Louise

A record 385,000 customers ordered groceries online in the week before Christmas whilst Argos click and collect services grew nearly 16%.

Much of this growth is likely to have been driven by new store openings, with like for like sales figures not provided by the grocer.

Updated: Jan 7, 2019 KF anticipate yields of 4.25% on index linked grocery stores ​ SUPR average yield is 4.9%, therefore prediction suggests 13% upside to current valuations That could be supported by Tesco returning to investment grade (Fitch up-graded Tesco to BBB- in October) and Sainsbury’s move to investment grade post merger with ASDA. Tesco’s strong … Read more

Sainbury’s interim results revealed that the failed Asda merger had been a distraction to the core business with profits significantly down (albeit appearing worse due to one off costs). Despite this it was positive to see a renewed focus on improving margins and investment in core supermarkets. Key takeways: Sainsbury’s profits down but heavily impacted … Read more

Since the collapse of the Sainsbury’s Asda merger, investors have been cautiously looking at Sainsbury’s for clarity on their new strategy and whether this includes current Chief Executive Mike Coupe, the architect of the proposed merger or a new successor. In September the share price rose 12% as Coupe committed himself to continuing to lead … Read more

Despite the collapse of the proposed merger with Sainsbury’s, investors had much to cheer with profits, sales and like for likes all increasing in the year to December 2018. Operating profit increased 9% (declined by 13% in 2017 Full year revenue increased by 2% Like for like sales were up 1.6% Pre tax profit was … Read more

At a recent capital markets day Tesco gave an insight into one way they are seeking to improve competitiveness against online retailers such as Amazon. The grocer demonstrated technology that would allow customers to pick produce from shelves in stores and walk out without having to scan them or pay at a till. A series … Read more

With the Tesco share price up c20% this year, there was more good news for investors today with Moody’s Investors Service announcing that it has upgraded the Tesco plc credit rating to Baa3; stable outlook. Moody’s senior credit officer David Beadle said, “today’s upgrade reflects the improvement in Tesco’s operating profit over the last few years … Read more

With previous online distribution partner Ocado striking a new £1.5bn deal with rival operator Marks and Spencer, Waitrose has announced its new online strategy. The grocer has partnered with Today Development Partners (TDP), an ecommerce platform founded by ex Google and Ocado alumni Waitrose is intending to develop three new customer fulfilment centres over the … Read more