Cecot President Xavier Panés, recently re-elected, is focused on expanding the confederation's influence beyond Terrassa. From the organization's headquarters, Panés is working to establish Cecot as a key interlocutor for the industrial sector, not only in Catalonia but also at the Spanish level, actively participating as vice-president of Foment del Treball and Cepyme.
Panés, who also serves as CEO of Tecmesy Ibérica, highlights that Cecot is experiencing one of its best historical moments, both in terms of the number of associates and entities, and its institutional standing. The goal is to be heard politically and gain access to new platforms like Ceoe, where the confederation aims to represent its member companies.
While maintaining its roots in Terrassa, Cecot defines itself as an employers' association based in the city but with a broader territorial reach, particularly in Vallès, and a strong connection to the industrial sector. Panés emphasizes the industry's importance for the economy, as it fosters collective agreements and higher wages, thereby contributing to the welfare state.
The confederation points out deficiencies in industrial estates, citing issues with maintenance, security, and electricity supply, in addition to a lack of available land. It also criticizes taxation policies that can hinder productivity and the difficulty in finding qualified personnel, a problem affecting both industry and the service sector.
Regarding the Generalitat's budgets, Panés welcomes their approval but criticizes the reduced percentage allocated to the business sector within the overall budget. He also expresses caution about public-private collaboration announcements, although he views the recent National Pact for Industry positively.
Political instability in Spain is seen as detrimental to businesses, complicating Catalonia's financing. Panés opposes the imposition of working hours by decree, advocating for negotiation between companies and workers. The regularization of immigrants is considered positive if they find employment, but he warns against treating them as a 'commodity'.
Internationally, geopolitical volatility is a concern, although a de-escalation of the conflict between Iran and the United States is hoped for. These conflicts have directly impacted businesses through increased energy and transport costs, and supply chain difficulties.
Returning to Terrassa, Panés acknowledges areas for improvement, such as the situation of downtown commerce, but positively assesses the City Council's actions regarding industrial estates. He highlights the city's capacity and potential, supported by a strong civil society, and advocates for public-private collaboration for its development.
Panés feels energized and eager to continue leading Cecot, with pending projects like administrative reform and the promotion of industry and commerce. The objective is to build a 21st-century employers' association that is different and capable of adding value, as evidenced by the increase in membership.
