Having previously held top spot in the 12 weeks leading up to March 29th of this year, SuperValu has reclaimed top spot from Tesco in Ireland with a market share of 24.6% compared to Tesco's 24.1%, according to the latest supermarket share figures from Kantar Worldpanel for the 12 weeks to November 8th.
SuperValu continues to reap the benefits of the rebranding of 24 Superquinn stores under its banner early in 2014 as it recorded a sales climb of 2.5%, its strongest growth since August 2013. David Berry, director at Kantar Worldpanel says the retailer has achieved this by "encouraging more repeat shopping trips. The average consumer has visited the retailer on two additional occasions and spent an extra €16 over the past quarter when compared with last year."
Elsewhere, Lidl continued to outperform all of its competitors, posting a sales growth of 11.2%, the only supermarket to post double-figure growth. According to Kantar, Lidl is "the only grocer to expand its customer growth during the past 12 weeks" and have increased its market to 8.7%.
Dunnes continues to post improved performances and is now the number one retailer in Dublin which it can thank for its growth in value sales of 3.3%. Tesco didn't enjoy as good a performance this time around, with a slight decline in value sales of 0.7%.
Berry continued; "The grocery market is arguably the most competitive retail sector and the latest figures emphasise this, with the three biggest retailers each within one percentage point of each other.
"Market share for Tesco has dipped to 24.1%, compared with 24.8% this time last year. With the prospect of a boost in consumer spending this Christmas, Tesco's festive offer is sure to be geared towards regaining the top spot at such a vital time of year."
Commenting on the news, Martin Kelleher, SuperValu Managing Director, said: “We are pleased to be recognised again as the largest grocery retailer in Ireland with 24.6% market share in the latest Kantar research and would like to thank customers for their loyalty. It reflects the strength of our community retail model, where independent retailers in cities and towns across the country are clearly seen to give Irish shoppers what they want.
“The market continues to be highly competitive and we remain focused on offering our customers the best combination of fresh quality food, commitment to Irish suppliers and value as we count down to Christmas.”
© 2015 - Checkout Magazine by Niall Swan
