Asda to open first standalone ‘Asda Express’ convenience stores

Photograph by Richard Walker for Asda

The Asda Express stores will create 37 new jobs in the local communities they serve.

The supermarket said it plans to launch a further 30 sites, creating about 500 new roles, next year, as part of a ‘test & learn’ approach to developing its convenience model.

With sales in convenience stores forecast to grow by 13% to over £50bn by 2027, Asda says it “has a significant opportunity to grow sales and market share in a sector where it currently has a limited presence.”

Both Asda Express stores are purpose-built and located in residential areas giving customers the opportunity to shop in convenient neighbourhood locations.

Each store will stock around 3,000 products, including a range of fresh and chilled groceries, as well as products from Asda’s premium Extra Special range and a broad selection of beers, wines and spirits.

Customers will also enjoy a range of hot and cold ‘food for now’ options from Asda and partner brands including Leon, plus ‘food for later’ choices such as ready meals and a selection of £10 meal deals.

Both stores will also offer ‘toyou’ parcel collection and return services and shortly after opening will offer a rapid delivery service through Uber Eats.

The new Asda Express stores are wholly owned and operated by Asda. Asda also confirmed they are separate from the 132 convenience stores that Asda is acquiring from the Co-op Group. This transaction is expected to complete at the end of this month.

Retail Gazette