Success Story: Henkel, driving global innovation from Catalonia

06 Nov 2026

The German multinational has been investing in Catalonia since 1961, where talent, industrial expertise and a strong innovation ecosystem support its global operations.

The German multinational Henkel has been present in Catalonia since 1961, building a strong industrial and business footprint from Barcelona. Today, Henkel Ibérica employs approximately 1,250 people across Spain and Portugal, including around 500 employees at its manufacturing plant in Montornès del Vallès and its headquarters in Barcelona's Poblenou district.

With two main business divisions – Henkel Consumer Brands, which includes well-known brands such as Schwarzkopf and Gliss, and Henkel Adhesive Technologies, a global leader in adhesive solutions with Loctite among its flagship brands – the company serves customers and industries across the world.

Why did Henkel choose Catalonia for its operations?

Qualified talent, a long-standing industrial tradition and an internationally connected business environment were among the main reasons behind Henkel's decision to establish and continue expanding its operations in Catalonia.

“Catalonia was chosen because of the talent, the industrial heritage, and the innovation ecosystem”

Adrian Orbea, President of Henkel Ibérica

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As Adrian Orbea, President of Henkel Ibérica, explains in this interview, access to skilled professionals and the region's industrial expertise have also enabled the company to develop strategic functions in Barcelona. These include procurement and supply chain hubs that coordinate operations across Europe and support projects worldwide.

Catalonia's innovation ecosystem, international outlook and connectivity have therefore played an important role in Henkel's long-term growth and global competitiveness.

Advanced manufacturing and aerospace innovation from Montornès

Henkel's manufacturing plant in Montornès del Vallès is a key asset within its international operations. The facility develops and manufactures high-performance solutions for different industries, including consumer goods, automotive and aerospace.

Its aerospace production capabilities are particularly distinctive: Montornès is one of only two Henkel facilities worldwide with this specialization, alongside its plant in Bay Point, California.

From Catalonia, Henkel exports products to more than 60 countries, including highly specialized adhesive technologies used in landmark projects. These include solutions developed for the Sagrada Família in Barcelona and adhesives featured in a recent NASA project involving a mission to the far side of the Moon.

These examples demonstrate how industrial expertise, technological innovation and international collaboration come together to develop advanced solutions with global applications.

Henkel strengthens its presence with the acquisition of Stahl

Henkel continues to expand its footprint in Catalonia. In October 2026, the company announced the acquisition of Dutch company Stahl, which specializes in high-performance specialty coatings and has a significant presence in Catalonia.

The acquisition brings approximately 220 additional employees into Henkel Ibérica, including professionals based at Stahl's facilities in Parets del Vallès. These operations include manufacturing, R&D and centers of excellence serving the company's global businesses.

This latest development further reinforces Catalonia's role within Henkel's international industrial and innovation network.

Catalonia Trade & Investment: a long-term partner for international investment

Henkel has collaborated with Catalonia Trade & Investment for many years, benefiting from the agency's support in developing and expanding its operations in the region. As Adrian Orbea highlights, this collaboration has been a key success factor in attracting investment, particularly when multinational companies assess competing locations for their international projects.

The company has invested more than €100 million in Catalonia in recent years, and Orbea acknowledges the important role played by Catalonia Trade & Investment in making these investments possible.

Catalonia Trade & Investment, the Government of Catalonia's agency for business competitiveness and international investment, provides free, confidential and tailor-made support to international companies looking to establish, expand or consolidate their operations in Catalonia. From identifying business locations and investment opportunities to accessing incentives, talent and strategic partners, our team supports companies throughout the investment process and beyond.

Are you considering expanding your business or investing in Europe? Contact Catalonia Trade & Investment and discover how we can help you make Catalonia your next business destination.

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