The grocery market in Northern Ireland grew by 10.3% in the 52 weeks to 18 April. However, the data from Kantar shows that over the shorter 12-week period, growth slowed to 0.3% against tough comparatives with the same period last year when shoppers were picking up extra items to prepare for the first national lockdown.
Looking at individual retailer performances, Emer Healy, retail analyst at Kantar, said: “Tesco maintained its position as Northern Ireland’s biggest grocer with 35.5% of the market this period. Growth of 10.7% added an extra £126m to its overall sales.
“The second-largest retailer, Sainsbury’s, grew by 10%, with bigger baskets and more frequent trips adding an extra £50m to its takings. Meanwhile, Asda’s sales rose by 8.4% this period.
“Lidl was the fastest-growing retailer and increased overall sales by an impressive 17.9%. Its customers adding more items to their baskets contributed an additional £29.6m to their overall growth.”
The data also suggests that shoppers made an extra effort with their Easter celebrations this year. In the latest 12 weeks, alcohol sales and chocolate confectionery grew by 13.1% and 20.4% respectively year-on-year.
