Spain as the Preferred Destination to Establish Your Business in Europe
Spain has become a key destination for British investment, with the United Kingdom standing out as one of the most active countries. According to the report “British Investment in Spain” (2024) prepared by the Europe-UK Business Council, the UK has more than 150 companies operating in the Iberian country. This presence reflects a significant and diversified participation in sectors such as technology, renewable energies, digital services, and precision manufacturing.
Why choose Spain to expand your british company?
Spain is a strategic option for British companies wishing to expand in Europe, thanks to its location in the south of the continent, which facilitates access to the main European markets and the single market of the European Union, composed of more than 500 million consumers with high purchasing power. The modern transport and logistics infrastructure allows for efficient connections with other European countries, optimizing trade and investment opportunities.
The business environment in Spain is solid, supported by a recovering economy and a legal framework that protects foreign investors. The country offers tax incentives and specific benefits, especially in key sectors such as technology and renewable energy. These incentives help British companies to establish themselves and thrive in the European market, maximizing their growth potential.
The cultural affinity between Spain and United Kingdom, evidenced by the shared language and the growing network of British entrepreneurs, facilitates integration and reduces barriers to entry. According to Spain’s National Statistics Institute (INE), in 2022 the British community is mainly in Catalonia (7,002 residents), Madrid (6,653), Andalusia (2,339) and the Valencian Community (1,850). These data highlight the regions with the highest presence of British, offering a dynamic and accessible business environment.
Institutions and entities to facilitate the relocation and opening of companies in Spain:
To facilitate the relocation of British companies to Spain, there are several institutions that can be of great help. These entities provide a variety of resources and support to facilitate the process of relocation and establishment of British companies in Spain.
Spain-UK Business Association (AEEUK): This organization promotes trade, investment, and collaboration relations between Spain and the United Kingdom, providing support to British companies interested in establishing or expanding in the Spanish market.
ICEX Spain Export and Investment: This Spanish government agency helps foreign companies, including those from the United Kingdom, invest in Spain and provides information and assistance on issues related to investment and business expansion.
Embassy of the United Kingdom in Spain: Provides assistance to British companies seeking to establish themselves in Spain, offering information on the local business environment and providing support in administrative procedures and investment opportunities.
Economic and Commercial Office of the Embassy of the United Kingdom in Spain:
Responsible for promoting trade relations between the United Kingdom and Spain, providing support to British companies in identifying business opportunities, finding local partners, and establishing contacts in the Spanish market.
Centers for the Development of Industrial Technology (CDTI): The CDTIs in Spain specialize in promoting research, development and technological innovation in companies, providing financing for R&D projects, technical advice and training programs. They also foster collaboration between companies and research centers, promoting technology transfer and strengthening business competitiveness in an increasingly globalized environment.
Advantages of having facilities/offices in Spain
Spain stands out for its high quality of life, which will benefit your employees, compared to other locations in Europe. These advantages are manifested in several aspects:
Health: Spain’s national health system (Social Security) is highly recognized for its efficiency and quality, providing universal and free health coverage to all citizens and residents. Managed by the autonomous communities, it offers a wide range of services, including primary, specialized, hospital and pharmaceutical care. Hospitals and health centers are well equipped and staffed by qualified professionals.
Private health services offer faster care, and a similar level of quality, but Social Security doctors are considered at the TOP worldwide.
Education: In Spain, free education is a right guaranteed by the Constitution and extends from early childhood education to compulsory secondary education (ESO), also covering basic vocational training. This public education system is managed by the State and the autonomous communities, and is financed with public funds, which allows access to education to all children and young people regardless of their economic situation.
University education: In Spain there are a total of 84 universities, of which 50 are public and 34 are private. Several of these institutions are ranked among the best in the world in various academic areas. For example, the University of Barcelona and the Autonomous University of Barcelona stand out in social and natural sciences, the Complutense University of Madrid is recognized for its arts and humanities programs, while IE Business School and ESADE are among the best business schools worldwide. In Valencia, the University of Valencia and the Polytechnic University of Valencia are also highly recognized, especially in fields such as engineering, science and information technology, consolidating their position as educational and research benchmarks in Spain and the world.
Climate: Spain’s climate is remarkably diverse due to its geography, ranging from the Mediterranean climate in cities such as Barcelona, Valencia or Malaga, with hot, dry summers and mild, humid winters in most coastal areas, to the continental climate in the interior, characterized by cold winters and hot summers.
Security: It is generally known that security in European countries is very high. Except for the typical pickpocketing in tourist cities, crime is rare in Spain if one does not go to unsafe neighborhoods. Spain is ranked 23rd in the world according to the Global Peace Index.https://www.visionofhumanity.org/maps/#/
High quality of life: Compared to other European countries, Spain offers a relatively affordable cost of living, especially in terms of food and public transportation. In terms of quality of life, Spain stands out for its excellent healthcare system, pleasant climate and vibrant cultural life. Residents enjoy a high quality of life thanks to a balance between work and leisure, a rich supply of recreational activities and a focus on social and family life. The combination of a reasonable cost of living with high quality services and a pleasant environment makes Spain an attractive place to live, with a high level of overall well-being.
Professional relocation services in Spain
When a company decides to open a branch office or relocate to Spain, it is crucial to have a local partner specialized in relocation to facilitate the move and relocation of its employees. Relocation companies offer a full range of services to ensure that the transition is as smooth and efficient as possible, minimizing the stress and difficulties associated with moving to a new country.
Among the most common services provided by these companies are:
Arrival orientation
Many relocation companies organize an orientation tour to familiarize employees and their families with the new living and working area. This tour includes an introduction to the city, information on the main services and an overview of the housing options available. In addition, a detailed guide to the neighborhoods of interest is provided, making it easier to choose the most suitable place to live and work.
Accommodation Search
Upon arrival in Spain, employees often need temporary housing while looking for a permanent residence. Relocation companies help find temporary housing options for the first few weeks and assist in finding permanent housing that suits the needs and preferences of the employee and his or her family.
Administrative Services
The administrative process of settling in a new country can be complex. Relocation companies assist in completing the necessary formalities for registration with official entities such as the municipal registry, Social Security and the embassy. They also assist in opening bank accounts and obtaining other essential documents, ensuring that all legal and administrative requirements are met in a timely manner.
Installation at Destination
A key aspect of relocation services is personalized support during the adjustment process. This may include help in getting to know the neighborhood, assistance in furnishing the home, and participation in local community activities. This service is designed to make arrival in a new country easier and more enjoyable, enabling employees and their families to integrate quickly into their new environment.
Trust Relomar to Facilitate Your Expansion in Spain
At Relomar, we are experts in managing the relocation process for British companies in Spain, ensuring a smooth and effective transition for both the company and its employees.
Our goal is to ensure that your expansion to Spain is a smooth and successful experience.
Contact us to find out how we can help you facilitate your adaptation to the new environment and achieve a seamless integration into the Spanish market, and one of our experts will help you through the entire process, defining from the work system to the characteristics of each service.
