The Cámara Franco-Española de Comercio e Industria (French-Spanish Chamber of Commerce and Industry), or La Chambre to its friends, is without doubt one of the best platforms for professional networking.
It has been active in Spain for more than a century, with offices in Madrid and Valencia. It has more than 600 members, and the leading French-owned companies are represented.
Because Regus had its European headquarters in Paris, we decided to become members in 2004, and I’ve stayed in touch with this chamber ever since, even though I’ve changed company and sector.
In my view, it’s the most active chamber of commerce of all the ones I know. Its range of events is incredibly varied: they organise trade missions, professional conferences, talks, lunches and gala dinners, as well as more leisure-oriented events such as flamenco evenings, wine tastings, golf tournaments or events at the Zarzuela Racecourse.
What stands out most about this chamber of commerce is its openness and the excellent way it treats you, whether you’re a member or not.
I started by going to one of their lunches, and I liked both the high calibre of the participants and, as I mentioned before, the excellent atmosphere.
There’s an excellent team, among whom I’d single out Ángela Cano, head of member relations, Bertrand Barthélemy, its director, Victoria Barrutia from Communications, Elodie Cordan from Activities and Marian Quera from Training, among others.
Whether you’re interested in doing business in France or with French companies, or simply in doing good networking, this is your chamber. I think that, to this day, it’s one of the best marketing investments I’ve made, since the investment options are affordable, flexible and very varied.
I’ve included its values below, since its scope isn’t limited to companies or business people but also extends to entrepreneurs, sportspeople and students.
Throughout more than a century of history, the CFECI has embraced a series of values and commitments that are reflected in its day-to-day management and in the activities and services it offers its members.
– Commitment to Entrepreneurs, helping to foster the Spirit of Enterprise – La Chambre Spirit of Enterprise Award.
– Commitment to Society, promoting French-Spanish relations in every sphere.
– Commitment to Quality, through a highly qualified and motivated team. Quality as a tool and a goal for continuous improvement.
– Commitment to Sport, helping to organise sporting events – handball, golf and tennis tournaments.
– Commitment to Education and Culture, helping to train young talent – the Chamber’s Futuro Scholarship Programme.
So, if you fancy it, I’ll see you at one of their events.
Best wishes and happy Networking!
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