Restructuring events
European Restructuring Monitor (ERM)
The restructuring events database contains factsheets with data on large-scale restructuring events reported in the principal national media and company websites in each EU Member State. This database was created in 2002.
The British Council, a UK-based cultural and educational organisation, is facing a major restructuring in Spain that could affect up to 146 employees in Madrid and Barcelona. The organisation has confirmed that the planned sale of its historic headquarters in Chamberí (Madrid) and its long-standing site in Barcelona will directly contribute to 51 redundancies, where the remaining potential job losses are linked to an internal reorganisation programme under which existing roles are being eliminated and employees must compete for newly created positions.
The British Council attributes the restructuring to a combination of financial pressures dating back to the pandemic, including the repayment of a substantial loan from the UK Government, the disposal of property assets and the need to adapt to changing market conditions and increasing digitalisation. Trade union representatives strongly oppose the measures, warning that they could mark the beginning of a gradual withdrawal from educational activities in Spain, similar to developments previously seen in Italy.
Despite these concerns, the organisation maintains that it remains committed to Spain and intends to continue operating in Madrid following the relocation of its offices.
Eurofound (2026), British Council, Internal restructuring in Spain, factsheet number 300602, European Restructuring Monitor. Dublin, https://apps.eurofound.europa.eu/restructuring-events/detail/300602.