Evolution of the Economic Sector in Anoia
The Covid-19 pandemic left a significant imprint on Anoia’s economy, with a 9.3 % drop in revenue in 2020. However, the following year, companies in the region They experienced a significant rise, increasing their turnover by 26.8 %, exceeding the levels before the health crisis. By 2022, this growth continued, with an increase of 20.1 %, which exceeded the average of the province of Barcelona (19.7 %).
Growth Expectations for 2023
According to the study ‘Business structure of the Barcelona region’, carried out by the Barcelona Provincial Council in collaboration with the Manresa City Council, Anoia’s turnover is expected to grow by 8.8% this 2023. This increase is slightly lower than what is expected at the provincial level, with a difference of 0.4 percentage points.
Industry as an Economic Engine
Industry represents a fundamental pillar of the Anoia economy, contributing 35.2% of the 5,735 million euros generated by the 1,827 companies in the region. Within this sector, the figures are revealing: 2,017 million euros come from industry, with 478 million attributed to the paper and graphic arts sector, 355 million to textiles, and 299 million to the manufacture of vehicles and other means of transport.
Geographic Distribution of Companies
Unlike other regions, where large companies tend to be concentrated in the capital, in Anoia the distribution is more varied. The ten most prominent companies in terms of turnover are spread across several municipalities: four in La Pobla de Claramunt, two in Santa Maria de Miralles, and one each in Masquefa, Calaf, Òdena and Igualada. This diversified pattern allows different localities to contribute to the economic growth of the region.
Igualada: Epicenter of Turnover
Igualada stands out as the most important economic hub, with more than a quarter of the total turnover of Anoia. The 896 companies in this municipality generate an impressive 1,456 million euros. In addition, Santa Maria de Miralles, with 1,194 million euros, is positioned as the municipality with the highest turnover per capita in the province, with more than 8.5 million euros per inhabitant, thanks in part to the presence of Petromiralles.
Leading Companies of the Province
Among the 250 companies with the highest turnover in the province, five of them come from Anoia. Petromiralles occupies position 44, while Aldi Masquefa Supermercados is in place 57. Other prominent companies include Petromiralles (60), Unión Industrial Papelera (231) and Snop Estampación (245), which demonstrate the strength of the business fabric of the region.
Reflections on the Economic Future
Anoia has demonstrated a remarkable capacity for recovery and adaptation in the face of adversity. With a robust industrial base and geographical diversification that fosters growth, the prospects for the coming years seem optimistic. Collaboration between institutions and companies will be key to maintaining this positive trend and successfully facing new challenges.
