Spanish brewing business Damm to receive Eduardo Barrachina Golden Award 2026

London, June 2026 – The Spanish Chamber of Commerce (SCC) in the UK has announced that Damm, the Barcelona-based brewing group behind the globally recognised Estrella Damm beer, among many other leading brands, is the 2026 recipient of the Eduardo Barrachina Golden Award in recognition of the company's outstanding performance and achievements in the UK market, including a recent landmark investment in Bedford. The announcement also coincides with Damm's 150th anniversary, marking a century and a half of brewing heritage and international growth with a presence in more than 130 countries worldwide.

The award will be presented during a ceremony at the Spanish Ambassador's Residence in London on 23 September 2026. One of the Chamber's flagship corporate events, the occasion will bring together senior leaders from Spanish and British business, government and institutions. The Executive Chairman of Damm, Mr. Demetrio Carceller Arce, will attend the event and deliver a speech about Damm's trajectory worldwide and in the UK.

The Eduardo Barrachina Golden Award honours companies that demonstrate exceptional business success, innovation and a strong contribution to strengthening economic ties between Spain and the United Kingdom. Previous recipients include FCC (2025), Indra (2024), RIU Hotels (2023) and Navantia (2022). Founded in 1876, Damm has grown from a local Mediterranean brewery into one of Spain's most recognised international beverage groups. Its flagship brand, Estrella Damm, has become synonymous with Mediterranean culture and gastronomy, achieving strong growth across global markets and a particularly prominent presence within the UK hospitality sector. Today, the United Kingdom represents Damm's largest market outside Spain, accounting for a significant share of its international business.

In May, Damm agreed to acquire the premium ale brand Old Speckled Hen from Greene King. The transaction further reinforces Damm's strategic growth in the UK. This growth commitment is also reflected in a key milestone in Damm's UK journey: a recent £70 million strategic investment to modernise the company's Eagle Brewery in Bedford. Acquired in 2022, the brewery is now a state-of-the-art production facility, with significantly increased capacity, reinforcing Damm's long-term commitment to the UK as one of the company's core international markets. The investment has also helped to drive local economic growth, creating 300% more new jobs since 2022, and key sustainability advances through reduced transport emissions and more efficient production processes.

Commenting on the award, Mr. Juan Carlos Machuca, President of the Spanish Chamber of Commerce in the UK, said: "Damm is a shining example of a Spanish company that has successfully combined heritage, innovation and international ambition. Its significant investment in the United Kingdom, particularly in Bedford, demonstrates a long-term commitment not only to business growth but also to local communities, sustainability and the strengthening of bilateral economic ties. For this reason, we are delighted to honour Damm with the Eduardo Barrachina Golden Award 2026."

Mr. Demetrio Carceller Arce, Executive Chairman of Damm, added: "We are deeply honoured to receive the Eduardo Barrachina Golden Award from the Spanish Chamber of Commerce in the UK, especially in such a meaningful year for our company as we celebrate our 150th anniversary. The United Kingdom has been a key market for Damm for decades and our investment in Bedford reflects our long-term commitment to growth, innovation and sustainability in the UK. This recognition is a testament to the continued dedication of our teams to make a positive impact in the communities in which we operate."

Damm continues to expand its footprint through innovation, partnerships within the hospitality and gastronomy sectors, and new initiatives such as its UK Accelerator Programme, an incubator hub designed to support emerging beverage brands with access to knowledge, production and distribution.

As Damm celebrates its 150th anniversary this year, the award highlights not only its historic legacy but also its forward-looking vision, reinforcing its role as a key player in the UK market and a benchmark for excellence, sustainability and international growth.

About the Spanish Chamber of Commerce in the UK

The Spanish Chamber of Commerce in the United Kingdom is a key organisation promoting economic and trade relations between Spain and the UK. Founded in 1886, it provides Spanish and British companies with opportunities for networking, business promotion, training, advice and collaborative projects. The Chambers of Commerce of Spain abroad serve as consultative and collaborative bodies of the Spanish Administration.

About Damm

Damm is a Spanish beverage group headquartered in Barcelona with over 150 years of brewing heritage. Founded in 1876, the company produces a wide range of beers and beverages, with Estrella Damm among its flagship brands. Damm exports to more than 130 countries worldwide and continues to expand its international presence while maintaining strong roots in the Mediterranean brewing tradition.

For more information:

Marc Calderó, Communications Manager, Spanish Chamber of Commerce in the UK

E: marc.caldero@spanishchamber.co.uk

T: +44 (0)20 7009 9070

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