Juan Roig, the president of Mercadona, forecasted in 2019 that by the middle of the 21st century, kitchens would become obsolete as the importance of cooking diminishes in households. His remarks encapsulated a growing trend within the food industry, highlighting the increasing reliance on prepared meals. Mercadona, which has been actively expanding its 'Ready to Eat' section, now offers these premade meals in nearly all of its stores, emphasizing a strategic focus that has proven profitable, bringing in approximately 1 billion euros and accounting for 3.3% of the company’s total revenue.

The rise in prepared meals reflects broader changes in consumer behavior, particularly among busy households seeking convenience without sacrificing quality. Roig's comments resonate with food industry experts who note a shift in dining cultures, driven by factors such as time constraints and changing lifestyles. The increasing financial success of ready-to-eat products underscores their growing acceptance, marking a departure from traditional home-cooked meals.

This transformation suggests that grocery retailers will continue to adapt their strategies to align with consumer preferences, potentially reshaping retail food offerings significantly. As more companies follow suit and innovate in the prepared meal sector, this trend may redefine not just the grocery market but also how meals are perceived and consumed in society.