With hundreds of prestigious properties across Europe, the Americas, and beyond, Barceló Hotel Group has established itself as a leading brand in international hospitality. But who actually owns this upscale Spanish hotel chain?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll look at the origins of the Barceló family business and how their ownership structure has evolved over nine decades in the travel industry.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: Barceló hotels and resorts are privately owned by the members of the Barceló family, descendants of founder Simón Barceló who started the company in Mallorca, Spain in 1931.
History and Origins
Founded in 1931 by Simón Barceló Oliver in Mallorca, Spain
The story of Barceló Hotels begins in 1931 when Simón Barceló Oliver founded the company in Mallorca, Spain. It all started as a small transportation company called Autocares Barceló, providing transportation services to locals and tourists alike.
Simón Barceló Oliver had a vision to create a company that would not only transport people but also offer exceptional hospitality services.
Began as a small transportation company called Autocares Barceló
Autocares Barceló quickly gained a reputation for its excellent service and attention to detail. The company grew steadily, expanding its fleet of vehicles and establishing a strong presence in the transportation industry.
However, Simón Barceló Oliver saw an opportunity to further expand the business and venture into the tourism sector.
Expanded into tourism services and hotel ownership in the 1950s-60s
In the 1950s and 1960s, Barceló Hotels underwent a significant transformation. The company expanded its operations to include tourism services, such as tour guides, excursions, and travel packages. This expansion allowed Barceló to cater to a wider range of travelers and offer a complete vacation experience.
During this period, Barceló Hotels also made its foray into hotel ownership. The company acquired its first hotel in Mallorca, marking the beginning of a new era for the brand. Over the years, Barceló Hotels continued to acquire and develop properties in popular tourist destinations around the world.
Today, Barceló Hotels is a globally recognized brand with a presence in over 20 countries. With a portfolio of more than 250 hotels, the company continues to uphold its commitment to providing exceptional hospitality experiences to its guests.
Second Generation Ownership
After the successful establishment of Barceló Hotels by Simón Barceló, the company saw a smooth transition into the hands of his sons, Miguel and Gabriel, in the 1970s-80s. This marked the beginning of the second generation ownership of the Barceló Hotels.
Led by Simón Barceló’s sons Miguel and Gabriel in the 1970s-80s
Miguel and Gabriel Barceló took over the reins of the company and continued to build upon their father’s legacy. They brought fresh ideas and innovation to the table, ensuring that the Barceló brand remained at the forefront of the hospitality industry.
Purchased existing hotels and built new resort properties
Under the leadership of Miguel and Gabriel, Barceló Hotels expanded its portfolio by acquiring existing hotels and also constructing new resort properties. This strategic move allowed them to cater to a wider range of customers and increase their presence in popular tourist destinations.
The brothers carefully selected prime locations for their new resorts, ensuring that guests could enjoy stunning views, luxurious amenities, and an unforgettable vacation experience.
Extended the Barceló brand into other Spanish vacation destinations
In addition to expanding their presence in existing locations, the Barceló brothers extended the Barceló brand into other Spanish vacation destinations. This move allowed them to tap into new markets and attract a diverse clientele.
By leveraging their expertise and reputation, Miguel and Gabriel successfully established Barceló Hotels as a leading name in the hospitality industry, not only in their original locations but also in new and exciting destinations.
Today, Barceló Hotels continues to thrive under the leadership of the Barceló family, with Miguel and Gabriel’s children actively involved in the business. Their commitment to excellence and innovation has ensured that the Barceló brand remains synonymous with exceptional hospitality and unforgettable experiences.
Third Generation and Beyond
Barceló Hotels, a renowned hospitality brand, is currently managed by Simón Barceló Tous, who belongs to the third generation of the Barceló family. With a rich history spanning several decades, the Barceló Hotels have firmly established themselves as a leader in the industry.
Managed today by Simón Barceló Tous, part of third generation
Simón Barceló Tous, a member of the third generation of the Barceló family, is at the helm of the company. His leadership and vision have been instrumental in the continued success and growth of the Barceló Hotels.
With a deep understanding of the brand’s heritage and a commitment to innovation, Simón Barceló Tous has steered the company towards new horizons.
Still headquartered in Palma de Mallorca, Spain
The Barceló Hotels have their headquarters in Palma de Mallorca, Spain, which has been their home since the beginning. This beautiful city, located in the Balearic Islands, serves as the central hub for the brand’s operations.
The headquarters in Palma de Mallorca reflects the Barceló family’s deep connection to their roots and their commitment to maintaining their Spanish heritage.
Expanded globally through acquisitions and joint ventures
Over the years, Barceló Hotels has expanded its reach globally through strategic acquisitions and joint ventures. By partnering with other renowned hospitality brands and acquiring properties in key destinations, the company has been able to offer its guests a wide range of exceptional experiences.
This expansion has solidified Barceló Hotels’ position as a global player in the industry.
Privately held by multiple Barceló family members
The Barceló Hotels are privately held by multiple members of the Barceló family. This ownership structure allows the brand to maintain its independence and make decisions that align with its long-term vision.
With a shared commitment to excellence and a passion for hospitality, the Barceló family continues to drive the success of their hotels.
Company Structure and Leadership
Barceló Corporation is the overseeing entity for the Barceló Hotels group and other divisions. This multinational Spanish company, founded in 1931, has a diverse portfolio that includes hotels, travel services, and real estate.
Barceló Corporation ensures that all divisions operate efficiently and maintain the high standards that the Barceló brand is known for.
Hotel group led by CEO Raúl González and CFO Jaime Buxó
The Barceló Hotels group, one of the flagship divisions of Barceló Corporation, is led by CEO Raúl González and CFO Jaime Buxó. As industry veterans, they bring a wealth of experience and strategic vision to the company.
Under their leadership, Barceló Hotels has expanded its global footprint and solidified its reputation as a leading hospitality brand.
Some non-family executives in leadership roles
While the Barceló family retains majority ownership of the company, they have recognized the value of bringing in non-family executives to lead certain divisions. This approach ensures a diverse range of perspectives and expertise within the company.
These non-family executives play vital roles in driving innovation, implementing effective strategies, and maintaining the company’s competitive edge in the ever-evolving hospitality industry.
But Barceló family retains majority ownership
Despite the presence of non-family executives in leadership roles, the Barceló family remains the majority owner of the company. This familial ownership structure allows the family to maintain control over the strategic direction of the company and ensure that its core values are upheld.
The family’s continued involvement and commitment to excellence have been instrumental in the success and growth of Barceló Hotels.
For more information about Barceló Corporation and its divisions, you can visit their official website here.
Business Philosophy and Values
Barceló Hotels, a renowned name in the hospitality industry, has built its success on a strong foundation of core values and a unique business philosophy. As a family-owned company, Barceló Hotels prides itself on three fundamental principles: loyalty, commitment, and discretion.
These values have been passed down through generations, shaping the company’s culture and guiding its operations.
Loyalty, commitment, discretion as family-owned company
Being a family-owned company, Barceló Hotels places great importance on loyalty. They are committed to their employees, treating them like extended family members. This commitment to their workforce translates into a positive work environment, where employees feel valued and motivated to deliver exceptional service to guests.
Additionally, as a family-owned company, Barceló Hotels values discretion, ensuring that the privacy and confidentiality of their guests are always respected.
Balance of tradition and entrepreneurial spirit
Barceló Hotels strikes a perfect balance between tradition and an entrepreneurial spirit. They honor the rich heritage and traditions of the destinations where their hotels are located, incorporating local culture into their offerings.
At the same time, they embrace innovation and adapt to changing market dynamics, constantly seeking new opportunities for growth and improvement. This blend of tradition and entrepreneurial spirit allows Barceló Hotels to stay relevant in a competitive industry.
Focus on excellent service and guest relationships
One of the key pillars of Barceló Hotels’ business philosophy is their unwavering focus on providing excellent service and building strong guest relationships. They understand that exceptional service goes beyond meeting guests’ expectations; it’s about creating memorable experiences that leave a lasting impression.
Barceló Hotels invests in training and development programs for their staff to ensure they possess the necessary skills and knowledge to deliver outstanding service.
Driven by passion for hospitality
Above all, Barceló Hotels is driven by a genuine passion for hospitality. They believe that providing exceptional experiences to their guests is not just a job but a way of life. This passion is reflected in every aspect of their operations, from the warm and welcoming atmosphere in their hotels to the personalized attention given to each guest.
It is this unwavering passion that sets Barceló Hotels apart and keeps guests coming back time and time again.
Conclusion
In closing, Barceló Hotel Group remains dedicated to its roots as a family-run Spanish business even as it has grown into an internationally renowned brand. The Barceló family’s continued ownership and leadership provides stability, inspires loyalty, and promotes a distinctive culture focused on personalized service and guest satisfaction across all Barceló hotels and resorts.
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