As the Christmas holidays approach, Spain’s leading companies Inditex and Mercadona are once again in the spotlight. Their directors, Marta Ortega and Juan Roig, have opted to delight their employees with exceptionally generous gifts—an acknowledgment of a successful year for both corporations. In 2025, Inditex and Mercadona not only strengthened their market positions but also set an example of employee care that has sparked discussions across the country.
The gifts employees of these giants will receive are impressive in both scale and attention to detail. While such bonuses used to be rare, they are now turning into a new corporate tradition, emphasizing the value of every team member. This year, Inditex and Mercadona have gone beyond standard incentives to create something truly memorable.
Inditex festive hamper
A lavish Christmas hamper has been prepared for Inditex’s 160,000 employees, including those at the iconic Zara brand. Valued at €200, the hamper features not only traditional delicacies but also exclusive products from Spain’s finest producers. Inside are a bottle of Malard champagne, two types of wine from the renowned Marqués de Riscal winery, and an array of treats: chocolate, biscuits, nut snacks, tinned fish, and even a unique textile souvenir.
Special attention is paid to details: each set comes with a personal greeting from Marta Ortega, and the packaging is made from recycled materials. The basket includes Galician-inspired products—from sardines to mussels—highlighting the company’s regional roots. This gift not only brings festive cheer, but also demonstrates respect for tradition and employees.
Bonuses from Mercadona
While Inditex has opted for sophisticated gifts, Mercadona has decided to surprise its 120,000 employees with both financial and non-financial bonuses. In 2026, every staff member will receive an extra payment equivalent to one month’s salary—a pleasant springtime surprise. This decision has already sparked discussions in business circles and among employees of other companies.
But Mercadona’s generosity doesn’t stop there. As another gift, the company is increasing annual leave for its employees from 30 to 37 days. What’s more, this measure is permanent rather than a one-off. This step highlights the company’s commitment not only to motivating staff, but also to supporting their wellbeing and work-life balance.
Record results and corporate culture
The successes of Inditex and Mercadona in 2025 prompted these large-scale rewards. Inditex reached a historic high on the stock market, with profits far exceeding those of its closest competitors. Mercadona is also showing impressive growth: over the past five years, sales have increased by more than 50% and profits have more than doubled. The company’s achievements are evident not only in Spain, but also in Portugal, where the supermarket chain is actively expanding.
This momentum allows companies to invest in developing corporate culture and to maintain a high level of employee loyalty. Gifts and bonuses are not just gestures of appreciation, but part of a strategy to retain top talent and foster a positive atmosphere within the team.
New standards for the market
The generous gifts from Inditex and Mercadona could set an example for other major employers in Spain. With fierce competition for skilled professionals, companies are having to find new ways to motivate and retain staff. Holiday bonuses and extra leave are just part of a comprehensive approach to human resources management that is becoming increasingly sought after.
Employees of both companies are already sharing photos of their gifts on social media and thanking management for their attention and care. For many, such gestures provide extra motivation to stay with the company and grow together. At the same time, these initiatives raise the bar for other market players, potentially leading to positive changes in employment practices across the country.
If you didn’t know, Inditex is the world’s largest clothing retailer, owning brands like Zara, Massimo Dutti, Pull&Bear, and Stradivarius. The company is headquartered in Galicia and employs over 160,000 people worldwide. Mercadona is Spain’s leading supermarket chain, owned by Juan Roig, with more than 120,000 employees and an extensive network of stores not only in Spain but also in Portugal. Both brands are renowned not only for their financial success but also for their focus on corporate culture and employee well-being.
