A Mercadoría: Gran Canaria’s Ceramics Wonderland (Sold by the Kilo)
If your kitchen is crying out for a makeover, but your wallet is begging for mercy, there’s a little-known hero in the southeast of Gran Canaria. It’s called A Mercadoría, and it’s the island’s largest outlet for Portuguese ceramics where you don’t pay per piece, you pay per kilo. Yes, really.
🍽️ Ceramics by Weight, Not by Worry
A Mercadoría is tucked away in the industrial zone of Agüimes, which makes sense – it’s more warehouse than showroom. But what it lacks in quaint village charm, it makes up for in shelves and shelves of colourful, high-quality stoneware.
Plates, bowls, cups, serving dishes… all imported from Portugal, with that perfectly imperfect artisanal feel. You grab what you like, they pop it on the scale, and voilà – your new tableware collection, priced fairly and without the usual markups.
📍 Where to Find It
Address: Calle Yuca 9, Agüimes, Gran Canaria
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 10:00–14:00 and 16:00–20:00 (closed Sundays)
There’s parking right outside the entrance, and no need to dress up – this is strictly come-as-you-are shopping.
🪴 What You’ll Find Inside
Every visit feels like a bit of a treasure hunt. The stock changes regularly, depending on what’s just arrived from the factories in Portugal. Some pieces are overstock from major brands, others are second-grade – with tiny imperfections that give them character (and make them cheaper).
Expect to find:
- Minimalist plates in every colour of the rainbow
- Rustic mugs, espresso cups and matching saucers
- Deep pasta bowls, salad platters, and serving trays
- Decorative pieces like vases, ramekins, or surprise finds you didn’t know you needed
💶 Extra Perks (Even Cheaper Than Kilo Prices)
While most items are sold by weight, some pieces have fixed prices that are even cheaper than the kilo rate. Think small cups for a euro or so, stacks of plates at clearance-level deals, or bundles you can mix and match without doing mental maths.
It’s bargain hunting with style – and very easy to lose track of time.
💡 Tips for a Smooth Visit
- Bring a sturdy shopping bag or box – they do provide packing materials, but your own setup will help
- Come with an idea of what you need (but be ready to improvise)
- If you’re gifting, go wild and mix colours or sets – it’s part of the charm
- Watch their Instagram @amercadoria for new arrivals and flash promos
🎁 Why It’s Worth the Detour
A Mercadoría is not in a touristy area, and that’s exactly why it’s special. It’s where locals go when they want functional, stylish kitchenware without paying boutique prices. Whether you’re kitting out a new flat, sprucing up your holiday home, or just can’t resist a cute mug moment, this place delivers.
🌟 Final Glaze
A Mercadoría isn’t fancy, but it’s full of charm. It’s honest, practical, and a little bit thrilling if you like your shopping with a side of surprise. You never know what you’ll find, but odds are good it’ll make your table a whole lot prettier.
