Online event
Unlocking the Spanish market: Culture, etiquette and business essentials
Monday 05 October at 11:00AM
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Get practical tools to understand the Spanish business environment and avoid common cultural or administrative pitfalls before entering the market.
What you’ll learn
- Understand key aspects of Spanish business culture, etiquette and communication styles.
- Navigate meetings, negotiations and relationship-building with Spanish business partners more effectively.
- Identify the main administrative, legal and practical considerations when establishing a business in Spain.
Description
This webinar provides UK businesses with a practical introduction to doing business and establishing a presence in Spain. It combines an overview of the Spanish economy and key sectors with practical guidance on business etiquette, communication styles, meetings, negotiations and relationship-building. Participants will learn how cultural differences can influence business relationships, decision-making and negotiations, helping them avoid common misunderstandings and build stronger connections with Spanish counterparts. The webinar will also explore the importance of business meals, punctuality, hierarchy and professional presentation in the Spanish business environment.
Alongside cultural considerations, the session will provide an overview of routes to market and the key steps involved in setting up a business in Spain, including choosing the appropriate business structure, opening a bank account, registration requirements, tax and social security obligations, and the importance of obtaining appropriate local professional advice. The webinar is designed to give UK businesses the practical knowledge and cultural awareness they need to approach the Spanish market with greater confidence.
Speakers
Miguel Flavian
Head of Foreign Trade, Spanish Chamber of Commerce
Miguel has lived in London for almost 15 years and brings extensive experience across the private and public sectors, as well as professional associations. With a strong focus on the food industry and SME development, he currently serves as Head of Foreign Trade at the Spanish Chamber of Commerce in the UK, where he supports businesses in developing international trade opportunities and strengthening commercial ties between Spain and the UK.
Desiree Odulaja
Foreign Trade Manager, Spanish Chamber of Commerce
Desiree is the Foreign Trade Manager at the Spanish Chamber of Commerce in the UK, with over two years of experience supporting and promoting trade relations between Spain and the UK. She coordinates a range of international trade services and initiatives, helping businesses explore opportunities and expand into new markets. Having lived in both Madrid and Valencia, Desiree brings a strong understanding of Spain’s business environment and cultural landscape, alongside practical experience working with companies across both markets.
Lucinda Schueler
Foreign Trade and Communications Assistant, Spanish Chamber of Commerce
Lucinda is a Foreign Trade and Communications Assistant at the Spanish Chamber of Commerce in the UK, where she supports companies through market research, commercial agendas, trade promotion projects and business outreach. She is currently completing a Bachelor’s degree in International Relations at IE University and has previous experience in consulting, market intelligence and European funding projects. With experience in Spain, the UK and Mexico, she brings a strong international perspective and a particular interest in trade, economic development and cross-border business
María Conde
Foreign Trade and Communications Assistant, Spanish Chamber of Commerce
María is a Foreign Trade and Communications Assistant at the Spanish Chamber of Commerce in the UK, where she provides guidance on the regulatory framework affecting trade between the UK and Spain and supports companies through market research, commercial agendas and trade promotion projects, helping strengthen business ties between both markets. A qualified lawyer in Spain, she has a background in corporate and commercial law, complemented by specialised training in business internationalisation. Her academic and professional experience across Spain and the UK gives her a strong understanding of cross-border business and the challenges companies face when operating in both markets.