Sainsbury’s has hit its first year convenience store target as it seeks to build further the convenience side of the business.

The grocer opened 51 convenience shops in the year to March 20, after targeting 50 openings, and plans a further 100 this year as it takes advantage of available space.

Property director John Rogers said he hopes to “maintain this trajectory going forward”. He added there is a “tremendous opportunity” in an “increasingly fragmented market”.

Sainsbury’s now operates 335 convenience stores. The grocer said it will also continue to expand its supermarket format, with Rogers adding that there are “300-odd locations” to target. He said there were “significantly” more opportunities to open convenience stores.