Spanish retailer Mercadona has made significant strides in Portugal, estimating the creation of more than 55,000 direct and indirect jobs since the opening of its first store in Canidelo, Vila Nova
de Gaia, four years ago. Additionally, the company generated over 726 million euros in tax revenues for the Portuguese economy, with sales reaching 4,422 million euros throughout the production chain.
According to a report by ECO, Mercadona's operations in Portugal resulted in the creation of nearly 19,000 jobs and contributed 263.2 million euros to public revenue in the previous year. Furthermore, sales within the national productive fabric reached 1,477 million euros.
As Mercadona prepares to open its 42nd store in Portugal, it reflects on the impact of its entry into the country as its first international market. Over the course of four years, the Spanish chain generated 1,296.8 million euros in income, while contributing 726.5 million euros in taxes to the Portuguese economy. A study conducted by the Research Center for Economic and Business Policies at the University of Minho and Ivie (Valencian Institute of Economic Research) revealed that the company's expansion led to the creation of 55,655 direct and indirect jobs.
With 41 supermarkets currently in operation and plans to reach 49 by the end of the year, Mercadona has established a strong presence in ten districts across Portugal. The company's operational logistics blocks in Póvoa do Varzim and Almeirim, the latter under construction, support its network expansion in the Center and South of the country. Currently employing over 3,500 people in Portugal, Mercadona's operations have a notable impact on the national economy.
In 2022, the retailer's purchases from approximately 1,000 suppliers in Portugal amounted to 789 million euros. However, the company's influence extends beyond direct transactions. For every euro of revenue generated in Mercadona stores, the retailer contributes nine euros to the Portuguese economy through wages, rents, and profits, as emphasized by the University of Minho study. Photo by Er nun wieder, Wikimedia commons.