Asda is gearing up to launch around 20 new convenience stores later this year. The first Asda Express store is scheduled to open in Castleford in early October, with more store openings across different locations following shortly. These express stores will offer a range of up to 3,000 branded and own-label products, including essentials like milk and bread.
These new stores will be strategically situated in urban areas, residential neighborhoods, and transport hubs. This expansion initiative comes after Asda successfully acquired 469 convenience store and fuel sites from the Co-op and EG Group. Asda marked its entry into the Express store format in 2022.
David Lepley, the Chief Supply Chain Officer, expressed excitement about the upcoming phase of the Express store rollout, emphasizing the company’s commitment to delivering exceptional value across the UK. Lepley highlighted the significant growth from zero convenience stores to nearly 500 stores within just three years, underscoring the confidence in Asda’s convenience strategy and dedication to offering competitive prices in local communities.
In a parallel development, Asda recently revealed plans to revamp 180 in-store cafes as part of a £180 million investment. The upgrades will feature digital ordering screens, table ordering services, and traditional manned tills. A revamped menu will introduce new offerings such as smashed avocado on toast, katsu chicken curry, salad bowls, wraps, and a sharing range including nachos and loaded fries.
Customers can also look forward to Asda pizzas on the new menu, with options for full 12″ pizzas or individual slices in various flavors. Additionally, new drink choices like flavored iced coffees and a selection of cakes will be available. The existing popular dishes like full English breakfast, fish and chips, lasagne, jacket potatoes, and burger and chips will continue to be offered.
The refurbishment, managed by Compass Group, is anticipated to be completed by the end of October. Asda, which currently operates 205 cafes, has confirmed that the Kids Eat for £1 promotion will remain accessible to customers.