I think it is pretty safe to say that living, and having a business in Estepona, is a very privileged position at the moment. Never before in history, this town experienced a development so fast and exciting as we see today. But it also means that local businesses need to adapt, modernize and in many cases…digitalize their operations.
On many levels, the local economy is experiencing a big boost. In this article, we take a look at some of the major branches that are (affected) by this. Starting with the real estate marketing in Estepona, Marbella and Manilva.
The booming Real Estate market
Never before there were so many new construction projects on the Costa del Sol. Malaga city tops the list, with plans being approved for 1,214 homes: an increase of 38% compared with last year. It is followed by two towns on the western coast: Estepona, with an increase of 64% (800 properties) and Mijas, where the figure practically doubled to 516. There are several reasons why Estepona and Marbella are increasingly popular. Apart from the great climate and friendly culture, many recent developments have contributed to its rapid acceleration:
- Local investments in infrastructure
- Local investment in facilities
- Prices remain overall reasonable
- Tourism is flourishing
Estepona sets the example
Estepona is perhaps the best example of a town making a crisis revival. Under the wings of the ambitious mayor Urbano, the traditional fisher town is expanding on so many levels. First, the ambitious coastal walkway that will connect the entire Costa del Sol, but more importantly, Marbella with Estepona. At the moment, nearly all 22 kilometers of shoreline in Estepona already have a beautiful footpath.
Kempinski hotel
This is a reason for (local) business owners to invest in Estepona. Take for example the prestigious Kempinski hotel that recently invested 4 million euro to upgrade the 5-star hotel. Why? Well because of the prosperous future of Estepona, the rising figures of tourists that find their way every year. But predominantly because there are 6 hotels (some boutique) being built in Estepona currently. This is the sort of chain reaction that is occurring on many levels in Estepona at the moment.
Local investment in facilities
The chain reaction is also palpable on the front side of the town. When focussing on facilities and real estate, the impact is enormous. In Estepona, building has started for a new hospital, a new athletic sports complex with offices, and roughly 20 new residential projects. Next to that, new restaurants are opening their doors, the old market is currently reformed into a modern food hall, and there are no signs that mayor Urbano will slow down anytime soon.
Tourism In figures
In December 2017, The president of Andalucía, Susana Díaz, revealed the best tourism figures in the history of the region. By the end of 2017, 29.4 million visitors had traveled to Andalucía and among them, they will have spent 52 million nights in hotel accommodation. It is a no-brainer to conclude that the popular coastal cities, Málaga, Marbella, Estepona, Manilva etc. played a big part.
Bottom line, there will be a steep increase of local residents and tourists in Estepona, Marbella, and Manilva. Moreover, there will be more events in Estepona (thus more people passing through or staying for a day). A good example was the grand opening of a prestigious art collection of Baroness Carmen Thyssen in the center of Estepona, in the orchid park last Sunday.
The focus on three sectors that are going to be affected by these developments. Affected in a good sense, given that local businesses are prepared. Digitally prepared.
Local Business SEO focus areas
- Construction and building companies
- Restaurants and bars
- Real Estate agencies
As one of the few digital marketing agencies Estepona and Marbella, there are still many ways that local businesses can improve their findability, Google Ranking, and online presence. We have gathered some useful articles for entrepreneurs to take action themselves!
1. Optimize your website and content
2. Social Media: Take advantage
3. Get more online reviews