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Mercadona, the Spanish supermarket chain, has established itself as one of Europe’s most successful retail stories. Founded in 1977 in Valencia by Francisco Roig Ballester and Trinidad Alfonso Mocholi, the company has grown from a small local butcher shop into a retail powerhouse with over 1,670 stores across Spain and Portugal . The company is led by President Juan Roig, who took over from his parents in 1981 and has steered the company to become a dominant force in the European grocery market, with 2024 revenues reaching €35.6 billion (US$39 billion) .
Currently, Mercadona employs more than 110,000 workers across its operations, making it one of the largest private employers in Spain . The company has expanded its presence significantly in Portugal since opening its first store in Vila Nova de Gaia in 2019, now operating 72 supermarkets nationwide and continuing its expansion . This remarkable growth trajectory has created thousands of employment opportunities, making Mercadona a highly attractive employer for job seekers across the Iberian Peninsula.
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A Culture of Employee Investment and Training
Mercadona has built its reputation not only on customer service but also on its exceptional commitment to employee development. The company’s philosophy is simple: happy and well-trained employees provide better customer service. New hires receive comprehensive training from day one, with the company covering all associated costs, and the training is remunerated from day one .
The company focuses on training employees to work across multiple sections of the store—a concept known as “polivalencia”—where staff may rotate through roles such as restocking, fishmonger, butcher, cashier, bakery, ready-to-eat, produce, and cleaning .
Mercadona’s investment in its workforce has created remarkable employee loyalty. In 2026, the company implemented significant improvements to its benefits package, offering 37 days of annual leave, which equates to approximately five weeks of vacation . The company also offers permanent contracts from day one for many positions, a rarity in the retail sector, providing job stability and security .
The company’s salary structure includes annual bonuses based on individual and company-wide goals—employees receive an extra month’s salary after the first full calendar year, and two extra salaries after four or more years of service and meeting goals . This commitment to employee well-being has made Mercadona a highly desirable employer in the competitive retail sector.
Mercadona is known for its employee-centric culture. The company’s success is built on the principle that “The Boss” (the customer) comes first, but employees are equally valued . The company was founded on values of humility, effort, and trust, and these principles are embedded in the training and day-to-day operations . The company also provides transparent communication, with employees knowing their schedules in advance—specifically by the 20th of the month before—which allows for work-life balance .
Mercadona’s Business Model: “Always Low Prices” and Private Brands
Mercadona is synonymous with a unique business model that has driven its success. At its core is the “Siempre Precios Bajos” (Always Low Prices) strategy, introduced in 1993 alongside a “Total Quality Management” approach . Rather than relying on advertising campaigns and temporary promotions, Mercadona focuses on consistently low prices across its product range, building long-term customer trust .
A critical element of this model is the company’s focus on private label brands. In 1996, Mercadona launched four flagship private labels that now define its identity: Hacendado (food), Bosque Verde (cleaning), Deliplus (personal care), and Compy (pet care) . These brands account for approximately 60% of Mercadona’s sales, giving it exceptional control over pricing, quality, and supply chain . The company partners closely with “interproveedores” (inter-suppliers)—a select group of manufacturers that work exclusively with Mercadona to produce high-quality products at lower costs .
This combination of private brands and efficient supply chain management has allowed Mercadona to achieve exceptional growth. Between 1998 and 2003, the company’s sales grew by over 25% annually—far exceeding the industry average of less than 9% . Mercadona became the second-fastest-growing retailer globally during that period, behind only Walmart .
2026 Expansion and Massive Recruitment
Mercadona continues its aggressive expansion in 2026, creating thousands of new jobs across Spain and Portugal. In Spain alone, the company is recruiting 5,000 employees for the summer campaign to reinforce operations in areas with high tourist influx . Additionally, Mercadona Online, the company’s e-commerce division, is set to hire 400 employees for its new online logistics centre in Vallecas (Madrid), which will begin operations in summer 2026 . The company’s online business reached €824 million in sales in 2024, a 30% year-on-year increase, driving this expansion .
In Portugal, Mercadona is opening new stores and investing heavily in its operations. By 2025, the company had invested over €1 billion in Portugal, with plans to reach 70 stores by the end of the year . In June 2025, Mercadona inaugurated its largest logistics centre to date in Almeirim, Portugal, covering 120,000 m², employing 630 people, with an investment of €290 million . The company currently employs over 7,500 people in Portugal, with recruitment already underway for new locations .
Current Job Vacancies at Mercadona 2026
Mercadona has hundreds of active job openings available through its official employment portal . The company is hiring for various positions, including summer campaign roles, with applications processed entirely online .
Detailed Salary Breakdown
Note: All full-time salaries include three extra payments per year prorated. Additional bonuses based on performance and company goals are available after the first year .
Detailed Job Roles
Store Assistant
Mercadona is hiring Store Assistants for locations across Spain and Portugal . This position involves working across multiple sections of the store, including restocking, fishmonger, cashier, bakery, ready-to-eat, produce, and cleaning . Candidates require no previous experience; the company provides comprehensive training from day one . Successful candidates have a strong customer focus and can adapt to flexible shift work .
Order Picker (Online Orders)
Mercadona Online is hiring Order Pickers for its e-commerce logistics centres, including new facilities in Madrid and other locations . This role involves preparing online orders efficiently and accurately. Candidates require physical fitness, attention to detail, and no previous experience. Contracts may include permanent positions .
Delivery Driver
Mercadona Online is seeking Delivery Drivers for its online shopping service. Candidates require a driver’s license, and the role involves delivering orders to customers . The position requires flexibility and a customer-friendly approach.
IT Technical Support
Mercadona Tech is actively recruiting IT professionals, including IT Technical Support specialists, for roles based primarily in Valencia . These positions require IT/Computer degrees, previous experience, and technical skills. Salaries start from €1,685 per month with progression .
Maintenance Technician
Mercadona is recruiting Maintenance Technicians for its stores and logistics centres. Positions are available in various locations, including fleet refrigeration technicians . Candidates require technical training and maintenance experience .
Warehouse Worker
Mercadona is hiring Warehouse Workers for its logistics centres, including locations in Barcelona (Abrera) and Portugal . Contracts may be permanent and can be full-time or part-time (40, 25, or 15 hours), with salaries proportional to hours worked .
Application Process for Mercadona Jobs
Mercadona accepts applications exclusively through their official employment portal . Applications are not accepted by phone, email, or social media .
Step 1: Visit the official Mercadona employment portal
Step 2: Create a profile and browse available positions
Step 3: Select the position you wish to apply for
Step 4: Complete the online application form
Step 5: Submit your application
For summer campaign positions, contracts begin between June and September . The company recruits based on attitude and fit with company values—prioritizing profiles that align with values such as humility, effort, and trust .
Application Links for Mercadona Jobs
| Job Category | Application Link |
|---|---|
| Official Mercadona Employment Portal | https://www.mercadona.es/empleo |
| Store Positions | https://www.mercadona.es/empleo |
| Portugal Applications | https://qr.mercadona.com/27vio |
| Mercadona Tech (IT) | https://www.mercadona.es/empleo |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do I need previous experience to work at Mercadona?
No, Mercadona does not require previous experience for most store positions. The company provides comprehensive training from day one .
2. How much does Mercadona pay its employees?
Full-time employees start at €1,734 monthly, with salaries reaching €2,346 after four years of service and meeting company goals .
3. What benefits does Mercadona offer?
Employees receive 37 days of annual leave, meal allowances, extra pay for Sunday and holiday work, and annual bonuses of one to two additional monthly salaries .
4. Are there part-time positions available?
Yes, Mercadona offers 20-hour and 15-hour weekly contracts with proportional salaries .
5. How do I apply for a job at Mercadona?
Applications are accepted exclusively through the official Mercadona employment portal: https://www.mercadona.es/empleo .
6. Does Mercadona hire in Portugal?
Yes, Mercadona has 72 stores in Portugal and continues to expand, creating new job opportunities .
7. What is the salary for part-time positions?
20-hour weekly contracts start at €867 monthly, while 15-hour contracts start at €650 monthly, with progression based on tenure .
8. What positions are available at Mercadona Online?
Mercadona Online is hiring order pickers and delivery drivers for its logistics centres, including new facilities in Madrid and other cities .
9. Does Mercadona provide training?
Yes, Mercadona provides paid training from day one, covering all expenses for participants .
10. Are there opportunities for career advancement?
Yes, Mercadona promotes internal talent, with opportunities to advance to supervisory and management positions .
Conclusion
Mercadona offers diverse career opportunities across retail, logistics, and support services. With the 2026 summer recruitment drive creating thousands of positions and continued expansion in Portugal, the company remains a major employer in the European retail sector. Whether you are looking for an entry-level position, a specialized role, or a management position, Mercadona provides a dynamic work environment with competitive compensation and career advancement opportunities. The company’s employee-centric culture, comprehensive training, and commitment to work-life balance make it an employer of choice for many job seekers in Spain and Portugal.
Take the Next Step
Ready to launch your career at Mercadona?
- Apply via Official Mercadona Employment Portal:Â https://www.mercadona.es/empleo
- Portugal Applications:Â https://qr.mercadona.com/27vio
- Follow Mercadona Careers:Â Check the official website for updated vacancies
Important Note: Mercadona does not accept applications by phone, email, or social media. All applications must be submitted through the official employment portal . Beware of recruitment scams. Always verify job postings through official channels before submitting personal information or paying any fees.
Good luck with your Mercadona career application!
Disclaimer
- This article is for informational purposes only.
- Job availability, salary, and eligibility may vary depending on the employer, recruitment policy, and location.
- Readers are strongly advised to always verify all details through official recruitment channels before applying.
