Barcelona and London are strengthening their connections in economic promotion and night-time economy management, exploring shared challenges and future technical exchanges between municipal teams. On 24 March 2026, Barcelona City Council hosted a working meeting with a delegation from London City Hall.
The London delegation was led by Howard Dawber, Deputy Mayor for Business and Growth. The meeting aimed to share economic promotion policies, look at collaboration opportunities, and establish new lines of exchange between the two major European cities. Barcelona municipal managers Xavier Patón and Miquel Rodríguez attended, alongside Night Commissioner Carme Zapata.
From London, participants included Howard Dawber; Markus Facklam, Director for Europe and the Middle East at London & Partners; Richard Tribe, Policy Lead for International Promotion; and Lloyd Milen, Consul General of the United Kingdom in Barcelona. Both cities recognised they face similar strategic challenges in sectors such as creative industries, life sciences, technology, and the environment.
London's Growth Strategy and Barcelona's Initiatives
The London delegation presented projects under its London Growth Plan. These include Business Innovation Districts, actions to increase visitor numbers from 20 to 30 million per year, the Inclusive Talent Strategy, and the implementation of the Night Life Test. This tool evaluates the impact of urban decisions across a full 24-hour cycle.
Barcelona, for its part, presented its main economic promotion tools. These include the IT Academy, employment support schemes, the Welcome Desk for international professionals and companies, and an investment fund for start-ups. In the night-time sphere, Barcelona explained it is studying the development of a quality label for night-time activities.
Future Collaborations and Exchanges
A key point from the meeting was London's intention to establish three international business bridges, with Barcelona hoped to be one of them. London also proposed taking part in technical exchanges within the framework of the 'A Month of Learning' project. Barcelona agreed to maintain contact with the London teams to explore concrete projects, especially in economic innovation and the governance of promotion agencies such as London & Partners.
Night Commissioner Carme Zapata announced she will travel to London in May. Her trip aims to gain a deeper insight into the transformation of Oxford Street, a benchmark project in commerce, leisure, and culture.
