The UK’s second largest grocer Asda delivered mid-single-digit like-for-like sales growth in 2007.

The Wal-Mart-owned grocer said total sales increased in “high single digits” for the 12 months to December 31. It also confirmed that Asda had started 2008 with “mid-single-digit” like-for-like sales growth.

Asda stores achieved some of the highest sales volumes across Wal-Mart’s global business.

Wal-Mart vice-chairman Mike Duke said: “During the year, Asda was a winner in the UK, being the fastest growing of the big four retailers. In fact, Asda achieved above-market average growth every single month this year.

“Asda has now added almost 2 million customers and 50 basis points of market share since the start of 2006.”

Asda chief executive Andy Bond said: “2007 was a vintage year for Asda. By exceeding all of our targets for the year we were able to share a£21 million bonus pot with more than 127,000 store and depot colleagues.

“Although 2008 will be a tougher year for consumers, with increasing energy costs and inflationary pressures on core items, we, along with other retailers, have a responsibility to keep a lid on inflation.”

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