Asda, the British supermarket chain, is set to open 116 convenience stores across the UK over the next few months as part of its plan to become the country’s second-largest supermarket chain. Last year, Asda acquired 132 Co-op sites in a deal worth £439 million. The company has already opened 11 stores and has plans to convert the Co-op stores in Dereham Road in Norwich and Lowestoft Road in Hopton-on-sea into Asda Express locations.
Mohsin Issa, co-owner of Asda, expressed excitement about the expansion into the convenience market and the welcoming of over 2,000 former Co-op colleagues into the Asda family. The conversions are expected to be completed by March of next year, although there is no specific date announced for the opening of the Norfolk locations.
This move by Asda comes as the convenience market in the UK continues to grow at a fast pace. With these new stores, Asda aims to tap into this growth and increase its market share. The company’s expansion into convenience stores is also a response to changing consumer behavior, as more people are seeking smaller, more convenient shopping options in their local communities.
Asda is known for offering competitive prices and a wide range of products, including groceries and fuel. With the opening of these new convenience stores, the company plans to bring its value and range of products to more communities across the UK. This strategic move is expected to help Asda gain a stronger foothold in the supermarket industry and compete more effectively against other major players in the market.
