Birmingham is set to play host to a prestigious international business gathering as the Madrid Investment Forum arrives in the city on Monday, July 1, opening a new chapter for UK-based firms exploring business expansion into Spain.
Taking place at The Eastside Rooms, the forum will run from 9:30am to 11:45am, offering Midlands-based businesses and investors the opportunity to learn about the economic advantages of establishing operations in Madrid, one of Europe’s fastest-growing business hubs. Organised by Invest in Madrid in collaboration with How2Go UK, the half-day event is part of a broader effort to forge stronger UK-Spanish commercial ties and demonstrate why Madrid is increasingly seen as the gateway to Europe and Latin America for global enterprises.
Madrid’s appeal lies in its strategic location, world-class infrastructure, and growing reputation as a centre for innovation, digital technology, and sustainability. For UK firms grappling with post-Brexit realities, Madrid offers a reliable and dynamic landing spot to maintain EU market access and expand into new international markets.
“We want Midlands businesses to see Madrid not just as a destination, but as a partner in innovation and growth,” said Diego de Aristegui, Investment Director at Invest in Spain. “This forum is about opening up opportunities and providing the right guidance to make cross-border expansion seamless.”
Attendees will hear from seasoned experts including:
- Andy Lawton-Smith, Corporate Partner at Fieldfisher, who brings deep insight into corporate law and international dealmaking.
- Laura Garcia Alfaya, General Consul of Spain in Manchester, who will offer a diplomatic perspective on UK-Spain economic cooperation.
- Senior partners from Fieldfisher Spain, who will walk attendees through the legal and tax requirements of setting up a subsidiary in Madrid.
Also featured will be case studies from UK companies already operating in Madrid, providing real-world examples of challenges, lessons learned, and successful growth stories.
With Birmingham’s status as one of the UK’s most diverse, entrepreneurial, and globally connected cities, the arrival of the Madrid Investment Forum signals a growing appetite for international collaboration — particularly at a time when British companies are being encouraged to look beyond traditional markets.
“For many small and medium-sized enterprises across the West Midlands, this is an opportunity to explore foreign markets with practical advice and live success stories,” said a spokesperson from How2Go UK. “Madrid offers not just an attractive business environment but also shared values around innovation, digital transformation, and sustainable development.”
Madrid, known for its vibrant culture and lifestyle, is fast becoming a magnet for tech startups, financial services, logistics, clean energy, and life sciences. Its proactive policies, competitive tax incentives, and access to skilled talent continue to draw in companies from around the world.
With the UK’s trading landscape evolving, forums like this one are becoming essential tools in equipping British companies to diversify, adapt, and thrive in new regions.
