SIL, the significant logistics fair, and the innovative BNEW event stand out among the initiatives with which the CZFB introduces its social and economic development proposal to the world through its industrial, logistics, and creative ecosystem. A proactive transformation of the industry for large corporations and the entrepreneurial fabric of the city as a whole, with continuous recognition from all kinds of institutions and a growing interest from international conferences and events.

These contributions reaffirm Zona Franca de Barcelona's status as 'the place to be,' a dynamic and collaborative meeting point that will forge the present and future of our economy and society.

Leadership of ZF in the Industrial and Logistics Sectors

Throughout 2024, the CZFB has reaffirmed its role as a driver of the new economy, supported by dynamic and proactive leadership and the work of its people in an environment of continuous innovation and exceptional attention to sustainability. A collective contribution aligned with the mission to lead the industrial and logistics sector.

Pere Navarro, Innovation in Public Management Award from the Brazil-Catalonia Chamber of Commerce

Pere Navarro, Special Government Delegate at CZFB, received the Innovation in Public Management Award from the Brazil-Catalonia Chamber of Commerce, recognizing "the entity's commitment to excellence and innovation."

This distinction acknowledges the track record of the business ecosystem located in Zona Franca de Barcelona, which fosters the creation of synergies between business and professional economic agents. These agents gather at the disruptive building of DFactory Barcelona with the goal of developing innovation projects and new technologies based on Industry 4.0.

The celebration of the VII Ibero-American Congress CEAPI in Cartagena de Indias, Colombia, kicked off with a prominent participation from the CZFB. The Special Government Delegate, Pere Navarro, and the General Director, Blanca Sorigué, were present and actively participated in this critical Ibero-American business meeting. Additionally, Pere Navarro discussed, alongside Daniel Haime, the challenges that future cities must face.

Workshop on Digital Platforms by the Spanish Logistics Center (CEL)

Pere Navarro hosted the institutional opening of the CEL Workshops, organized by CEL Logística, held at DFactory Barcelona, and focusing on digital platforms and services for logistics and transportation.

Navarro highlighted the CZFB's commitment to innovation in transforming supply chain management and its connection with the new economy, which have materialized through its two incubators. He concluded his speech by inviting attendees to the 2024 edition of SIL.

Recognitions and Appointments

During 2024, the General Director of CZFB, Blanca Sorigué, received the following distinctions:

  • 11th Edition of the Admira Award 2023, which recognizes professional career, performance, and achievements in logistics, along with the personal values of the awardee. Blanca Sorigué was distinguished “for her promotion of logistics in celebration of the 25th anniversary of SIL Barcelona 2023 and for her commitment to driving innovation and improving the role of logistics in Industry 4.0”.
  • Appointment as a member of the Consell de Conselleries of the Observatori Dona Empresa i Economia at the Barcelona Chamber of Commerce, a forum for reflection, study, and proposals aimed at recognizing the professional, entrepreneurial, and businesswoman contributions in today's economic world.
  • Blanca Sorigué was recognized among 40 professionals driving leadership and innovation in Catalonia.
  • At the 10th anniversary of the World Free Zone Congress in Dubai, Blanca Sorigué was reelected as Vice President of the WFZO, highlighting Barcelona as a leader in Industry 4.0 and sustainability and a member of AZFA.
  • Blanca Sorigué was again named among the 100 most influential women in Spain by ForbesWomen in recognition of her outstanding leadership and for promoting innovation, sustainability, and digitalization in the industry. For the fourth consecutive year, the prestigious publication Yo Dona included her in its ranking of the 500 most influential women in Spain.

“SIL is the only event where all sectors of the logistics chain are represented, serving as a key lever for the growth and development of logistics, not only locally but globally.”

Blanca Sorigué receives the Admira Award

Lluís López Yuste, new member of the Board of Directors of Dircom Catalunya

The Communication Director of CZFB has been selected in Forbes's list of the best Communication Directors in Spain and has joined its Board of Directors.

Aligned with business development

APD Networking Lunch

The Special Government Delegate, Pere Navarro, attended a networking lunch organized by the APD Association. He explained the Industry 4.0 innovation and development hub in Zona Franca and presented the plans for the second expansion phase.

Lunch at the Olof Palme Foundation

During a lunch organized by the Olof Palme Foundation (alongside its President, Anna Balletbò), Pere Navarro discussed the preparations for the launch of DFactory Barcelona's second phase. He emphasized that the CZFB aims to transform the entire Zona Franca industrial park into a reference District 4.0 for the Barcelona Metropolitan Area.

Navarro also presented the CZFB's strategic plan, focused on economic sustainability, innovation, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Networking Lunch at Círculo Ecuestre

Blanca Sorigué, General Director, participated in the networking lunch “Barcelona Capital of Logistics” at Círculo Ecuestre, alongside Eva Valenzuela (Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport), Raül Blanco Díaz (Renfe), and Guillermo Belcastro (Hutchison Ports BEST).

Event at La Salle Barcelona

Blanca Sorigué had a unique role in the graduation ceremony for the Business & Management Degrees at La Salle Barcelona, where she acted as the supervisor of the graduating class.

II Compromiso Metropolitano Awards

The Special Government Delegate, Pere Navarro, participated in the 2nd edition of the Compromiso Metropolitano Awards at Roca Umbert, where he presented the Strategic Alliances Award to 4D Health Center (for promoting multi-stakeholder collaboration and cooperation among different actors).

Commemorative Event for the 10th Anniversary of the Chambers of Commerce

The Special Government Delegate, Pere Navarro, and the General Director, Blanca Sorigué, participated in the commemorative event for the 10th anniversary of the Chambers of Commerce, presided over by His Majesty King Felipe VI. The event, held at the South Auditorium of IFEMA, brought together prominent representatives from the business sector, highlighting the importance of the chambers in driving the economy and fostering collaboration between institutions.