Asda has edged ahead of Primark to become Britain’s second-largest clothing retailer by volume.

Sales of clothing for the supermarket’s apparel brand George soared 6 per cent in the 24 weeks to the middle of September

This means that Asda's market share is now 9.5 per cent while Primark’s market share fell from 10 per cent to 9.3 per cent, according to The Times.

According to data from TNS, volume sales for Primark dropped 10 per cent on last year for the 24 weeks to September 14.

Asda is now only behind Marks & Spencer in the UK for volume of clothes sold. George managing director Anthony Thompson has said the Asda label will overtake M&S as Britain’s biggest clothing retailer by 2011.

Thompson, a former retail director for M&S, has refocused George’s clothing offer more towards the over-40 shopper and mothers with young children.

It has also concentrated on basics such as socks and underwear. Its recent trading figures have been boosted by back to school offers.

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