As a proud product of Mays Business School, I picked up a few things about the business environment in Spain. First, Spaniards have an emphasis on sustainability. There is not a desire for rapid expansion but instead focused on organic growth. This can explain why in Barcelona, there are few large brands and many family businesses that have been around for generations. The growth of businesses stems from providing exceptional products and building a solid consumer base. There is also little focus on beating the competitors.
As reflected in their culture, Spain’s work mindset is focused on well-being. Business efficiency is not the priority. People are concerned with enjoying their time on earth and not working until they drop. This leads to how service is better in Spain. Tipping is not customary yet services at hospitality businesses are exceptional. This exists not only in tourist businesses but all businesses in Spain.
When it comes to the adoption of technology in business, Spain is not at the forefront. In America, businesses are constantly implementing the newest technology into their operations. This is to gain advantages over their competitors. Spain does not exhibit that trait. Noticeably when it comes to card payment, most businesses use POS systems that were seen in the US 10 years ago. Besides global brands like McDonald’s, automation is not prevalent in business in Spain.
Two weeks is too short of time to understand everything about the business environment in a foreign country. However, the examples above are characteristics that openly stand out.