The Comerç de Barcelona Awards celebrate their 25th edition

Barcelona has recognized the best stores in the city at the 25th edition of the Comerç de Barcelona Awards, an award that highlights the most relevant commercial initiatives of the year and reaffirms the role of commerce in the vitality and cohesion of the city. This year, the event took place in the Oval Room of the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya (MNAC) with the presence of more than 400 traders and key figures in the sector.

Recognizing effort and innovation

Since their creation in 1998, under the name “Barcelona, the best store in the world”, these awards have highlighted the work of those who make stores innovative, sustainable and high quality spaces. Organized by the City Council’s Department of Commerce, Catering and Food, the awards include the Mercats de Barcelona Award, now in its 13th edition.

Guided tours through the emblematic stores of the Eixample: a unique experience to discover Barcelona’s commercial heritage.

The mayor of Barcelona stressed during the ceremony that “trade and markets are a reflection of our history and a source of pride for the city.” This recognition underlines the importance of commercial diversity in the neighborhoods, as well as the positive impact on the daily lives of its inhabitants.

The winners of this edition

Best business model: Swiss Union

With 185 years of history, Unión Suiza, located in Sarrià-Sant Gervasi, is a reference in the luxury jewelry and watchmaking sector. The company, managed by six generations, combines tradition and innovation to offer unique products. Their contribution has been key in the development of Barcelona’s commerce.

Best local retailer: IDONI-Bon Cor

This cooperative store in the Sant Antoni neighborhood is committed to sustainability, local products and responsible consumption. Managed by social cooperatives, IDONI-Bon Cor promotes labor insertion and respect for the environment, consolidating itself as an engine of social cohesion.

Award for trade promotion and awareness: Núria Paricio

With a track record of more than 20 years, this leader in commercial dynamization has promoted projects that foster intercultural coexistence and innovation in Barcelona’s commercial hubs. Her work has been fundamental in boosting commerce in the city.

Emblematic retailer award: Sombrereria Obach

Founded in 1924 in the Gothic Quarter, this hat shop has withstood the test of time thanks to its customer service and quality products. The jury highlighted its role in the preservation of the architectural heritage and its contribution to the local commercial fabric.

Special recognition to the market and its initiatives

The Mercats de Barcelona Award, which celebrates its 13th edition, also recognized the work of Cardiel Sabaters, an Encants de Sant Antoni stall with more than 60 years of history, and the Mercat de Lesseps Traders’ Association, for their community activities and communication strategies that reinforce proximity trade.

A tribute to the essence of Barcelona

These awards not only celebrate the entrepreneurial effort, but also the importance of businesses as engines of life and cohesion in the neighborhoods. From historic businesses to modern initiatives, this year’s honorees demonstrate that innovation and tradition can coexist to enrich the urban experience.