Spanish discount retailer Mercadona has announced its results for full-year 2012, posting 7 per cent growth in both turnover and net profit, to €19,077 million and €508 million, respectively. The Valencia-based operator saw EBITDA rise 4 per cent to €1,082 million during the year.
During the year, Mercadona employees received €240 million in bonuses with a further €23 million being distributed to off-set the effects of increased income tax. At the end of 2012 Mercadona employed 74,000 people and operated 1,411 stores, 60 of which were opened during the year. As one of Spain's most successful retailers, Mercadona has a market share of some 15 per cent.
The retailer announced that investment for 2013 is €600 million, which will go mainly to the opening of 60 new stores, supermarket refurbishments, and the construction of logistics centres in Granada and Abrera Barcelona. In addition, the company plans to create 1,000 new direct permanent jobs. Some €50 million has already been earmarked for Mercadona's entry into the Basque country.
