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| Spain is considered to be one of the best countries in the world |
If the stereotypical view of Spain is one of flamenco
dancing, bullfighting, and seaside siestas, then the 2017 version will provide
an accurate update.
According to the country image barometer of the Elcano Royal
Institute; the thing that comes to mind for most people when they think about
Spain are the bountiful beaches, the fabulous foods, and the amazing athletes.
The barometer looked at the brand strength of Spain, as
viewed from the eyes of over 4,00 people across 11 countries in Europe, Asia,
and America.
The latest responses show the image of Spain has improved to
a score of 7.1. The country has been able to shake off the negativity of the
economic crisis and shed the image of having no opportunities for employment.
Spain is now considered to be a place filled with sunshine,
sports, and fine food. This is sure to leave the tourism industry feeling
pretty pleased. However, one image Spain has not managed to shed just yet is the
image of being a poor place to do business.
The most valued commodity in Spain remains holidaymaking
facilities and attractions. German, French, and British respondents in
particular valued these traits highly. The barometer showed people in China,
Japan, Italy and Turkey still hold true to the traditional images of Spain;
flamenco, football, and bullfighting.
63% of people from France and Germany said they consider
Spain to be a “poor” country, with half of Brits agreeing with them. The good
news is that the perception that Spain is lazy has fallen down to 26% from the
40% of 2014.
When it comes to goods produced, Zara remains the most
well-known brand in Spain, receiving the highest grade on the barometer for
best-known companies and brands (7.5). Next came Iberia Airlines with 7.2, BBVA
with 7, and the car company Seat, which also scored 7.
The French, Italians, and the Brits place a high value on
the olive oil, textiles, and wines of Spain; putting a premium on these Spanish products.
The country with the highest score on the image barometer
was Japan, with a score of 7.6. Next came Germany and the UK with 7.5. The
barometer said that these three country has their own strong national images,
with easily identifiable products and traits.
