A total of twelve family businesses, some with up to five generations of history, have been honored in the twenty-ninth edition of the awards presented by the BBVA Chair of Family Business at San Telmo Business School, held in Malaga. These accolades celebrate entrepreneurial journeys that began from humble origins, in neighborhoods and villages, and now compete internationally in diverse sectors, from agri-food to industrial engineering.
These companies represent 80% of the wealth generated by the private sector in Spain, 93% of the business fabric, and over 80% of private employment. Francisco Javier Jerez Basurco, BBVA's Southern Territorial Director, highlighted the importance of continuity, ambition, and values for the survival of these businesses, calling them the "true shield and economic heart of our cities and towns."
The event also marked a generational handover in the presidency of the Chair's Advisory Council, with Ana Cano Pecci assuming the role, succeeding her father, Juan Cano Ruano, founder of Eurosemillas. The ceremony showcased stories of entrepreneurship, such as that of Pedro Enrique Bomba (Sierra de Jabugo - Huelva), who sold taxi licenses in 1992 to found an Iberian pork business, or Paz Hurtado Cabrera (Hutesa - Malaga), who started selling olives from home in 1988 and now exports to 26 countries.
Longevity is another key factor, exemplified by Bodegas Delgado (Cordoba) with 152 years of history, founded in 1874. Other centenarian or near-centenarian businesses include Carranza Hostelería (Granada, 1927) and Transfrutalla (Cadiz), with 74 years of experience in fruit and vegetable distribution.
Overcoming adversity was also a central theme. Blanca Impresores (Jaen, 1991) recovered after the death of its brother and invested in technology. Cristalería Cruces (Ceuta), with 53 years, overcame the loss of one of its founders and consolidated its presence in Algeciras. Pavimentos Garrido (Caceres), founded in 1940, is now a diversified group.
New generations are driving the adoption of new technologies and sustainability. Copsa (Almeria, 1987) undertakes public works transforming Andalusia, while Gragera Industrial (Badajoz, 1978) has evolved from service stations to agricultural engineering and renewable energy projects. Veinluc (Cordoba, 1992) has seen its sales in the industrial automotive sector soar, embracing electromobility and electric trucks.
Jerez Basurco encouraged family businesses to "step on the accelerator in this transformation," assuring BBVA's support. He emphasized that the human factor, with values like sacrifice and empathy, is irreplaceable by technology.
Ana Cano Pecci championed the role of these businesses as "much more than an economic reality" and stressed that success is measured not only by what is built but also by what is passed down through generations.
The mayor of Malaga, Francisco de la Torres, praised these trajectories, stating that "these examples should be recognized publicly" and that they demonstrate a "brilliant present" and a "splendid future" for the region, inspiring future entrepreneurs.
