Asda, the UK’s second-largest retailer, saw its underlying sales slow in the last three months of its financial year.

The company today (21 February) reported its like-for-like sales, excluding fuel, increased by 0.1% in the 14 weeks to 5 January. Asda’s share of grocery sales dipped from 17.5% to 17.3% year-on-year.

Discover B2B Marketing That Performs

Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.

Find out more

However, the quarterly result compared to a 1% rise for the full year when Asda increased its market share.

Reflecting on Asda’s fourth quarter, Asda CFO Richard Mayfield pointed to a “very strong Christmas in 2012” and the investment the retailer made in prices of what it called “essentials” – products like bread and milk.

“We are very pleased with growth on growth,” he said at a media conference in London today.

Asda did not provide figures for profit for the quarter or the full year. However, Mayfield said Asda’s work on costs meant its profits grew faster than sales. “We’re pleased with our profit performance,” he added.

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

Check back later for further coverage of Asda’s results and its comments on the horsemeat contamination scandal.

Just Food Excellence Awards - The Benefits of Entering

Gain the recognition you deserve! The Just Food Excellence Awards celebrate innovation, leadership, and impact. By entering, you showcase your achievements, elevate your industry profile, and position yourself among top leaders driving food industry advancements. Don’t miss your chance to stand out—submit your entry today!

Nominate Now