics solutions and advance its commitment to achieving zero emissions across its operations. The site has been designed with state-of-the-art technologies and systems to maximise efficiency and reduce the carbon footprint, demonstrating Toyota Material Handling España’s focus on sustainability.

Joan Catalán, general manager of Toyota Material Handling Spain, expressed his enthusiasm for this new move to Sabadell, highlighting the choice of location for its modernity and convenience for the team. The new centre will integrate several activities, including distribution, marketing and after-sales service of industrial machinery, as well as financial services, automation projects and sustainable energy.

The construction of this modern headquarters reflects Toyota Material Handling Spain’s commitment to providing exceptional service, fostering innovation and contributing to the region’s economic growth.

The INCASÒL puts on sale three plots of the sector of economic activities Puig Vell de Roda de Ter to promote local development

Posted on 2 de June de 2023 by studiogenesis

Roda de Ter has experienced notable industrial development thanks to Puig Vell, a sector that has provided new land area to meet the industrial demand in the area. This diversified and constantly expanding sector is characterised by the prominent presence of the agri-food industry, the leather sector, metallurgy and logistics transport.

With a total surface area of 16 hectares, Puig Vell has become an important pole of attraction for companies from various sectors. Prominent companies such as Costa Food Meat, Acto Reparación Blanco SLU, Ovinos del Ter, SL and Ova Projects have already acquired land in this area to develop their business projects. Likewise, other companies, including Tierras Boix, La Selecta and Muebles Bellmunt, have plots of land in the sector and have plans to start their activities in the near future.

Puig Vell enjoys a privileged location, bordering in the south with the municipality of Les Masies de Roda and in the north with the C-153 road from Vic to Olot, which is the main access to the area and very close to exit 183 of the C-25 motorway. This booming sector has consolidated itself as an effective response to the demand for industrial land in the area, driving economic development and generating new employment opportunities in Roda de Ter.

This booming sector has established itself as an effective response to the demand for industrial land in the area, driving economic development and generating new employment opportunities in Roda de Ter. With its industrial diversity and strategic location, Puig Vell continues to attract investment and reaffirm its position as a key economic driver in the region.

The Port of Barcelona launches the call for tenders for the third phase of the extension of the Adossat quay

Posted on 2 de June de 2023 by studiogenesis

The Board of Directors of the Port of Barcelona has approved the tender for the superstructure works for the third phase of the extension of the Adossat quay. This important investment has a base budget of seven million euros, excluding IVA, and its main objective is the construction of 631 metres of promenade, as well as the installation of various port facilities such as scales, water service networks, telecommunications, medium voltage connection and drainage network.

The estimated execution period for these works is six months, as reported by the port authority. The purpose of this extension is to prepare the Adossat quay for the future construction of the MSC cruise terminal and the Ro-Pax terminal, as established in the agreement signed with Barcelona City Council in 2018.

Once the works have been completed, the concessionary companies will be responsible for the development of the area and the installation of the necessary infrastructure to ensure its full operation.

The work to extend the Adossat quay at the Port of Barcelona includes the superstructure needed to install a medium-voltage network, which will enable electricity to be supplied to ships in accordance with the Nexigen quay electrification project. With this extension, the port seeks to strengthen its position as one of the leading ports in the Mediterranean, reaffirming its commitment to the modernisation and sustainability of its port facilities.

The first quarter of 2023 has seen steady growth in the Catalan economy

Posted on 2 de June de 20232 de June de 2023 by studiogenesis

During the first quarter of 2023, the Catalan economy showed steady growth. Compared to the previous quarter, Catalonia’s Producto Interno Bruto (PIB) increased by 1.2%. Moreover, a year-on-year growth of 3% was recorded, indicating a favourable economic outlook in the region.

Catalonia’s economy shows quarter-on-quarter growth above the average for Spain and the EU-27, with an increase of 1.2%. On an annual basis, Catalan PIB has grown by 3%, driven by the industrial sector. Although this growth is lower than that of the Spanish economy, it is still above the European average. A technical recession, which had been a possible scenario, has been avoided.

Pharmaceuticals, machinery manufacturing, beverages and the automotive sector have performed well, while food and chemical production has experienced declines.

Health startup investment in Catalonia has increased by 87%, bucking the global downward trend

Posted on 2 de June de 20232 de June de 2023 by studiogenesis

An astonishing 87% increase in investment in the health sector has managed to defy the downward trend observed around the world. The data has been provided by the Study on investment in the Life Sciences & Health sector in Catalonia 2022 promoted by CataloniaBio & HealthTech and EY.

During the year 2022, there have been notable declines in investment in the biotechnology and medical technology sectors in Europe and the US, according to the study. Making a big difference, the Catalan ecosystem continued to thrive and reached an incredible €445 million.

The main source of financing for companies in Catalonia continues to be venture capital (VC) funds. These funds have co-operated in raising €445 million, representing 77% of the total.

In the last year, notable deals have been carried out in the corporate sector, such as Medtech Impress, which raised €122m, and biotech companies Minoryx Therapeutics and SpliceBio, which raised more than €50m each, positioning themselves as key players in their respective sectors.

The digital health sector has raised capital of €39 million and operations increased by almost 20% by 2022. It is worth noting the increase in capital raised by service providers, with €28 million generated by 2022, €6 million more than in 2021.

The origin of the investments is mostly local. Around 90% of the shares of each company are owned by Catalan investors, with the exception of pharmaceutical companies, which tend to obtain foreign investment.

Health Sector Development in 2022

The study was based on direct surveys of companies and institutions belonging to CataloniaBio & HealthTech. The report includes the perspective of investors, offering a complementary view of the sector.

According to the data collected, 80% of the companies surveyed achieved their targets for 2022. Product development companies in the biotech and Medtech sectors were 71% and 82% successful respectively.

In addition, 92% of companies in digital health and 71% in the services sector also met their targets. The pharmaceutical industry performed outstandingly well, with 100% of companies surveyed meeting their targets. Both companies and investors are satisfied with the performance of the healthcare sector in 2022, considering it an example of the quality of the ecosystem and the professionalism of the sector in Catalonia.

INCASÒL opens the doors to economic success in Sant Feliu de Pallerols with the sale of its new sector of activity

Posted on 2 de June de 2023 by studiogenesis

The sector will remedy the lack of land due to the existing industrialisation in the area, thus avoiding the relocation of existing companies and expanding the industrial fabric of the municipality.

The two plots have a surface area of 8.483,31 m² floor area and 9.501,31 m² roof area and the other of 27.612,31 m² floor area and 27.612,31 m² roof area.

Organisations interested in acquiring a plot of land must have submitted their application electronically to the electronic registry of the Generalitat de Catalunya before 22 May 2023.

There is no limitation as to the sector to be exploited, there are several possibilities. Industrial and tertiary sector use is foreseen, but other uses such as logistics, warehousing, technical and environmental services, car mechanics, service stations, road services, catering, recreational, educational, health-care, sports for gymnasium activities, paddle tennis, etc., cultural and urban services are also permitted.

The Llongafollia Plan has a surface area of 8.31 hectares. The plots belong to INCASÒL, which are located near the town of Sant Feliu de Pallerols and bordering the C-63 road towards Olot.

A total of 3.6 hectares will be used for economic activity and will be concentrated on the land known as Plan de Llongafollia. On the other hand, the land to be ceded for public facilities and green areas will be in the part located in La Plana.

The new economic activity sector of Sant Feliu de Pallerols, carefully planned for harmonious integration with its surroundings, is strategically located near the natural park of the Garrotxa volcanic area.

Easter tourism boosts Catalonia’s economy with 90% hotel occupancy rate

Posted on 3 de May de 2023 by studiogenesis

Despite rising prices due to inflation, hotels in the Catalan capital were almost full during Easter. According to Eduard Torres, president of Barcelona Tourism, “It went very well. There has been a lot of demand.” Most visitors came from other parts of Europe, especially the UK, France and Germany, although there has also been an increase in visitors from the United States. The number of tourists from Asian countries is slowly increasing again as flight connections are restored after the pandemic.

The president of Barcelona Tourism, Eduard Torres, expects this year to be a good one in terms of tourism and believes there will be no increase in the number of visitors because of the limited accommodation options in the city. The president of the association of travel agencies Acave, Jordi Martí, has stated that Easter has been good for business, as more than 80% of the association’s companies have invoiced more in 2023 than in 2022 because of the good weather.

During the Easter holidays, hotels and campsites in the Barcelona area had high occupancy rates of 90% and 70% to 90% respectively. Most visitors were families and young people from Catalonia or other parts of Spain, followed by European tourists from France, the UK, Germany and northern Europe. Official occupancy figures will be known later this week.

AstraZeneca to create 1,000 jobs and invest 800 million in R&D in Barcelona, the largest foreign investment in Catalonia’s history

Posted on 3 de May de 2023 by studiogenesis

Pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca will invest 800 million euros to create an R&D centre in Barcelona that will become a reference centre for clinical innovation in Europe in the company’s five main therapeutic areas.

The facility will bring together experts in clinical development and operations, pharmaceutical sciences, drug safety and data analytics to develop new therapies and address unmet patient needs. AstraZeneca’s CEO highlighted the importance of public-private collaboration in the development of new medicines and announced the company’s investment plans in Spain until 2025.

In the drug research and development sector, Spain stands out for its high level of professionals and its R&D&I ecosystem. In Catalonia alone, there are 91 research centres and more than 1,300 biopharmaceutical, healthcare, MedTech and digital health companies. The country has authorised more than 900 clinical trials with medicines, demonstrating its commitment to innovation.

The company AstraZeneca has invested more than 93 million euros in innovative projects in 2021, and the investment multiplied last year, reaching almost 400 million euros. In addition, the international pharmaceutical investment project in Barcelona has the support of ACCIÓ-Catalonia Trade & Investment, the Catalan government’s agency for foreign investment and business competitiveness.

Barcelona has become a strategic location for AstraZeneca, especially since it opened, together with Alexion, its clinical trials centre for rare diseases with an investment of 32 million euros. According to ACCIÓ-Catalonia Trade & Investment data, Catalonia ranks sixth in Europe in clinical trial development, with more than 1,200 active trials, 50% in oncology, one of the areas in which AstraZeneca is strongest. This demonstrates the importance of the region to the company’s innovation and drug development strategy.

The Fraunhofer research centre, the largest in Europe, to be based in Barcelona for the first time

Posted on 3 de May de 2023 by studiogenesis

The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft, Europe’s largest applied research organisation, will establish its Spanish headquarters in Barcelona, in collaboration with the Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC). This alliance will boost the internationalisation of the biomedical sector and contribute to the development of a hub for medical bioengineering in southern Europe, as well as for precision medicine and advanced therapies, with a research centre for bioengineering applied to health.

This project will accelerate the internationalisation of the biomedical technology sector and contribute to the development of a medical bioengineering hub in southern Europe. The Regional Ministry stresses that the benefits of this alliance will be the increase in the capacity to link academic research sectors with industrial sectors and the acceleration of knowledge transfer.

The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft is an organisation with a worldwide partnership programme, with centres in Europe, America, Asia, the Middle East and North Africa. In Europe, it has collaborative centres in Austria, Great Britain, Italy, Portugal and Sweden.

The port of Barcelona attracts more flows thanks to the success of Chinese vehicles

Posted on 3 de May de 2023 by studiogenesis

According to Salvadó, the figures indicate that the current volumes will have a knock-on effect, meaning that more and more Asian brands will use the port of Barcelona for their operations, which will allow for a significant future in this regard. Salvadó also mentioned that the port’s current silos will not be sufficient to accommodate the expected increase in volumes.

Lluís Salvadó stated that in 2022 the Port of Barcelona experienced an important development in the import of electric vehicles from American and Asian brands, which have chosen Barcelona as the most efficient port to enter the Iberian Peninsula and head to the rest of Europe.

The port’s president stressed that the increase in volumes will have a knock-on effect, which will also lead Asian brands to work with the port of Barcelona. Salvadó added that the number of electric vehicle manufacturers passing through his facility is around 20, but this number is expected to continue to increase this year.

The president of the Port of Barcelona has stated that the port is confident that the import traffic of vehicles produced in Asia will increase by 2023. According to Salvadó, the flow of Asian cars is considered a strategic commitment, and the figures indicate that more and more Asian brands will come to work through the Port of Barcelona. The president also pointed out that the port will have to make changes to accommodate this traffic, as the current silos will not be sufficient. In 2022, the port of Barcelona recorded a significant increase in the import of electric vehicles, which has led to the need to make modifications to the facilities.

Panattoni acquires land in Parc de l’Alba in Cerdanyola del Vallès to build a data centre

Posted on 3 de May de 2023 by studiogenesis

A technology campus of up to 68,000 m² will be built with a 42 MW installed capacity data centre, which is expected to be the largest in Catalonia. The estimated investment for the project is 300 million euros and the first phase, of 42,000 m², will begin to be built at the end of 2023.

Quark, a leader in Architecture, Engineering and Project Management for Data Centres, will be responsible for the design and construction of a large data centre in Cerdanyola, just 20 km from Barcelona.

The future operator and tenant will be defined after an orderly process led by Colliers and Telam Partners. The location of the data centre ensures unbeatable connectivity and immediate power availability, which guarantees the success of the project and is a sure bet for the business development of the future tenant.

Experts are confident that this project will be the largest Data Centre to be built in Catalonia and Spain, and will contribute to expanding the digital infrastructure throughout southern Europe and North Africa. In addition, the project has the support of the Cerdanyola del Vallès City Council.

LaSalle invests in a Scanell logistics ship in Barcelona for 35 million

Posted on 4 de April de 2023 by studiogenesis

LaSalle has invested 25 million to raise the property to 21,000 m2. The ship, which has been occupied by the French group Daher since the second quarter of 2022, is located at quince kilometres from Barcelona and 25 kilometres from the port.

Scannell Properties is a private equity company specializing in promoting developed real estate. They have offices in the United States, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain and the United Kingdom, where they have carried out over 360 projects with a total volume of 7.8 million m2.

Since its inception to the national market, the company has deployed a growth strategy, buying land in different parts of the territory. The last operation was at the La Cova industrial estate in Manises, Valencia, with the development of a 19.171 m2 logistical platform.

The logistics centre will be state-of-the-art, sustainable, with additional offices and adapted to customer needs. It will be erected on a plot of 26,589 m2, where a warehouse of 16,612 m2, with offices and anexos buildings, will be built, totaling 2,559 m2 more.

It will have twenty loading docks, a large 32-metre maneuvering beach and a ship-free height of over 11 metres. It will have outdoor parking areas. It is expected to be completed during the third quarter of 2023.

INCASÒL encourages the economic promotion of Parc de l’Alba in Cerdanyola del Vallès

Posted on 4 de April de 20234 de April de 2023 by studiogenesis

The Institut Català del Sòl, INCASÒL, promotes the environmental promotion of Parc de l’Alba and the municipality of Cerdanyola del Vallès by making the plots available to facilitate the expansion of the activity of the Alba synchrotron.

These new spaces will allow for more detailed and faster analysis of the development of drugs, microchips and green energy.

Parc de l’Alba is located in Cerdanyola del Vallès, north of the city of Barcelona. It is being consolidated as one of the main strategic projects. From Catalonia offering new investment opportunities.

A location surrounded by nature with good connection and connectivity with affordable homes.

The German company BASF will build a new international hub of engineering on the Tarragona plant

Posted on 4 de April de 20234 de April de 2023 by studiogenesis

Carles Navarro, the general manager of BASF Spain, announced this during the annual results presentation. He commented that Spain plays an important strategic role on the company’s gloal map.

Two locations in the Spanish territory will increase their activities. On the one hand, the center of production in Tarragona, which houses the engineering unit. And on the other hand, Madrid, will take advantage of the synergy with our main partners in the projects of naïveness in the country. One important point in these two new projects is the creation of new jobs, in both locations.

During this 2023, the group will invest some 43 million euros in Spain to improve facilities and processes. In digital transformation, Spain ratified its strategic position in 2022. In Tarragona, at the production center, it has continued to advance with its own private red 5G facility, becoming one of the first companies in Spain, and pioneering chemistry to receive a 5G spectrum of its own to operate.

ICC is performing a new 22.400 m2 logistic project in Sabadell

Posted on 4 de April de 2023 by studiogenesis

ICC, the company specializing in the promotion and management of logistical assets and Toyota Material Handling Espaaa have begun construction of the Sabadell ICC Logistic Park, a new project of more than 22,400 m2.

The hub logistic will be erected over a 37,247 m2 (3,247 sq ft) parent cell and will consist of two modules, one of which will be 16,500 m2, which will be the new headquarters for the Japanese company. This module is joined by another 5,900 m2, currently available.

This new Logistics Park will have the ICC label, which supports the highest levels of sustainability in the construction process and in the use of the building. In this respect, the logistics centre will have the most vanguard systems for waste management and energy efficiency.

Use measurements such as photovoltaic panels, LED lights, etc. In order to make it sustainable, the building is planned to opt for the LEED Gold certification granted by the US Green Building Council.

José Luis Martínez, a member of the ICC, comments, “the demand for logistical space remains strong in Catalonia and in this sense logistical centres with such an excellent location as we find ourselves in will continue to awaken interest from both tenants and investors.”

Toyota, future tenant of the new center

Toyota Material Handling Espaaa is one of the future tenants, who will move their headquarters from Barberà del Vallès to Sabadell next year. This location change is part of the company’s growth consolidation strategy, which aims to improve service.

With this privileged location, the firm will offer greater coverage thanks to its connections and facilities, created to provide good service.

Catalonia and Barcelona revalidate their first position in the European ranking in strategy to attract foreign investment

Posted on 15 de March de 20234 de April de 2023 by studiogenesis

The Parc de l’Alba project in Cerdanyola del Vallès was a finalist at the MIPIM Awards as Best New Mega Developement.
FDi Magazine of the Financial Times consolidates the leadership of Catalonia and its capital in attracting foreign investment.

The Government of Catalonia, through INCASÒL, the Barcelona City Council and the Metropolitan Area of Barcelona (AMB) reaffirmed their commitment to inclusive, sustainable and cohesive development models at the world’s leading real estate fair, MIPIM. The fair was held in Cannes (France) from Tuesday 14 March until Friday 17, and was attended by more than 2,400 companies from some eighty countries. More than 2,000 investment and financial companies attended and more than 50% of the participants were CEOs and senior professionals.

Catalonia as a whole, especially Barcelona and its metropolitan area, has a great international, open and cosmopolitan vocation, which seeks to grow in an inclusive manner and to generate wealth and a diversified economy. It is in this sense that Barcelona has been awarded, this 2023, with the distinction of European Entrepreneurial Region.
This is why it is a very attractive territory for foreign investment and the attraction of international talent, as shown by various studies. In 2022, foreign investment in Catalonia reached 620 million euros, a figure that has been on the rise since 2018. Last year’s investment has led to the creation of 3,464 new jobs.

Under the slogan: A way of living! Barcelona Catalonia took its ambitious programme of promotion and investment attraction to MIPIM this year. It had a 250 m² stand and the participation of 35 public and private partners who jointly presented strategic areas and projects. The projects are located in excellent locations connected by a rich network of infrastructures that favour the development of business and host services for international companies and operators.

The outstanding projects presented at the stand were Barcelona Centro, the new 22@, the PDUAE of La Plana de Lleida and La Cònca de Òdena, residential sectors with land available for the development of affordable housing, Biopol-GranVia in L’Hospitalet de Llobregat and Fira, in Cornellà de Llobregat. In this edition, Catalonia Trade & Investment and the universities of Barcelona and the Diagonal-Besòs Campus of the UPC joined the project to increase the value of the offer presented to Cannes. All these business opportunities were projected onto the interactive Barcelona Catalonia model that captured the attention and interest of visitors to this year’s MIPIM.

Barcelona and Catalonia consolidate their leadership in attracting foreign investment

The European Cities and Regions of the Future 2023/2024 report published annually by the Financial Times group’s fDi Magazine ranks Barcelona and Catalonia as the best city and the best territory in terms of investor promotion strategy for the second year running. Thus, Barcelona is ahead of cities such as Berlin and London, and Catalonia is tied with the Ile-de-France region and ahead of the Madrid region and Scotland.

Specifically, Barcelona won the category “Major European Cities of the Future 2023 – FDI Strategy” for its commitment to technology and sustainability. The publication also highlighted the city council’s commitment to encouraging companies to invest in solar energy and Spain’s first green hydrogen plant. They also highlighted the “Plaza Barcelona” initiative, which uses virtual reality to promote the city and facilitate tasks such as finding work.

For its part, Catalonia tied for first place with the French region where Paris is located, in the same category but analysed by region. The jury highlighted Catalonia’s commitment to the SDGs and its digital transformation. It also emphasised the attraction pole, which are the 12 Catalan universities and their engineering degrees. These, according to the magazine, “create a pole of attraction of power that accelerates the transformation of the region” towards an industry 4.0.

The fDi Awards ceremony took place on Tuesday, 14 March.

Parc de l’Alba was nominated as Best New Mega Development at the MIPIM Awards

One of the projects presented at the Barcelona Catalonia stand, Parc de l’Alba in Cerdanyola del Vallès, was selected as a finalist in the Best New Mega Development category at the Mipim Awards, out of 186 projects from 38 different countries.

Parc de l’Alba, located around the Alba Synchrotron, is a new 340.6-hectare sector that will become one of the most advanced platforms for science, technology and entrepreneurship. Its location around the synchrotron and close to the Autonomous University of Barcelona make the site an ideal location for new companies related to research, science, innovation and technology.

The MIPIM Awards are a real estate awards that were created in 1991 and are internationally recognised. The awards recognise the most outstanding projects, consolidated or about to be built all over the world. This year, the awards ceremony was held on Thursday 16 March at 18.30.

Barcelona Catalonia conference. The ESG strategy towards better cities and stronger businesses

The official programme of MIPIM included the Barcelona Catalonia conference. This year, the round table will be entitled The ESG strategy towards better cities and stronger businesses and will take place on Tuesday 15 March at 17.15 in the Verrier Grand Audi hall, at the Palais donis Festivals in Cannes. The conference was given by Jordi Gálvez, member of the governing board of Llar Unió Catalonia, Maria Buhigas, from Urban Facts, Miquel Morell, from Promoacsa, economist expert in real estate trends, and Olivia Blanco, Director of International Operations at PGI Engineering; and was moderated by Carles Vergara, associate professor of Financial Management at the IESE Business School.

The conference focused on the importance of incorporating ESG criteria, which seeks environmental, social and corporate governance, in order to achieve better cities and stronger businesses.

The official programme of the fair also included the Barcelona Conference, where the Commissioner for City Promotion, Pau Solanilla, presented the Green Deal as a framework of opportunity for foreign investment aligned with the values of fairness, sustainability and competitiveness. The conference, entitled “The Barcelona Green Deal: New Investment Opportunities”, explained the transformation of the Olympic Port, the enlargement of Mercabarna and the Diagonal-Besòs Campus. The presentation of the Olympic Port was given by Olga Cerezo, Director of this project, who explained the urban planning changes that the area is undergoing in order to open up to its immediate surroundings and to respond to the challenges of this new stage as a new centre of business activity around the Barcelona economy, of nautical dynamism and development of a new gastronomic model. The conference took place on Thursday 16 March at 10 a.m. in the Verriere Grand Audi of the Palais donis Festivals.

Betting on public-private partnerships to attract foreign investors

As in previous editions of the fair, Barcelona Catalonia has opted for a model of collaboration between public and private agents in the sector to make the range of projects on offer more attractive to foreign investors. In this sense, the Mipim stand was attended by 35 companies with an international vocation and municipal, metropolitan and supra-municipal administrations that collaborate in urban development projects in Catalonia. On this occasion, the Barcelona Catalonia stand was attended by the city councils of Cerdanyola del Vallès, Cornellà de Llobregat, l’Hospitalet de Llobregat, Sant Boi de Llobregat, Sant Vicenç dels Horts and Viladecans and the public institutions Catalonia Trade & Investment, Campus Diagonal-Besòs (UPC Barcelona Tech), Cimalsa, Parc del Començar el dia and the University of Barcelona.

Also in attendance were the companies Amat Immobiliaris, API – Col-legi i Associació d’Agents Immobiliaris, Archikubik, BuildingCenter, Cornex Capital, Fabregat Perulles Sales, Forcadell, Gina Barcelona Architects, Grup aFinance (aCapital – aRetail), L35 Architects, Maher Homes, Lava Corporació, Barcino Property, Domus Management, Fomenti, Invest Center Catalonia, Jap, JG Enginyers, Meridiana, Smart Point, Spinnia, Tasinsa, TrGrupo Immobiliario and the social housing cooperative Llar Unió Catalonia.

Financial Times Group highlights Catalonia and Barcelona as leaders in attracting foreign investment in Europe

Posted on 8 de March de 2023 by studiogenesis

According to FDi Magazine of the Financial Times group, Catalonia and Barcelona are the region and city, respectively, with the best strategy for attracting foreign investment in Europe. This ranking is highly valued by multinationals to study future business investment projects and recognises the strategy carried out by the Generalitat de Catalunya, especially that of ACCIÓ-Catalonia Trade & Investment, which attracted 94 foreign investment projects, an investment of 620 million euros and the creation of more than 3,400 jobs by 2022. Of particular note is the ProACCIO Green programme, which offers support and aid to business projects related to sustainability.

The project of the South Korean company Iljin Materials, which will invest 600 million euros to open its first factory in Europe in Catalonia and create 500 jobs, stands out as an example of the success of the strategy of attracting foreign investment. FDi Magazine also highlights the presence of 12 universities in Catalonia that are helping to accelerate the region’s transformation into a leader in Industry 4.0. Catalonia was ranked first, along with Ile-de-France (France), in the category of Large European Regions of the Future – FDI Strategy.

The recognition shows that Catalonia is attractive for foreign investment and is a magnet for high added value projects, according to the Catalan Minister of Enterprise and Employment, Roger Torrent. He also commented that “a large number of foreign companies in Catalonia decide to reinvest here again, so they have confidence in the country and in our government”.

The document places the Catalan capital in first place in fDI’s European Cities and Regions of the Future 2023 – FDI Strategy category. The award also highlights “the city’s successful technology ecosystem, which received a boost last year with Intel’s decision to partner with the Barcelona Supercomputing Center to establish a microchip design lab”. Barcelona is ahead of European cities such as Dublin, Berlin, Munich and Milan.

Barcelona has lower house prices than before the pandemic

Posted on 8 de March de 2023 by studiogenesis

Despite its attractiveness as a place to live, with a wide cultural, leisure and gastronomic offer, and options in the labour market, the price of housing in Barcelona is 4,637 euros per m2, which makes it the only large city with lower prices than before the pandemic, according to Brainsre.

This is not the case for the rental market, which is at an all-time high, after several months of consecutive rises. It is currently at 20.1 euros per m2 per month.

The difference between the price of new housing and that of used housing

The price of new housing in Barcelona has increased by 4.7% in the last year, currently standing at 6,452 euros per m2. In contrast, the price of used housing has remained relatively stable.

New Equinix data centre to be located at L’Hospitalet de Llobregat

Posted on 8 de March de 2023 by studiogenesis

Barcelona is positioned as a strategic hub for the connection of terrestrial and submarine telecommunications cables. The recently inaugurated Barcelona Cable Landing Station, located in Sant Adrià de Besòs, has accelerated the implementation of new data centres in the metropolitan area, which are vital for the digital transformation of companies and the economy.

Nasdaq-listed US company Equinix has announced the construction of a second data centre in L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, where it has already had a similar facility since 2017. The new project, called International Business Exchange BA2, will require an investment of 52 million euros and is expected to be operational in the first quarter of 2024.

The new data centre already has its first customer, the British multinational Colt Technology Services, which is also the first company to connect to the Barcelona Cable Landing Station.

Equinix has stated that this new facility in Barcelona will serve as a strategic connection point for data communications between Europe. Africa and the Middle East. The new facility will quickly become an essential submarine cable mooring location and will connect important cables such as 2Africa, Aqua Comms’ Europe-Middle East-India, Sipartech’s Medloop and Medusa, linking Barcelona to various Mediterranean, European and African markets.

Equinix vice-president Jim Poole highlighted the importance of submarine cables in enabling the digital world and foresees great progress in the next two years after the slowdown caused by the pandemic. Equinix noted that Barcelona continues to attract major international organisations in the technology area, mentioning companies such as Airbnb, Amazon, Google, HP, Microsoft and Ubisoft, which have invested in the city.

Microsoft is planning to hire 100 new employees at its artificial intelligence centre in Barcelona

Posted on 8 de March de 2023 by studiogenesis

The company has already hired around 80 people for the AI centre in recent months and plans to expand its team further. The news comes as Microsoft confirms the global layoff of 10,000 employees, representing around 5% of its total workforce.

On the other hand, Granados said the job cuts will not affect data centre projects in Spain, but some areas will be reprioritised towards more strategic projects.

Microsoft opened its AI centre in Barcelona in September 2021 and it is the first of its kind in Spain, the fourth in Europe and the eighth in the world.

Investment in healthcare startups increases significantly in Catalonia

Posted on 8 de March de 2023 by studiogenesis

According to Biocat’s annual report, the Catalan healthcare startup ecosystem raised a total of 445 million euros in 2022, almost double the amount raised the previous year. The healthcare sector already represents 8.7% of Catalan GDP and is made up of 1,350 companies and a hundred research institutions, with an aggregate workforce of 247,600 workers. The CEO of Biocat, Robert Fabregat, highlights that “the ecosystem has continued to grow in most of the identifiers, despite the unstable international situation”, and describes 2022 as “historic”.

The €122 million round from Impress, which specialises in digital treatments for invisible braces, was the highest in the history of the healthcare sector and has driven investment growth. However, the sector would still have outperformed last year’s investment even without the Impress deal, attracting €323 million.

The biotech sector also broke records with €185m, while investment in digital health companies declined for the first time in five years, falling 40% compared to 2021, with only €39m.

Venture capital continues to be the main source of funding, providing 343 million euros, 77% of the total. The Biocat report on the Catalan healthcare sector shows that in 2022 competitive grants were the second most important source of funding for Catalan healthcare startups, with 53 million euros (12% of the total). This figure is the highest ever and almost doubles the figures achieved in previous years. The main contributions came from the European Innovation Council (EIC Accelerator) and the Centre for the Development of Industrial Technology (CDTI).

The health sector in Catalonia shows great business and research dynamism, with more than 1,200 active clinical trials in Catalan hospitals and a participation in 75% of the clinical trials carried out in the rest of Spain. Half of these trials focus on oncology, followed by cardiovascular diseases, ophthalmology, central nervous system, mental health and minority diseases. It should be noted that Catalonia ranks fifth in Europe in terms of scientific publications per million inhabitants.

The real estate market in Catalonia recorded its best year since 2007 with more than 102,000 home sales in 2022

Posted on 8 de March de 2023 by studiogenesis

During November 2022, the sale and purchase of homes in Catalonia increased by 19% compared to the same month of the previous year. This percentage is above the national average for Spain, which was 10.8%. In total, 8,822 home sales and purchases were carried out in Catalonia during this period, according to the INE.

In Spain as a whole, the number of sales and purchases rose to 55,132, which is the best figure recorded since 2007. This increase represents 21 months of rises in Spain and a growth of 17%.

According to the Statistics on Transfers of Property Rights of the National Institute of Statistics, Catalonia closed the year 2022 with a total of 102,108 home sales and purchases, which represents an increase of 14.5% compared to the previous year. It is worth noting that this is the first time in the last fifteen years that the threshold of 100,000 transactions has been exceeded. The year-on-year increase in Catalonia was in line with the national average, which was 14.7%.

Port of Barcelona traffic hits record high leaving pandemic behind

Posted on 8 de March de 2023 by studiogenesis

After the pandemic, the Port of Barcelona has resumed its activity, surpassing the highest figure in the historical series so far, the 67.8 million tonnes in 2018.

The Port of Barcelona has registered a record at the operational level in 2022 and has managed to exceed its pre-pandemic turnover with 181 million euros. Although this income has been affected by a €25 million recovery plan to cope with the crisis, the year’s profits have improved on those of 2019, reaching €63 million. The Port’s president, Lluís Salvadó, highlighted these results as good, given the complicated international context in which they have been perceived.

The port’s total traffic has recorded a homogeneous growth in all segments, except for container traffic, which has remained similar to the previous year. Excluding containers, the most dynamic traffics have been potash and hydrocarbons, with an increase of 53% and 34.5%, respectively, driven by the investments made in previous years and the energy crisis.

On the other hand, car traffic has improved significantly with an increase of 18.4%. It should be noted that exports have been affected by the lack of semiconductors and the closure of the Nissan plant. Imports grew by 63% and overall traffic by 145.7%.

José Alberto Carbonell, general manager of the Port of Barcelona, comments, “in recent years, the Port of Barcelona has become a distribution hub”, in order to understand the increase in traffic, with cars coming from Asia and being distributed throughout Europe from the Catalan capital. Electric cars account for 20% of imports, which are increasing and have made China the main origin, relegating Japan.

At present, the segment that continues to suffer the effects of covid are cruises, with 2.3 million passengers registered in 2022, still far from the 3.1 million of 2019, but above the 521,000 of 2021. Moderate growth is expected, between 2% and 3%, although improvements are expected on issues such as the recovery of routes with Barcelona as a home port and deseasonalisation.

Investment plan

The Barcelona Port Authority plans to invest some 300 million euros during 2023, according to Salvadó, “a qualitative leap” compared to previous years, with 32 million invested in 2021. Updating port infrastructures will be the most important item, with 200 million euros earmarked for new berths at the Moll de l’Energia and the enlargement of the Moll Adossat.

In addition, 35 million euros will be invested in the electrification of the port and 28 million euros in new railway accesses. 31 million euros will also be earmarked for the renovation of the Port Vell, with the aim of preparing it for the America’s Cup.

The sale of plot 3 of Xàmenes in Martorell and Sant Esteve Sesrovires has been completed

Posted on 27 de January de 2023 by studiogenesis

The Institut Català del Sòl, INCASÒL, has finalized the commercialization of an industrial and logistic land of 36.791 m² in the sector Xàmenes, located in Martorell and Sant Esteve Sesrovires. The land was of public ownership and property of INCASÒL and the town councils of Martorell and Sant Esteve Sesrovires. In addition, the project includes three more privately owned plots and the development works of the sector are in progress, with an expected completion date of the second quarter of 2024.

Plot 3 is an industrial and logistics land located in the Xàmenes sector, in the southeast of the sector, with a green area to the north and plot 2 to the east. The sector is close to the SEAT factory in Martorell, and has access to the AP-7, A-2, high-speed line, and B-224 road. Its location is strategic in the metropolitan area of Barcelona, as it is less than 45 minutes from important communication infrastructures, such as the airport and the port of Barcelona, and from the main passenger and freight train routes. It is also well connected to the Ferrocarrils de la Generalitat de Catalunya.

The development of Xàmenes is within the framework of the Urban Master Plan (PDU) for the economic activity of Baix Llobregat North, which includes three sectors: the Zona Oest, Can Cases and Xàmenes, with the aim of generating new opportunities for economic and territorial development in the area. Given that these are new development sectors, the PDU gives great importance to sustainability and landscape integration, incorporating landscape integration measures and architectural quality in the construction conditions.

Colt Technology, Barcelona Cable Landing Station’s first terrestrial customer

Posted on 27 de January de 2023 by studiogenesis

The Barcelona Cable Landing Station is a submarine fibre optic cable landing station located in Sant Adrià de Besòs, which is taking its first steps after its commissioning. The first cable powered by Meta has been announced and an agreement has been signed with the operator DE-CIX. In addition, the British multinational Colt Technology Services, which specialises in terrestrial fibre optic routes and network services, has become the station’s first terrestrial customer.

Colt Technology Services will be based in Sant Adrià to connect its cable landing station, the Barcelona Cable Landing Station, to Europe’s leading digital hubs such as Paris, London and Frankfurt. The company will have access to more than 1,000 data centres and 31,000 buildings in 220 cities in some thirty countries in Europe, Asia and North America. In addition, it will also provide an express overland route to other cable landing stations such as Lisbon, Bilbao and Marseille.

Colt Technology already had a presence on the Iberian Peninsula, where it has deployed a fibre optic network, nodes and data centre connections in cities such as Barcelona, Madrid, Bilbao and Lisbon. In Barcelona, the company has 13 data centre connection points and will now add one more. The London-based company has also previously worked with the owner of the submarine cable station, Catalan company AFR-IX Telecom, which provides Internet access in more than 50 African countries.

The Barcelona Cable Landing Station has the capacity to accommodate up to eight submarine fibre optic cables from Africa, the Mediterranean and Asia, as well as terrestrial customers such as Colt. The third cable to arrive is expected to be the Medusa cable, built by AFR-IX and Nokia Group’s Alcatel Submarine Networks (ASN), the longest cable in the Mediterranean at 8,700 kilometres. The station is expected to reach full capacity in 2027.

Catalonia closes 2022 with the lowest unemployment since 2007

Posted on 27 de January de 2023 by studiogenesis

The difference between this year and the previous year is very notable, in December 2022 there were 22,820 fewer people registered as unemployed, compared to the same month in 2021, that is -6.18%.

The highest figures since records began in 2004 were reached, with 3,615,780.

Compared to December 2021, there was a fall in unemployment of 11.74% in Tarragona, -11.25% in Lleida, -9.88% in Girona and, finally, -4.31% in Barcelona.

The number of unemployed people in Spain as a whole remains below 3 million, decreasing by 1.52% compared to the figures of November 2022. Over the past year, unemployment in Catalonia fell by -8.64%, below the Spanish average.

More than one third -38% of all new contracts have been indefinite since the labour reform of the Gobierno Español came into force.

The Port Olímpic moves towards a sustainable economy and nautical activities

Posted on 27 de January de 2023 by studiogenesis

Barcelona City Council’s Governing Committee has begun processing the Special Urban Development and Uses Plan for the Port Olímpic. The aim is to turn this infrastructure into a space without barriers and with better connections, to create an area that promotes the blue economy and gastronomy, and to democratise access to marine activities.

The scope of the plan covers a total area of 180,925 square metres, of which 103,561 correspond to the land where the port infrastructure will be built, including the Mestral, Marina, Gregal, Xaloc and Dic de Recer, while the rest, 77,363 square metres, correspond to the sheltered sheet of water. The total ceiling foreseen for the scope of the plan is 32,700 square metres.

According to the City Council, the plan confirms the commitment to the nautical sector, the sustainable economy and catering as the central axes of the new Port Olímpic’s activity.

In relation to the blue economy, nautical training, dissemination and recreational activities are promoted, with the aim of helping the people of Barcelona to gain a better relationship with the sea. The presence of entrepreneurs and nautical service companies will also be encouraged.

The plan places emphasis on improving accessibility to the Port of Barcelona, with the construction of new accesses from the Vila Olímpica and the beach, as well as the creation of public spaces specifically designed for walking and sporting activities. The City Council has reported that the works for the construction of the new access from the coastal ring road are progressing at a ‘good pace’, as well as the adaptation of the premises of the Moll of Mestral and the urbanisation of the Dic de recer. In addition, the refurbishment of the Sailing Centre is being put out to tender.

The plan also stresses the importance of promoting the use of green spaces, renewable energy and waste collection, among other initiatives to combat climate change and increase commitment to sustainability.

Spain records 15% increase in the number of deep tech startups, with 291 in Catalonia

Posted on 27 de January de 2023 by studiogenesis

The technology startups currently employing the most people are in the biotechnology and artificial intelligence sectors. According to the study, deep tech companies employ more than 1,700 people.

Over the last five years there has been a boom in the creation of technology start-ups in Catalonia. The Minister of Enterprise and Employment, Roger Torrent, encourages to continue building this ecosystem of universities and top-level research centres in order to have more professionals in the advanced technology sector.

These startups provide pioneering technological and knowledge solutions in the fields of science, technology and engineering. They are completely new solutions, with the aim of creating new markets, such as artificial intelligence and biotechnology.

In 2022, a record was set in Catalonia, with some 159 million euros invested in this sector, making Barcelona the first hub in southern Europe based on the financing of deep tech startups.

The government also announced that a special fund with a budget of 2.5 million euros will be set up to subsidise deep-tech companies and those with a lifespan of less than three years. This grant, which will be in place from this year, will provide beneficiaries with up to 250,000 euros interest-free for the first four years. The creators of these start-ups will only have to repay 80% of the total credit received. This will contribute to the growth of Catalonia’s high-tech industry.

If these investments are realised, President Pere Aragonès expects more than 1,800 new job opportunities.

Barcelona enters the top 10 of the best cities in the world

Posted on 27 de January de 202327 de January de 2023 by studiogenesis

According to this publication, Barcelona is the sixth best city in the world to live and work in. It is also one of the world’s top urban destinations. The city has climbed three positions in the ranking published by Resonance Consultancy, which, according to Bloomberg, is “a more comprehensive study”. The ranking not only takes into account tourist attractiveness, but also the city’s liveability, entertainment, cultural offerings, i.e. different economic, social and urban indicators.

Barcelona is one of the cities most valued by the experts of Resonance Consultancy, for several reasons, such as the climate, the architecture, the colourful neighbourhoods, which they define as artistic, sophisticated and bohemian. These attributes make the city occupy the sixth position in the ranking.

In the report created by “World Best Cities“, special mention is made of Barcelona’s commitment to a greener city and the initiatives that have been carried out to improve the tourist experience.

Improvements in the Catalan capital

After a difficult situation for the city, the pandemic, tourism is slowly making a comeback. Visitors will encounter major changes in the city. One of them is the difficulty of accessing the city by car, as traffic has been restricted in certain areas and cycle lanes have been increased. The ranking mentions the transformation of Passeig de Sant Joan into a green corridor with cycle lanes, wide pavements, vegetation and outdoor benches. It also comments on the change that will be generated in La Rambla, with the aim of making it more accessible, without car traffic.

Areas in which Barcelona stands out

The ranking is made on the basis of six areas in which it classifies one hundred cities in the world with more than one million inhabitants. The way it does this is by combining statistics and the opinions of citizens, both locals and tourists.

The Catalan capital stands out in the areas of place (6th position) and product (5th position). Place refers to the quality of life enjoyed in a city. This ranges from the climate, safety, culture and attractions of the neighbourhoods, to the buildings, museums, transport and services of the city. Product refers to all the activities and services offered by the city. This includes university rankings, airport connectivity, convention centres, professional sports teams and other tourist attractions.

On the other hand, Barcelona is ranked number 7 in the area of programming, which includes the cultural and gastronomic agenda, among others; 12th in the area of promotion, which includes the number of stories, references and recommendations shared online about

a city; 53rd in people, which includes the immigration rate, diversity and educational level; and 154th in prosperity, which is determined by economic indicators that measure the labour supply and the employment rate, among others.

The 10 best cities in the world according to the “World’s best Cities” ranking:

London
Paris
New York
Tokyo
Dubai
Barcelona
Rome
Madrid
Singapore
Amsterdam

Generalitat to approve the project to modernise Barcelona’s railway infrastructure

Posted on 27 de January de 2023 by studiogenesis

The urban master plan (PDU) for the creation of the southern rail-port node in the port of Barcelona has been initially approved by the Generalitat de Catalunya. The Territorial Commission has given the go-ahead to the document, which must go through a phase of allegations with the various entities affected by the urban redevelopment of the area and with the public. It is expected to receive final approval in the first quarter of 2023. The Generalitat is promoting the modernisation of the rail accesses to the port of Barcelona with the awarding of the preliminary phase of their construction.

The project affects 68 hectares of land in the southern area of the site

The rail-port node will incorporate up to six different terminals, which will extend in the southern part of the port area. The document lays the foundations for what is to be the Port of Barcelona’s Intermodal Logistics Terminal.

According to the Port Authority of Barcelona, the totality of infrastructures will be “a very powerful railway node”, which will provide a service to the port, but also to its surroundings: the Zona Franca, the Prantenc Industrial Estate and the industries located in the Baix Llobregat and the southern area of Barcelona. In addition, this node will facilitate a sustainable and efficient flow of maritime-terrestrial traffic, as well as land-maritime traffic.

There are spaces that will fall into disuse, such as the Morrot terminal, so the urban plan considers how to make the most of these spaces. The plan also envisages the creation of 20.8 hectares of green public spaces and the Corredor Verde Parc Agrari del Llobregat – Parc de Montjuïc, is a network of itineraries connecting the different logistics and port areas to the natural spaces.

As for Morrot, the future Intermodal Logistics Terminal is expected to absorb all its operations and free up its current terminal for a use yet to be defined. This investment is part of a comprehensive plan to improve connectivity with the surrounding area by building cycle lanes, improving pedestrian accessibility, extending the public transport network and developing green and recreational areas. The funds will also be used for the installation of security systems to improve the safety of workers and visitors to the port.

The Generalitat de Catalunya celebrates Cisco’s investment by opening its first semiconductor design centre in Barcelona

Posted on 4 de January de 2023 by studiogenesis

This is a strategic investment that will have a significant impact on boosting R&D activity in Catalonia. For the Government, this is an important investment linked to semiconductors, with the aim of boosting local industry and attracting new foreign investment projects to the sector.

Government of Catalonia is delighted that the US multinational Cisco is opening a semiconductor design centre in Barcelona, making it the first city in the European Union to have such an infrastructure.

This type of investment is highly competitive internationally and contributes to guaranteeing Catalonia’s technological independence, as well as that of Europe.

The relationship between Catalonia and Cisco has been growing closer in recent months. The Catalan president, Pere Aragonès, met during the last Mobile World Congress with the CEO of the multinational, Chuck Robbins, as well as with the company’s vice-president, Mark Patterson, and the general manager of Cisco in Spain, Andreu Vilamitjana.

The new semiconductor design centre in Barcelona has created 150 new skilled jobs. The company has also expanded its Barcelona design centre by 1,200 m2 and plans to build a new 3,000 m2 building in L’Hospitalet de Llobregat with a test laboratory.

Renfe invests 5 million euros in new access controls at Rodalies stations

Posted on 4 de January de 2023 by studiogenesis

The project tendered by Renfe for the supply, replacement, installation and maintenance of access control machinery at Rodalies de Catalunya stations involves an investment of €5,122,342.32 including IVA.

The obsolete access control equipment is being replaced to install it in stations that do not have access control and wherever it is necessary.

The new installations will be adapted for people with reduced mobility, will be bi-directional, and will have contactless card reader devices, 1D/2D barcodes and T-Mobilitat barcodes, both at the entrance and exit.

This project responds to one of the points of Renfe’s Strategic Plan. This document includes the promotion of digital transformation and the provision of security and comfort for the customer.

It is an action financed by NextGenerationEU funds.

INCASÒL has been chosen as a partner in the Greening Cities partnership, framed in the Urban Agenda of the European Union

Posted on 4 de January de 2023 by studiogenesis

The choice of INCASÒL’s participation was made by experts contracted by the European Commission, highlighting “the work, experience and ideas of INCASÒL” as an important partner for this project.

The project will be coordinated by the Nuovo Circondario and the Romanian Ministry of Development, Public Works and Administrations, and will involve some twenty European organisations.

The initiative will focus on green and blue infrastructures in an urban context, taking into account aspects such as sustainable transport, water management or urban agriculture.

Being a partner in this project aims to develop action plans to improve existing regulations in order to meet the challenges of cities and urban areas. Furthermore, to improve and support innovative and more accessible financing funds for urban areas. On the other hand, to share and develop knowledge.

Five urban innovation projects win the third edition of the “La ciudad proactiva” call for proposals

Posted on 4 de January de 2023 by studiogenesis

BIT Habitat, in charge of promoting urban innovation to respond to social, economic, technological and environmental challenges, launches the third edition of “La ciudad proactiva. Innovación con impacto”.

The winning projects will receive half a million euros, which will be used to finance up to 80% of each project.

The five winning projects present solutions to address the challenges of energy transition, climate emergency, urban transformation, housing and social cohesion.

The winning projects are:

Logirepak: presented by Fundación Catalana para la Prevención de Residuos y Consumo Responsable [Recero] y Design by Intuition [Paka] Urban logistics network for the reuse of packaging for fresh food in city markets. Subsidised with 120,000 €.
TEPAC: presented by the following organisations: Batec Pol Cooperatiu per la Transició Energètica, Azimut 360 y La Fabric@. Seeking to unblock the use of communal rooftops to facilitate the construction of energy communities. Subsidised with 120,000 €.
RAVALoritza: presented by Transfolab Bcn and Raons públiques, participatory design and co-creation of furniture for the space of the Casal dels Infants del Raval youth group, with an educational strategy. Subsidised with around €40,000.
RESPIRA: project presented by the group formed by Noumena Design Research Education, el Instituto de Arquitectura Avanzada de Cataluña, la Asociación de Vecinos y Vecinas del Poblenou and Plataforma de Entidades de las Roquetes. Subsidised with nearly €100,000.
DaTaLoG: initiative presented by Universidad Pompeu Fabra and Ideas for Change.Data trust that will allow, in a participatory manner, the use of water, electricity and gas consumption data to make better decisions on access, savings and the impact of energy consumption. Subsidised with approximately €115,000.

In addition to financial support, BIT Habitat will provide the projects with expert mentoring and facilitate access to technology in order to develop prototypes. It will also provide technical accompaniment and communication and dissemination support.

Currently, 22 innovative projects are underway thanks to this aid initiative launched in 2022.

The expansion of Parc de l’Alba and the Synchrotron is now a reality

Posted on 4 de January de 2023 by studiogenesis

He made the visit accompanied by the Catalan Minister for Research and Universities, Joaquim Nadal, and with them was the director of the ALBA Synchrotron, Caterina Biscari. Also present during the visit were Joan Gómez, Director General of Research, Carlos Cordón, the mayor of Cerdanyola del Vallès, Javier Lafuente, the rector of the UAB, Pere Solà, the director of Parc de l’Alba and Joan Borràs, the territorial delegate of Barcelona.

Aragonès highlighted the ALBA II project as “one of Catalonia’s great scientific assets and an exceptional research tool”.

TRANSFER OF LAND FOR THE ALBA II PROJECT

At the end of the visit, the President, accompanied by the Councillor and the director of ALBA, confirmed the transfer of the adjacent land to ALBA. This land will double the current surface area of the ALBA Synchrotron.

It is an opportunity for the future development of a scientific and innovation pole in collaboration with other institutions.

The ALBA II project foresees the construction of three new extra-long beamlines to be located on the new land allocated to the project. The project will carry out the modernisation of existing scientific instruments, the development of the infrastructure to store and analyse data and the creation of a state-of-the-art instrument that will be available, from 2030 onwards, to the public and private scientific community with the aim of solving societal challenges and advancing knowledge of the world around us.

Approval of the Biopol-Granvia del Hospitalet Urban Development Master Plan

Posted on 4 de January de 2023 by studiogenesis

This is the new version of the instrument, previously called PDU Gran Via-Llobregat, after the reformulation during the last two years after the courts declared it null and void in 2020.

This Pla Director Urbanístic is the way to establish the urban planning guidelines to develop the innovation and health “biocluster”. A group of companies linked to biomedicine in which the Bellvitge Hospital, the UB Health Sciences campus, the Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL) and the Duran i Reynals Hospital, headquarters of the Catalan Institute of Oncology (ICO) will be present.

This project is led jointly by the Generalitat and the city council, which have stated that, “The mission of the new PDU is the transformation and development of the land to promote the implementation of a new pole of economic activity linked to research, biomedical research and health sciences”.

This project affects 8% of the territory of l’Hospitalet de Llobregat and involves an investment of some 229 million euros. The initial validation of this process is the most relevant procedure. The corresponding provisional and definitive approvals will follow later.

This project aims to strengthen and consolidate biomedical research and innovation through an ecosystem that attracts companies in the health sector. The initiative is expected to create around 50,000 jobs and a turnover of more than 7 billion euros.

Barcelona to invest 10 million euros in funds from fund managers based in the metropolitan area

Posted on 4 de January de 2023 by studiogenesis

The City Council’s aim is to consolidate the city as the digital capital of southern Spain. According to Deputy Mayor Jaume Collboni, ten million euros will be invested in six private venture capital funds through a new public-private fund, Barcelona Accelera.

The six selected funds must commit to invest at least three times the amount committed by the city council, which in no case can be their initial investment, as their contribution will represent a maximum of 10%.

The aim of the council is to recover the capital invested within a decade and to promote start-ups in the city.

The projects will be chosen through a competition, in which certain requirements must be met. Some of these requirements are to be based in the Catalan capital or in a town in the metropolitan area and to form part of one of the strategic sectors that form part of the ‘Barcelona Green Deal’ schedule. In addition, the city council will take into account for part of the investment, companies led by women.

The initiative will be led by the municipal economic development agency Barcelona Activa.

Aena boosts the growth of El Prat airport planned for 2024

Posted on 7 de December de 2022 by studiogenesis

To begin with, a hotel will be put out to tender in Terminal 2 from 2024, although construction will not be completed until 2026. There are also plans for 36 hectares of logistics space in front of T2 and, in time, the development of a hotel in T1, as well as offices. So far, Aena has not been able to carry out any of the project due to a lack of political consensus.

Despite opposition to airport expansion, Aena plans to develop 151 hectares at Barcelona airport. On the other hand, at Madrid-Barajas Airport, Aena awarded P3, a subsidiary of Singapore’s sovereign wealth fund, the development of 32 hectares for logistics uses for around 170 million euros. The next step will be to add offices and hotels to the airport city by the end of next year.

During the first half of 2025 it is planned to launch the logistics hub at the Costa del Sol-Malaga Airport and during the first six months of 2026, its hotel hub. The master plans for Valencia and Seville are expected to be finalised in 2023.

More than 9,000 multinationals set up in Catalonia

Posted on 7 de December de 2022 by studiogenesis

The long list has just been joined by technology companies such as Cisco and its first European chip design centre in Ca L’Alier, the investments of Lenovo and Intel in the BSC, or that of the American MPS in L’Hospitalet de Llobregat. There have also been incorporations in the automotive sector, with the South Korean ILJIN, and in the health sector, with AstraZeneca’s new technology centre for rare diseases, the digital centre of the Swiss company Ypsomed and Veeva, which specialises in software development for the pharmaceutical industry.

In numbers, they have surpassed those before the pandemic, when there were 8,908 (2019). As a result, Acció is working with a portfolio of 613 foreign investment projects, which is 56% more than in 2020.

Typology of companies

The more than 9,000 multinationals established in Catalonia account for 18.5% of employment in Spain. It is worth noting that the majority are located in the Barcelonès region (60.8%), Vallès Occidental (11.2%) and Baix Llobregat (10.6%).

Micro-companies are predominant with a percentage of 42.6%, ahead of small companies (29.1%), medium-sized companies (19.8%) and large companies, which account for the lowest percentage (8.5%). On the other hand, companies more than 20 years old since their creation stand out (33%).

In terms of sectors, infrastructure and construction are by far the main players, with almost 2,000 companies, representing 13.1% of the total. They are followed by ICT and Industry 4.0 companies with 897, or 9.8%, and machinery and capital goods with 658, or 7.2%.

On the other hand, the origin of these companies is varied, but by far the largest proportion comes from Europe (74%). Behind them are those from North America (15%) and Asia (8%). Finally, the countries that account for 57.7% of the total are France, the United States, Germany, the United Kingdom and Italy.

The port of Barcelona wins the European Sea Ports Organisation’s annual award

Posted on 7 de December de 2022 by studiogenesis

The European association of ports (European Sea Ports Organisation) has awarded Barcelona. The city of Barcelona is ahead of five other European ports with the award, and is also ahead of Ceuta, the other Spanish candidate nominated for this recognition.

With the award, ESPO recognises the Port of Barcelona for its work in connectivity with the city for the maritime transport of passengers. In addition to rewarding the environmental and social sustainability of the project, which was a requirement to qualify for the award.

One of the members of the jury, Dimitrios Theologitis, emphasised that “the Catalan site has one of the largest port investment projects in Europe today”, congratulating it on its action, following the plan defined during the 1992 Olympic Games.

On the other hand, the President of the Port of Barcelona, Damià Calvet, celebrated the recognition of ESPO. A few hours after the winner of the award was announced, the highest authority of the Port of Barcelona related the award to the execution of the current strategic plan. Moreover, he commented, “if we did not have this strategic plan, it would be open to criticism, but we have it and it is being well executed”.

Calvet admitted that, “it makes us particularly excited because it recognises the effort to think, reach a consensus and connect the port with the city, while maintaining port activity”.

Barcelona improves its attraction of talent in Europe after the new law on ‘Startups’

Posted on 7 de December de 2022 by studiogenesis

There are several factors that determine a professional’s decision when deciding where to develop his or her career or invest. Not only the quality of life or pleasant weather.

Barcelona has positioned itself in recent years as a winning city in the league of attracting international talent, even so, its potential has not been maximised as a result of some shortcomings. Some of these include excessive bureaucracy, a lack of English-language education and a number of other shortcomings that prevent the city from exploiting its full potential.

The Barcelona Global association’s main objective is to eliminate or reduce these obstacles. The organisation is convinced that Barcelona has the potential to become one of the world’s leading cities for talent and the economy.

The new Startups Law, which the association has been working on for more than five years, has specific objectives. Starting with effectively improving taxation, reducing bureaucracy and boosting the entrepreneurial ecosystem and attracting talent.

Although the regulation is an improvement for the whole of Spain, it will mainly benefit the Catalan capital, according to Maite Barrera, president of the association involved. The city will be able to better capitalise on the changes introduced, given that it is currently considered the third favourite city in Europe to create a startup.

Some of the successful tech companies born in Barcelona are Glovo, Wallbox, Travelperk, Factorial, eDreams and Privalia, all of which have added value to the Catalan capital. In addition, the new law will attract digital hubs of large companies such as Nestlé, Pepsico, HP and Amazon, among others.

Barcelona is pioneer in setting up an interchangeable battery station for cars and motorbikes

Posted on 7 de December de 20227 de December de 2022 by studiogenesis

Cepsa and Acciona-Silence have joined forces to promote this electric battery exchange point for cars and motorbikes. Barcelona is the pioneer city in setting up this station. The main objective of the project is to facilitate the rapid recharging of batteries.

Carlos Sotelo, CEO of Silence and Mobility Acciona explains, “the user arrives and has an already charged battery at his disposal”. The executive adds, “we are talking about a system that is more economical and cleaner than petrol”.

The exchange station will be located on Carrer Comte d’Urgell. In the coming months, the two companies plan to build ten similar facilities in Barcelona and the country’s capital.

Main advantages of the service

The main advantage of this new service is its immediacy, as the process is very similar in time to refuelling. In addition, this service encourages the use of electric vehicles, offering a 40% saving on the purchase cost. In this case, the batteries are not included, they are rented.

This service will be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Customers will pay a monthly fee to take advantage of the service and, according to media reports, a fee that is significantly lower than that paid for fuel.

This test responds to the need to anticipate future scenarios such as the increasing demand for green hydrogen in road vehicle transport. The ultimate goal is for the population to have access to renewable energy sources, in the shortest possible time, in order to guarantee long journeys without problems.

In 2022 the tourism sector in Catalonia will provide 7.8% more employment than in 2021

Posted on 7 de December de 2022 by studiogenesis

During October, tourist employment in Catalonia fell by 4.3% compared with September. In figures, 12,496 workers were no longer employed in October compared with the previous month. This event coincides with the end of the summer season and is not perceived as negative, as compared with the previous year, recruitment has increased by 7.8%.

In Spain as a whole, the tourism sector employed 2.5 million people in October, 69,834 fewer than in September. Even so, the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Tourism emphasised that this is the best historical record for the tenth month of the year. In the whole of Spain the growth was 6.4%.

Compared to last year, the number of employed workers increased by 10.2%, a figure that is worth noting. On the other hand, self-employed workers decreased by 1%. In figures, there were 225,703 employees and 55,240 self-employed.