May 30th, Canary Islands Day, is commemorated in an archipelago that, according to some sources, is exhibiting policies that, instead of fully protecting workers or small producers, could be fostering fierce competition among large operators, protected by public subsidies and aid that allegedly act as a lifeline for multinationals and large chains. This reality, which does not always appear in official discourse, is reportedly having significant consequences.
In this context, a new trade battle appears to be emerging with repercussions in the south of Gran Canaria, where a standoff between Mercadona and Lidl, two large chains with opposing strategies and practices that, according to some sectors, could be affecting the survival of local production. It is reported that Mercadona has imposed restrictions on its dairy product suppliers to prevent them from supplying Lidl and Aldi, German supermarkets with a consolidated presence on the island and which traditionally catered to the demand of tourists, mainly Germans, seeking to purchase Canarian dairy specialties.
If this situation is confirmed, many regular customers, mostly tourists, would have been deprived of the option to purchase products made with local milk at Lidl, generating frustration and possibly changes in consumer habits. This potential commercial maneuver would not only change the market but could also be interpreted as a strategy to control access to certain products.
At the same time, this controversy has reportedly reignited debate within the sector about the commercial practices of large hard-discount operators in Gran Canaria. Some producers consulted by Maspalomas24H are reportedly closely analyzing the possible existence of underpriced sales—a tactic presumed to be used to attract customers—and how these practices could affect local competition and the value chain of Canarian products. Cases such as coffee and processed dairy products are reportedly receiving special attention, given that selling below cost could harm producers and distort the market.
While Mercadona and Lidl are leading this commercial challenge, other chains have emerged as an alternative for tourists and residents seeking Canarian dairy products without sacrificing quality or authenticity. In supermarkets in southern Gran Canaria, it would be possible to find a wide variety of dairy products typical of the island, such as Flor de Guía cheese, Majorero cheese from Fuerteventura, and artisanal derivatives from Lanzarote and Gran Canaria. Furthermore, well-known brands such as Flor de Guía, Quesería Bentayga, and Quesos La Cumbre would be present on the shelves, offering a range that could satisfy both local and visiting consumers.
This scenario could reflect not only the tensions between large retail chains in the Canary Islands, but also the importance of promoting local dairy products in an increasingly competitive and globalized market. The reaction of tourists, who, faced with difficulties shopping at Lidl, would have opted for other local supermarkets, could be an indicator that demand for authentic Canarian dairy products and cheeses remains strong. Finally, studies on aggressive commercial practices, such as alleged underselling, could lead to stricter regulations to protect the local economy, seeking a balance between competitiveness and sustainability for producers and consumers.
