Bancalet Businesses Put on the Table Insights and Future Priorities

The first Bancalet Meeting brought together over 40 representatives from local businesses and establishments showcasing the quality seal that certifies products from the Marina Alta region. Held on Tuesday, 26 May 2026, at the CdT Dénia Tourism Centre facilities, the event provided a platform for attendees to share their experiences on adopting the brand, as well as to discuss future priorities and the challenges ahead.

Participants warmly welcomed the opportunity to put faces to names within the network. Above all, the meeting allowed them to exchange ideas, resolve queries, and put forward proposals to share the brand's values. These diverse businesses—including farmers, restaurateurs, hoteliers, artisans, and partners—share a deep commitment to the Marina Alta’s agri-food culture, actively supporting a project launched by Dénia Town Council’s Creativity Office with a clear regional focus.

During the three morning workshops, discussions centred on the project's local character and the importance of establishing Bancalet as a hallmark of quality for the Marina Alta region. There was a strong consensus on expanding brand awareness initiatives and promoting Bancalet products. Attendees put forward concrete proposals extending beyond traditional trade fairs and marketing campaigns, suggesting outreach to local schools and colleges to engage the consumers of tomorrow.

For farmers, small-scale distribution difficulties and a slight disconnect with restaurateurs were highlighted as key hurdles. Consequently, participants highly valued events like this Bancalet Meeting for facilitating the networking and closer collaboration they urgently require.

Another key point of agreement was the need for collective action to establish Bancalet as a robust brand. The goal is to make it synonymous with respect for the local land and identity, authenticity, sustainability, circular economy principles, and the rich culinary heritage of the Marina Alta.

Closing the event, the Mayor of Dénia, Mr. Vicent Grimalt, reaffirmed the Town Council’s commitment to developing sustainable, inclusive, resilient, and secure food systems, following its signing of the Milan Urban Food Policy Pact. He congratulated the businesses for joining the initiative and highlighted the resources being deployed to build Bancalet into a major brand, including the Torrecremada university campus and the Parc Agrari (Farming area). As Mr. Florentino Terrades, Director of the Creativity and Innovation Office, explained, the Parc Agrari will offer 35,000 square metres dedicated to experimentation and educational outreach for both local businesses and the general public.

The day concluded with a product tasting and the presentation of handmade clay plaques, crafted by Defangcuit, which will now identify certified Bancalet businesses. The Mayor also presented a special plaque to Antoni Reig in recognition of his dedication to the project since its inception, as well as to Ms. Adriana Valcárcel, Director of the CdT Marina Alta in Dénia, in appreciation for her collaboration in organising the event.