When we consider analyzing a company (whether we want to invest, collaborate, or simply understand its financial situation), one of the first things that comes to mind is its turnover. But of course, the big question is: where can we find that information? And more importantly, how do we know if it’s reliable?

In this article, we’re going to explain step by step, and without beating around the bush, how to check a company’s turnover in Spain. Whether you’re just taking your first steps in the business world or already have experience and need more powerful tools, here you’ll find a clear, useful and (hopefully) enjoyable guide.

Let’s get started.

What is turnover and why is it important to know?

Turnover, also known as revenue or gross income, is the total amount of income earned by a company over a specific period (usually a year). It doesn’t include taxes like VAT, nor does it deduct expenses: it simply reflects how much money came into the company from selling its products or services.

Why are we so interested in this figure? Well, because it’s one of the most basic and straightforward indicators to understand the scale and activity of a company. It doesn’t tell us everything (that’s what profits, margins, debts, etc. are for), but it gives us a very clear idea of how much that company moves. And in business, that already means a lot.

Official sources to check a company’s turnover

There are several places where you can find this data, and ideally you should start with the most official and reliable sources. Let’s take a look.

Public registries and official bodies

1. Mercantile Registry (Registro Mercantil): Every company operating in Spain is required to file its annual accounts with the Mercantile Registry. These accounts include the balance sheet, profit and loss account, and (bingo!) turnover.

   You can access this information through the Central Mercantile Registry portal, although it’s true that it’s not free. Most basic reports cost between €3 and €15.

2. BORME (Official Gazette of the Mercantile Registry): Here you’ll find certain company movements published, such as capital increases, appointments, and in some cases economic data. Turnover isn’t always shown, but it’s still a useful source to get a general idea.

3. National Statistics Institute (INE): If you’re researching by sectors rather than individual companies, the INE offers reports and statistics with general data on economic activity.

Financial reports and annual accounts

When a company is large or publicly traded, it’s easier to access its figures. Some even publish annual reports on their website, detailing their income, EBITDA, net profit, etc. These reports are usually aimed at shareholders and investors, so they’re quite comprehensive (though sometimes a bit dense).

Online platforms and private databases: quick alternatives

If you don’t want to waste time on official registries or you need to check many companies at once, specialized online tools are your best allies. While many are paid, there are also some quite useful free options.

Free tools vs. paid services

• Informa D&B: One of the most used in Spain. Offers very basic free reports and more detailed ones under subscription. Great for a quick general view.

• Axesor: Similar to Informa. Allows you to purchase individual reports or access them via subscription.

• Infoempresa.com: Very visual and easy to use. Displays data in a friendly format and allows you to check many variables, including turnover.

• Einforma: Another quite complete option, with data on both Spanish and foreign companies.

• LinkedIn: Surprisingly, some companies include estimated turnover in their profile. Not the most reliable source, but it can help give you a rough idea.

In general, if you’re looking for accurate and reliable data, it’s worth paying for a full report. If you’re just doing a quick check, you can start with free options and see if you need to dig deeper.

How to interpret turnover in business analysis

Here’s where it gets interesting. Because, of course, knowing that a company makes €2 million or €20 million isn’t enough. Is that a lot or a little? Are things going well or not?

To properly interpret turnover, you should consider:

• Its evolution in recent years: Is it growing or declining?

• The sector it belongs to: Earning €1 million might be a lot for a service company but not much for an industrial one.

• Workforce size: High turnover with few employees may signal efficiency.

• Comparison with competitors: Put the company in context. Is it a leader in its sector or a small player?

Also, don’t forget that high turnover doesn’t necessarily mean profitability. Some companies generate huge revenues but also have massive expenses, so don’t judge only by that number.

Tips to get reliable and updated information

• Check the date of the report or data you’re reviewing. Turnover from three years ago might be irrelevant today.

• Cross-check data from different sources when possible. If several agree, it’s probably accurate.

• Be wary of inflated figures on unofficial websites or profiles without references. Some companies “love” to polish their numbers.

• If in doubt, hire a professional service to help you properly analyze all the financial information.

And if you’re serious about researching companies in Spain, you might be interested in what we do at Business in Spain. We specialize in helping you find and evaluate real businesses with solid data—no fluff.

Frequently asked questions about how to find out a company’s turnover

Can I find out the turnover of any company?

Not all. Only those required to file accounts (limited companies, public companies, etc.). Sole proprietors or small civil partnerships are not obliged to do so.

How much does a financial report cost?

It depends. Basic reports start at €3 and more detailed ones can go for €30 or more. Some platforms offer monthly subscriptions if you check data regularly.

Can I check the turnover of a foreign company?

Yes, but it depends on the country. In Europe, many mercantile registries are public. In other places it may be more complicated.

And what if the company is new?

If it hasn’t filed annual accounts yet, you won’t be able to access official figures. In that case, you can try contacting them directly or estimate based on activity, size, staff, etc.

We hope this guide has helped you understand how and where to check a company’s turnover. If you’re thinking of investing, expanding your business, or simply analyzing the Spanish market more wisely, remember—you’re not alone.

At Business in Spain we’re here to help you make informed decisions, with real data and professional support.

Are you ready to discover real opportunities in the Spanish business world?