Spanish retailer Eroski has reported higher profit and sales in the first nine months of its financial year, showing resilience in a period marked by rising operating costs and continued price pressure across the grocery sector.
The cooperative recorded a profit of €90.3 million for the nine-month period from 1 February to 31 October, a 36% increase year on year.
Total gross sales reached €4.5 billion, supported primarily by food sales. Revenue from food rose 2.9% to €4.3 billion, reflecting steady volumes and ongoing promotional activity across the network.
Cost Pressure Remains, But Margins Held
Eroski said operating costs were higher than in the same period last year, in line with broader inflationary pressures affecting labour, logistics, and energy. However, the group said it managed to limit the impact through efficiency measures already in place.
As a result, EBITDA increased 1.8% to €251 million, indicating that margin protection remains a priority despite a competitive pricing environment.
The retailer linked its performance to continued price containment policies and promotional investment, initiatives that were first rolled out in late 2021 and remain central to its commercial strategy.
Digital Tools Support Efficiency Programmes
Commenting on the third-quarter performance, chief executive Rosa Carabel said results were in line with internal expectations and confirmed that efficiency initiatives continue to deliver operational benefits.
She highlighted the growing use of analytics-driven tools to support decision-making, particularly in areas such as cost control and operational planning.
This approach aligns with wider developments in retail technology in Spain, where supermarket groups are increasingly relying on data systems and automation to manage costs while protecting price competitiveness.
Strategy Focus Ahead Of 2026
Looking ahead, 2026 will mark the final year of Eroski’s current strategic plan. The cooperative said its priorities remain unchanged.
These include:
Strengthening the proximity store model
Continued development of private-label ranges alongside manufacturer brands
A sustained focus on local sourcing
Further progress in digitalisation and omnichannel operations
Eroski also reiterated its commitment to improving efficiency across the full value chain while maintaining its sustainability objectives.
Strong Regional Footprint
Eroski operates more than 1,500 stores across northern Spain, from Galicia to the Balearic Islands, and holds a 12.7% market share in its core regions.
The cooperative claims market leadership in the Basque Country, Navarre, and Galicia, as well as a co-leading position in the Balearic Islands, underlining its strong regional presence despite intensifying competition from national and international chains.
Editor’s note: All information I gathered from Eroski official nine-month financial results announcement.
