Mercadona, Awarded for Its Innovations in Product and Qr Labeling

The Consumer Goods Innovation Observatory of the Institut Cerdà has recognized Mercadona for two outstanding advances in 2024: its new tray-packaged vegetable rice and the implementation of a QR code on its products.

The tray-packaged vegetable rice, developed alongside its supplier Platos Tradicionales, is the first cooked rice in a microwave-safe container. Inspired by the typical Valencia metal tray rice, its innovative tin tray allows the rice to be cooked in its own container, achieving a texture and flavor similar to homemade preparation. Additionally, being microwave-safe, it facilitates consumption outside the home. It will be available in all the chain's supermarkets starting in May.

According to the Observatory, this innovation responds to current market trends, where the consumption of prepared dishes has multiplied by five since 2004 due to less time dedicated to cooking.

Regarding processes, the Observatory has awarded Mercadona for the implementation of a new QR code, which will replace the traditional barcode, improving operational efficiency. This system, developed with AECOC, offers dual functionality: on one hand, it provides information to the consumer, such as preparation and consumption suggestions; on the other, it allows the company to better manage product traceability, incorporating data such as expiration date, batch, supplier, and exact weight.

This advancement improves in-store management by allowing products to be relabeled without the need to weigh them again and optimizes supply processes. Currently, it has been implemented in butcher products and will extend to fish and seafood, and fruits and vegetables throughout 2025.

With these recognitions, Mercadona reaffirms its commitment to innovation, aligning with new consumer needs and optimizing its operations.