Asda CEO Andy Clarke claimed the UK’s second-largest grocer had put in a “strong performance in a tough market” after the retailer booked higher first-quarter like-for-like sales.

The UK arm of Wal-Mart Stores posted a 1.3% increase in like-for-like sales, excluding fuel, for the 14 weeks to 12 April. Asda said it had measured sales over 14 weeks so both the first quarters of 2013 and 2012 included Easter.

The retailer said its investment in cutting the price of “everyday essentials” like bread and milk had paid off.

It also said online sales were up 16% in the quarter. Last month, Asda announced plans to accelerate its investment in its multichannel business, including an expansion of its click-and-collect grocery business.

According to Kantar Worldpanel, Asda’s share of the UK grocery market was 17.5% for the 12 weeks to 14 April. A year earlier, it was 17.6%.

Click here to read more about Asda’s views on the competitive promotional enviroment.

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