Leading supermarket chain Asda has today revealed a total sales growth of 7.1 per cent in its first quarter period from January 1st to March 31st 2012.
Like-for-like customer sales for the company over the first quarter, from January 8th to March 31st 2012, have gone up by 2.2 per cent and the basket spend in store has risen by 2.1 per cent in the same period.
Andy Clarke, CEO and President of the grocery firm, said he was pleased with the results and overall staff contribution, particularly at a time of wider economic uncertainty.
“I‘m proud of the work our stores, depots and teams at Asda House and George House put in during the quarter, to build on our end-of-year momentum and deliver market-leading growth,” Clarke said.
“Customers really valued our price leadership, the ongoing improvements in quality and our commitment to warm and friendly service.”
Further to this announcement, the fashion label George at Asda has improved its average supply times by slashing them down to between six and eight weeks.
Appealing to customer‘s appetite for fast fashion, the brand has improved rate of demand for the ‘Be Seen In‘ ranges.
With the continuing heavy downpours this spring, the retailer recently flew in six million worth of macs and wellington boots from its supplier in Turkey, GAAT.
Asda‘s recently announced acquisition of its Turkish partner‘s sourcing division as it continues efforts to improve its supply chain, as well as plans to branch out with stores in the Middle East and Channel Islands.
Further expansion of Asda will see two concept stores rolled out in Leicester and Bolden. Department store style, they will be a departure from the typical supermarket offering with improved flooring, lighting and display.
Lead Consultant at analyst group Conlumino, Matt Piner, attributes Asda‘s rise in sales to the retailer‘s ongoing commitment to providing value for money.
“As other supermarkets have seen growth slow considerably, Asda has gone from strength to strength, “Piner commented.
“Asda has also benefitted from its focus on value, with gloomy consumers once more looking to make savings when shopping for essentials.
“This is reflected in its particular success in core grocery and children‘s apparel, as hard-pressed shoppers look to slash their weekly bills for food and clothing.”
