Barcelona to launch network of public supermarkets

Barcelona is planning to launch a network of public supermarkets to provide affordable fresh food, specifically targeting families struggling with rising inflation and food costs. The initiative will begin with a pilot project in the Marina neighborhood.

The stores will be located in municipal buildings but managed by third-sector, non-profit organizations rather than the local administration. The project is modeled after public supermarket concepts in New York and will be linked to professional training programs to create jobs and vocational skills.

Local business associations, such as Barcelona Comerç, have expressed concern regarding the impact on existing neighborhood shops. They argue that the city must consider areas with established commercial networks, such as Sant Antoni, El Clot, and Poblenou, to avoid unfair competition from public facilities that do not face the same rent and operational costs as private businesses.