Barcelona & Partners, the investment attraction agency of Barcelona Global, recently held an event at CBRE’s London offices to present the city’s robust and dynamic life sciences and health ecosystem. The gathering brought together industry leaders and experts from London, Cambridge, and Barcelona, aiming to foster collaboration and attract strategic investments to fuel Barcelona’s economic and scientific development.
Barcelona’s Unique Appeal in Life Sciences
Montse Puig, General Director of Barcelona & Partners, emphasised Barcelona’s standing as a global hub for life sciences and health. “Barcelona has established itself as an international leader in innovation. The city boasts a cutting-edge ecosystem backed by world-class infrastructure, scientific excellence, and global leadership in clinical trials, ranking 5th in Europe and 8th worldwide,” she said.
Barcelona’s reputation stems from its long-standing commitment to life sciences infrastructure, including renowned research centres, universities, teaching hospitals, and science parks. With public and private initiatives driving expansion, over 1 million square metres of new developments are set to meet growing industry demand, reinforcing Barcelona’s position as a global benchmark for innovation and excellence.
A Growing Hub for Talent and Investment
The event highlighted Barcelona’s magnetism for top talent and investment, featuring key players such as AstraZeneca-Alexion, BUPA, IQVIA, Teladoc, Inbrain Neuroelectronics, and Quadrivia. These industry leaders shared success stories, underscoring Barcelona’s strengths:
- Highly skilled talent
- Exceptional infrastructure
- World-renowned hospitals
- A dynamic business ecosystem
- Groundbreaking biomedical research
Moreover, Barcelona’s enviable quality of life continues to attract global talent, making it a preferred destination for professionals and entrepreneurs alike.
Opportunities for British Businesses Post-Brexit
The event’s second panel focused on opportunities for British companies seeking to expand to Barcelona, covering taxation, incentives, and real estate projects. Moderated by health sector VC firm Asabys Partners, the panel included experts from Cuatrecasas, Stoneshield, ACCIÓ-Catalonia Trade & Investment, and the Barcelona City Council.
Barcelona offers British businesses significant advantages in the post-Brexit landscape. With nearly 1 million square metres of life sciences infrastructure in development and favourable fiscal conditions, the city presents a compelling alternative for companies facing rising UK corporate taxes and reduced fiscal incentives.
Barcelona not only provides an ideal environment for R&D but also offers fiscal incentives that surpass those in the UK. Generous R&D tax credits, the Beckham Law for expats, and attractive taxation for fund managers make Barcelona a magnet for top talent and investment. Moreover, the ability to convert tax credits into cash and the advantages of the Patent Box solidify Barcelona’s status as a premier destination for business expansion.
A Strategic Investment Destination
As the UK navigates its new fiscal and political context, Barcelona emerges as an attractive destination for scale-ups, corporations, and investors seeking innovation, talent, and business growth. With its unmatched combination of scientific excellence, business-friendly policies, and quality of life, Barcelona is poised to play a leading role in shaping the future of life sciences and health.
Ready to expand your business to Barcelona? Explore the city’s unparalleled opportunities in life sciences and health with Barcelona & Partners.
