Mercadona has waived subsidies granted by the Junta de Andalucia (€2.5 million) and the town of Guadiz (€1.3 million) for the construction of a new distribution centre in Guadix, saying that the money should be spent on promoting new businesses and social projects in the community.
The supermarket chain has already begun work on the new logistics centre, which will include warehouses, a bakery and a storage and shipment area for dry products. The centre is expected to be completed in mid 2013.
A second phase, costing around €60 million, will see the introduction of facilities relating to fresh products.
Mercadona waived the financial aid as the company is in a strong financial position, having made a profit of €474 million in 2011.