How to adapt your franchise to the Spanish market: case studies

Hoe pas je je franchise aan de Spaanse markt aan: casestudies

It is undeniable that, today, we live in a globalized world in which franchises are expanding across borders. So understanding the nuances of each market becomes paramount to success if you want to venture abroad. Spain, with its unique cultural landscape and consumer preferences, presents both opportunities and challenges for foreign franchises looking to establish themselves.


Would you like to know how to adapt your franchise to the Spanish market? We help you by delving into the experiences of successful franchises such as Ikea, Italian Trattoria, Pepco and Miniso. Discover valuable insights on how adaptation can pave the way to success in the Spanish market!

To enter the Spanish market, you don’t only have to translate your website and product descriptions and that’s it. No, it requires acquiring a deep understanding of local culture, preferences and market dynamics. Here are some key points on how to adapt your franchise to the Spanish market to resonate with consumers:

  • Cultural adaptation: Take advantage of Spain’s rich cultural heritage and incorporate elements that resonate with the local population. Whether it’ s celebrating traditional festivals or incorporating a typical Spanish aesthetic, aligning your brand with Spanish culture can generate a sense of connection and authenticity. For example, Spain is famous for a tasty culinary scene characterized by tapas and regional delicacies. If your franchise is a food franchise, adapt your menu with local ingredients and flavors to elevate the dining experience and appeal to discerning palates.
  • Commitment to the community: Spaniards are very social. So engaging in local initiatives, sponsorships and partnerships with cultural organizations is a great idea. By actively participating in community events and supporting local causes, you can build trust and loyalty among Spanish consumers.
  • Communication strategy: effective communication is key to bridge cultural differences and establish a good relationship with Spanish customers. Keep in mind that not everyone speaks English or languages other than Spanish. Therefore, invest in language localization and culturally tailored messaging that resonates with the target audience. To do so, you can take advantage of idiomatic expressions, humor and Spanish colloquialisms.
  • Leisure and lifestyle: Spaniards value work-life balance and prioritize leisure activities. So consider offering flexible schedules, promotions linked to cultural events or experience offers that adapt to the leisure preferences of Spaniards. If your brand fits consumers’ lifestyles, it can increase its relevance and appeal in the marketplace.

Explore the success stories of Ikea, Italian Trattoria, Pepco and Miniso to discover how to successfully adapt your franchise to the Spanish market by following their example. Here’s how they did it:

Ikea: adapting to Spanish traditions

Ikea’s success in Spain stems from its meticulous adaptation to local lifestyles. Aware of the Spanish predilection for social gatherings, Ikea customizes its catalog to prioritize communal spaces. Thus, Ikea offers in the foreground spacious living rooms that favor family gatherings and multifunctional furniture that adapts to the compact homes of Spaniards. In this way, they foster the sense of belonging and practicality that is so much sought after in the country.

Italian Trattoria: taste Italian products in Spanish style.

Italian Trattoria perfectly combines Italian culinary heritage with Spanish gastronomic preferences. While maintaining the authenticity of Italian ingredients, Trattoria adapts its offerings to local Spanish tastes and schedules. By localizing its website and creating a cozy atmosphere reminiscent of Calabrian trattorias, Italian Trattoria captures the essence of Italian cuisine while embracing Spanish gastronomic culture.

Pepco: affordable products for all Spaniards

Pepco’s strategic consolidation of Dealz and Pepco stores into a unified brand fits with Spain’s more price-conscious consumers. By offering a wide range of international brands at competitive prices, Pepco appeals to pocket-conscious shoppers. In addition, the introduction of Pepco Plus stores, with an expanded product range tailored to the preferences of Spaniards, further consolidates Pepco’s position as a destination for basic products at affordable prices, something that Spaniards love.

Miniso: the fusion of East and West in the Spanish markets

Miniso’s success in Spain is based on its ability to combine the aesthetics of oriental design with the preferences of western consumers. With a commitment to offering high quality products at affordable prices, Miniso captivates Spanish consumers looking for value and style. In addition, by constantly renewing its product range, it fosters a sense of joy and surprise in stores to create immersive shopping experiences that appeal to Spanish shoppers. Shoppers return because there is always something new and inexpensive to take home.

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