THE INTERNACIONALIZATION OF GRUPO OBRAS ESPECIALES

Given the situation of the construction sector in Spain and the maturity and solvency of the organisation, Grupo Obras Especiales took the decision to open out to the international market as a business expansion strategy in search of new markets in which added value could be generated.

This decision emerged from a strategic reflection. A key point for the Group was the intention to carry out it in an organised and professional manner, providing the project with all the necessary resources.

Chile was the first country where it began operations in 2008. After two years since its arrival in the country, the volume of contracted work was $11 million in 2011 and a figure of $37 million is forecast for 2012.

In 2010, ACTIVA was incorporated jointly with another strategic partner in the sector. ACTIVA operates internationally, managing and building infrastructures in three South American markets: Activa Brasil, Activa Perú and Activa Colombia.
Today, ACTIVA is well-established in these three countries with works totalling $21 million. It closed 2011 with a turnover of $8 million and forecasts of $58 million for 2012.

In 2011, following a process of internationalisation, the Obras Especiales Group was established in Bordeaux, France, through the OBéTP company with the goal of starting to operate in the French market in the private sector.

Grupo Obras Especiales, a key player within the organisation, is involved in a process of internationalisation. Three working models have been established:

• Ex novo: implementation in a country through the creation of a company (examining possibilities for alliances with a local company local) e.g. Obras Especiales Chile.
• Carrying out specific projects from the different Group companies: carrying out a one-off project in the country of choice.
• Process of implementation in a higher number of countries through the creation of a new company with another partner. e.g. ACTIVA

The contribution of financial and human resources, together with determination and hard work on the part of the Group and of the people in the organisation, are allowing us to reap the first results.