On Tuesday, the multifunctional hall of Es Mercadal hosted the 11th edition of the Banca March Forum on Family Business, an event that celebrated the strength and resilience of Menorca’s family-owned businesses in overcoming current challenges. A notable participant was Bonnin Sanso, represented by its Financial Director, Kerry Phillips, who shared insights into the company’s history and its guiding philosophy within the Menorcan real estate sector.
The legacy of Bonnin Sanso: building from the foundations
Kerry Phillips opened her speech by recalling on the modest origins of the company, which was established in 1988 by her father, Juan Torres, in partnership with Francisco de Asís Bonnin Sanso. With a tone filled both with admiration and fondness, she shared the story of how her father transitioned from being a builder at the age of 21, selling a plot of land in Trebalúger and constructing nine villas, to embarking on the venture of founding a real estate agency in Menorca.
With the support of her mother, who played a key role from the very beginning, Bonnin Sanso quickly established itself as a leading name in the island’s real estate market. From its humble beginnings on Avenida Menorca, the company has expanded to five offices, built a database of over 100.000 contacts, attracted five million annual website visits, and now employs more than 30 staff members.
The role of the team and generational evolution
Kerry highlighted that the success of Bonnin Sanso lies in its multilingual and highly professional team, whose commitment ensures clients receive full support, from the initial search to settling into their new home. This client-focused approach is grounded in core values such as integrity, professional excellence, and a dedication to continuous improvement.
The event also highlighted the crucial role of training and team cohesion in maintaining unity and collaboratively addressing the challenges of the sector. “Our clients place their trust in us to manage not only their properties but also their dreams,” Kerry remarked.
The housing challenge facing Menorca
In her speech, Kerry also addressed the current housing issues on the island, identifying delays in permit approvals and a lack of legal certainty as significant obstacles. However, she conveyed optimism, recognising the resurgence of “brave developers” who are helping to invigorate the market. Bonnin Sanso remains committed to contributing to the solution by increasing the housing supply and supporting initiatives aimed at improving access to property, particularly for younger generations.
A promising future for family businesses
The Banca March Forum demonstrated that family businesses not only endure generational transitions but grow stronger as a result. Bonnin Sanso exemplifies how the integration of new generations, bringing a fresh perspective while honouring the company’s legacy, enables a forward-thinking and optimistic outlook for the future.
Kerry Phillips concluded her speech by expressing heartfelt gratitude to her parents, whose values have shaped the guiding principles of Bonnin Sanso, and to her team, the true driving force of the company. “Let us continue to anticipate change and tackle challenges with professionalism and passion,” she concluded.
The Forum reaffirmed that the success of family businesses in Menorca benefits the entire island community. With its deep commitment to Menorca, Bonnin Sanso will remain a vital contributor to this collective progress.
We would like to express our gratitude to Banca March and Diari Menorca for recognising family businesses like Bonnin Sanso and for offering the opportunity to share the story and values that drive these Menorcan enterprises.
