Marina Alta business awards celebrate ALE-HOP success and Alzheimer’s care innovation

The Marina Alta’s leading business awards have revealed their 2026 winners, with recognitions ranging from international retail success stories to a heartfelt university project designed to improve life for Alzheimer’s patients.

The XVIII CEDMA Awards, organised by the Cercle Empresarial de la Marina Alta, highlighted the growing strength, creativity and social impact of businesses and professionals across the Costa Blanca North region.

The winners were chosen following a jury meeting held in Dénia ahead of the official awards ceremony, which will take place on June 4 at the Hotel Dénia Marriott.

Alzheimer’s therapy project praised

One of the most emotional moments of the announcement came with the Best Final Degree Project award, which went to social work student Lady Johana Arenas Gaitán.

Her project focuses on using dog-assisted therapy to support elderly Alzheimer’s patients living in the Marina Alta. The initiative explores how interaction with specially trained animals can help improve emotional wellbeing, reduce isolation and encourage communication among dementia sufferers.

The award reflects a growing focus on healthcare innovation and community wellbeing within the region.

ALE-HOP founders honoured

The prestigious business trajectory award was presented to CLAVE Dénia, the company behind the hugely successful ALE-HOP retail chain.

Founded in the Marina Alta, ALE-HOP has grown from a local business into an internationally recognised brand with stores across Spain and Europe. The award celebrated both the company’s impressive expansion and its continued connection to the local area.

The recognition also shines a spotlight on the Marina Alta’s growing reputation for producing ambitious businesses capable of achieving international success.

Sustainability and innovation take centre stage

Environmental responsibility and innovation were key themes throughout this year’s awards.

Bodegas Trenza received the sustainability prize for its restoration of a historic Benissa estate and commitment to preserving traditional Moscatel vineyards. The project was recognised for combining wine production with heritage conservation and environmental care.

Meanwhile, Llobell Pesca picked up the innovation award after modernising its operations with digital tools and more sustainable fishing practices, helping adapt a traditional industry for the future.

Tourism and gastronomy recognised

Cristina Sellés received a special award for her contribution to the Marina Alta through tourism and gastronomy promotion.

Her work has helped strengthen the area’s culinary reputation, particularly through projects linked to Dénia’s UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy status.

The awards once again demonstrated the diversity and ambition of the Marina Alta business community — from international retail brands to local sustainability projects and socially driven innovation.