From humble beginnings as a small cooperative in the Basque Country to becoming a household name in Spain, Eroski has remained true to its mission: delivering high-quality, affordable products while supporting local communities. As Mallorca’s third-most affordable supermarket chain, Eroski offers not only its renowned own-brand items but also local Mallorcan products that add a regional twist to your grocery run. Here’s a deeper look into the supermarket that’s become a staple of island life.
How it all started
Founded in the Basque Country in 1969 from the merger of seven consumer cooperatives, the new company aimed to simplify and reduce their operating costs. Eroski (which means “buy this” in Basque) has always been focused on selling high-quality, affordable products and creating additional jobs—all for the benefit of the community. Eroski became the first retail chain in Spain to launch its own brand. Six products in white packaging were the first to bear the distributor’s signature white label, giving birth to an entire line of own-brand products.
The history of the person running the company
Rosa Maria Carabel Di Paola is the granddaughter of Galician and Italian immigrants whose paths crossed in Brazil. Rosa María believes her background has had a major influence on her. She was born in Galicia, in the city of A Coruña, in 1966. Her family was never one to give up in difficult situations, and Rosa Carabel’s professional career is a testament to that. After receiving a degree in Business Science in her hometown, Rosa Maria continued her studies in Santiago de Compostela and earned an Advanced Business Management degree at a private school in Vigo. She then began working as a purchasing manager at “Teais” and continued her career in commercial distribution at “Vegalsa” in early 1994.
Ten years later, “Vegalsa” joined the central structure of “Grupo Eroski,” and after a long journey up the career ladder, Rosa Maria took on the leadership role in one of Spain’s largest companies in 2022.
Over time, her job required her to move from her native Galicia to Euskadi (the Basque Country), which was not an easy decision for the mother of three. According to Rosa Carabel, her home is still in Galicia, but her work is in Euskadi. This situation is a perfect example of the life of a modern, successful woman.
Collaboration with locals
In Mallorca, Eroski ranks third in affordability, offering competitive prices for both its own-brand products and local goods. Notably, the company has made a commitment to keeping prices stable on essential items, even during the numerous holidays throughout the year—a significant gesture in a country where holidays are frequent.
Additionally, Eroski’s commitment to local products is evident in their selection, such as “Tomate De Ramillete Picante Ecológico” from Agromallorca, priced at 2.30€, and the local soda “PU!G” for 1.20€, offering a refreshing alternative to global brands. Eroski also provides the convenience of online shopping with home delivery, making it a versatile choice for consumers in Mallorca.
Photo: Flickr
Text by Stephan Rairyan
