Felipe Villaño, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Lontana Group and a member of the Board of Directors of AEFAME, represented the group at a meeting focusing on the deep-rooted nature, generational continuity and sustainability of family business companies.
On 27 May, the Lontana Group took part in the 11th Annual General Meeting of AEFAME (the Basque Family Business Association), held at the Marqués de Riscal winery under the slogan “Roots that grow together”. The company was represented by Felipe Villaño, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Lontana Group and a member of the AEFAME Executive Committee, thereby reaffirming its commitment to strengthening family businesses and its contribution to the economic and social development of the Basque Country.
The Assembly brought together business families, institutional representatives and economic stakeholders for a day of reflection and dialogue on the main challenges and opportunities facing family businesses in an increasingly complex and changing environment.
During the meeting, key issues for the continuity of business ventures were discussed, such as governance, family commitment, the passing on of values across generations, and deep roots in the local area. Notable speakers included Manuel López Donaire, Chairman of Delaviuda Confectionery Group, and Mónica de Oriol, Director of Ibaizabal Group, who shared their experiences and reflections on generational continuity and the evolution of family businesses.
The event also featured the participation of Ignacio Juliá, CEO of Santander Spain, as well as institutional representatives including Ramiro González, Deputy General of Álava, Saray Zárate, Itziar Gonzalo, and the Basque Government’s Minister of Finance, Noël d’Anjou.
For Lontana Group, a family business with over 75 years of history and more than 1,000 professionals worldwide, participating in this type of forum represents an opportunity to share experiences with other business families and contribute to strengthening a business model based on long-term vision, responsibility and the creation of sustainable value.
“Family businesses play a vital role in generating wealth, employment and a sense of community in our local area. Taking part in forums such as AEFAME allows us to share experiences and continue to promote a business model based on continuity, values and a commitment to future generations,” says Felipe Villaño, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Lontana Group and a member of the AEFAME Board of Directors.
The Lontana Group fully endorses the principles promoted by AEFAME, particularly those relating to local roots, business continuity and the passing on of values across generations. These principles form part of the group’s identity and continue to guide its development as a family business committed to the sustainable development of the industry and the creation of prosperity for people and society.
