The AEF and Banco Sabadell recognize the excellence of the franchise as a global expansion model

 

La Spanish Franchise Association (AEF), with the official sponsorship of Banco Sabadell, celebrated, in the Hotel InterContinental Madrid, the gala of its fifths National and European AwardsThe event recognized the excellence and internationalization potential of the Spanish franchise system before more than one hundred executives, ambassadors and authorities.

 

The event has established itself as a key gathering for the international business ecosystem, validating franchising as a strategic vehicle for the expansion of Spanish brands in global markets. The presence of high-ranking public officials underscores the institutional support for a business model that demonstrates remarkable resilience and growth potential.

 

Strong institutional support for the franchise model

 

The gala's opening ceremony was led by Rocío Ormaechea Gómez, Deputy Director General for Regulation and Trade Support of the State Secretariat for Trade of Ministry of Economy, Commerce and BusinessHis speech highlighted the importance of the sector to the national economy and its role in projecting the Spain brand internationally.

 

The closing ceremony was presided over by Marta Nieto Novo, Director General of Trade, Consumer Affairs and Services of the Region of Madridwho also participated in the awards ceremony. Alongside her were prominent figures such as Olga Mª Ruiz, Director General of Commerce and Hospitality of Madrid City Council, and Inmaculada NúñezNational Director of Sabadell Franchises - Banco SabadellThey formed the institutional and financial representation that presented the awards.

 

Thirteen awards and a special recognition of the sector's legacy

 

In this fifth edition, a total of 13 awards which recognize different facets of success in the franchise system, from innovation to international expansion. The awards were presented by the senior management of the AEF, represented by its President, Luisa Masuet, and its Chief Executive Officer, Eduardo Abadía.

 

In addition to the official categories, the franchise system paid special tribute to the career of Javier Sierra, who was President of RE/MAX España, for its fundamental contribution to the development and professionalization of the sector in the country.

 

Event Fact Sheet

 

Concept
Detail

Event
5th National and European Franchise Awards

Organized by
Spanish Franchise Association (AEF)

Official sponsor
Banco Sabadell
Date
May 11th 2026

Location
Hotel InterContinental Madrid

Assistance
More than 100 executives, authorities and professionals from the sector

Institutional Figures
Rocío Ormaechea Gómez (Ministry of Economy), Marta Nieto Novo (Community of Madrid), Olga Mª Ruiz (Madrid City Council)

 

Key points and frequently asked questions about franchising as an internationalization model

 

Why is this event relevant for a Spanish company seeking to expand?

These types of awards, supported by top-tier institutions and financial entities such as Banco SabadellThey act as a barometer of the sector. For an executive, they identify business models that are being validated by their success and scalability, offering benchmarking and opportunities to networking crucial for planning a safe and proven international expansion strategy.

 

What advantages does the franchise model offer for internationalization compared to other systems?

Franchising allows for faster market penetration with lower capital expenditure (CapEx) risk, as it leverages the investment and expertise of the local partner (franchisee). This model facilitates cultural and operational adaptation, accelerates brand building abroad, and generates economies of scale more efficiently than opening company-owned subsidiaries from scratch.

 

What should Spanish exporters know when choosing a franchise partner abroad?

Choosing the right partner is critical. Executives must analyze not only the candidate's financial solvency, but also their knowledge of the local market, their experience in operational management, and, fundamentally, their alignment with the brand's values ​​and corporate culture. It is essential to conduct a thorough due diligence process. due diligence comprehensive and have a solid contractual framework that regulates the relationship at a legal and commercial level in the destination country.