Although the spice producer cannot replicate the spectacular results of 2020, when a surge in food consumption during lockdown boosted turnover by almost 25%, Carmencita closed the last year strong. The numbers confirm the momentum built during the pandemic, reinforcing the company’s standing. Jesús Navarro SAU reported sales of €85 million, down €8 million from the previous year, a 9% decrease, yet still €10 million higher than the pre-pandemic figure, according to the company’s own disclosures.
Executives highlight that Carmencita solidified its position as the leading name in spice and seasoning preparation and sales in Spain. The company achieved success across all national distribution channels and holds about 60% of the domestic market by volume. It also produces roughly half of the sweeteners sold for domestic consumption in Spain, a strength largely attributed to a long-standing strategic alliance with Mercadona.
Regarding results, the firm noted the industry-wide impact of transportation bottlenecks, higher energy costs, and pricier raw materials. To shield consumers from the full rise in costs, Carmencita reduced margins. As a result, profits fell more sharply than turnover, dipping by 12% to 4.8 million euros. Still, this figure remains well above the pre-pandemic level, by more than three million euros.
These figures come from the leadership team at Jesús Navarro Navarro, a company that employs 415 workers, marking an 18% increase over two years. The workforce includes 213 men and 202 women, supported by an equity plan introduced in 2010. Approximately 88% of staff are on permanent contracts.
One of Carmencita’s production lines in Novelda. Axel Alvarez
Investments
On the investment side, Carmencita has committed more than two million euros toward modernizing the company in 2021, funding more efficient machinery and the completion of a new factory. The project, El Fondonet de Novelda, is being built on the company’s historic industrial site and is expected to be fully operational in 2023. The expansion will cover 27,000 square meters with a total investment of around 20 million euros.
In terms of sales geography, Carmencita directs about 88% of its revenue to the domestic market, while exports account for the remaining 12%. The main international customers include markets in the Arab world and various regions of South America. This year the company established a subsidiary in the United States to strengthen its presence there.
Carmencita will open a subsidiary in the United States this summer
This year the company unveils a refreshed image and plans to introduce a line of gourmet spice blends to celebrate its centenary, featuring a more ergonomic cap design.
The company also sustains its social commitment through the Alicante Gastronomic Solidarity initiative and established the Carmencita Chair for Taste Studies with the University of Alicante.