The distribution chain Mercadona will open on June 1st one of its largest establishments in Spain, located in Cabo de Palos (Cartagena), after an investment exceeding five million euros.
The new supermarket sits on a plot of 13,277 square meters and is part of the expansion of large stores by the company chaired by Juan Roig, with a special focus on tourist and highly seasonal areas.
A large-format store model
The establishment will have a total area of more than 4,000 square meters distributed over several floors, as well as a car park with capacity for approximately 300 spaces between the basement and the outdoor area.
According to data provided by the company, the design includes a large sales floor on the main level, warehouse areas, cold rooms and internal logistics, an optimized loading and unloading area, spaces for reduced mobility, and an underground and outdoor car park.
The project is part of the strategy of expanding large stores in urban and tourist environments with high demand pressure during the summer season.
Economic impact and local employment
The Cartagena City Council has highlighted the impact of the new center on the local economy, emphasizing its role as a commercial driver for the area.
According to municipal authorities, the opening not only strengthens the commercial offering of the area but also contributes to maintaining existing employment and generating stable economic activity throughout the year, beyond the tourist period.
The company has confirmed that the staff of the previous establishment, consisting of around fifty workers, will be relocated to the new facilities.
Continuity of employment and operational reorganization
The company has insisted that the transfer of personnel is part of its policy of labor continuity in store modernization processes, avoiding job losses.
The new center also aims to improve logistical and operational efficiency, with a space distribution oriented towards reducing internal movements and optimizing product restocking.
Expansion of the "Store 9" model
In parallel to this opening, the chain continues to implement its store transformation model known as "Store 9," focused on reorganizing space and improving the shopping experience.
This format incorporates greater prominence of fresh products, centralized preparation areas, optimization of energy and water consumption, redesign of internal customer circulation and rest areas, and greater comfort in the store
The company plans to close 2026 with around 60 establishments adapted to this model throughout Spain.