Sainsbury's has recorded a total sale increase of 8.4 per cent during the second quarter (Q2) of 2008, with like-for-like sales excluding fuel up 7.5 per cent.

'This is a good result and given the current environment shows how the strength and the broad appeal of the Sainsbury's brand has improved substantially during the past four years,' said group CEO Justin King. 'During the quarter we continued to develop our offer to help customers manage tighter budgets without the need to sacrifice food quality.'

Mr King highlighted the strength of the group's own brand products and marketing strategies, including the 'Feed you Family for a Fiver' advertising campaign. He added that the Sainsbury's discount 'basics' range had now grown to 550 products.

Sales from the retailer's online operations also jumped by over 25 per cent during the second quarter, and now operates out of 165 stores, he noted.

'The economic environment remains particularly challenging and we expect this to continue throughout the second half, but we have developed the Sainsbury's offer to perform in these conditions,' Mr King said. 'Sainsbury's is a robust business with a wide customer base and universal appeal and we are well positioned as we approach the Christmas trading period.'

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