Damm is to be awarded the Eduardo Barrachina Golden Award by the Spanish Chamber of Commerce (SCC) in recognition of its outstanding performance in the UK market.
The announcement coincides with Damm’s 150th anniversary, marking a century and a half of brewing heritage and international growth, with a presence in more than 130 countries.
The award will be presented during a ceremony at the Spanish ambassador’s residence, in London, on 23rd September. One of the chamber’s flagship corporate events, the occasion will bring together senior leaders from Spanish and British business, government, and institutions.
The executive chairman of Damm, Demetrio Carceller Arce, will attend the event and deliver a speech about Damm’s trajectory worldwide and in the UK.
Founded in 1876, Damm has grown from a local Mediterranean brewery into one of Spain’s most recognised international beverage groups. Its flagship brand, Estrella Damm, has become synonymous with Mediterranean culture and gastronomy, achieving strong growth across global markets and a particularly prominent presence within the UK hospitality sector. Today, the United Kingdom represents Damm’s largest market outside Spain, accounting for a significant share of its international business.
In May, Damm agreed to acquire the premium ale brand Old Speckled Hen from Greene King. The transaction further reinforces Damm’s strategic growth in the UK.
The interior of the Damm Eagle Brewery
This growth commitment is also reflected in a key milestone in Damm’s UK journey: a recent £70 million strategic investment to modernise the company’s Eagle Brewery in Bedford. Acquired in 2022, the brewery is now a state-of-the-art production facility, with significantly increased capacity, reinforcing Damm’s long-term commitment to the UK as one of the company’s core international markets.
The investment has also helped to drive local economic growth, creating 300% more new jobs since 2022, and key sustainability advances through reduced transport emissions and more efficient production processes.
Demetrio Carceller Arce said: “We are deeply honoured to receive the Eduardo Barrachina Golden Award from the Spanish Chamber of Commerce in the UK, especially in such a meaningful year for our company as we celebrate our 150th anniversary.
“The United Kingdom has been a key market for Damm for decades, and our investment in Bedford reflects our long-term commitment to growth, innovation, and sustainability in the UK. This recognition is a testament to the continued dedication of our teams to make a positive impact in the communities in which we operate.”
Damm continues to expand its footprint through innovation, partnerships within the hospitality and gastronomy sectors, and new initiatives such as its UK Accelerator Programme, an incubator hub designed to support emerging beverage brands with access to knowledge, production and distribution.
