The Board of Directors of Mercamadrid S.A., majority-owned by the Madrid City Council (51.13%) and the public company Mercasa (48.63%), has assessed the company’s management in 2024. With 14 million euros invested, Mercamadrid consolidates its strategic progress in infrastructure transformation, efficiency and sustainability initiatives, and digitalization, reinforcing its leadership in the sector.
Commercial activity of companies
Companies operating in Mercamadrid handled 3.6 million tons of fresh food, marking a 4% increase compared to 2023.
While results vary by subsector, the meat sector led the growth with 942,615 tons (+10%), the fruit and vegetable sector remained stable at 2,132,211 tons (-0.2%), and the fish and seafood sector recorded a decline to 149,540 tons (-9%), reflecting a decreasing consumption trend. Cash and carry and dry goods operations continued growing, reaching 377,635 tons (+23%).
Financial performance
Mercamadrid closed the year with significant progress in the transformation of its food unit, maintaining strong investment levels in infrastructure and expanding value-added services for companies and the broader agri-food sector.
- Occupancy in central markets remains at 98%, reaffirming the commercial appeal of the unit.
- Revenue reached 31.2 million euros, reflecting a 4.73% increase from 2023.
- Net profit stood at 7.04 million euros, a 14.72% rise from the previous year.
- Investments in Modernization and Safety
- Mercamadrid has modernized its general facilities and fire protection systems, with an investment of 13 million euros. Key improvements include:
- Structural enhancements in the central fish market and the six pavilions of the central fruit and vegetable market.
- Upgraded water distribution system, including a new 280m³ water tank and 54.6 kilometers of new supply pipelines.
- Enhanced safety conditions, leveraging the latest construction and technological solutions.
Commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency
Mercamadrid remains committed to clean energy, focusing on reducing environmental impact, enhancing energy efficiency, and cutting costs.
Two self-consumption photovoltaic plants were launched, with a third added by year-end.
Solar panels were installed on twenty warehouses, bringing total photovoltaic capacity to 10,000 kilowatts peak (KWp).
Electric vehicle infrastructure expanded, reaching 20 public access points and 38 dedicated electric vehicle spaces, resulting in a 7% increase in energy usage and 6% more charging sessions.
The adoption of electric refrigerated vehicles for fresh food distribution in urban areas.
LED lighting renewal on the Perimeter Platform, offering higher luminosity with lower energy consumption.
Partnerships and collaboration
Mercamadrid actively partners with expert organizations to advance knowledge and apply sustainability solutions.
- Participates in Mobilities for Europe, where Mercamadrid serves as a pilot testing ground for green and connected mobility solutions in collaboration with Madrid, Dresden, and 29 other public and private entities across Europe.
- Joined the United Nations Global Compact, reinforcing its commitment to corporate sustainability and environmental responsibility.
- Digital Transformation, Innovation, and Talent Development
- Digital transformation remains a strategic priority. Key advancements include:
- New mobile-enabled functionalities for managing mobility, cleaning, and security.
- The Innovation and Knowledge Center (CCIMM), currently under construction, with 6 million euros invested.
- The 6,000m² space will boost research, training, and knowledge transfer to companies.
The Mercamadrid Training Center, a leader in fresh food industry training, has conducted 206 courses, training 2,243 professionals in high-demand professions such as fishmongery, butchery, logistics, and commerce.
A safe and secure environment
- With an average of 20,000 people and 15,000 vehicles accessing Mercamadrid daily, workplace safety and risk prevention remain priorities.
- Best Practices Guide on risk prevention continues to be a valuable tool for businesses.
- Fire response training sessions and live fire drills were held for Mercamadrid staff and market business personnel.
Commercial promotion and gastronomic advocacy
- Mercamadrid has maintained a strong presence at key sector events, including:
- Seafood Expo Global in Barcelona
- Fruit Logistica in Berlin
- Fruit Attraction in Madrid
Additionally, international trade missions and commercial projects have been expanded through its Foreign Action Office, aimed at boosting export capacity for companies.
Mercamadrid remains committed to enhancing competitiveness and innovation, while also supporting society and education through:
The promotion of Spanish fresh produce and gastronomic excellence.
The educational program “Learning to Eat Healthy at Mercamadrid”, which welcomed 7,347 students in 2024, fostering healthy eating habits and promoting the Mediterranean Diet as a UNESCO World Heritage.
