More going to discount supermarkets
Better-off families plan to use discount supermarkets more this year as the chains broaden their appeal across the market, a survey has suggested.Almost a third (31%) of shoppers say they will use discounters such as Aldi and Lidl more this year, according to the latest IGD ShopperVista poll.
The figure is up from 24% a year ago and is at the highest level since the monthly tracking survey began in 2010.
Those from higher socio-economic groups with children are the most likely to use discounters more this year at 39%, compared with 30% of lower income-earners with children, the poll found.
Among all age groups, younger shoppers aged 18 to 24 are the most likely to use discounters in the year ahead (39%), compared with 26% of those aged 55 and over.
Chief executive of food and grocery industry analysts IGD, Joanne Denney-Finch, said: "Events like the Jubilee weekend, Euro 2012 and the Olympics are boosting food and grocery sales, while lower inflation is helping British shoppers.
"The underlying trend, however, is still one of shoppers putting more effort into their food shopping while contending with considerable pressures on their household budgets.
"Even better-off shoppers, especially those with children, are looking to discount stores to save money as they feel the squeeze.
"While they remain a small part of the overall grocery market - representing just 4.5% - discounters have been broadening their appeal to help even higher-income shoppers to tighten their belts."
Aldi's UK managing director of buying Tony Baines said: "Sales are going from strength to strength, and we're welcoming new shoppers to Aldi every day."
Chief executive of food and grocery industry analysts IGD, Joanne Denney-Finch, said: "Events like the Jubilee weekend, Euro 2012 and the Olympics are boosting food and grocery sales, while lower inflation is helping British shoppers.
"The underlying trend, however, is still one of shoppers putting more effort into their food shopping while contending with considerable pressures on their household budgets.
"Even better-off shoppers, especially those with children, are looking to discount stores to save money as they feel the squeeze.
"While they remain a small part of the overall grocery market - representing just 4.5% - discounters have been broadening their appeal to help even higher-income shoppers to tighten their belts."
Aldi's UK managing director of buying Tony Baines said: "Sales are going from strength to strength, and we're welcoming new shoppers to Aldi every day."
© 2013 Press Association