Spanish Business Awards 2026 Featuring:
AI Global Media, Ltd. (AI) takes reasonable measures to ensure the quality of the information on this web site. However, AI will not assume any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, correctness or completeness of any information that is available through this web site. If errors are brought to our attention, we will try to correct them. The information available through the website and our partner publications is for your general information and use and is not intended to address any particular finance or investment requirements. In particular, the information does not constitute any form of advice or recommendation by us or any of our partner publications and is not intended to be relied upon by users in making or refraining from making any investment or financial decisions. Appropriate independent advice should be obtained before making any such decision. Any arrangement made between you and any third party named in the site is at your sole risk and responsibility. EU Business News is delighted to present the Spanish Business Awards 2026, an annual programme celebrating the Spanish companies making a real impact across the country. This prestigious award is designed to spotlight the standout enterprises, entrepreneurs, and changemakers who are setting new standards of excellence both at home and abroad. A Dynamic and Resilient Nation Spain’s economy has undergone a remarkable resurgence in recent years – notably outperforming many of its European peers due to strong tourism, exports, and investment. Spain’s business community is becoming increasingly global in its outlook. Export-ready SMEs, smart city initiatives, and regional development plans are helping create opportunities beyond the major hubs of Madrid and Barcelona, with economic activity growing in regions such as Valencia, Andalusia, and the Basque Country. As sustainability and innovation become essential business drivers, Spain is positioning itself as a European leader in renewable energy, circular economy practices, and socially responsible entrepreneurship. This transformation offers a wealth of opportunity for organisations of all sizes to grow, adapt, and lead in a rapidly evolving European marketplace. Sofi Parry, Senior Editor Website: www.eubusinessnews.com Spanish Business Awards 2026
4. Frutas Borja Sl: Best Fresh Fruit Producer 2026 & Excellence Award for Unique & Natural Product Varieties 2026 6. Itinerary (Smart Itinerary, S.L.): Best Travel Tech Company 2026 8. DISIT Biotech: Most Pioneering Disruptive Biotech Company 2026 10. Aeromedical and Marine Tri Sl/ Usa/Dubai/ Singapore: Global Leaders in Air & Maritime Medical Assistance 2026 11. Valesa Cultural: Best Inbound Tour Operator 2026 12. MCR Agency: Best Gaming Influencer Marketing Agency 2026 – Spain & Latin America 13. Smart Learning 1to1 SL: Best Personalised English Learning Experience 2026 14. DSIGNTANK: Best Glass Packaging Design Specialists 2026 15. bclose: Best Global Employee Onboarding & Engagement Tool 2026 16. SmarTrading: Best Corporate Governance & Advertising Agency 2026 – Madrid Contents
Spanish Business Awards 2026 Combining traditional agricultural wisdom with innovative cultivation techniques, Frutas Borja is a family-owned produce company representing three generations of passion for growing exceptional fruit. The company was established in 1975 by Antonio Borja Perales and, with deep roots in Spanish agriculture, its legacy has been continued by sons Luís, Juan, and Mario. Today, Frutas Borjas stands as a trusted partner to retailers and distributors seeking premium berries that stand out in competitive markets. Focusing on the cultivation of fresh berries, namely strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries, Frutas Borja leverages more than four decades of agricultural and commercial knowledge to serve a global clientele. Its customers include supermarkets, specialty stores, and retail outlets across Europe, as well as wholesale fruit distributors operating within both national and international markets. Through rigorous cultivation control and selection processes, the company guarantees fresh and tasty fruit truly deserving of the Excellence Award for Unique and Natural Product Varieties 2026. “Our main mission is to produce and market fresh fruit of the highest quality, especially red fruits,” Luisa told us, “guaranteeing flavour, freshness, and food safety while working responsibly with the environment and the people who are part of our value chain. Our greatest achievement to date is to have consolidated a decades-long history in the sector, maintaining the trust of national and international customers without losing our values or our agricultural roots.” Frutas Borja offers a comprehensive fromfield-to-fork service model that allows it to retain complete control over its product Best Fresh Fruit Producer 2026 & Excellence Award for Unique & Natural Product Varieties 2026 Spain is the largest producer of fruit and vegetables in Europe, and the fifth largest worldwide. The province of Huelva in Andalusia is a key player in this space, accounting for almost 77% of the country’s red fruit exports and even achieving the historic milestone of 1.101 billion euros in sales throughout the first seven months of 2024. At the forefront of this thriving sector is Frutas Borja, a leading producer of fresh fruit in Huelva with a longstanding legacy of excellence in the agricultural field. We spoke to Commercial Manager Luisa Gadea for more information, as Frutas Borjas is named in the Spanish Business Awards 2026. range. This service entails professional cultivation and harvesting practices, regulated with thorough quality control at every stage of the process. After harvest, the fruit undergoes proper handling and packaging to preserve its outstanding qualities, before efficient logistics distribution ensures that the product arrives at its destination in optimal condition. To guarantee the highest standards of quality and service, Frutas Borja deploys a number of forward-thinking initiatives across its daily operations. This includes maintaining exhaustive control of the crop, ensuring the application of good agricultural practices and sustainable techniques; carefully selecting and harvesting the product at its optimum point of ripeness; promoting efficient handling and packaging processes to preserve the quality and freshness of the produce; and prioritising customer orientation by adapting to the needs of each market whilst delivering a reliable and punctual service. “What sets Frutas Borja apart from other companies in the industry is our combination of experience, direct process control, and constant commitment to quality,” said Luisa. “We don’t just market fruit; we grow, care for, and deliver it, controlling every stage from the field to the end customer. Customers know that they can trust Frutas Borja because we deliver what we promise, season after season, offering fresh, safe fruit to the quality demanded by the market.” Being based in Andalusia has presented significant advantages for Fruta Borja; the region maintains exceptional climate conditions for agriculture and agribusiness – characterised by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters – and boasts a high specialisation in fresh produce, specifically in the production of red fruits. What’s more, Andalusia also possesses vast export and agricultural expertise, with a logistics infrastructure strategically positioned to serve Europe and the largest agri-food sector in Spain. The region’s agricultural specification has had a significant impact on Frutas Borja’s operations, enabling it to leverage numerous advancements. This includes the use of efficient irrigation technologies, such as humidity sensors and water control systems; the digitalisation of production and planning to improve crop management; a region-wide commitment to sustainable practices, including biological pest control and the reduction of chemical inputs; and an emphasis on origin, further positioning regional produce – particularly the red fruits of Huelva – as a quality and reliable product across Europe. Beyond its location, Frutas Borja’s sustained success is equally driven by its exceptional team, who work in close collaboration with honesty, transparency, and quality at the forefront of their operations. “Frutas Borja’s internal culture is based on commitment, teamwork, and respect for people,” Luisa stated. “We are a company with familial and agricultural roots, where individual responsibility, experience, and collaboration between all departments are valued, and every employee understands how their role contributes to the final result.” To ensure that its team continues to offer the best possible service, Frutas Borja provides each employee with initial training adapted to their specific position, complemented by continuous training aligned with good agricultural and handling practices, food
5. Best Fresh Fruit Producer 2026 & Excellence Award for Unique & Natural Product Varieties 2026 safety, and risk prevention. Practical learning is promoted across departments, combining hands-on experience with continuous improvement to facilitate comprehensive development, with team leaders providing daily supervision and support in compliance with industry standards. Close market observation is integral to this approach, enabling the team to remain at the forefront of industry advancement and regulatory changes. The company has noted a number of current trends reshaping the red fruit and fresh agriculture sector, including a global demand for cost optimisation and efficiency that has been fuelled by rising prices in energy, transportation, and labour. At the same time, markets are calling for varietal innovation, seeking out fruits with better flavour, longer shelf-lives, and better logistical behaviour. There is now greater demand for companies that can guarantee ultimate quality and food safety in their products, with stricter controls enforced alongside calls for total product traceability. In parallel, markets are increasingly prioritising sustainability in agriculture, including the reduction of water usage, phytosanitary products, and packaging across production processes. These shifts have been driven by a more informed consumer who values the origin of their produce, seeking companies that can live up to their promise of unrivalled freshness and wholly responsible practices. In such a shifting landscape, Frutas Borja stands as a company well-equipped to meet the public’s evolving demands. As it enters a new year of operations, the company remains dedicated to maintaining its high standards of quality and compliance, with plans to continue setting new benchmarks across the region’s agricultural sector. 2026 will be marked by ongoing investment in innovation and technology, particularly in the fields of precision agriculture, crop control, and planning. The company will also reinforce team development, leveraging regular training to continue offering a professional but personal service. Sustainability remains a firm commitment, with projects in the pipeline aimed at water conservation, input reduction, and environmental protection. Simultaneously, Frutas Borja will prioritise the continuous improvement of its production processes to better serve its customers and enhance efficiency and quality in both the field and the warehouse. This will be further bolstered by the development of new fruit varieties to offer produce with better flavours and freshness, ensuring that Frutas Borja continues to evolve alongside the market and maintains its position as the Best Fresh Fruit Producer 2026. In light of this significant achievement, Luisa shared: “We face the future of Frutas Borja with prudence, enthusiasm, and long-term vision. Our goal is to continue growing sustainability, reinforcing what we do best: offering fruit of consistent quality, with a reliable and responsible service. We want to further consolidate ourselves as a trusted supplier, adapting to market changes without losing our values or agricultural identity.” Contact: Luisa Gadea Company: Frutas Borja Sl Web Address: www.frutasborja.es
Jul22546 Spanish Business Awards 2026 ravel booking trends have been changing since the internet gained widespread popularity in the 1990s, with the number of people using online platforms to plan and book their trips – as opposed to using a traditional travel agent – having grown exponentially. The advent of AI a few years ago turned this space on its head once more, as people began to plan their itineraries (to varying success) on generative AI platforms. In the midst of all this, a chance meeting between two men led to a solution that could stand about all of the noise. A journalist by trade and a foodie and traveller in his spare time, the idea for this platform came about when Manuel was holidaying in Japan with his wife. Having hired Daniel Parra as a tour guide, he quickly discovered that the pair had a lot in common, and they got talking about an idea Daniel had for an app or a website where tailored trips could be provided to the user instantly, without them having to spend hours browsing the web. It was decided there was a huge demand for this kind of provision, and so the duo quickly got to work. The answer was Itinerary, a solution that designs travel itineraries capable of adapting to the unique tastes of each person. A service that is provided free of charge, it only takes a few minutes to plan the trip of a lifetime – all based around the preferences of the person in front of the screen. The development of this idea coincided with the world being plunged into lockdown in early 2020, and with Manuel being based in Spain and Daniel in Japan, they were able to spend their days working virtually to create something revolutionary. Launching in late 2020, Itinerary received more than 30,000 visits in the first 15 days alone, cementing the assumption that their was a real demand for a service of this kind. The company has grown considerably in the years since, and it registered in Madrid due to the thriving start-up ecosystem in the region, which it knew would help drive this growth. Both Manuel and Daniel still work in their respective countries to this day, with expansion having also seen Itinerary open offices in both Colombia and Pakistan in the years since. Despite being spread across the world map, the team behind Itinerary are united under the shared goal of utilising technology to make travel dreams a reality, and they continue to work tirelessly to achieve this. Their dedication is reflected in the platform itself, which is the only one of its kind to blend AI technology with a geographic information system (GIS) and underpin it all with a personal human touch. Itineraries were just the beginning, and the need for flights and hotels led to the team developing a metasearch engine for exactly this. Manuel explained: “Our greatest achievement to date has been creating this metasearch engine, which is similar to Booking.com, to not only help with itineraries but also to offer good hotels at good prices. This saves the end customer both time and money. It also allows us to pay a commission to our affiliates every time one of their Best Travel Tech Company 2026 Creating a detailed travel itinerary is more straightforward and yet more challenging than ever – a paradox brought about by the internet. Whilst all the relevant information is only a few clicks away, it would require endless hours of browsing to sift through it all. Enter Itinerary, which leverages modern technology to make the entire process easier. This software can design personalised itineraries in minutes, making it perfect for empowering everyday tourists and industry professionals alike. For more, we spoke with Manuel de Morales, the manager of the company’s office in Spain. customers booked a hotel.” The result is that partnerships are forged, allowing Itinerary to position itself as a trusted provider in this space, a statement that applies to both its partners and its customers. Beyond its commitment to keeping its service free – a key differentiator if it is to compete with the wealth of travel sites out there – another thing setting the platform apart is the magic it delivers, which stems from the convergence of AI, GIS, and humanity mentioned above. Going deeper into how exactly Itinerary succeeds in mass personalisation across its travel itineraries, its uses platforms such as Google Maps, TripAdvisor, and Wikipedia to collect data on thousands of tourist hotspots across the six countries it currently serves. These locations are then ranked in ‘value’ based on scores given in each of the more than 20 characteristics Itinerary lays out, before they are given an overall number of between 0 and 100 based on a combination of their popularity and the likelihood that they will appeal to the individual. A person enters their tastes into the platform beforehand so they know exactly what they are looking for. Once the list of desirable sites is curated, AI and Itinerary’s own algorithms get to work on creating the best route to experience these locations. Of course, once this itinerary is created, it can be changed or added to in just a few simple steps, with new days or cities able to be entered in as plans take shape. Budget is also taken into account across the creation process, and a sliding scale lets users plan everything from a backpacking holiday to a first-class experience complete with all the bells and whistles. With flights and hotels now also built into the platform for the reasons discussed above, Itinerary stands as the onestop shop for those looking for straightforward travel planning. This is reflected in the numerous five-star reviews it boasts online, with one user writing: “In just a few months Itinerary has become my most trusted resource when it comes to organising and managing any kind of travel plans. The results are very reliable and the website is fast and easy to navigate.” Receiving this level of praise means a great deal to this start-up, which is grateful for every achievement it receives and every milestone it hits. Manuel shared with us that he hopes 2026 will be a year with more for its team and customers to celebrate. Discussing these pipelines initiatives that will further change the way we create custom itineraries with AI this year, Manuel told us: “In early 2026, we will release our new, significantly improved software. Then, by mid-year, we will launch our app.” We will use these advancements to attract many more affiliates in several countries, allowing us to generate much higher revenue, before we pursue a round of Series A funding in 2027.” Alongside this, the team are working on advancing tech, thereby driving change. The need to innovate is something Manuel has not lost sight off as Itinerary has evolved, as seen in his final comment to us. Ultimately, T Contact: Manuel de Morales Company: Itinerary (Smart Itinerary, S.L.) Web Address: https://itineraryweb.com/
7. he explained: “The world is changing very fast. It is generous to those who ride the wave and ruthless to those who stagnate.” Manuel used the famous example of Blockbuster and Netflix to back up his point, as the former was its peak in 1997 whilst the other was just starting out. Cut to around a decade later, and we all know who was on top. Itinerary’s aim, then, is to be the Netflix of the travel planning industry. Being recognised as the Best Travel Tech Company 2026 in this programme goes some way in Itinerary achieving this long-term goal, and we urge our readers to visit its website using the link below, and experience for themselves the best way to create online itineraries built just for them in almost no time at all. Again, all of this is free of charge – costs are only incurred for the flights and hotels – meaning there is no reason not to get the ball rolling on planning a dream holiday to some of the most must-see places on the planet.
Spanish Business Awards 2026 Most Pioneering Disruptive Biotech Company 2026 Based in Madrid, DISIT Biotech is striving to set the standard for innovative therapies for patients with high unmet medical needs. The company was founded in 2020, built upon the core values of patient-centricity, disruptive innovation, and close collaboration with researchers and partners. Driven by these integral values and a steadfast mission, the biotech SME is dedicated to discovering and developing new medicines, integrating biology, chemistry, and translational science to derisk innovative programmes and move them closer to the clinic. “Our values have not changed since our establishment; they are the reason the company was founded,” Rafael told us. “What has evolved is our scale, our capabilities, and the sophistication of our projects, but the core principles remain the same. They are captured in our motto: ‘Let’s work to make it happen. Let’s make it happen together.’ This is both a promise and a way of working: we bring patients, scientists, and partners around the same table, align on a shared vision, and do everything necessary to turn disruptive science into real medicines.” “We bring patients, scientists, and partners around the same table, align on a shared mission, and do everything necessary to turn disruptive science into real medicines.” In a competitive landscape, DISIT Biotech stands out for its focus on derisking projects that competitors will not. Fuelled by the knowledge that only one in 14,000 compounds reach the market, DISIT Biotech deliberately concentrates on scientifically solid R&D that had been stopped for non-scientific or strategic reasons. The company reinterrogates the data, applies new biomarkers, analytics, and patient stratification strategies, and redesigns development paths to unlock value and reduce risk. With a base in Spain and a newly established hub in the Boston-Cambridge ecosystem, It is estimated that only one in 14,000 compounds reach the market, which speaks to the true rarity of successful drug development. Though researchers around the world are eager to bring life-changing innovations to the patients who need them, the unfortunate reality is that approximately 90% of clinical drug development is abandoned before a product can ever reach the market. While each unsuccessful trial can be disappointing to researchers, it is much more detrimental to the patients living with high unmet medical needs, who are waiting desperately for better options. Enter DISIT Biotech, a pioneering company setting out to turn abandoned science into real therapies. We heard more from CoFounder and President of the Board, Rafael González. DISIT Biotech proudly bridges the gap between European and American innovation, accessing principal biotech markets on both sides of the Atlantic. In recent years, Europe has progressively lost ground in earlystage drug development, as preclinical and translational R&D has been deprioritised, causing thousands of biotech companies to disappear before ever validating their science. “In a world where only about one in 14,000 compounds reaches the market, removing support at this stage is simply not compatible with a serious commitment to patients and innovation,” stated Rafael González. “This is why, as a pioneering and disruptive Spanish biotech, we see our presence in the US – particularly in the Boston-Cambridge hub – not as something ‘nice to have’ but as an obligation. If we are serious about our patients, we must operate where capital, partners, and decision-makers are most active, and where the bar is highest.” Establishing itself in both European and American markets has had a significant impact on DISIT Biotech’s work, forcing the company to compete within the world’s most dynamic and challenging biotech space. This dual footprint increases the probability that programmes will actually reach patients and enables DISIT Biotech to showcase the best of Spanish science on a truly global stage. “In that sense,” Rafael added, “we embody what we believe the next generation of Spanish business should be: rooted locally, competing globally.” With an expansive market reach and a mission to transform both new discoveries and high-quality, abandoned R&D into tangible therapies, DISIT Biotech collaborates with a wide range of industry partners. This includes biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, academic groups, hospitals, and research consortia, all relying on the company’s platform, scientific expertise, and ability to turn bold ideas into reliable drug candidates. The team works hand-in-hand with these partners, sharing data and decisions with the sole priority of patient impact in mind. Partners of DISIT Biotech benefit from the company’s dedication to derisking projects both scientifically and from a business and investment standpoint, while Contact: Rafael Gonzalez Company: DISIT Biotech Web Address: www.disitbiotech.com
gaining access to a broad, multi-indication pipeline. The team manages an extensive portfolio spanning oncology, cardiovascular disease, and dermatology, combining novel programmes with high-quality, previously abandoned assets that it reevaluates and repositions. From a business and financing perspective, DISIT Biotech applies the same discipline and transparency. The company is currently in an active financing round, aimed at executing a Phase IIb clinical trial in an orphan indication, while completing preclinical development and initiating the clinical trial of a first in class drug in oncology. As part of this approach, DISIT Biotech took the proactive decision to mandate a full, independent due diligence of its lead project by Alira Health. “A clear example is our decision to request an independent, external due diligence of our lead programme by Alira Health,” shared Rafael González. “We chose to approach investors and partners with our strengths and weaknesses fully on the table, supported by an externally validated assessment of probability of success and potential returns. In short, our partners work with a company that is ambitious and pioneering, but also radically transparent, systematically derisking its pipeline and aligning fully with long-term value creation rather than short-term optics.” Of course, in order to conduct pioneering research and disruptive science for patients, it is imperative that DISIT Biotech operates with a team that feels respected, inspired, and constantly challenged to grow. The company emphasises structured knowledge sharing, with regular cross-functional project reviews, journal clubs, and case discussions that align business strategy with biology, chemistry, and clinical thinking. Behind everything DISIT Biotech does – from its model of derisking abandoned R&D to its transatlantic operating structure – there are very specific patients the team is working to support. This includes patients with systemic sclerosis and morphea, for whom effective, mechanism-based treatments remain limited, as well as oncology patients in need of more effective and bettertolerated therapies. Ultimately, DISIT Biotech aims to position itself as the go-to partner for high-potential, previously abandoned assets requiring significant scientific, clinical, and business redesign. By leveraging high-quality science and a strong transatlantic platform, DISIT Biotech will continue to deliver meaningful therapeutic options to patients living with high unmet medical needs. “In summary,” concluded Rafael González, “2026 is about turning recognition into execution: advancing our most mature programmes through critical clinical milestones, closing a strong financing round, and building a solid data and IP foundation that supports sustainable longterm value creation. Our recognition as Spain’s Most Pioneering Disruptive Biotech Company 2026 is not just about ambition or geography; it is about redefining what is possible for patients who cannot afford to wait.”
Spanish Business Awards 2026 Global Leaders in Air & Maritime Medical Assistance 2026 Aeromedical and Marine Tri is a dedicated provider of medical assistance to all kinds of worldwide aeromedical, maritime, and ground repatriations with specialised HEMS medical escorts. Aeromedical and Marine Tri supports every and any individual, no matter how complex their needs may be, for rescues and patient movement, and we’re delighted to have awarded the company’s incredible work in our Spanish Business Awards 2026. Dr Monica Fortea has worked across a plethora of sectors in the realm of medicine and biomedicine, having studied at the Autonomous University of Barcelona and the University of Medicine and Biomedicine in the Netherlands. Monica is also head of an international medicine department at a university hospital, she speaks eight languages, and she’s entirely dedicated to what she truly believes is her purpose. Monica has been a surgeon specialising in orthopaedics and traumatology for over two decades, and her passion for helping others shines through every day – and in every endeavour. Monica’s devotion to trauma victim management led her to being part of the Spanish primary helicopter emergency services (HEMS) and becoming a flight physician for patient transport missions with long-haul fixed-winning air ambulances and commercial aircraft for twenty years now. Skills like these do not appear overnight, Monica has worked extremely hard, and we are proud to present her company Aeromedical and Marine Tri (A&M) as it was recently bestowed with the title of Global Leaders in Air & Maritime Medical Assistance 2026. Monica nurtures a passionate team so that A&M can deliver only the best medical care possible, which is an unwavering strength. By regularly training the team internally, on a regular basis, A&M has steadily become a leader in its sector which is home to an all-important and ever-needed service. Monica told us that the equipment uses is controlled by electromedicine companies and the services are all in partnership with the best in the world of aeromedical and maritime medivacs. The mission and goal is to make sure each individual can be brought home safely and securely, after they receive the rescue and care they need and deserve. Completing successful complex missions in their industry, the team at A&M continue to fulfil this mission and goal, and their shared vision is what keeps them close together and succeeding every day. The humble and passionate team at A&M, under Monica’s experienced wing, all contribute to the overall success of the business and the health and wellbeing of their patients. This is something that the company is particularly pleased with, and this is a must for teams in any enterprise. By uniting and combining forces as well as sharing a wealth of experience, this collection of commercial medical escorts – such as nurses, paramedics, and physicians – does more than support individuals, it saves lives. From air ambulance coordination to bedside-to-bedside transfers of patients, medical risk assessments to medical repatriation, and more, A&M does it all and it does it all with experience in addition to the utmost respect and care. Here at EU Business News we’re excited to announce Aeromedical and Marine Tri’s success in our Spanish Business Awards 2026, and here’s to the future ahead for 2026 and beyond. Contact: Dr Monica Fortea Company: Aeromedical and Marine Tri Sl/ Usa/Dubai/ Singapore Website: https://air-marine-int.com/
Jul22493 11. The United States has long had a fascination with the cultural excitement of Europe, which is why Valesa Cultural began offering exclusive experiences across the Iberian Peninsula and Morocco. Having been in operation since 1968, initially representing cultural institutions across the US, the agency has blossomed into a beacon of trust in the field of tailored and deluxe European trips, especially when it comes to organising these experiences for groups. For more on this, we caught up with the agency’s owner and general manager, Marcy Forman. -From its roots as a cultural agency for American museums and institutions, Valesa Cultural has evolved into a leading destination management company (DMC) specialising in tailored travel across Spain, Portugal, and Morocco. More than 55 years of being owned and operated by Americans means that the agency knows what other Americans expect when traveling to this part of the world. Valesa offers private experiences ranging from cooking classes with chefs to after-hours museum visits. Working with individuals, couples, families, and groups, the sense of personalisation and exclusivity at the heart of the agency has remained intact since day one, regardless of the client and how demanding their expectations may be. Although the market and what people want from their travels have changed, one thing that has not is the integrity, clarity, and American-style communication Valesa Cultural delivers at every turn, making the agency a favourite amongst the American clientele it works with. 58 years and counting of driving loyalty and success does not come easy, and the agency has hit all of the milestones along this journey by staying true to itself and keeping its team as happy as its clients. Commenting on this, Marcy told us: “Many businesses put clients ahead of their employees, and as they grow, their services feel transactional. We have the opposite approach, maintaining close relationships with suppliers, clients, and within our team.” Taking a closer look at Valesa Cultural’s remarkable team, they are diverse in both age and expertise, with members who have been with the agency for anywhere between seven and 27 years making up its workforce. To this day, about half of the team are Americans, making the client experience even more seamless as they have a deep understanding of their specific needs and any cultural differences that may pose a concern. Whether they are American or not, every team member is wholly aligned with the agency’s quality focus. This quality ethos, which has governed Valesa now for close to six decades, starts with its team personally inspecting everything that they then recommend to clients, something made possible by the agency having local coordinators on the ground in every major city or island across the three countries in which it operates. Marcy explained: “We conduct regular team inspection trips to personally assess new hotels and experiences. This gives us first-hand knowledge of all we offer and an unmatched level of expertise.” “We provide a high level of training from day one, encouraging regular knowledge-sharing meetings, and bringing our team together through wine tastings and meals.” The culture that exists as a result is one of the key drivers behind Valesa Cultural’s status as a trusted DMC in Spain for private experiences, and the genuine joy its team has for working, travelling, learning, and growing together only adds to the experience they provide. Abetting this is the fact that tourism in Spain is today more popular and integrated than ever, with record highs being reached in 2025 and no signs of slowing down. Many of the visitors to the country are seeking the kind of exclusive experiences Valesa Cultural is renowned for. 2026 is set to be no different for the longstanding art and culture experts behind these tailor-made tours across Spain, Portugal, and Morocco, with the full eclipse in August – for which Spain will serve as a privileged viewing location – having already boosted bookings for the agency. Outside of this, Marcy shared with us that Valesa Cultural has some big plans in the works for its Morocco tours, and whilst these are under wraps for now, they are certain to continue raising the bar for private luxury travel across the region. Having organised for some of the most prestigious institutions across the United States, as well as countless groups, couples, and individuals, it is clear that Valesa Cultural is something special in the world of destination management and customized tours. It is for this reason that we are proud to recognise the agency with the well-deserved title of Best Inbound Tour Operator 2026 in our Spanish Business Awards. Contact: Marcy Forman Company: Valesa Cultural Web Address: https://valesacultural.com/ Best Inbound Tour Operator 2026
12. Spanish Business Awards 2026 Influencer marketing – that is, representing online content creators with services like PR, consulting, and campaign management – is a sector that, despite rapid growth, still lacks the solid structures in place across other areas of the media industry. Having helped to close that gap since opening its doors in 2019, MCR Agency has grown to encompass more than 70 content creators across Europe and Latin America and has worked with leading global brands in the gaming space, such as Activision. CEO Sergi Cerrato Recasens was on hand for more about the world of influencer marketing. Working out of offices in Barcelona and Madrid, MCR Agency’s journey to connecting top brands with pioneering creators started more than six years ago, when two law graduates – Sergi and Inés – recognised the need to build bridges between brands and the creators, influencers, and streamers all operating in the gaming and related industries. Dismissing the concept of intermediary, MCR (Managers of Creators and Representatives) quickly became the authority in this kind of digital marketing, adapting its services to client needs. MCR’s mission is a reflection of this, with the agency seeking to connect brands in gaming and entertainment to their target audiences using the power of content creators, which today make up a powerful, authentic voice in this space. As Sergi added: “We seek to continue driving and professionalising the influencer marketing industry through strategies that generate value for both brands and creators and their dedicated communities. Having let this mission guide it every step of the way, MCR has grown from its two co-founders to a team of over 35 professionals and has led global campaigns with teams from Spain to teams based in countries on the other side of the world, like Mexico and Brazil. Despite this growth, MCR’s Spanish roots remain stronger than ever, and it is the unique combination of creative talent, strategic thinking, and an innovative spirit the country boasts across sectors like entertainment and marketing that has allowed the agency to thrive. Sergi took things a step further, explaining: “What sets us apart is our way of working with creators. We combine creativity, passion, and commitment within the gaming ecosystem. We deeply understand this sector and know how to turn that passion into strategies that really work for brands.” However, the technical side of this is just the beginning, and what keeps brands and content creators coming back to MCR is the human touch it brings. “We do not see creators as advertising channels, but as creative partners capable of building a brand identity. We work on campaigns where co-creation, authenticity, and storytelling are fundamental to generating real impact.” Its culture is a fitting example of this, with MCR having nurtured an internal environment built on the cornerstones of collaboration, transparency, and continuous growth, three complementary elements allowing MCR to obtain the outcomes its seeks for its clients. Furthermore, all team members receive training in a plethora of key areas including but not limited to digital trends, platforms, strategy, and industry tools. This continuous training allows employees to flourish and gives each project a sense of autonomy. In the wake of the three defining trends impacting influencer marketing as of late, outlined by Sergi as being the professionalisation of influencer marketing, the burgeoning relationship between gaming and digital culture, and co-creation emerging as the new model for branded content, MCR’s understanding of this ever-evolving landscape makes it attractive for those creators seeking solid, long-term relationships, as well as brands looking for a gaming marketing agency that can act in a way that upholds genuity, ethics, and strategy. On the back of this distinction, 2026 is set to be a year of growth for MCR, which is driving expansion in Latin America and Europe with the goal of establishing itself as the leading gaming marketing agency in the Spanish-speaking world. With the team being young, hungry, and driven by results, they are also setting a precedent for influencer marketing, positioning Spain as a beacon of both talent and vision in this industry. To summarise, MCR Agency is an exceptional international agency focusing on influencer marketing and strategic content for the gaming industry. Its versatile approach to running its business, the exceptional values it upholds, and the care it takes in developing its team has allowed the agency to constantly expand and collaborate with global brands – making it the success story it is today. We are delighted to recognise its contributions by naming MCR the Best Gaming Influencer Marketing Agency 2026 – Spain & Latin America. Contact: Sergi Cerrato Recasens Company: MCR Agency Web Address: https://www.mcr-agency.com/ Best Gaming Influencer Marketing Agency 2026 – Spain & Latin America
Aug22136 13. Best Personalised English Learning Experience 2026 With English being the most widely spoken language in the world when both first and second languages are considered, it should come as no surprise that businesses want their employees to be able to speak it. Spain is no exception, and the close ties it has with the English-speaking world means that Spanish businesses are recognising the significance of communicating effectively in English. There to help them along every stage of this journey is Smart Learning 1to1 SL. For more on the company and its classes, we caught up with Founder and CEO Daniela Previtali. Based in Tenerife, the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands, Smart Learning 1to1 SL comprises a group of English-speaking experts who provide language support to the employees of businesses across Spain and beyond. They do this through the provision of personalised and engaging language classes, which are not only delivered remotely and according to flexible schedules but can also be easily adapted to any specific training needs that may arise over the course of the programme, demonstrating the tangible value they add. Across the sessions, Daniela and her team focus on oral expression, based around the interests and personal motivations of clients, as well using techniques such as repetition, role playing, and reallife situations. All of these have proven to demonstrably enhance learning and pronunciation when it comes to picking up a new language. As this shows, these classes go beyond just reading books, and students will have the chance to try their hand at the real stuff – presentations, meetings, and everyday interactions – all in English. Guided by its ultimate goal of teaching English in the quickest, most effective, and enjoyable manner possible, a big part of Smart Learning’s success rate comes from the relationships it builds with clients. As mentioned above, these are built on flexibility and convenience, with sessions able to be delivered at any time of the day (including weekends) and on short notice. This stems from an understanding of the fast-paced nature of the working world, and it is for this reason why lessons can be cancelled freely up to an hour in advance. Besides this level of freedom, clients also like that the team of carefully selected individuals include numerous accents and personalities, with this mirroring the diversity of business environments and ensuring that students are prepared for language interactions outside of a classroom setting. The results of this approach speaks for itself, with Smart Learning boasting 100% positive feedback from students and the capability of teaching up to 500 students at any one time, providing optimal outcomes without any disruption. “Accenture España even recognised us as the best English-language training company they have ever partnered with.” Discussing the outcomes of this training in more detail, Daniela explained: “The commitment Spanish businesses have continues to grow as they experience the results we provide. Many students have been amazed by the seamless flow of their meetings and the confidence it instils in them. They have come to understand how much easier and more enjoyable it is to genuinely connect with a foreign client or colleague, and we are proud to play a role in these achievements.” This helps the world to feel smaller, one person at a time. A goal as big as this requires a team who all share in it, and this leads us to the culture at Smart Learning, which is another key factor in its success. Every member of the team here has received paid training under Daniela’s unique methodology, and they all have a company-specific email address and Teams account to ensure consistency and professionalism across the brand. Feedback is continuous and shared with all (even if it was meant for one person), allowing the team to celebrate in each other’s success. There are countless incentives for working as a tutor at Smart Learning, and the joyful atmosphere Daniela has created is just one. For example, a series of fun challenges not only see the winning student awarded, but also the winning teacher. Despite all of this fun, career progression is taken very seriously, and team members have stepped into roles to do with marketing, content creation, and supervision. This allows them to earn more money on top of their tutor salary, as well as broadening their skillsets. Ultimately, with over 200 topics to choose from, each offering new vocabulary and a different style, and the most common expressions that most traditional educational courses don’t include, Smart Learning 1to1 SL’s approach covers everything a business could ever need when it comes to the English language. For its commitment to not only offering this, but also tailoring its provisions from the ground up, we are delighted to recognise it as the Best Personalised English Learning Experience 2026 in this programme. Contact: Daniela Previtali Company: Smart Learning 1to1 SL Web Address: https://smartlearning1to1.net/
Spanish Business Awards 2026 Best Glass Packaging Design Specialists 2026 The glass packaging industry is growing at a remarkable rate, as brands increasingly seek to utilise more advanced and environmentally conscious designs. DSIGNTANK is a company positioned at the very forefront of this thriving sector, striving to create a more sustainable, connected, and innovative future by translating cutting-edge ideas into industry-leading designs and patents. We spoke with Business Development and Project Manager Hugo de Matos below for more information. Based in Barcelona, DSIGNTANK is an innovation and design centre that specialises in the development of advanced packaging solutions, placing a particular focus on glass containers. Since its inception in 2019, the company has set out to create value through design, functionality, and sustainability, providing its clients with tools that empower their brands to stand out in the market. To achieve this mission, DSIGNTANK develops exclusive technologies and design-forward collections that push the boundaries of glass packaging. It closely collaborates with brands, manufacturers, and visionaries, translating knowledge into intellectual and industrial property such as patents, utility models, trademarks, industrial designs, and more. DSIGNTANK operates in a number of key sectors, including beverages, food, cosmetics, home beauty and perfumery. Glass packaging does not only serve as a practical purpose in these industries, but is also a way of conveying quality, care, and a commitment to the environment. After transforming ideas into intellectual and industrial property assets, the company will then license these IPs to its clients for implementation and commercial development. “We are a meeting point between industry and brand,” Hugo told us, “promoting new ways of conceiving and experiencing packaging in a constantly evolving global environment. Together, we can redefine industry standards and create impactful solutions for a sustainable, connected, and innovative tomorrow.” “Thousands of products are made every day using DSIGNTANK technologies, positioning it as a key driving force in the market. Today, DSIGNTANK stands as the biggest available and independent glass packaging IP fund in the world. It possesses more than 300 industrial design patents, over 30 international brands and registered .com domains, more than 60 international patents, IP legal memories, and worldwide partnerships. The company helps clients build relationships with new industry partners and manage projects with the support of internal and external strategies. “Each of our IPs blends strategic thinking with aesthetic precision, helping products stand out in the most competitive markets,” said Hugo. “We believe that IP rights are valuable assets for businesses and industries, providing protection for innovative ideas, technology solutions, brands, and creative works. Enforcement of these IP rights is crucial for the success of innovators, entrepreneurs, and creators.” Thousands of products are made every day using DSIGNTANK technologies, positioning it as a key driving force in the market. The company has been recognised with the official Innovative SME seal by the Spanish Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities. For DSIGNTANK, this accreditation reflects an approach that has been built over time, placing applied innovation, in-house development, and collaboration across the industrial ecosystem at the core of its operations. The company saw further recognition in the Spanish Business Awards 2026, where it was named the Best Glass Packaging Design Specialists 2026. This status is a further reflection of DSIGNTANK’s commitment to bridging the gap between brands and industries to create impactful solutions, redefining industry standards and truly elevating the design of glass packaging. In light of the company’s sustained success, Hugo shared: “At DSIGNTANK, innovation is a transversal process: from concept and design to industrial feasibility and market implementation. This is recognition that strengthens our role as an innovation partner and encourages us to keep developing projects that create meaningful, long-term impact.” Email Address: [email protected] Company: DSIGNTANK Web Address: www.dsigntank.com
Jul22493 15. Jul22493 Employee onboarding is a crucial element of any successful business, and yet the number of workers whose first days, weeks, and months within a new company (or a new role within the same company) are defined by confusion and uncertainty is staggering. This can lead to poor engagement and low retention rates. Helping organisations worldwide to combat this is bclose, a company offering a powerful tool to enhance both the onboarding process and boost employee engagement. Victor Carulla, one of the co-founders of bclose, told us more about this platform. Launched in 2018, bclose is an easy and useful way of monitoring the experience of an employee as they progress through their first year within a company, or a new position with their existing employer. The solution it delivers – discussed in more detail below – helps to increase retention, boost happiness, reduce turnover, and mitigate the potentially major lasting impact of new hires feeling abandoned or unhappy in their new role or company. In essence, this captures the spirit of what bclose stands for in this space. The company is an offshoot of Headway Executive Search, a firm that has specialised in director-level executive search services since it was first established back in 2010. The complementary nature of bclose results in the creation of a full ecosystem when it comes to employment, and the values of honesty, rigour, communication, commitment, and transparency that guide both of these operations go some way in explaining the success of the team here, many of whom are involved with both Headway and bclose. With the strength of this ecosystem powering it, bclose doubles as an employee onboarding experience platform and an employee integration and retention tool, and it achieves stellar outcomes through the provision of a few easy steps. Beginning with regular follow-ups, the company sends out questionnaires at one-, three-, and six-month intervals during an employee’s inaugural year, culminating in a final one after 12 months. Employees are not the only ones to receive these questionnaires, with the hiring manager in question also being provided them so that they can share their thoughts on how a person is settling in at these same milestones. The purpose here is to reveal any differences in perception and ensure that the employee is aligned with their employer. After the completion of these, bclose will automatically generate a report that can be accessed through its platform or downloaded as a PDF, with this highlighting any discrepancies in the results. “This creates a powerful two-sided view of the relationship, enabling organisations to detect misalignment, communication gaps, risks, or support needs before they escalate.” Available in eight different languages, the questions comprising these surveys have not been chosen out of the blue – they are the product of a study carried out using more than 1,200 executives, meaning bclose is able to guide its clients with an unrivalled blend of data, clarity, and empathy. As Victor explained: “We are proud that our approach has helped companies improve alignment between employees and managers, reduce early turnover risk, and create more transparent onboarding and transition processes.” Of course, the platform itself is very little without the expert team behind it, and the more than 20 years of experience in HR and other related fields shared by the team here sees bclose continue to operate atop a foundation of persistence, integrity, and trust – keeping the experiences of both its clients and their new employees at the heart of everything it does. Sofia Cifuentes, Alcon’s former HR Director, wrote of bclose: “The feedback on bclose is very positive, both from new hires and their managers. They find it easy, fast, and very effective in ensuring a good onboarding!” With 2026 set to be a year of growth, bclose remains as committed as ever to these principles, and to building healthier, more aligned workplace cultures across the world map. Ultimately, the main take away is this: a person’s first year in their role almost always shapes everything that follows – their performance, development, loyalty, and their success. Many underestimate the importance of onboarding and its relationship with engagement, but the tremendous success of bclose’s clients shows why this should not be the case. It is for this reason that we are delighted to recognise this dual-feedback system for managers and employees with this well-deserved title in our Spanish Business Awards 2026. Contact: Victor Carulla Company: bclose Web Address: https://bclose.net/ Best Global Employee Onboarding & Engagement Tool 2026
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