In this interview, we’ll talk with a professional who, in my opinion, is one of the few who has managed to combine countless facets in a truly masterful way within a field like the gourmet industry, governed by excellence and expertise. Israel Romero Delcán, founder and CEO of Made in Spain Gourmet, as well as ROMERO Premium Networking, has proven to be a committed individual who provides a strategic vision that not only contributes to strengthening the global presence of Spanish gourmet products but also establishes a new meaning for the opportunities offered by professional networking.
Without a doubt, talking about Made in Spain Gourmet is talking about a platform that pays tribute to the gastronomic richness of Spain, offering an exclusive showcase for products that represent the essence of our culinary tradition. Its innovative service for introducing brands to the US market at an affordable rate reflects not only a disruptive strategy but also a commitment to the growth and accessibility of gourmet businesses in a complex yet fascinating market. Furthermore, ROMERO Premium Networking has positioned itself as a privileged space for companies from diverse sectors to forge meaningful and fruitful relationships, creating synergies that are capable of transforming businesses.
However, the success of these two initiatives is not a coincidence; it is the result of years of effort, dedication, and a deep understanding of the market and the people who comprise it. Israel has managed to balance the management of both companies, achieving sustained growth that is a firm testament to his ability to lead with determination and adapt to the challenges of today’s versatile business environment.
Needless to say, it has been a true pleasure for us to have the insight of a professional whose profile is inspiring. In this interview, we analyze not only the keys to his success but also trends in the gourmet sector, opportunities for expansion for Spanish products worldwide, as well as the leadership lessons Israel has learned throughout his intense career.
Throughout these lines, we will discover the reflections of a passionate entrepreneur, who not only understands the importance of products that represent a country but also knows how to build bridges so that these products can conquer new markets and audiences.
Question: How did your passion for the gourmet world begin? Was there a specific moment or experience that marked the beginning of this path?
Answer: I always like to explain that things happen for a reason. I am extremely fortunate that my parents are from the Huelva mountains, a land blessed with hams and other Iberian treasures. From a very young age, I was able to enjoy and understand that the production of top-quality products comes at a price commensurate with their quality and uniqueness. So, I knew from a very young age that what’s good in gastronomy is quality-driven, and that left a lasting impression on me.
Q: What is the main mission of Made in Spain Gourmet, and what sets it apart from other platforms dedicated to promoting Spanish gourmet products?
A: Here I must say that I’m still waiting for more companies to support our project. It’s obvious that Spain has one of the most important gastronomy regions on the planet, but whether it’s truly positioned where it deserves to be is another matter entirely. Made in Spain Gourmet was born with the clear mission of channeling that objective. Gourmet products, and above all, their brands, need a platform to convey that premium level that we’ve lacked in the international gourmet sector. And without the unity of a platform or associative network, everything is much more difficult.
It’s obvious to say that Spain has one of the most important cuisines on the planet, but whether it’s truly where it deserves to be is another story.
The difference compared to other possible platforms, which we’re certainly still waiting to find—I’m referring to private platforms—is that Made in Spain has a patriotic will and motivation. We love our country because we’re from here, and we don’t like the undeserved position we currently occupy in the world. Therefore, communication is key to conveying the message that we are a unique, leading gastronomy and that we must demonstrate this to be recognized worldwide.
Q: I understand that you also help Spanish gourmet brands enter markets with as many opportunities as the United States. What exactly does this service entail?
A: Starting in 2022, with the knowledge of Christian Müller, currently our top manager in the United States, we saw firsthand the enormous gap in the Spanish gourmet presence in the world’s leading market. Of course, there were already Spanish companies there, but the old saying, “There are those who are.” No, they are those who are. That meant there was no common strategy for introducing Spanish gourmet products and brands.
So, after analyzing the market and identifying its gaps and opportunities, we created our own system. To summarize, we can say that we create our own business development and marketing channel for the companies we support in their introduction to the United States. But we never disappear. In other words, we are part of the brands, with business and commercial responsibilities. Because, as I said before, Spain is not recognized as a leading gourmet country there. And without that seal of approval, everything is much more difficult. Our steps have already borne fruit with several companies, but there’s still a lot to do.
Q: Do you have any selection criteria for gourmet brands that want to work with you?
A: Yes, of course. The first thing I must say is that we are professionals. Although we love Spain, we want to work with companies and people who convey their soul and desire to share our time, and everyone’s time, to achieve the best result: success. This can only be achieved through teamwork and by embracing fundamental values ​​such as sharing, honesty, the pursuit of excellence, and transparency. What I mean by this is that not all companies embrace these values, and that’s why we could say we’re finding the companies we deserve to share this journey with.
Q: If you had to advise Spanish gourmet brands looking to internationalize, what would you tell them?
A: First of all, digitize your company properly. Your website is your first selling point, your showcase, and it must convey everything your company is all about. Of course, it can be found in Spanish and English, although you already have systems in place to perfectly support it in more than 10 languages.
If you want people to find you, and you want them to find your potential international partners and clients, develop a professional communication plan that reflects the values ​​of your company and the products you make, as no one will know how to value your company better than you. And of course, they should share those projects with Made in Spain Gourmet so we can develop them together… If they want! Because we can offer them many things that others won’t want to share. Because for us, our primary objective is for Spain and its companies to succeed abroad for what they are worth.
Q: In your opinion, what is Spain’s current position in the global gourmet sector? What aspects of our cuisine make us unique?
A: Spain has a very solid and growing position within the global gourmet sector. In recent decades, the country has established itself as a global benchmark in high-quality gastronomy, both due to the innovation of its chefs—it boasts renowned chefs such as Ferran Adrià , the Roca brothers, Dabiz Muñoz, and MartÃn Berasategui. Furthermore, numerous Spanish restaurants appear in the most prestigious rankings, such as The World’s 50 Best Restaurants and the Michelin Guide, due to the richness and diversity of its local products. However, the same has not been true of the gourmet brands that represent those products.
Spain continues to gain ground as a global culinary powerhouse. The key lies in its balance of tradition, quality, creativity, and cultural identity.
Spain exports a wide variety of high-end products such as Iberian ham, extra virgin olive oil, wines, artisanal cheeses, saffron, seafood, and gourmet preserves. But without a national plan, everyone wages their guerrilla war. And so, it’s not easy to conquer markets and impose your rules.
And regarding the aspects that make Spanish gastronomy unique, we could list several that are very important.
- Regional diversity: Each autonomous community has its culinary traditions, which enrich the national gastronomic offering.
- Local and quality produce: The commitment to local and seasonal produce is a hallmark. The traceability and quality of raw materials such as extra virgin olive oil, Iberian ham, fresh fish, and vegetables are highly valued by people who come to Spain and experience them firsthand.
- Fusion of tradition and innovation: Spanish cuisine combines ancient recipes with modern techniques, creating an authentic yet sophisticated offering. Another of the strengths of our gastronomy is that we know how to merge with other cuisines and adapt to changing times.
Mediterranean lifestyle: Gastronomy goes hand in hand with the Spanish way of life: sharing, enjoying time at the table, the Mediterranean diet, and the importance of tapas as a social and cultural form. This is priceless and we must develop it much more.
Spain is not only well positioned in the gourmet sector but continues to gain ground as a global gastronomic power. The key lies in its balance of tradition, quality, creativity, and cultural identity, factors that give its cuisine a unique personality recognized worldwide.
Q: What trends do you think are currently shaping the gourmet sector, and how is Made in Spain Gourmet adapting to them?
A: The gourmet sector is undergoing a profound transformation, marked by five major key trends:
1.- Sustainability and traceability
Consumers demand products that are not only high quality but also respect the environment and offer transparency regarding their origin.
At Made in Spain Gourmet, we work with producers who practice responsible agriculture, such as SIVARIS, which grows rice in the Albufera Natural Park with a firm ecological commitment.
2.- Authenticity and tradition
There is a strong appreciation for local and artisanal products. Products with history, roots, and authenticity are increasingly appreciated.
Our selection includes gastronomic gems that represent the best of Spain’s culinary heritage, from unique extra virgin olive oils to wines with Designation of Origin.
3.- Innovation in Formats and Presentation
Sustainable packaging, the unboxing experience, and adaptability to e-commerce are crucial aspects. We have developed a premium online store with a thoughtful shopping experience, adapted to today’s gourmet consumer, both in presentation and usability.
4.- Healthy and conscious gastronomy
Gourmet products should no longer just be tasty, but also healthy and aligned with balanced lifestyles. We select products without unnecessary additives, with natural and, in many cases, organic ingredients.
5.- Gastronomic experiences and storytelling
It’s not just about selling products, but about offering complete and emotional experiences.
From featured recipes to recommended pairings, at Made in Spain Gourmet, we want every customer to experience a sensorial journey through Spain.
Q: Beyond the natural markets for Spanish gourmet products, such as Europe or the United States, what other regions in the world do you think offer great potential for expanding these types of products?
A.- Without a doubt, the Asian market, especially South Korea, Japan, China, Indonesia, and Malaysia. Not to mention India, although this always has more cultural and religious clashes. There is a lot of interest and devotion to Spain, but we still have a lot of outreach to do.
Let’s not forget Latin America, Panama, Argentina, Colombia, and even Brazil. Although they are not Spanish-speaking, their culinary knowledge and the elimination of tariffs on olive oil, for example, are worth considering when introducing our Spanish products.
Q: Another really interesting initiative is ROMERO Premium Networking, as it seems to be an extension of your business vision. How would you define the main objectives of this initiative?
A: In fact, it’s our core business, from which Made in Spain Gourmet emerged. Romero Premium Networking is a consultancy that, through Premium Networking, develops business relationships only with people who share similar human values, emphasizing sharing. With a desire to internationalize, our clients are companies with this focus, and at the personal level, international residents are our most valuable community. We provide them with knowledge, protection, and trust, so they feel comfortable with our business recommendations in Spain.
Q: What types of companies and sectors participate in ROMERO Premium Networking, and what exactly do they contribute to this network?
A: Companies belonging to the luxury sector and, since 2019, gourmet food. Through our networking, we accelerate business processes based on trust (Premium Networking). In addition, we develop projects such as implementing digital business strategies (developing brand value, leveraging the online channel as a business, and generating international clients). The most important value that companies bring to our network is their affinity with what we promote. A community is always more powerful than going it alone.
Q: Leading two such complementary initiatives Made in Spain Gourmet and ROMERO Premium Networking requires an important balance. What leadership and management lessons have you learned in this process?
A: Leading both brands has taught me that balance isn’t rigidity, but rather flexibility with purpose. That success is built as a team. And that when you work from a foundation of values, everything makes sense. Leading two initiatives that, although different, share values ​​such as excellence, authenticity, and human connection, has been a journey of constant learning.
Whether in the gourmet world or high-level networking, listening is leading… Effective leadership is born of mutual respect and trust.
Each project has its own identity, but both are built on the same foundation: showcasing the best of Spain, whether through its products or its talent. Having a clear purpose has been essential for guiding teams, making decisions, and generating real impact.
In both the gourmet world and high-level networking, listening is leading. I’ve learned to surround myself with brilliant professionals and build environments where every voice counts. Effective leadership is born of mutual respect and trust.
Innovation isn’t always disruption; sometimes it’s improving the essentials. Whether it’s incorporating technology into gourmet e-commerce or designing networking events with real value, I’ve learned that adapting isn’t changing course, but evolving without losing your roots.
Q: Finally, what personal or professional dream would you like to make a reality through Made in Spain Gourmet or ROMERO Premium Networking?
A: Every entrepreneur has dreams, objectives, and goals… Mine is simple. To see a Spanish gourmet product spread across the world, in the place it deserves and at the price it truly deserves. Because we are the country with the best gastronomy in the world. Is it a dream? I hope it becomes a reality, and soon!
