Overview
- The deal announced Friday will see Ocado’s Smart Platform replace Asda’s webshop, app, in‑store picking systems and last‑mile delivery software with rollout beginning in early 2027.
- Asda will retain control of pricing and product range and will continue to fulfil home delivery and click-and-collect orders from its roughly 1,100 stores and distribution centres rather than using Ocado’s robotic warehouses.
- The platform will add scheduled and short lead‑time ordering, improve route planning and allow Asda to fulfil orders placed through delivery apps such as Deliveroo, Just Eat and Uber Eats.
- Ocado said the agreement is not expected to materially affect its 2025/26 results and it reiterated guidance toward positive cash flow while markets pushed Ocado’s shares sharply higher on the announcement.
- For shoppers the change promises more delivery slots and more reliable availability, and for Asda it is a central step in Allan Leighton’s turnaround after sales were hit by a botched £1bn IT upgrade last year.