Sainsbury’s third quarter sales down 1.1%
Supermarket Sainsbury’s has reported a 1.1% decline in its third quarter like-for-like sales excluding fuel following a drop in sales of general merchandise and clothing.
While grocery sales edged up 0.4% in the 15 weeks to 5 January, general merchandise and clothing sales fell by 2.3% and 0.2% respectively.
Mike Coupe, group chief executive of J Sainsbury, said: “General merchandise sales grew strongly over the key Christmas weeks and outperformed the market over the quarter. Sales declined in the quarter due to cautious customer spending and our decision to reduce promotional activity across Black Friday. Clothing performed well, with strong full price sales growth in a tough market.”
The retailer said its convenience stores achieved a new record on Christmas Eve as customers did their big Christmas shop later than usual this year.
Looking ahead, Coupe said: “Retail markets are highly competitive and very promotional and the consumer outlook continues to be uncertain. However, we are well placed to navigate the external environment and remain focused on delivering our strategy.”
