Lorraine Williamson
A supermarket called Mercanona has been spotted in Venezuela, and both the name, logo, and products bear a striking resemblance to Mercadona, the well-known Valencian supermarket chain.
The similarities raise questions about whether this is a coincidence or an intentional copy.
Mercadona’s expansion and unexpected influence
Mercadona has established itself as one of Spain’s most popular supermarkets. Its success has even led to international expansion, with branches already open in Portugal. However, its influence appears to have reached much further, with an unexpected imitation surfacing across the Atlantic in Venezuela.
The case of Mercanona
The Venezuelan supermarket Mercanona seems to have drawn direct inspiration from Mercadona. The name differs by only one letter, while the logo and store layout closely mirror the Spanish original. The branding and overall shopping experience are eerily familiar to Spaniards who come across this unusual case.
A Spaniard who visited the store documented the experience in a YouTube video, speaking with employees to uncover more details about the supermarket’s origins. The footage highlights the obvious resemblance, at least from the exterior. Inside, the store is relatively small but offers a variety of typical local foods, beverages, and cosmetics. It also includes a small pharmacy and even a booth where customers can take pictures.
Denial of copying claims
One of the store managers denies that Mercanona is a copy of Mercadona and claims to not know the Spanish chain. She explains that the name derives from the traditional concept of a “popular market,” inspired by the idea of the market from “grandma’s time” where people could shop comfortably, even in pajamas.
Despite this explanation, the similarities remain difficult to ignore. The visual identity and branding of Mercanona are undeniably close to those of Mercadona, leading many to question whether the supermarket in Venezuela was simply inspired by the Spanish brand or deliberately attempting to replicate its success.
Future implications
For now, Mercanona continues to operate, attracting curiosity from visitors familiar with its Spanish counterpart. Whether Mercadona will take legal action remains to be seen, but the case highlights how major brands can unexpectedly influence businesses far beyond their home countries.
Also read: Spain´s favourite supermarkets revealed