Sainsbury’s records strongest growth of big four, Nielsen data reveals

Data for the 12 weeks to April 27 showed Sainsbury’s sales rose 5.3% ahead of Asda which recorded a 1.9% increase and Tesco and Morrisons which were up 1.2%. Morrisons has trailed its archrivals in recent months after losing ground over Christmas.

Aldi reported the strongest growth in the grocery sector, with sales up 21.1% ahead of 11.5% growth at Waitrose and 5.4% at Marks & Spencer.

The Co-operative was the laggard of the sector, recording growth of 0.4% in the period.

Nielsen’s UK head of retailer insight Mike Watkins: “With the absence of a national event to boost sales in the second quarter, the industry will look to the weather and well-executed promotions to help growth.

“The weather in April was unhelpful for sales and ‘spend on offer’ fell slightly to 34% of sales. While this level is still relatively high over the longer term, it’s lower than its peak of 37% in November 2011, which suggests that some promotional spend may now be being diverted into more regular vouchers and coupon programmes.”