Local

Popular Latino grocery chain to open location in Merced. Here’s when and where

Merced’s business scene continues to grow, with a mix of new restaurants, coffee shops and dessert spots opening across the city.

The latest addition is Vallarta Supermarkets, which is preparing to open its first location in Merced County.

While city officials previously said the company was in the permitting stage, construction has now begun on the new store.

Here’s what to know:

The supermarket will occupy the vacant space next to Kohl’s at the Marketplace at Merced on West Olive Avenue.
The supermarket will occupy the vacant space next to Kohl’s at the Marketplace at Merced on West Olive Avenue. Angela Rodriguez arodriguez@modbee.com

What is Vallarta Supermarkets?

Vallarta Supermarkets was founded in 1985 by Enrique Gonzalez.

It began as a neighborhood carnicería — or Mexican butcher shop — in Southern California.

The company has grown into a major grocery chain with more than 50 locations across California, including two stores in Modesto and several in Fresno.

The chain is known for its fresh produce, in-house bakery items and traditional Mexican foods.

Vendor preview night a the new Vallarta Supermarkets store in Century Center in Modesto, Tuesday, Aug. 26, 2025.
Vendor preview night a the new Vallarta Supermarkets store in Century Center in Modesto, Tuesday, Aug. 26, 2025. Andy Alfaro aalfaro@modbee.com

Where will Vallarta Supermarkets open new grocery store?

The grocery store will occupy the vacant space next to Kohl’s at the Marketplace at Merced on West Olive Avenue.

Vallarta Supermarkets during a vendor preview in Modesto, Tuesday, Feb. 4 , 2025.
Vallarta Supermarkets during a vendor preview in Modesto, Tuesday, Feb. 4 , 2025. Andy Alfaro aalfaro@modbee.com

When will Vallarta Supermarkets open in Merced?

“The goal is late spring,” mall officials said.

However, an official date has not yet been announced.

Vallarta Supermarkets store in Century Center in Modesto, Tuesday, Aug. 26, 2025.
Vallarta Supermarkets store in Century Center in Modesto, Tuesday, Aug. 26, 2025. Andy Alfaro aalfaro@modbee.com

Is Vallarta Supermarkets hiring in Merced?

Vallarta Supermarkets is already gearing up for its opening with a job fair scheduled for Monday, April 27, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The hiring event will be held at 678 West 18th St. in Merced, with positions available for bakers, stockers and managers.

Starting pay is listed at $17.25 per hour.

Vallarta Supermarkets is already gearing up for its opening with a job fair scheduled for Monday, April 27, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Vallarta Supermarkets is already gearing up for its opening with a job fair scheduled for Monday, April 27, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Angela Rodriguez arodriguez@modbee.com
Angela Rodriguez
The Modesto Bee
Angela Rodriguez is a service journalism reporter for The Bee. She is a graduate of Sacramento State with a bachelor’s degree in journalism. During her time there, she worked on the State Hornet covering arts and entertainment.
Get unlimited digital access
#ReadLocal

Try 1 month for $1

CLAIM OFFER