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Billionaire Profile
Hortensia Herrero
Global Rank
#783

Image: 19Tarrestnom65 | CC BY-SA 4.0 | via Wikimedia Commons

Hortensia Herrero

CEO, Supermarkets
SPAIN
Real-Time Net Worth
$5.424B
Estimated based on Supermarkets stock value as of April 20, 2026
0% (24h)
Age
75
Source
Supermarkets
Industry
Fashion & Retail
Citizenship
SPAIN

Biography

Hortensia Herrero is a Spanish billionaire businesswoman and philanthropist. As Vice President and co-owner of Mercadona, one of Europe's largest supermarket chains, she has played a key role in the company's success. Her estimated net worth is $5.6 billion as of 2024. Herrero, along with her husband Juan Roig, acquired a significant stake in Mercadona in 1981, and has since been instrumental in its growth and expansion to over 1,700 stores. Beyond her business ventures, Herrero is deeply committed to philanthropy. She founded the Hortensia Herrero Foundation to support the arts and culture in Valencia, where she resides. Her career has been defined by significant achievements in both the business and cultural spheres.

Fact Checked
Verified by Editorial Team
Live Data
Updated 4/20/2026

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life and Education

Hortensia María Herrero Chacón was born on May 20, 1950, in Valencia, Spain. She earned a degree in Economics from the University of Valencia. There, she met her future husband, Juan Roig.

Rise to Success

In 1981, Hortensia, along with her husband Juan Roig, acquired a stake in Mercadona. Together, they transformed the then-small chain of eight stores into a retail powerhouse. Hortensia has served as the Vice President of Mercadona since 1990.

Key Business Strategies

Mercadona, under the leadership of Juan Roig and with Hortensia's involvement, has implemented several key strategies, including a focus on private-label products, supply chain efficiency, and customer-centric operations. The company also has a Total Quality Management model.

Philanthropy

Hortensia is a dedicated philanthropist, with a passion for preserving Valencian heritage, supporting contemporary art, and promoting dance initiatives. In 2012, she established the Hortensia Herrero Foundation, which has funded significant restoration projects and educational programs. The foundation supports the arts and culture in Valencia.

Career Milestones

1981

Acquisition of Mercadona

Hortensia, with her husband, bought the company, starting its expansion.

1990

Vice President of Mercadona

Assumed the role of Vice President of Mercadona.

2012

Hortensia Herrero Foundation

Founded the Hortensia Herrero Foundation to support arts and culture.

2014

Freedom of the City of Valencia

Awarded the Freedom of the City of Valencia.

2023

Hortensia Herrero Art Centre Opening

Opened the Hortensia Herrero Art Centre in Valencia.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Arts and Culture

Hortensia Herrero Foundation

N/A

Supports arts, culture, and heritage in Valencia

Heritage Preservation

Restoration of San Nicolás Church

$10M

Funding for the restoration of the historic church.

Heritage Preservation

Restoration of Santos Juanes Church

$6M

Funding for the restoration of the historic church.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

"Her work supports the arts and the cultural heritage of Valencia."

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