Sainsbury's new ranges will focus on convenience

Sainsbury's plans a massive push on new ranges next year in an attempt to capitalise on the booming convenience food market, as well as strengthening its fresh offer.

The grocer believes that wowing customers with new ranges and product innovation could be the answer to its faltering turnaround.

Trading director Stephen Nelson said: 'I don't want to be specific about the individual elements, but we have a strong reputation in fresh (produce) and I want to extend that.

'Under convenience we have a wide range of opportunities, from chilled convenience foods through to sandwiches. I think it's an area where we can perform exceptionally well.'

Nelson has set up a dedicated product development team under Jean-Paul Barat, the former Selfridges and Harrods food boss, who joins on November 19.

Rival Asda recently doubled its Extra Special range to 500 products in an effort to boost its share of the premium market.