Tenerife’s Nuestra Señora de África Market Becomes First Spanish Retailer to Join World Union of Wholesale Markets

The Nuestra Señora de África Market in Santa Cruz de Tenerife has reached a major milestone by becoming the first retail food market in Spain to gain full membership in the World Union of Wholesale Markets (WUWM).

This achievement puts the Tenerife market on equal footing with major distribution hubs like Mercamadrid and Mercabarna. As a full member, the market’s managing cooperative now has a vote in the WUWM’s global assemblies, where leaders set the standards for the future of sustainable and modern food trade.

The WUWM evaluation committee praised the market for successfully blending its 1943 heritage with modern digital and commercial needs. They specifically highlighted the market’s resilience, its role in boosting local tourism, and its strong commitment to selling locally sourced products.

This is not the first time the market has gained international attention; The Guardian previously named it one of the ten best food markets in the world. For the market’s management, this new membership is a significant boost for traditional trade in the Canary Islands.

By joining an organization that represents nearly 200 members across 44 countries, the Santa Cruz de Tenerife market has opened a new window to the world. In an era where local markets must compete with large retail chains and online shopping, this recognition confirms that focusing on excellent customer service and local identity is the best way to keep traditional markets thriving in the 21st century.