Grocery enjoys 5 per cent growth
The UK's grocery market has grown by 5 per cent over the past year, according to the latest figures from market research firm TNS.

Tesco, Asda, Sainsbury's and Morrisons all posted strong growth rates, ahead of the overall UK market. These top four supermarkets now account for over three-quarters of UK grocery trading.

TNS director of research Edward Garner said: 'While there are media reports of potentially poor Christmas trading in other retail sectors, there appear to be no signs of a slowdown in grocery.'

Waitrose is well-placed to enjoy a strong Christmas, demonstrating the strongest growth, at 11 per cent year-on-year.

Garner said: 'This is likely to lead into a record Christmas for [Waitrose], as shoppers traditionally adopt more upmarket buying patterns in the run-up to the big day.'

However discount retailers, such as Aldi, Lidl and Netto, also achieved a record total share of 5.5 per cent, helped by store openings and acquisitions.

According to TNS, intense competition in the sector has proved tough for independent retailers - Kwik Save in particular.

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