Commerce & Services Spain

Mercadona: the largest supermarket chain in Spain with more than 1600 stores across the country and a market share of over 25%.; the stores are known for their quality products and competitive prices.

 

Carrefour: the French chain has a significant presence in Spain with more than 200 stores, including hypermarkets, supermarkets, and convenience stores; a wide range of products and goods.

 

Lidl and Aldi: the German discounters are popular in Spain for their low prices and quality products. Lidl operates around 700 stores, and Aldi has over 400 outlets. 

 

El Corte Inglés: the largest department store chain in Spain, also owns supermarkets under the brands Hipercor and Supercor; the stores offer a wide range of groceries and household goods, as well as premium products and delicacies.

 

Eroski: operates more than 1000 stores across Spain; offers a variety of products, including its own brands, and is actively developing digital services and home delivery.

Amazon.es – holds a leading position in the e-commerce market in Spain. The site offers a wide range of products, including electronics, books, clothing, toys, and home appliances. 

El Corte Inglés is one of the largest department stores in Spain, which is also actively developing online sales. The online store offers products in various categories, including fashion, electronics, furniture, and home appliances.

PC Componentes — a specialized online store offering a wide assortment of computer equipment and electronics. The store is known for its competitive prices and high-quality service.

MediaMarkt — a popular network of electronics and home appliance stores, which also has a strong online presence. The site offers a wide selection of products, from smartphones and laptops to home appliances and accessories.

AliExpress, owned by the Chinese giant Alibaba, is also very popular in Spain. The store offers a huge selection of products at low prices, attracting numerous shoppers. 

Carrefour.es — the Carrefour online store provides convenient shopping with home delivery and active loyalty programs.

Zara – the Zara online store offers the latest collections and fashion trends, attracting many shoppers both in Spain and beyond.

Correos — is the national postal operator of Spain, which is one of the largest postal services in the world. Correos provides a wide range of services, including sending letters, parcels, money transfers, and telegrams. The Correos system covers the entire territory of Spain and includes more than 10,000 post offices.

 

Sending letters and parcels:

   - Sending a standard letter weighing up to 20 grams within Spain costs about €0.36, within Europe — €0.70, and international sending — €0.85.

   - The cost of sending parcels varies depending on weight and size, as well as the delivery method (standard, express, etc.).

 

Special services:

   - Burofax: A service for sending legally significant documents with delivery confirmation.

   - Paquetería Express: Expedited parcel delivery.

   - Post office boxes (Apartados de Correos): Option to rent a post office box for receiving mail.

 

Correos actively implements modern technologies to improve customer service. Among the new services:

- Digital storage: An option for securely storing documents in the cloud.

- Package tracking: Real-time tracking of shipments via the website or mobile app.

 

Additional services

Payment of bills and money transfers: At Correos branches, you can pay utility bills, fines, top up your mobile phone, and send money transfers both domestically and internationally.

Products and souvenirs: Correos offers various products for sending (envelopes, boxes, etc.), as well as collectible stamps and souvenirs.

 

Features and tips

- Working hours: Post offices usually operate from 9:00 to 14:00 on weekdays, and in large cities may be open until 20:00. On Saturdays, many offices are open until 13:00, and on Sundays, most offices are closed.

- Receiving parcels: If you cannot receive a parcel personally, it will be stored at the local Correos branch for 15 days, after which it will be sent back to the sender. To receive a parcel, you must present identification.

 

Popular courier services:

 

Correos is the largest postal operator in Spain with a wide network of branches across the country. Correos Express is a subsidiary company that provides expedited courier services, including parcel and document delivery both within Spain and beyond. They also offer tracking services and same-day delivery for certain routes.

SEUR, part of the DPD group, is known for its reliability and delivery speed. The company offers a variety of services, including parcel delivery, express delivery, and logistics solutions for businesses. SEUR also provides customers with the option to choose a delivery location, whether it be home, office, or a pick-up point.

DHL is an international courier service widely represented in Spain. The company offers express delivery, logistics, and warehousing services. 

MRW is a Spanish courier service specializing in rapid delivery of parcels and documents. They offer same-day and next-day delivery services, along with various logistics solutions for businesses. MRW also has an extensive network of pickup points and offices throughout the country.

FedEx is an American courier company providing express delivery and logistics services in Spain. The company is known for its reliable and secure services, as well as the ability to integrate with most online stores. 

Nacex is a Spanish courier service that provides fast and reliable delivery services across Spain, as well as in Portugal and Andorra. The company offers specialized solutions for e-commerce, including returns services and delivery to pickup points.

Internet services

Types of connections:

   - Fiber optic internet: Provides high speed and reliable connection. Most common in major cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia, and is gradually expanding to smaller towns and rural areas.

   - ADSL: Uses traditional telephone lines to provide internet services. Suitable for regions where the fiber optic network is not yet developed.

   - Mobile internet (4G/5G): Widely used in urbanized areas and on transportation routes. 5G is beginning to be implemented in major cities, providing even higher internet speed.

 

Main providers:

   - Movistar: The largest provider with wide coverage and a variety of tariff plans for internet, TV, and mobile services.

   - Orange: Offers comprehensive service packages, including internet, television, and mobile communications.

   - Vodafone: Provides high-speed connection and diverse tariffs for different needs.

   - MásMóvil and Yoigo: Less known but also popular providers with competitive tariffs.

 

Television

TV Packages: Most providers offer combined packages that include internet and television. For example, NoLimitNet and Olé Comunicación offer packages with international and national channels, including sports and entertainment programs.

Streaming Services: Disney+, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video: These platforms provide a wide selection of movies and series available by subscription. Providers often include a subscription to streaming services in their service packages.

 

Telephone Communication

Mobile Operators: 

 - Movistar, Orange, Vodafone, Yoigo: Offer various tariffs for calls and mobile internet. Both postpaid contracts and prepaid SIM cards are available.

 

Fixed Lines:

 - Fixed line services are provided by most providers and are often included in combined packages with internet and television. Movistar dominates the fixed line market due to its extensive infrastructure.

 

Connection and Setup Features

Documents for Connection: To sign a contract with a provider, you usually need an identity document (passport or NIE), proof of residence (e.g., utility bill), and bank details to set up automatic payment withdrawals.

 

Installation Process: Installation can take from a few days to a couple of weeks depending on the provider and type of connection. In some cases, the presence of a technician may be required to set up equipment such as a router or cable connection.

 

Where to Buy a SIM Card

Offices of Communication Operators:

 - Movistar: Offices are located throughout the country, including airports and central city areas. 

 - Orange: Orange stores can be found in most major cities and shopping centers.

 - Vodafone: Vodafone stores are also widely spread and offer a wide range of tariff plans.

 - MásMóvil and Yoigo: Stores of these operators are present in large cities and tourist areas.

Electronics and Appliance Stores:

 - FNAC, MediaMarkt, El Corte Inglés: These stores often sell SIM cards from various operators, including prepaid options.

Airports and Railway Stations:

 - In major transport hubs, such as Barcelona and Madrid airports, you can find kiosks and stores of communication operators where you can purchase SIM cards.

Internet:

   - Some operators allow you to order SIM cards online with home delivery. For example, Movistar and Vodafone offer such services on their websites.

The following documents are usually required to purchase a SIM card in Spain:

Passport or ID card: Foreign citizens need a passport, while EU citizens can also use a national ID card.

NIE: For long-term stays and for signing a contract with a postpaid tariff, NIE may be required. However, for prepaid SIM cards, a passport is usually sufficient.

There are many food and goods delivery services in Spain that are very popular among residents and visitors of the country. 

Food delivery services

Just Eat: offers a wide selection of restaurants and cuisines, including Spanish tapas, Italian pasta, and much more.

Glovo: This is a Spanish startup that provides not only food delivery but also a wide range of goods, including groceries from supermarkets, medicines, and even clothing items.

 Uber Eats: offers food delivery from many restaurants across Spain, including both popular chains and local establishments.

 Deliveroo: focuses on delivering high-quality food from restaurants. 

 

Goods delivery services

Amazon Spain: offers a huge assortment of products with fast delivery throughout Spain. It is one of the most popular services for online shopping in the country.

 El Corte Inglés: provides online delivery of goods from its range, including electronics, clothing, food, and much more.

Carrefour: offers delivery of groceries and other goods across Spain. 

In Spain, the operating hours of stores and services can vary significantly depending on the region, type of establishment, and season. 

Stores

Most stores in Spain are open from Monday to Saturday from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM, often with a siesta break from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Some large shopping centers and chain stores, such as Zara and El Corte Inglés, are open from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM or even 10:00 PM, including Sundays in major cities and tourist areas.

Supermarkets

Supermarkets are usually open from 9:00 to 21:00, and in some cases until 22:00. Many of them operate without a break for siesta. On Sundays, most supermarkets are closed, except in tourist areas and large chains, which may operate on reduced hours.

Restaurants and Bars

In Spain, restaurants typically serve lunch from 13:00 to 16:00 and dinner from 20:00 to 23:00. In major cities and tourist spots, many restaurants and bars remain open late, sometimes until 2:00 or 3:00 in the morning. Some bars and nightclubs may be open until 6:00 a.m.

Banks

Banks in Spain have short working hours: from Monday to Friday from 8:30 to 14:00. On weekends, banks are closed.

Museums

Museums are usually open from 10:00 to 20:00 from Tuesday to Sunday, but most are closed on Mondays. It's important to check the opening hours of a specific museum before visiting, as there may be exceptions.

Post Offices

Post offices operate from Monday to Friday from 9:00 to 14:00 and from 16:00 to 19:00. On Saturday, opening hours are reduced to 9:00 - 13:00, and on Sundays and holidays, they are closed.

On holidays, most shops and services are closed or operate on reduced hours. National holidays include New Year, Good Friday, Labor Day (May 1), All Saints' Day (November 1), and Christmas.

Spain hosts many local and international brands covering various categories of goods and services. Here are the main brands that can be found in the country:

Local Brands

Zara - One of the most famous Spanish brands in the world, owned by the Inditex group. Zara offers fashionable clothing and accessories for men, women, and children. The Inditex group also includes brands such as Bershka, Pull & Bear, Stradivarius, Massimo Dutti, and Oysho.

Santander - One of the largest banks in Spain, which also has an international presence. Santander provides a wide range of banking services for both individuals and businesses.

Movistar - The largest telecommunications operator in Spain, offering mobile communication, internet, and television services.

BBVA - Another major Spanish bank with an international presence, offering a variety of financial services.

Mercadona - The leading supermarket chain in Spain, known for its quality service and wide range of products.

Loewe - A Spanish luxury brand specializing in the production of clothing, accessories, and leather goods.

 

International Brands

H&M, IKEA, Nike, Adidas, Carrefour, Starbucks, and others.

These brands are just part of a wide network of shops and services available in Spain, providing a variety of choices for locals and tourists.

Understanding local etiquette and shopping culture can significantly enhance your shopping experience in Spain.

Greetings and Communication

- Greetings: When entering a store or any other establishment in Spain, it is customary to greet the staff by saying "Hola" or "Buenos días." This is a sign of politeness and respect. Upon leaving, it is also customary to say goodbye, saying "Adiós" or "Hasta luego."

- Addressing staff: If you need assistance, do not hesitate to approach the sales staff. They are usually friendly and willing to help. However, do not expect intrusive service — Spaniards respect personal space and allow you to browse the goods at your own pace.

 

Payment and Tips

- Payment: Most stores accept both cash and bank cards. However, at markets and small shops, it is better to have small bills and coins on hand, as change may not be available for large bills.

- Tips: In Spain, tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. Usually, small amounts are left — up to 5% of the bill in restaurants or a couple of euros in cafes and taxis.

Interaction with Goods

- Inspecting goods: In Spain, it is not customary to touch fruits and vegetables on the markets yourself — the seller will select the products for you. In clothing and souvenir stores, try to handle goods carefully, especially those displayed in showcases.

Other Features

- Siesta: The time from 14:00 to 17:00 is the siesta period, when many stores close. During this time, people usually have lunch and rest. This is a tradition worth respecting and considering when planning your activities.

- Clothing: Spaniards pay attention to their appearance even in everyday activities. Sportswear is worn only for sports activities, not for walkabouts in the city.

In Spain, there are two main sales periods — winter and summer — along with several other significant discount periods:

Winter Sales: Usually start on January 7th, right after the holidays, although in some regions, such as Madrid, they may begin as early as January 1st. Sales can last until the end of February or even early March depending on the region.

Summer Sales: Usually begin at the end of June or early July. In some regions, such as Madrid and Valencia, sales may start earlier — at the end of June. They continue until the end of August or early September.

Mid-Season Sales: Occur in the spring and autumn months, often from March to June and from September to November. These sales are not as extensive as the winter and summer ones but also offer good opportunities for lucrative purchases.

 

Black Friday and Cyber Monday: These events take place at the end of November and are becoming increasingly popular in Spain, offering significant discounts on various products before Christmas.

Semana Fantástica: This is a special sales week that occurs at the end of the summer sales, where you can find last discounted items at very low prices.

Spain is actively working to improve its household waste disposal and recycling system by implementing various laws and initiatives aimed at reducing waste and increasing recycling rates. 

Main components of the recycling system

Color-coded containers for separate waste collection:

   - Blue container: for paper and cardboard. Here you can discard newspaper, magazines, cardboard boxes, and packaging.

   - Yellow container: for plastic, aluminum cans, and packaging. Includes plastic bottles, aluminum foil, plastic bags, and Tetra Paks.

   - Green container: for glass. This includes glass bottles, jars, and flasks.

   - Brown container: for organic waste. Accepts food leftovers and other biological waste.

   - Gray container: for non-recyclable waste, such as contaminated paper, diapers, and other items that cannot be recycled.

2. Special waste collection points:

   - For hazardous waste, such as batteries, electrical appliances, and chemicals, there are special collection points. In some regions, there are also mobile collection points for bulky metals and other materials.

 

New legislative initiatives

Spain has introduced several new laws aimed at improving waste disposal and recycling:

- Ban on single-use plastics: Introduction of a tax on single-use plastic packaging and a ban on the use of certain single-use plastic products.

- Mandatory provision of free drinking water: Restaurants are now required to offer free tap water to reduce the use of plastic bottles.

- Donation and recycling of food leftovers: Restaurants and supermarkets are required to minimize food waste by recycling it or donating it to charity.