Ricardo Álvarez took over Dia España in February 2020 at a time when the supermarket chain was on the verge of collapse, operating in outdated stores with an exhausted business model. Shortly after his appointment, the COVID-19 pandemic hit Spain, testing his leadership and the resilience of Dia, which required a significant restructuring to survive. With a side view of geopolitical tensions following the Ukraine war impacting its major shareholder, Mijaíl Fridman, Álvaez had to navigate complex operational and shareholder challenges.

Over six years, Dia has undergone a remarkable transformation, regaining profitability and expanding its reach. The chain opened 94 new stores in 2025 and revitalized over 2,400 private label products. A key part of this evolution has been the establishment of a profitable online channel that serves 84% of the mainland population, demonstrating the brand's adaptation to modern consumer preferences.

Álvarez also shared insights into the evolving role of kitchens in Spanish homes, suggesting that while they will not disappear, they are increasingly being utilized for leisure activities rather than just cooking. This shift reflects a broader change in consumer behavior, which is impacting retail chains like Dia as they look to align with new lifestyle trends.