Mercadona has been a threat to other supermarket chains and restaurants for years. Now it is to Starbucks

Mercadona, renowned for its supermarket dominance, is strategically expanding its digital and retail offerings, venturing into sectors that challenge traditional businesses. Initially disrupting the prepared food market with its "Listo para comer" section, launched in 2018, the company has seen rapid growth, now available in 1,110 stores. This move has significantly impacted the hospitality sector, with Mercadona capturing nearly 20% of food and beverage spending, surpassing that of bars and restaurants. The latest development sees Mercadona introducing freshly ground coffee machines for takeaway in its stores, a move that signals a direct challenge to the café industry. This initiative, first piloted in Valencia in March 2025, is rapidly expanding, with recent installations noted in Euskadi. This expansion demonstrates Mercadona's ambition to become a comprehensive daily consumption hub, integrating food and beverage services directly into the grocery shopping experience. This expansion into café services positions Mercadona as a formidable competitor to established coffee chains like Starbucks. By offering convenience and integrated services, Mercadona aims to capture a larger share of consumers' daily spending, further solidifying its role as a central player in daily food and drink choices beyond traditional grocery retail. The company's strategic diversification indicates a proactive approach to evolving consumer habits and market opportunities.