Sainsbury’s is back in the number two spot, according to latest data from market analysts ACNielsen.
The data for the last quarter, 12 weeks to March 25, claims Sainsbury’s market share has risen to 15.3 per cent, compared with Asda’s 15.2 per cent.
Eleni Nicholas, group MD for ACNielsen UK and Ireland said: “Sainsbury's has been working hard to improve performance, with lower prices and improved availability, as recognised by its customers. In addition we are seeing a trend towards healthy eating, and traditional Sainsbury's shoppers have always recognised the importance of a balanced diet.”
According to ACNielsen’s Homescan panel, existing Sainsbury’s shoppers visited the store more frequently over the last year, while more customers have been attracted back to the supermarket. The combination of more visits and more shoppers has contributed significantly to Sainsbury's growth in sales - up 6.5 per cent excluding petrol, according to its fourth quarter trading statement.
Meanwhile, the industry will be waiting for the latest TNS data, due out this afternoon, to see whether it confirms ACNielsen’s findings.
