The Family Business in Spain: An Economic and Social Bastion We Must Protect

Family Business

In Spain, family businesses are not the exception; they are the norm. They represent 92.4% of the business fabric, contribute between 57% and 60% of private GDP, and generate 70% of private employment—more than 10 million jobs according to the Instituto de la Empresa Familiar. We're not just talking about numbers: we're talking about stability, deep roots, and a commitment to people and the local territory.

Direct and Indirect Wealth

Their impact goes far beyond the balance sheet. These companies invigorate local supply chains, boost retail trade, and promote investment in infrastructure. In regions like Aragón, they represent up to 31% of the regional Gross Value Added and sustain over 11% of private employment. In autonomous communities like Castilla y León, their weight is even greater: 86% of private employment and 82% of regional GDP.

Last to Lay Off, First to Resist

When crises hit, family businesses are the last to let go of staff. Why? Because behind every decision lies a long-term vision and a personal bond with the workers. This commitment strengthens social cohesion and turns these companies into genuine buffers against uncertainty.

Resilience in a World of Giants

In a market dominated by multinationals, Spanish family businesses have demonstrated an extraordinary capacity for adaptation. Their average lifespan is 30 years, and 77% of those analyzed a decade ago are still active. Financial prudence, agility, and an intergenerational vision are their weapons for surviving in a competitive environment.

International Leadership: Conquering Markets

Far from staying at home, many have made the global leap. Iconic examples include:

• Inditex: Present in 77 countries, with revenues exceeding 38.6 billion euros.

• Mercadona: A retail leader, with a turnover of 38.8 billion euros.

• Prosegur: Operations in 31 countries and 150,000 employees.

• Grifols: A world reference in plasma-derived medicines, present in 110 countries.

• Chupa Chups: 98% of its sales are international.

In total, 13 Spanish family businesses are listed in the Global 500 Family Business Index, with an aggregate turnover of 171 billion euros and more than 735,000 jobs.

Territorial Impact: Beyond the Big Cities

These companies are essential in provinces like La Rioja, the Balearic Islands, Galicia, and the Canary Islands, where they sustain local economies and curb depopulation. They don't just create jobs; they generate indirect wealth, support cultural and educational projects, and strengthen the social fabric.

The Burgos Congress: A Call to Action

At the XXVIII National Congress of the Family Business, held in Burgos, the message was clear:“Spain needs you. Your influence transcends the economic, exerting a structural impact on the territory and projecting family values towards new markets.” — Felipe VI.“We, family businesses, are the ones who generate the most positive impact in our places of origin, on people, on our partners, and on the planet.” — Ignacio Rivera, President of the IEF.

It was emphasized that these companies are not seeking subsidies, but rather incentives that allow them to work without the increasing intensity of fiscal, labor, and administrative pressures. Simplifying procedures and offering regulatory stability are key measures to ensure their competitiveness.

Future Challenges: Continuity and Transformation

• Generational Succession: 60% of family SMEs could disappear due to a lack of succession if not properly planned.

• Digitalization: Only 29% feel prepared to operate in a digital economy.

• Sustainability: Integrating responsible practices without losing competitiveness.

• Talent Attraction: Especially in rural areas, where the shortage of qualified professionals is critical.

  
  

Historical Memory: Giants That Marked an Era

Spain also remembers iconic family businesses that were benchmarks and have now disappeared or been transformed:

• Galerías Preciados, absorbed by El Corte Inglés.

• OSSA, a legendary motorcycle brand.

• Blanco, a textile chain that once had 100 stores and closed in 2016.

Conclusion

The family business is much more than a business model: it is an economic and social bastion. Supporting them with incentives and policies that facilitate their generational continuity is not just a business matter: it is a bet on the future of Spain.