Singles in Spain shop for love at Mercadona supermarkets

In Spain, a unique trend has emerged among singles seeking romance in an unconventional setting: grocery stores. Specifically, Mercadona supermarkets have become a hotspot for young people, particularly Gen Z, who are looking for love while shopping. This phenomenon has been fueled by social media and the observation of comedian Vivy Lin, who noted the influx of singles during the evening hours, particularly between 7 p.m. and 8 p.m. The idea is to create a casual atmosphere where individuals can connect over shared interests in food and cooking. To signal their availability, singles have adopted the pineapple as a playful symbol. An upside-down pineapple in a shopping cart indicates that the shopper is open to meeting others. However, the trend has led to high demand for fresh pineapples, often resulting in shortages. Lidia Izquierdo, a 19-year-old participant, shared her experiences of trying to find the right fruit to signal her intentions, highlighting the challenges faced by those engaging in this new dating culture. In addition to pineapples, different foods carry varying implications for relationship intentions. For instance, lentils are seen as a sign of seeking a long-term commitment, while lettuce is associated with short-term flings. This playful approach to dating has transformed the mundane act of grocery shopping into a social event, encouraging singles to interact in a relaxed environment. As this trend continues to gain traction, it reflects a broader shift in how young people are approaching dating in the digital age. By moving away from traditional dating apps, they are embracing more organic and spontaneous ways to meet potential partners, fostering connections in everyday settings.