Asda to create up to 12,000 jobs with store expansion plan

7th Apr 2014 13:25

Wal-Mart owned supermarket chain Asda has unveiled plans to open 100 further stores and create as many as 12,000 jobs in the next five years. The group, which is third largest of the so-called 'Big Four' food retailers, wants to expand its store numbers, particularly in the south and south east, significantly. In addition to its existing 577 UK outlets, the group is looking to open 100 supermarkets, 1,000 click-and-collect points, 40 superstores, as well as 150 petrol stations. Wal-Mart Chief Executive Officer Doug McMillon, who met with Prime Minister David Cameron at the Clapham Junction Asda store on Monday, said: "A seismic shift in the structure of the retail market is underway - not just in the UK - but right across the world. "Asda recognised the change in its market and took early action to develop and implement a strategy that will see it grow - creating more new jobs and bringing real value to more customers in the UK." The company, which currently has 17% of the market share, initiated the strategy in November. Cameron added that the job creation would provide people with financial security. NR