The deterioration of the financial situation of companies and structural unemployment are two of the consequences of the covid-19 pandemic for the Catalan economy, according to the Nota d'Economia presented on Thursday by the Catalan Minister of Economy, Jaume Giró. This was a comprehensive review of the evolution of the economy in 2020, marked by the pandemic, from which we can also draw positive lessons.

Norwegian has informed its workforce it intends to lay off 1,191 workers throughout Spain. According to Union Sindical Obrera (USO) and Sepla, this number of people involves 85% of the staff of the company in the State. The unions also add that the decision has been taken after "more than a year benefiting from the furlough scheme". In addition, this massive layoff means the end of long-haul operations from Barcelona, as well as "a brutal cut in short-haul operations".

The arrival of capital in search of hotels in Barcelona does not stop. The restrictions of the pandemic have placed many establishments in a desperate situation and this is being taken advantage of by funds to hunt for assets at low prices. The latest establishment looking to sell is the Barcelona Apollo Hotel, operated by Meliá on Avinguda Paral·lel.

Passeig de Gràcia, 38-40, in the middle of the most luxurious street of Barcelona. Few things explain the iconic strength of the Mandarin Oriental Hotel in the Catalan capital as well as its address. Hence the symbolic impact on the real estate and tourism sector of the news that the five-star establishment, owned by the Andorran group Reig Capital, is experiencing difficulties. Several sources consulted by ARA suggest that the establishment is for sale. It has a market price of about 220 million, but in the current context would be sold for 180.