UK supermarkets sales rise 8.7% despite cautious consumer spending

Total Till sales at UK supermarkets increased 8.7% in the last four weeks ending 4 November 2023, according to new data released today by NIQ .

This growth is against the backdrop of slowing inflation and an increase in promotional activity (24%, up from 21% last year) by supermarkets as well as consumers uncertain about spending.

The data also revealed an improvement in volume sales of -0.2% in the last four weeks compared with this time last year.

However, with the average spend per visit increasing to £20.20 (up from £18.60 this time last year), it said “shoppers remain cautious” when spending on food and drinks and are likely preserving their spending power ahead of the festive season.

This has impacted sales for general merchandise, such as halloween items, toys, clothing and homewares, with weak sales of -4.9% at major supermarkets.

NIQ data also revealed that a slow down in inflation has led to a decrease in supermarket visits compared with last year, as shopping behaviours have begun to normalise.

Online sales have grown +5.1%, with the online share of FMCG remaining at 11%.

The Halloween and half term period led to an uplift in confectionery sales (+15.3%), and it was the category that experienced the highest value growth in sales over the four week period.

This was followed by meat, fish and poultry (+10.4%) and packaged grocery (+10.2%). However, beer, wine and spirits (+2.3%) and household (+2%) had weaker growth.

But, as the holiday season draws closer, it’s expected that there will be more momentum in sales for beer, wine and spirits as shoppers will take advantage of promotions to stock up for Christmas.

In terms of retailer performance, Aldi (+17.7%) and Lidl (+19.1%) continued to grow market share.

Meanwhile, Sainsbury’s (10%), Tesco (+9.6%) and M&S (+14.4%) also had strong sales growth. Additionally, the report stated that Ocado (+11.5%) grew its market share “at a very important time in the year”.

Mike Watkins, NIQ’s UK head of Retailer and Business Insight, said: “This Autumn, shoppers have been carefully managing their grocery budget and making trade offs with other spending which means the supermarkets will need to get shoppers into the mood to spend as we get closer to December.

“Christmas campaigns will be more important than usual as shoppers are looking for smart savings and good reasons to spend. Many shoppers will be holding out for a few more weeks with the hope of not missing out.”

He added: “All eyes will now be on the top two retailers, Tesco and Sainsbury’s to pull off a strong performance in the weeks ahead. M&S will also be optimistic of significant growth and we also expect the discounters Aldi and Lidl to gain market share this Christmas. All five retailers are also expected to drive strong growth in premium food and drink when shoppers finally embrace the festive spirit.”