Madrid has celebrated the ninth edition of the SME of the Year Awards 2025, an event that highlights the vital contribution of small and medium-sized enterprises to the region's economic fabric. On this occasion, Unolab Manufacturing, SL, a leading company in the manufacture of sterile single-dose products for third parties, has been awarded the 2025 SME of the Year Award in Madrid. This recognition, promoted by the Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Services of Madrid, the Chamber of Commerce of Spain and Banco Santander, in collaboration with El País, highlights the fundamental role of SMEs in economic development and growth.
The selection of Unolab Manufacturing was based on a thorough evaluation of 131 applications, considering criteria such as employment creation, number of permanent contracts, the presence of women in the workforce, training actions, internationalization activities, the innovation, the digitalization and implementation of socially responsible projects.
Unolab Manufacturing stood out for its impressive international projection, with presence in more than 33 countries on four continents or with a 62% of its turnover comes from exportsIts production plant is a technological benchmark, having implemented a comprehensive systems plan in 2024 that optimized its logistics, warehouse, and production management. In the area of sustainability, the company recycles 100% of the plastic used in its ampoules and has achieved a significant reduction in water and energy consumption. Likewise, their commitment to employment is exemplary, with the 100% of its permanent contracts, more than 60% of the workforce is made up of women, and doubled its investment in training in just one year, reinforcing its commitment to inclusive employment and talent. The company is now preparing for a new phase of expansion with the construction of a twin plant, which will double its production capacity by 2030, consolidating its position among the top four pharmaceutical CDMOs in Europe.
In addition to the main prize, the jury recognized four other companies with runner-up awards:
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El Runner-up for Sustainable SME was to Lain Technologies, SL, for integrating sustainability as a driver of continuous improvement and a business model that respects the environment.
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Esri Spain Geospatial Solutions, SL, received the Second Prize in Training and Employment, for its commitment to the development of its teams through job stability, equal opportunities, and ongoing training.
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Excelia, SL, was made with the Second Prize for Internationalization, thanks to its solid global strategy and presence in fifty countries, driving growth and competitiveness through digital transformation.
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Finally, Packaging for Professionals, SL, was awarded the Second Prize for Digitalization and Innovation, by integrating these strategic levers to generate value and contribute to economic and social progress.
During the ceremony, Angel AsensioThe president of the Madrid Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Services, emphasized the importance of SMEs: “SMEs are not just a pillar of our economy, they are its nervous system. They represent more than 99,8% of businesses in Spain and generate two out of every three jobs.” Asensio added that “Madrid leads Spain’s economic growth because here we believe in economic freedom, in entrepreneurship, and that the best social policy is job creation.” He also stressed that “there is no lasting prosperity without a strong business sector, and this wouldn’t exist without SMEs.”
For its part, Luis IsasiThe president of Santander Spain congratulated the winners and recognized all SMEs as "the true driving force of the Spanish economy." He emphasized that "at Banco Santander, we want to be more than just a bank: we want to be the partner that supports SMEs from their inception as an idea until they become multinational corporations. Because their success is also everyone's success."
Isabel Díaz AyusoThe president of the Community of Madrid congratulated the 131 participating companies, stating that "Spain owes them everything." She emphasized that "small and medium-sized enterprises are the driving force behind development in our country. Madrid has become the leading economy in Spain thanks to these businesses."
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