Spain’s food and drinks market is a strategic entry point for international brands looking to expand in Europe. But to succeed, finding the right distribution partners is key. At Hola Spanish Market, we help brands connect with reliable and effective distributors across Spain. Here’s how we do it step by step.
Step 1: Understand How the Spanish FMCG Market Works
Before diving into your distributor search, it’s essential to get a clear picture of the landscape. Spain’s distribution system is diverse and decentralized, combining national supermarket chains with strong regional players and niche channels.
According to NielsenIQ, household spending on FMCG in Spain grew by 4.5% and 5.1% during 2024 in different quarters. The food and beverage market in Spain is valued at around €24 billion in 2024, with steady growth expected over the next decade. Additionally, a significant portion of Spanish consumers show a preference for brands they trust and that have a local presence.
These numbers highlight the potential of the Spanish market and emphasize the need to partner with distributors who understand local consumer behavior and know how to position your product effectively.
Looking for more context? Check out our FMCG strategy guide for Spain, where we break down key success factors for foreign brands entering this competitive space.
Step 2: Define the Ideal Distributor Profile for Your Brand
Not all distributors are created equal. And not every one of them is right for your brand. Are you aiming for national reach or targeting specific regions? Is your product premium, organic, traditional retail, or mass market?
At Hola Spanish Market, we work closely with you to define the type of distributor that fits your goals. We assess your sales objectives, pricing strategy, preferred channels (HORECA, retail, e-commerce), and logistics needs to build a custom distributor profile.
This step is crucial to avoid wasting time on mismatched proposals or ineffective partnerships.
Step 3: Identify Distributors That Specialize in Your Category
The food and beverage sector in Spain comprises tens of thousands of companies covering everything from food to cosmetics and household products. While there is no exact public figure, it is estimated that over 70,000 companies operate in this broad market, many specializing by product category or region.
At Hola Spanish Market, we maintain an up-to-date database with more than 350 FMCG distributors in Spain, segmented by region, channel, and product type. This allows us to quickly identify players already working with brands similar to yours or actively looking to expand their portfolio with new products.
Additionally, we continuously monitor trade shows, industry networks, and market trends to spot real-time collaboration opportunities and keep our clients informed about key sector developments.
Step 4: Evaluate Potential Partners with Clear Criteria
Once you’ve shortlisted candidates, the next step is vetting them thoroughly. Key criteria to consider include:
- Number of active clients
- Logistics capabilities
- Product portfolio and potential category conflicts
- Reputation within the channel
At Hola Spanish Market, we provide a comprehensive report that includes these indicators, along with direct feedback from our local experts. This allows you to make informed decisions and avoid common pitfalls like working with overloaded distributors or those lacking operational capacity.
Step 5: Pitch Your Brand and Negotiate Like a Local
Presentation matters. We adapt your sales materials (product sheets, pricing, catalogs) for the Spanish market and help you shape a compelling entry strategy tailored to each distributor.
We’ll also support you during the initial meetings, guide the negotiation process, and assist with your first orders. This not only strengthens your brand’s image but also gives you a smoother launch and faster growth trajectory.
A professional approach to negotiation can also lead to better payment terms, lower logistics costs, and improved margins.
Reasons for working with Hola Spanish Market
At Hola Spanish Market, we specialize in connecting international brands with the Spanish distribution ecosystem. We know the key players, the regulatory environment, and the local buying habits.
Our end-to-end support includes:
- Market analysis and strategy development
- Identification of potential distributors
- Brand presentation and negotiation
- Post-agreement follow-up
We’ve already helped dozens of global brands find the right partners in Spain and build long-lasting, profitable relationships.
Ready to Find Your Ideal Distributor in Spain?
Spain offers huge potential but only brands with a smart, informed approach will achieve sustainable growth.
At Hola Spanish Market, we help you connect with FMCG distributors who are the right fit for your brand and growth goals. Reach out and start your expansion in Spain with confidence.
Want to learn more about how we work? Contact us!