Lidl emerged as Ireland’s fastest-growing major grocer as its sales climbed 10.3 per cent over the latest 12 weeks, new Worldpanel data revealed.

The discounter held a 14.8 per cent share of the Irish grocery market, with more frequent visits from existing customers and an influx of new shoppers boosting its performance.

New customers contributed an additional €46.3 million to Lidl’s sales over the period, according to Worldpanel by Numerator.

The growth came as take-home grocery sales across Ireland rose 5.8 per cent year on year in the four weeks to August 9.

Shoppers made 44 million grocery trips during the period, up 4.6 per cent on the previous year, while volumes increased 4.9 per cent.

Consumers spent an average of €635 per person over the four weeks as warm weather continued to drive demand for summer products.

Online grocery was a standout performer, with sales surging 27.6 per cent across the latest 12 weeks as shoppers spent an additional €54.1 million through the channel.

Worldpanel business development director Emer Healy said: “This summer’s warm weather has clearly put a spring in Irish shoppers’ step, with trips, volumes and spend all climbing.”

Despite Lidl recording the strongest growth, Dunnes Stores retained its position as Ireland’s largest grocer with a 24.1 per cent market share.

Dunnes’ sales increased 8.4 per cent year on year, helped by more frequent store visits and new customers, which together contributed an additional €53.9 million.

Tesco remained close behind with a 23.8 per cent market share as sales grew 7.9 per cent. Increased trip frequency and new shoppers added a combined €34.1 million to its performance.

SuperValu held a 19.4 per cent share and recorded sales growth of 3.8 per cent. It continued to lead Ireland’s major grocers for shopping frequency, averaging 24.4 visits per person over the period.

Aldi held a 10.9 per cent share, with new customers and more frequent visits contributing an additional €1.9 million in sales.

Promotions remained an important battleground for the sector, with Irish shoppers spending €829 million on promotional products during the latest 12 weeks.

Promotional sales rose 13.1 per cent year on year and accounted for 22.4 per cent of grocery spend.

Branded products also outpaced own label, with branded sales jumping 12.2 per cent in value and adding €200 million. Own-label sales increased 4.3 per cent, while premium own label grew 13.6 per cent.

Grocery inflation continued to ease, with like-for-like prices rising 3.87 per cent during the latest four-week period.

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