Asda is gearing up to launch up to 20 new smaller convenience stores later this year.
The initial Asda Express store will debut in Castleford in early October, with additional openings in various locations following shortly after. These compact stores will carry around 3,000 products, a mix of popular brands and Asda’s own label, focusing on daily essentials like bread and milk.
Targeting urban areas, residential neighborhoods, and transportation centers, these new stores are a result of Asda’s acquisition of 469 convenience stores and fuel sites from Co-op and EG Group. Asda’s first Express store was introduced in 2022.
David Lepley, Chief Supply Chain Officer, expressed excitement about expanding the Express concept to more areas nationwide. He highlighted the company’s rapid growth in the convenience store sector, from zero to nearly 500 stores within three years, emphasizing the commitment to providing affordable prices to local communities.
In a parallel development, Asda recently disclosed plans to revamp 180 in-store cafés as part of a £180 million investment. The upgrades will feature digital order screens, table service options, and the continuation of traditional manned tills.
The café menu will undergo a refresh, introducing new offerings like smashed avocado on toast, katsu chicken curry, salad bowls, wraps, nachos, loaded fries, and a selection of pizzas including margherita, pepperoni, and veggie options. Additionally, new beverages like flavored iced coffees and a variety of cakes will be available alongside classic menu items such as English breakfast, fish and chips, lasagne, and burgers.
The refurbishment project, managed by Compass Group, is slated for completion by the end of October. Asda, which currently has 205 cafés, will retain its popular Kids Eat for £1 promotion.
This announcement coincides with Asda’s ongoing commitment to enhancing its retail offerings and customer experience.
