Spain, a nation known for its rich cultural heritage, has also been a major player in the global economy, with a diverse range of industries driving its growth. From banking giants to energy powerhouses, the country is home to some of the world’s most influential companies. These organizations not only have a significant impact on the Spanish economy but also play a crucial role in various sectors worldwide. This article delves into the top 10 biggest companies in Spain, providing a comprehensive overview of their market share, profit, revenue, number of employees, leadership, services, products, history, and future growth projections for 2025.
Market Share and Financials: Banco Santander is one of the largest banks in the world and the largest in Spain, commanding a significant market share in the financial sector. In 2024, the bank reported a revenue of €46.4 billion and a net profit of €7.5 billion. Its robust financial performance is a testament to its dominant position in the European banking industry.
Number of Employees and Leadership: With over 200,000 employees worldwide, Banco Santander operates in multiple countries, with a strong presence in Latin America and Europe. The bank is led by Ana Botín, who serves as the Executive Chairman. Under her leadership, the bank has focused on digital transformation and expanding its global footprint.
Services and Products: Banco Santander offers a wide range of financial services, including retail banking, corporate banking, asset management, and insurance. The bank has been at the forefront of innovation in digital banking, offering a seamless online banking experience to its customers.
History: Founded in 1857 in Santander, Spain, the bank has grown through a series of strategic mergers and acquisitions, becoming a global financial institution. Its expansion into Latin America in the late 20th century was a key milestone in its growth trajectory.
Future Growth Projections for 2025: Looking ahead, Banco Santander aims to further enhance its digital capabilities and expand its presence in emerging markets. The bank is expected to continue its focus on sustainable finance, aligning with global trends towards environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria. By 2025, Banco Santander is projected to increase its market share in digital banking and achieve a revenue growth of 5% annually.
2. Iberdrola
Market Share and Financials: Iberdrola is a leading energy company in Spain and one of the largest utilities in the world. In 2024, the company reported a revenue of €40 billion and a net profit of €4.1 billion. Iberdrola has a dominant market share in the renewable energy sector, particularly in wind power.
Number of Employees and Leadership: Iberdrola employs over 38,000 people globally. Ignacio Galán, the Chairman and CEO, has been instrumental in driving the company’s transition towards renewable energy, positioning Iberdrola as a global leader in green energy solutions.
Services and Products: The company’s primary focus is on the generation, distribution, and commercialization of electricity. Iberdrola has been a pioneer in renewable energy, with a strong portfolio in wind, solar, and hydroelectric power.
History: Founded in 1992 through the merger of Hidroeléctrica Española and Iberduero, Iberdrola has grown into a global energy giant. The company’s early adoption of renewable energy technologies has set it apart from its competitors, making it a key player in the global energy transition.
Future Growth Projections for 2025: Iberdrola’s future growth is expected to be driven by its continued investment in renewable energy projects. The company plans to invest over €75 billion by 2025, with a focus on expanding its renewable energy capacity and modernizing its grid infrastructure. Iberdrola aims to increase its renewable energy output by 50% by 2025, solidifying its position as a global leader in clean energy.
3. Inditex
Market Share and Financials: Inditex, the parent company of Zara, is the largest fashion retailer in the world. In 2024, Inditex reported a revenue of €32.5 billion and a net profit of €4.3 billion. The company holds a substantial market share in the global fashion industry, with its brands enjoying widespread popularity.
Number of Employees and Leadership: Inditex employs over 170,000 people across its global operations. The company is led by Óscar García Maceiras, who serves as the CEO. Under his leadership, Inditex has embraced sustainability and digitalization as key components of its business strategy.
Services and Products: Inditex operates several fashion brands, including Zara, Massimo Dutti, Pull & Bear, and Bershka. The company is known for its fast fashion model, which allows it to quickly respond to changing fashion trends and consumer preferences.
History: Founded in 1985 by Amancio Ortega in Galicia, Spain, Inditex has grown from a small family business into a global fashion empire. The company’s unique business model, which integrates design, production, and distribution, has been a key factor in its success.
Future Growth Projections for 2025: Inditex is expected to continue its focus on sustainability, with plans to make all its products from sustainable materials by 2025. The company is also investing heavily in digitalization, aiming to enhance its online shopping experience and expand its e-commerce operations. By 2025, Inditex is projected to achieve steady revenue growth, driven by its strong brand portfolio and commitment to sustainability.
4. Repsol
Market Share and Financials: Repsol is a major player in the global energy sector, with a significant presence in the oil and gas industry. In 2024, the company reported a revenue of €60 billion and a net profit of €2.7 billion. Repsol’s market share in the energy sector is bolstered by its integrated business model, which includes exploration, production, refining, and marketing.
Number of Employees and Leadership: Repsol employs around 24,000 people worldwide. The company is led by Josu Jon Imaz, who serves as the CEO. Under his leadership, Repsol has focused on diversifying its energy portfolio and investing in low-carbon technologies.
Services and Products: Repsol’s core business includes the exploration and production of oil and natural gas, refining, and the sale of petroleum products. The company is also expanding its presence in the renewable energy sector, particularly in solar and wind power.
History: Repsol was founded in 1987 following the merger of several Spanish oil companies. Over the years, the company has expanded its operations globally, becoming one of the leading integrated energy companies in the world.
Future Growth Projections for 2025: Repsol’s future growth is expected to be driven by its commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. The company plans to invest heavily in renewable energy projects and carbon capture technologies. By 2025, Repsol aims to increase its renewable energy capacity to 7.5 GW, positioning itself as a leader in the global energy transition.
5. Telefónica
Market Share and Financials: Telefónica is one of the largest telecommunications companies in the world and a dominant player in the Spanish market. In 2024, the company reported a revenue of €43.8 billion and a net profit of €3.2 billion. Telefónica holds a substantial market share in the telecom sector, particularly in Europe and Latin America.
Number of Employees and Leadership: Telefónica employs over 100,000 people globally. The company is led by José María Álvarez-Pallete, who has been the CEO since 2016. Under his leadership, Telefónica has focused on digital transformation and expanding its fiber and 5G networks.
Services and Products: Telefónica provides a wide range of telecommunications services, including mobile and fixed-line telephony, broadband, and digital services. The company is also a leading provider of IT and cybersecurity solutions.
History: Founded in 1924, Telefónica has a long history of innovation and growth. The company has played a key role in the development of telecommunications infrastructure in Spain and has expanded its operations to over 20 countries worldwide.
Future Growth Projections for 2025: Telefónica’s future growth is expected to be driven by the expansion of its 5G network and the rollout of fiber optic infrastructure. The company plans to invest €8 billion in its digital transformation strategy by 2025, with a focus on enhancing its customer experience and developing new digital services. Telefónica is projected to achieve steady revenue growth, driven by increased demand for high-speed internet and digital services.
6. CaixaBank
Market Share and Financials: CaixaBank is one of the largest financial institutions in Spain, with a strong presence in retail and commercial banking. In 2024, the bank reported a revenue of €10.5 billion and a net profit of €2.6 billion. CaixaBank holds a significant market share in the Spanish banking sector, particularly in retail banking.
Number of Employees and Leadership: CaixaBank employs over 35,000 people. The bank is led by Gonzalo Gortázar, who has been the CEO since 2014. Under his leadership, CaixaBank has focused on digital banking and expanding its range of financial services.
Services and Products: CaixaBank offers a wide range of banking services, including savings accounts, mortgages, loans, and insurance. The bank has also been at the forefront of digital banking in Spain, offering innovative online banking solutions to its customers.
History: CaixaBank was founded in 2011 following the restructuring of La Caixa, a major Spanish savings bank. The bank has since grown into one of the leading financial institutions in Spain, with a strong focus on customer service and innovation.
Future Growth Projections for 2025: CaixaBank’s future growth is expected to be driven by its continued focus on digital banking and expanding its range of financial products. The bank plans to invest in new technologies to enhance its digital offerings and improve customer experience. By 2025, CaixaBank is projected to achieve steady revenue growth, driven by increased demand for digital banking services.
7. Ferrovial
Market Share and Financials: Ferrovial is a leading infrastructure and construction company in Spain, with a significant presence in the global market. In 2024, the company reported a revenue of €7.2 billion and a net profit of €800 million. Ferrovial holds a substantial market share in the infrastructure sector, particularly in transportation and urban development.
Number of Employees and Leadership: Ferrovial employs around 20,000 people worldwide. The company is led by Ignacio Madridejos, who serves as the CEO. Under his leadership, Ferrovial has focused on expanding its global operations and investing in sustainable infrastructure projects.
Services and Products: Ferrovial’s core business includes the construction and management of transportation infrastructure, such as highways, airports, and railways. The company is also involved in urban development and environmental services.
History: Founded in 1952, Ferrovial has grown from a small construction company into one of the leading infrastructure firms in the world. The company’s strategic focus on international expansion and sustainable development has been key to its success.
Future Growth Projections for 2025: Ferrovial’s future growth is expected to be driven by its continued focus on sustainable infrastructure projects and expanding its global footprint. The company plans to invest in new technologies and innovative solutions to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of its projects. By 2025, Ferrovial aims to increase its revenue by 10% annually, driven by strong demand for infrastructure development.
8. AENA
Market Share and Financials: AENA is the world’s largest airport operator by the number of passengers. In 2024, the company reported a revenue of €5.4 billion and a net profit of €1.2 billion. AENA holds a dominant market share in the airport management sector, with operations in multiple countries.
Number of Employees and Leadership: AENA employs around 8,000 people. The company is led by Maurici Lucena, who serves as the CEO. Under his leadership, AENA has focused on expanding its international operations and enhancing the passenger experience at its airports.
Services and Products: AENA’s core business includes the management and operation of airports. The company is also involved in real estate development and commercial activities within its airports, such as retail and hospitality services.
History: Founded in 1991, AENA has grown into the largest airport operator in the world, with a portfolio of over 70 airports. The company’s focus on operational excellence and customer satisfaction has been key to its success.
Future Growth Projections for 2025: AENA’s future growth is expected to be driven by the recovery of the global aviation industry and the expansion of its international operations. The company plans to invest in new airport infrastructure and enhance its digital offerings to improve the passenger experience. By 2025, AENA aims to increase its revenue by 8% annually, driven by increased passenger traffic and commercial activities.
9. ACS Group
Market Share and Financials: ACS Group is one of the largest construction and engineering companies in Spain and the world. In 2024, the company reported a revenue of €39.2 billion and a net profit of €1.5 billion. ACS holds a significant market share in the construction and infrastructure sectors, with a strong presence in Europe, the Americas, and Asia.
Number of Employees and Leadership: ACS employs over 180,000 people globally. The company is led by Florentino Pérez, who serves as the Chairman and CEO. Under his leadership, ACS has expanded its global operations and diversified its business portfolio.
Services and Products: ACS’s core business includes construction, civil engineering, industrial services, and infrastructure development. The company is also involved in renewable energy projects and facility management.
History: Founded in 1997 through the merger of several construction companies, ACS has grown into one of the largest construction firms in the world. The company’s strategic focus on international expansion and diversification has been key to its success.
Future Growth Projections for 2025: ACS’s future growth is expected to be driven by its continued focus on infrastructure development and renewable energy projects. The company plans to invest in new technologies and innovative solutions to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of its projects. By 2025, ACS aims to increase its revenue by 5% annually, driven by strong demand for construction and infrastructure development.
10. Amadeus IT Group
Market Share and Financials: Amadeus IT Group is a leading provider of IT solutions for the global travel and tourism industry. In 2024, the company reported a revenue of €6.5 billion and a net profit of €1.1 billion. Amadeus holds a dominant market share in the travel technology sector, providing services to airlines, hotels, and travel agencies.
Number of Employees and Leadership: Amadeus employs over 17,000 people globally. The company is led by Luis Maroto, who serves as the CEO. Under his leadership, Amadeus has focused on expanding its product portfolio and enhancing its digital offerings.
Services and Products: Amadeus offers a wide range of IT solutions for the travel industry, including reservation systems, inventory management, and customer relationship management (CRM) tools. The company is also involved in developing new technologies for the travel and tourism sector.
History: Founded in 1987, Amadeus has grown from a small IT company into a global leader in travel technology. The company’s focus on innovation and customer service has been key to its success.
Future Growth Projections for 2025: Amadeus’s future growth is expected to be driven by the recovery of the global travel industry and the expansion of its digital offerings. The company plans to invest in new technologies, such as artificial intelligence and machine learning, to enhance its products and services. By 2025, Amadeus aims to increase its revenue by 7% annually, driven by strong demand for travel technology solutions.
Summary
The top 10 biggest companies in Spain are leaders in their respective industries, with a strong presence both domestically and internationally. These companies have not only contributed significantly to the Spanish economy but have also played a crucial role in shaping global industries. As they look towards the future, these companies are focusing on innovation, sustainability, and digital transformation to drive their growth. By 2025, they are expected to continue their upward trajectory, solidifying Spain’s position as a major player in the global economy. The strategic investments and forward-thinking leadership of these companies will be key to their success in the coming years, as they navigate the challenges and opportunities of a rapidly changing global landscape.
