Asda has now paid £107 million in bonuses to its staff since a performance-related bonus scheme was introduced in 2000, when Asda was bought by Wal-Mart.

Asda chief executive Andy Bond said: “Once again, it’s the hard work and enthusiasm of our colleagues that has made the business such a success this year. It is only fair that we share the rewards with all the colleagues who helped make it happen.”

More than 45,000 employees from 118 stores and 21 depots will receive a full bonus entitlement for outperforming their targets, with a pay out of£420 for every full-time employee in store to hit the a “super bonus” threshold.