Asda is accelerating its push into the convenience store market in the UK with plans to open 300 Express stores over the next four years, creating 10,000 new jobs in the process.

Asda Express exterior pic2

Asda plans to open 300 c-stores by 2026

On the day the UK’s third largest grocer opened its second Asda Express store format, the retailer said it had plans to open 300 c-stores by 2026. 

With sales in convenience stores forecast to grow by 13% to more than £50bn by 2027, the retailer said the development of a c-store network is a “key part of Asda’s long-term growth strategy to become the UK’s second-largest supermarket”. 

Asda also said the Express concept would allow it to serve customers in areas where it does not have a superstore or supermarket nearby. 

The Express stores stock around 3,000 SKUs, including a comprehensive range of fresh, ambient and chilled grocery, as well as Asda’s premium Extra Special ranges and a broad selection of beers, wines and spirits. 

Asda co-owner Mohsin Issa said: “A key part of our growth strategy is to provide customers with more opportunities to shop at Asda closer to where they live or work. With more than three-quarters of the UK population visiting a convenience store in the last 12 months, the potential for growth in this market is significant. 

“Our ambition is to become the convenience destination of choice by providing shoppers with great value and a comprehensive and convenient range of products and services under one roof.”

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