SuperValu, Ireland’s biggest grocer, has announced record sales of 2.6 billion sales last year, with a strong Christmas period and online shopping driving growth.

“We are pleased to announce that we have achieved a new sales milestone in what is a highly competitive marketplace,” said MD Martin Kelleher.

“The fact that we are the largest grocery retailer in Ireland clearly illustrates that we have the best offer in the market, with consumers responding to our commitment to fresh food leadership and opting for locally-sourced, quality Irish food.”

In other good news for the company, it recently overtook Tesco with 25% market share and plans to open five new stores in the coming year.