Sainsbury’s Grocery Sales Rise as Non-Food Sectors Falter

Strong food performance offsets declines in electronics and general merchandise amid poor weather and cautious consumer spending.

Sainsbury's reported a 4.8% increase in grocery sales in the first quarter, driven by robust volume growth.
Sales in non-food categories, including Argos, fell sharply due to poor weather and reduced consumer spending on non-essentials.
The company maintained its profit guidance for the year, despite challenges in the general merchandise sector.
Sainsbury's continues to gain market share from competitors, with more customers choosing it for their weekly grocery shopping.
Analysts highlight the impact of the cost of living crisis and inflation on consumer behavior, particularly in discretionary spending.