Sainsbury’s was the only big four food retailer to gain market share during the worst Christmas for grocery retailers in seven years. 

Nielsen data has shown Tesco, Asda and Morrisons, as well as the Co-op, lost market share in the 12 weeks to January 4 while Aldi delivered the strongest trading in the market. 

Food sales grew 1.7% - their worst rate of growth for seven years - in the four weeks to January 4 while volumes declined 1.2%. 

Lower inflation and weak demand were cited by Nielsen as key reasons for grocery’s poor Christmas.

Aldi achieved the strongest growth of the major multiples with sales up 32.8% during the 12-week period.

Lidl’s sales rose 23.6%, Waitrose 8.6%, Iceland’s 2.9% and Sainsbury’s 2.1% as all recorded rises in market share. 

Tesco’s sales fell 0.6% and Morrisons’ declined 2%. Asda’s rose 0.4% and The Co-op’s 0.3%. 

Marks & Spencer’s sales rose 2.8% as it’s 3.3% share of the good market remained static. 

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