Barcelona offers a unique combination of factors that make it an ideal city for business. It brings together a strong, skilled talent pool, a dynamic innovation ecosystem, an exceptional quality of life that attracts and retains global professionals, and competitive government incentives across a wide range of strategic sectors. The city is fast becoming one of Europe’s most attractive destinations for international business, and has evolved into a hub for forward-thinking companies across sectors like climate tech, life sciences, digital services, and advanced manufacturing.
From established multinationals to fast-growing disruptors, a new wave of global firms is choosing Barcelona as their strategic base. In this post, we highlight some of the latest success stories — companies that are not only investing in the city but helping to shape its future as a centre of innovation, sustainability, and economic growth.
Some recent success cases
Already operating a Procurement Hub in Barcelona that supports the EMEA region, pharma giant Bayer has further expanded its presence by establishing an R&D Hub in the city. This new hub is home to a team of 120 highly qualified scientific professionals, supporting all Bayer divisions through clinical trials and advanced research initiatives.
Dutch company Behold has established its newest cleantech hub in Barcelona, further expanding its global impact. Internationally, Behold has supported over 600 entrepreneurs and mobilised more than 3,000 innovation ecosystems.
In Barcelona, the new hub—powered by a team of 15—serves as a centre for climate innovation. It provides senior-level growth services to scale-ups, including market entry, business development, access to capital, international expansion, and financial advisory.
Berry Global, a leading manufacturer of engineered materials, serves key sectors such as healthcare, industrial applications, and personal care. The company has now established a new hub in Barcelona, offering access to circular products, top R&D expertise, and a collaborative space for innovative design. The hub hosts over 50 professionals.
With 80 global members, the International Electric Marine Association (IEMA) relocated its international headquarters from New York City to Barcelona in 2024. In its new base, IEMA leads the organisation’s global agenda and collaborates closely with the Port of Barcelona and the Ajuntament de Barcelona.
Triton Group Partners, a UK investment firm that specialises in healthcare real estate, is expanding to Barcelona with a senior care facility, creating 50 new healthcare jobs.
This Indian pharmaceutical company, specialised in generics and active ingredients, has established in Barcelona its subsidiary — Reddy Pharma Iberia S.A. From here, a team of 25 professionals manages a diverse portfolio that includes oncology, antiviral, anti-infective, antihypertensive, antithrombotic, and immunosuppressive drugs.
AllPriv is a cybersecurity startup with award-winning innovation and six international patents. Its AI and blockchain-powered Cyber-Brick protects medical devices from cyberattacks and ensures data flow during network failures. Now headquartered in Barcelona after relocating from France, the company has hired 50 employees.
Why Barcelona?
What unites these success cases is the understanding that Barcelona’s – as a global hub for innovation and growth – is an ideal place to help these companies grow, succeed, and thrive. The city’s deep talent pool, strong research institutions, and vibrant startup ecosystem all create an environment conducive to business development.
Beyond the professional landscape, Barcelona offers something few cities can match: a high quality of life, strong international connectivity, and a clear commitment to sustainability. With the support of initiatives like Barcelona & Partners, which actively helps companies land and scale in the region, businesses across sectors are finding everything they need to grow right here.
Looking Ahead
Want to see what’s possible here? Explore all the latest success cases or get in touch with Barcelona & Partners to discover how we can support your expansion into one of Europe’s most dynamic business ecosystems.