Mercadona launches new summer hours in 320 supermarkets on the coast

Full beaches, tourists with shopping bags, and lines at supermarkets are the backdrop to a change that will not go unnoticed this summer. Mercadona, the Valencian company chaired by Juan Roig, has decided to adjust its schedule to the massive arrival of visitors to coastal areas.

The move affects up to 320 establishments spread across emblematic towns such as Cullera, Benidorm, Salou, or Lloret de Mar. But, how will this schedule change? And what does it imply for customers and workers? Will we have to hold back the urge to shop at a time that was previously usual?

Mercadona adapts the summer schedule to key tourist areas

From June 22 to August 30, Mercadona will implement the new summer schedule for the 320 stores located in areas with high tourist influx. This schedule extends opening hours until 10:00 p.m., with continuous service from 9 in the morning, a significant change from the usual closing at 9:30 p.m.

Areas and towns involved

The affected towns, in addition to Valencian ones such as Tavernes de la Valldigna, Peñíscola, Dénia, or Xàbia, include tourist spots throughout the country like Ibiza, Marbella, Salou, and others. This broad range reflects the company's decision to adapt to summer consumption demand in areas where schedules and shopping habits vary notably.

Schedule and special openings consultation

To avoid confusion, Mercadona has enabled a search tool on its official page where each customer can check the specific schedule of their nearest supermarket, including which ones open on Sundays until 3:00 p.m. during the season.

Usual schedules and the philosophy of rest

Outside of summer, operation returns to normal with hours from 9:00 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. and closures on holidays, a decision aligned with Mercadona’s desire to guarantee its workers' work-life balance and avoid openings on holidays.

Commitment to employees

Mercadona has recently reinforced its labor policy, with the addition of one more week of vacation for employees and a variable remuneration system that in 2025 distributed 780 million euros in bonuses for objectives, according to internal company sources.

Impact on clientele and sales

This change coincides with a sales record for Mercadona last year, with an 8% increase reaching almost 42 billion euros, an indicator that demonstrates the brand's strength, especially in the high season, when presence in tourist areas is key.

The new summer schedule: how does it affect your shopping?

With extended hours until 10:00 p.m. and uninterrupted service, customers will be able to do their shopping with more flexibility, an advantage for tourists and residents who see the schedule adapt to summer life.

What changes in the stores?

• Opening from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. without intermediate closures.
• Supermarkets in selected tourist areas, including coastal towns of the Valencian Community and other parts of the country.
• Special Sunday openings until 3:00 p.m. in some towns.

How to check and prepare your visit

To avoid surprises, it is advisable to consult the official Mercadona search tool, where schedules by supermarket are detailed. This tool is especially useful for residents and visitors who want to make the most of their time and avoid queues or unexpected closures.

The reality is that Mercadona adapts its offer and schedules to the rhythm of the tourist season, a move that reflects both the evolution of consumption and internal management focused on work-life balance and customer satisfaction.