Sainsbury’s celebrations of taking the number two spot from Asda proved short-lived with the announcement of the latest TNS Worldpanel data.
Earlier reports, based on data from ACNielsen had put Sainsbury’s ahead of Asda with a market share of 15.3 per cent for the 12 weeks to March 25, compared with Asda’s 15.2 per cent.
However, the TNS figures show that, for the 12 weeks ending March 26, Asda held onto the number two spot, with a share of 16.3 per cent, while Sainsbury’s managed 16 per cent.
However, Peter East, director of TNS Worldpanel said: “Asda’s share continues to be under pressure, with a growth rate of 1.9 per cent, which falls behind the average for total grocers of 2.8 per cent. Sainsbury’s faster and stronger growth of 4.2 per cent was not sufficient to grab the prized second place position in this period, despite market speculation to the contrary.”
Tesco meanwhile continues to lead the pack with a remarkably strong growth rate of 7.2 per cent, said East.
“It should also be noted that growth rates are generally lower this month - with Easter being so late this year, the seasonal uplift seen in this period last year will not be reflected until the next release on May 4, 2006,” he added.
An Asda spokesman said: "We've been saying for months no-one should be surprised if JS regain the number two spot. But watch out this year for some great Asda food ranges, more fantastic fashion from George, more great general merchandise, all backed up with even more low prices."
