Early Life
Simón Pedro Barceló Vadell was born in Palma, Mallorca, in 1966. He holds a degree in Law from the University of the Balearic Islands. He is married and has three children. His family has a long history in the tourism sector, which laid the foundation for his career.
Rise to Success
Barceló's career is closely tied to the Barceló Group, a company founded by his family. The group began as a transportation company in 1931 and evolved into a major player in the tourism industry. Simón Pedro Barceló, as co-chair and the largest shareholder, has been instrumental in the company's growth. He became co-president in 1993. In 2000, he was recognized as the Best Entrepreneur of the Balearic Islands and received the Entrepreneur of the Year award. He led the fusion with FTI, a German tour operator, demonstrating his strategic vision.
Key Business Strategies
Barceló's leadership has been characterized by strategic acquisitions, international expansion, and a focus on quality. The Barceló Group has expanded its portfolio to over 300 hotels, with a significant presence in the Americas and Europe. In 2024, the group achieved record figures with a turnover exceeding €6.5 billion. Barceló's strategies include prioritizing properties with a solid return, aligning with expansion and positioning, and the modernization of existing properties.
Philanthropy
The Barceló Group channels its social work through the Barceló Foundation, which supports projects in health, education, economic development, and culture in underdeveloped countries.