1:20 – 1:50 PM – NOVEMBER 13
Spotlight on Catalan
This talk explores the significance of the Catalan language and its community, highlighting its historical roots and current relevance, particularly in the business sector. Catalan, a Romance language with origins dating back to the 9th century, flourished as the official language of the Crown of Aragon until political centralization diminished its status, especially during the Franco dictatorship. Post-Franco, Catalan experienced a resurgence, achieving co-official status in several regions, with around 11 million speakers today.
Anna will talk about Catalan in business and what is in place to enforce its use as more and more folks come to live in Catalunya, such as the Catalan Consumer Code, which mandates the language’s use in product information and customer service. Companies that comply not only fulfill legal obligations but also tap into a large consumer base that prefers to interact in Catalan. Additionally, the text highlights opportunities for businesses in tourism and digital sectors, noting the growing presence of Catalan in major tech and media platforms.
In conclusion, embracing Catalan offers businesses a competitive edge, fostering trust and loyalty among consumers while honoring local culture. As both a legal necessity and an economic opportunity, the future of Catalan in the business world looks promising.