This year's recipients were Jordi Hereu , the current Minister of Industry and Tourism, and Antonio Garamendi , president of the Spanish Confederation of Business Organizations ( CEOE ). Both leaders were recognized for their significant contribution to strengthening Spain's industrial and business fabric, as well as for their firm commitment to boosting the competitiveness and visibility of automotive suppliers, a sector considered key to the Spanish economy and society.
During the welcome ceremony, Benito Tesier , president of the Spare Parts Commission of SERNAUTO and of the Motortec Organizing Committee , highlighted the fundamental role of the automotive components industry as an economic and social engine. “This sector has a turnover of more than 41.000 billion euros and generates more than 330.000 direct and indirect jobs. Furthermore, it stands out for its investment in R&D&I, which is three times the industry average. These achievements are the result of our suppliers' commitment to excellence and constant adaptation. Along this path, organizations like the one we are honoring today have been crucial in making us an international benchmark,” stated Tesier.
The president of SERNAUTO presented the first award to Antonio Garamendi, highlighting his advocacy for the competitiveness of Spanish companies and his vision of business leaders as the driving force behind the country's economic and social development. After receiving the award, Garamendi expressed his gratitude and reaffirmed the values of freedom, democracy, and dialogue as the pillars that inspire automotive companies to provide excellent service to the economy and society.
Later, José Portilla , Director General of SERNAUTO, presented the second award to Jordi Hereu, Minister of Industry and Tourism. His fundamental role in promoting industrial development and transforming the Spanish production model was highlighted, as well as his commitment to reindustrialization, the ecological and digital transition, and the strengthening of strategic sectors such as the automotive industry.
Portilla also mentioned the presence at the event of the Secretary of State for Industry, Rebeca Torró , and the constructive relationship maintained with the Ministry, highlighting its "constructive approach and active listening to the needs of the sector, promoting public policies that favor innovation, sustainability and competitiveness of our companies."
In his acceptance speech, Minister Hereu emphasized that “this recognition is an incentive to continue working together. Public policy is an act of service, and we are here to support the efforts of business owners and entrepreneurs, who are the ones taking risks and contributing knowledge and innovation. Our role is to support this public-private partnership model and join forces to succeed in this major transition, in which the Spanish automotive industry has always been and will continue to be a leader.”
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