The UK grocery market is witnessing an increased polarisation of consumer spending, as growth at high-end retailers and deep discounters outpaces the overall market.

According to the latest figures from Kantar Worldpanel, the total UK grocery market saw an increase in sales of 4.8% during the 12 weeks to 15 May, up from the 2.6% growth witnessed in March. Sales during the period were boosted by Easter shopping, the good weather and the Royal Wedding, the research firm suggested.

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Kantar added that there is further evidence of “two nations” developing when it comes to consumer spending, with both the discounters and Waitrose showing strong growth.

Aldi and Lidl both booked double-digit growth, with Aldi achieving an all-time record share of 3.4% and Lidl maintaining its record 2.6% share.

Meanwhile, Waitrose sales rose 8.8% in the period, increasing its share to 4.3%.

“A rising tide lifts all boats and the top retailers performed well this month buoyed by the lifted market growth rate,” communications director Edward Garner added.

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Tesco and Morrisons increased their market share to 30.7% and 11.9% respectively, while Sainsbury’s share remained static at 16.3%.

Of the UK’s top four multiples, Asda was the only one to lose share posting growth behind the market at 3.5%. The retailer saw its market share drop to 16.6% compared with 16.8% last year.