Kantar Worldpanel has revealed that total UK grocery market sales increased by 0.1% in the 12 weeks to 6th December in comparison to the same time the previous year.
Head of retail and consumer insight at Kantar Worldpanel, Fraser McKevitt, said: “Although slow growth means a distinct lack of seasonal cheer for the market, the news is more positive for consumers looking to save this Christmas. Last year customers spent an average of £71.33 on their big Christmas shop but with falling prices set to continue, shoppers are likely to enjoy a cheaper Christmas this year. All supermarkets are cutting prices, particularly on staples like eggs and butter, with the cost of everyday groceries falling by 1.9% this month.”
Individual performances have shown that Sainsbury’s sales has risen 1.2% in the supermarket, convenience and online sectors and has seen its market share rise to 16.7%.
Mr McKevitt added: “Consumers continue to be drawn to the retailer’s ‘Taste the Difference’ range, and with sales of champagne and sparkling wine up by a quarter it seems clear that the grocer is successfully tapping into demand for premium goods. Sainsbury’s recent run of success predates its popular ‘Mog’s Christmas Calamity’ advert, with the retailer now having grown ahead of the market for three months in a row.”
