Consumption of prepared meals in Spanish homes has risen 22% in volume and nearly 60% in value since 2019. This trend is accelerating due to demographic shifts and technological advances, drawing investments from manufacturers and supermarket strategies. Yet, it poses direct competition to the restaurant sector.
The prepared meals category is experiencing significant growth in Spain, driven by supermarket demand. According to Ministry of Agriculture data, in 2024 they increased 5.1% in kilograms consumed, outperforming the overall food market's 0.2% contraction. Up to July 2025, volume rose 5.8% and value 10.3%, reaching nearly 4,700 million euros.
Juan Roig, Mercadona's president, has emphasized 'ready to eat' as a priority, forecasting that home kitchens will vanish in 20 years. Chains like Dia and Consum view it as a strategic pillar. Enrique Porta from KPMG attributes this to demographic factors: greater urbanization, less free time, and rising single-person households, projected by INE to reach one-third by 2039, up 40%.
A consumer like 41-year-old María del Carmen says: “They suit me when I lack time to cook and, above all, to avoid wasting food”.
Supermarkets are expanding offerings, rivaling hospitality. A KPMG report shows 55% of operators see distribution as direct competition, with 63% expecting restaurant traffic drops, particularly in workplaces and among tourists.
Manufacturers are investing heavily. Raúl Martín of Familia Martínez (Mercadona supplier) forecasts 500 million euros in turnover and 150 million in expansions, highlighting flavor improvements via baked products. Blai Escoda of Bó de Debó anticipates 15% growth to 50 million this year and another in 2026, planning a new factory. Industrias Alimentarias de Navarra (IAN) spent 11 million on refrigerated lines, with Alejandro Martínez predicting double-digit expansion.
Challenges involve cutting additives and accommodating diverse diets. Porta notes gratins and pastas lead, but offerings must cover intolerances to solidify. Martínez concludes: “Spain has a strong cooking culture. I don't think they'll disappear, but they'll be used less”.