The Spanish Association of Retail (AER), the largest retail ecosystem in Europe, held the second edition of the Retail Awards (PdR 2024) in November, solidifying its position as the benchmark event for the sector in Spain.
This annual gathering highlights excellence and innovation in an industry that has proven to be a key driver of the Spanish economy.
In this edition, AER recognized the achievements of companies and projects leading the way in digital transformation, sustainability, and the social impact of retail, among other categories.
With a record number of entries across the 12 categories, the awards were judged by an independent and professional panel, which also, for the first time, honored the best international retailer.
The ceremony brought together over 400 people at the Reina Sofía National Museum, including business leaders from across Spain and representatives from national and international institutions.
The celebration of this gala for Spanish retail reflects the vitality of a sector that plays a crucial role in social cohesion and the country’s economic development.
In the words of Laureano Turienzo, president of AER, “Retail is much more than an industry; it is an economic pillar that supports employment, innovation, and development in every community. Beyond excellence, the awarded companies are paving the way for a more sustainable and technological future.”
Turienzo also highlighted “the sector’s ability to adapt and respond to social and economic challenges, reaffirming its commitment to responsible and transformative retail.”
“Retail is much more than an industry; it is an economic pillar that supports employment, innovation, and development in every community. Beyond excellence, the awarded companies are paving the way for a more sustainable and technological future.”
Laureano Turienzo, president of AER
Retail: a committed and supportive sector
The event was marked by a tribute to the province of Valencia, which recently suffered the devastating effects of DANA. In addition to the human losses, the region witnessed the destruction of hundreds of businesses, primarily local commerce.
In this context, Turienzo stressed the importance of supporting the reconstruction of commerce in the area and the solidarity of the retail sector in aiding its recovery. “Spanish retail is committed to the communities where it operates. Supporting Valencia and contributing to its recovery is a moral duty for all of us in this sector.”
As a testament to the sector’s social commitment, this edition of the awards featured a segment dedicated to #RetailWithPurpose.
This project, in collaboration with Cáritas Spain, aims to promote the role of retail as a driver of social inclusion. Presented by Félix Miguel Sánchez Delgado, Director of the Social Action Area at Cáritas Spain, the initiative highlighted how the sector contributes to building more inclusive and sustainable communities.
AER Pays Tribute to Valencia and Shows Retail Sector Support for Rebuilding Local Commerce After the Devastating Effects of DANA.
Driving and recognizing the retail sector
The PdR 2024 gala, now in its second edition, provides an opportunity to emphasize AER’s commitment to development and innovation in retail, further establishing its leadership in Spain.
Currently, AER has over 236 member companies and institutions spanning 17 different sectors. Together, they contribute 10% of the national GDP, generating over €145 billion in revenue, operating more than 43,000 establishments, and employing over 830,000 people.
Through initiatives like these, AER drives a retail sector that is increasingly sustainable, inclusive, and aligned with the needs of modern society. “The retail sector plays a fundamental role in people’s lives and in our country’s economy. This event allows us to recognize those who work tirelessly to ensure the sector evolves responsibly and with a forward-thinking vision,” emphasized Laureano Turienzo, president of AER.
