Promotions for top Asda bosses

Wal-Mart has promoted Asda's two leading lights in recognition of its recent record trading.

Chief operating officer Tony DeNunzio has been promoted to president and chief executive officer - the role held by Paul Mason before his exit to Matalan. Richard Baker moves from deputy to chief operating officer.

Asda's threat to Sainsbury's number two position has been reconfirmed by the latest TNS Superpanel Till Roll Data. Asda's share was up 1.2 percentage points on last year to 16.2 per cent for the 12 weeks to September 15.

Sainsbury's share stands at 17.2 per cent.