Spanish business and retail sustainability trends

Business activities in Spain are increasingly emphasizing social responsibility, sustainability, and commercial expansion.

In the Llobregat region, the Fòrum Empresarial del Llobregat is organizing the FEmImpacte 2026 awards to recognize projects contributing to economic, social, cultural, and sustainable development. Additionally, in the Safor region, collaborations between humanitarian organizations like Cruz Roja and local businesses have been noted for supporting social needs through financial and in-kind contributions.

Within the retail and commercial sectors, companies are implementing sustainability measures. Vegalsa-Eroski reported avoiding the waste of over 6,500 tons of food during the first half of 2026, including 5,223 tons intended for human consumption, which is equivalent to approximately 20.8 million meals. This was achieved through discounted sales, donations to social entities, and partnerships with platforms like Too Good To Go.

The commercial real estate market continues to show growth. Castellana Properties reported a 3.9% increase in sales and a 4.8% rise in footfall across its portfolio in Spain and Portugal between April and August. Notably, the Bonaire shopping center in Valencia saw sales grow by 7.5% following its recovery from 2024 floods, while Portuguese assets like Forum Madeira and Alegro Sintra saw increases near 5%.

Expansion efforts continue with Nhood taking over the commercialization of the La Milla shopping center and its upcoming 11,332 m² expansion in Arganda del Rey, Madrid. In Vigo, Vegalsa-Eroski is progressing with the construction of a new logistics center in the Meixoeiro commercial park following a recent land acquisition.