5 Catalan companies that stand out in the foreign market
Catalonia has established itself as a key region in the field of innovation and entrepreneurship at European level. Its business ecosystem, supported by cutting-edge research centers and an entrepreneurial culture, has given rise to numerous companies that not only stand out in the domestic market, but have also achieved a notable impact abroad. Below, we present eight innovative Catalan companies that are making their mark in international markets.
Grifols, based in Barcelona, is one of the giants in the biotechnology sector. This multinational is a world leader in the development and commercialization of products derived from blood plasma. Founded in 1940, Grifols has focused its efforts on improving the quality of life of millions of people around the world through innovative treatments for diseases such as hemophilia and other autoimmune conditions.
The company has maintained constant growth, with a strong presence in international markets, particularly in the United States, where it has acquired key companies in the sector. Grifols remains an example of how the combination of research and development, together with a solid expansion strategy, can consolidate a Catalan brand in the competitive global biotechnology market.
Mango is one of the most recognized fashion brands in Catalonia and a reference in the world of international fashion. Founded in 1984, the company has evolved from a small store on Paseo de Gracia in Barcelona to become one of the world’s leading fashion brands, with a presence in more than 100 countries.
The key to Mango’s success lies in its ability to quickly adapt to global fashion trends and offer them at affordable prices. In addition, the company has adopted a strong sustainability policy, with the launch of its “Committed” line, which promotes the use of sustainable materials. The commitment to digitalization and the expansion of its e-commerce have been determining factors in its ability to compete in the demanding international fashion market.
Scytl is a pioneer in electronic voting technology and digital security. Founded in Barcelona in 2001, the company has revolutionized the way in which citizens can participate in democratic processes, offering secure and verifiable online voting solutions for governments around the world.
Its customers include several countries in Europe, Latin America and the United States, which have trusted Scytl to carry out elections more efficiently and securely. The company’s ability to provide transparency and security in an area as sensitive as the electoral one has allowed it to gain the trust of governments and international organizations.
Aigües de Barcelona, which manages the integral water cycle in the city of Barcelona and its metropolitan area, has demonstrated that innovation does not only belong to the technology or biotechnology sectors. This company has adopted new technologies to improve water management efficiency and reduce environmental impact.
Through its subsidiary Suez, Aigües de Barcelona has expanded its services internationally, contributing to water management projects in various parts of the world. Its focus on sustainable innovation, the use of data analysis technologies and continuous process improvement have been key to its global recognition.
Fluidra, founded in Sabadell in 1969, is a world leader in the development of solutions for water management, especially in the swimming pool and wellness sector. With a presence in more than 45 countries, the company has managed to position itself as a reference in technological innovation for the maintenance, automation and management of swimming pools.
One of the keys to its success has been its ability to integrate state-of-the-art technologies, such as the use of artificial intelligence to optimize pool maintenance, the development of sustainable products and the improvement in the efficiency of water and energy use. Fluidra has managed to stand out in the international market thanks to its ability to offer innovative products adapted to the changing needs of the global market.
These eight Catalan companies are examples of how innovation, combined with an international expansion strategy, can lead a local brand to triumph in foreign markets. Whether in sectors such as biotechnology, fashion, water management or sustainable mobility, Catalonia has proven to be a center of business excellence that is ready to compete on a global level.
