The Anoia Business Union (UEA) will hold its 26th Business Night in Castellolí on Thursday, 21 May 2026. This annual gala, which draws over 500 attendees, recognises the talent, innovation, trajectory, and entrepreneurial spirit of businesses in the Anoia region. Catalan President Salvador Illa will preside over this year's event.
The central theme for this edition is "the central role of business as a driver of progress, cohesion, and opportunities for the territory," with the motto "Fem Empresa" (We Make Business). Joan Mateu, president of the UEA, stated during the event's presentation that "business is not just an economic structure, but an action, an attitude, and a commitment to the territory." Mateu added that "every job, every project, and every opportunity exists because there are people who decide to undertake, take risks, and invest. 'Fem Empresa' is about recognising this determination that sustains collective progress."
Celebrating Business Leadership and Growth
Mateu emphasised the desire to "claim the leadership, responsibility, and social contribution of the people who make businesses and sustain the country's productive fabric." He explained that this motto summarises what the UEA Business Night aims to celebrate, defend, and project: "that business is essential for building the future. It is a real engine of employment, talent, and wealth, and we want to recognise entrepreneurial effort."
This year's event will take place at a particularly significant location: the new headquarters of Fragrance Science in the Cal Parera industrial estate in Castellolí. This move has fully occupied the available land in the estate. Fragrance Science, a leading European company, chose to establish itself in Anoia, aiming to generate jobs and economic activity for the region. According to the UEA, holding the celebration in this space symbolises "commitment to growth, innovation, and the region's capacity to attract businesses."
Founded in 2004, Fragrance Science specialises in the creation, development, and manufacture of fragrances for fine perfumery, industrial perfumery, and personal care products. The company has seen sustained growth, becoming a sector leader, particularly in African and Middle Eastern markets. Fragrance Science currently employs 200 people.
New Facilities and Industry Recognition
The inauguration of the new 23,000-square-metre facilities in Castellolí marks a significant step for the company. It is one of Europe's largest perfume factories, equipped with advanced technology and designed to optimise processes, expand production capacity, and strengthen its commitment to innovation and quality. Toni Cabal, CEO and founder of Fragrance Science, is behind this project. Cabal also runs his niche perfumery brand, Toni Cabal Perfums, which has a presence in exclusive perfumeries across Europe and the Middle East.
Mateu noted that the "Fem Empresa" message gains particular relevance this year due to the arrival of a new European benchmark company with international projection and a significant impact on employment and economic revitalisation. He stated, "We want to show that Anoia has a very powerful, diverse, and multi-sectorial business fabric. And that it is also a good place to come."
Journalist and businessman Tatxo Benet will be a special guest, interviewed to highlight the figure of the entrepreneur and the transformative role of business. Benet, president of the FemCAT Foundation and a co-founder of Grup Mediapro, served as president and CEO there for over three decades. The evening will be presented by TV3 journalist Xavier Coral Trullàs, who has presented various editions of Telenotícies and was a correspondent in Brussels.
Awards and Anniversaries
As in previous years, the UEA Awards will be presented during the night. The Board of Directors has nominated three finalist companies for each of the four award categories. The finalists for Business Trajectory are Funosa, Planell S.A., and Predecat. For Innovative Company, the finalists are Espais Anna Marsal, Noufil, and Rice Corn Nuts. Ecopime Projects, Almazan Roig, and Rosich Jewels are finalists for Entrepreneurial Capacity. Finally, Schneider Electric, Leather Química, and Abzac Ibérica are finalists for Social and Environmental Commitment. UEA members can vote for the companies until Friday, 8 May.
The event will also include special recognition for over fifteen companies celebrating significant anniversaries in 2026, some marking up to 190 years of activity. The 26th UEA Business Night will start at 19:00, with attendees enjoying a standing aperitif before the gala begins. The price for UEA members is €100, and €130 for non-members, which includes event access, dinner, and a final chill-out drink. The registration deadline for dinner is Friday, 15 May.
The UEA stated that the 26th Business Night is possible thanks to the support of Igualada City Council and the Barcelona Provincial Council, along with sponsorship from numerous companies and organisations, including Fragrance Science, MGC Mútua, and CaixaBank. Additional collaboration comes from Castellolí City Council, Via Empresa, Canal Taronja, and La Veu de l’Anoia.
