Catalan language skills will now determine which businesses secure Barcelona’s coveted beach bar licences. The city council has introduced linguistic requirements as scoring criteria for the first time in the 2026-2029 tender process, fundamentally changing how these popular waterfront establishments are awarded.
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Catalan Language Skills Become Decisive Factor
Establishments can earn up to 10 points for staff holding B2 level Catalan certificates. Furthermore, each certified worker adds 2 points towards the total score. Consequently, businesses with five qualified employees would achieve maximum linguistic points. The council’s language commissioner Marta Salicrú celebrated this development through social media, highlighting increased Catalan presence on Barcelona’s beaches.
Foreign language capabilities also receive recognition within the new framework. Additionally, establishments can gain up to 10 points for staff holding B1 certificates in English, French, German or Italian. Alternatively, workers holding passports from countries where these languages are official also contribute to the score.
Environmental and Social Considerations
The €2.4 million contract covers seven beaches including Sant Sebastià, Barceloneta and Nova Icària. However, climate change has forced reductions in sunbed numbers at some locations due to coastal erosion. Meanwhile, the tender emphasises environmental sustainability through energy efficiency measures and food waste reduction protocols.
Social responsibility forms another crucial component of the evaluation process. Therefore, hiring unemployed individuals or those facing social exclusion generates additional points. Similarly, gender equality training and partnerships with social economy enterprises enhance applicants’ scores.
Price controls ensure accessibility for all visitors. Accordingly, establishments must adhere to maximum pricing for essential items including water, soft drinks and sandwiches. This balanced approach prioritises both linguistic integration and public service quality.
Catalan language skills represent just one aspect of Barcelona’s comprehensive beach management strategy. The council’s initiative demonstrates commitment to linguistic promotion while maintaining high standards of environmental and social responsibility across the city’s coastline.
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