---
title: UK grocers media reputation tracker – H1 2026
canonical_url: https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-grocers-2026-h1
type: dataset
publisher: Omniscan
sector: UK Grocers
period: H1 2026
coverage_start: '2026-01-01'
coverage_end: '2026-06-30'
date_published: '2026-09-01'
last_updated: '2026-09-01'
organisations: 11
articles_analysed: 7987
mentions: 14438
data_download: https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-grocers-2026-h1/data.json
summary: Tesco had the highest average monthly share of coverage (14.5%) among 11
  grocers in UK earned media from 1 January 2026 to 30 June 2026, ahead of Sainsbury's
  (11.8%) and Aldi (11.5%).
---

# UK grocers media reputation tracker: H1 2026 (1 January 2026–30 June 2026)

> Tesco had the highest average monthly share of coverage (14.5%) among 11 grocers in UK earned media from 1 January 2026 to 30 June 2026, ahead of Sainsbury's (11.8%) and Aldi (11.5%). Aldi had the most favourable net tone (+62). Omniscan analysed 7,987 articles containing 14,438 mentions of the grocers tracked.

Interactive version: https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-grocers-2026-h1

## UK Grocers ranking by share of coverage, H1 2026

| Rank | Organisation | Average monthly share of coverage | Mentions | Positive | Neutral | Negative | Net tone |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| 1 | Tesco | 14.5% | 2,141 | 44% | 40% | 16% | +28 |
| 2 | Sainsbury's | 11.8% | 1,731 | 39% | 41% | 20% | +19 |
| 3 | Aldi | 11.5% | 1,671 | 67% | 27% | 6% | +62 |
| 4 | Morrisons | 10.9% | 1,590 | 25% | 41% | 34% | −9 |
| 5 | Asda | 10.8% | 1,586 | 37% | 37% | 26% | +11 |
| 6 | Lidl | 10.3% | 1,422 | 66% | 25% | 9% | +57 |
| 7 | M&S | 9.4% | 1,394 | 52% | 32% | 16% | +36 |
| 8 | Waitrose | 7.6% | 1,089 | 47% | 33% | 20% | +28 |
| 9 | Co-op | 5.5% | 778 | 51% | 33% | 16% | +34 |
| 10 | Ocado | 4.7% | 645 | 41% | 38% | 21% | +20 |
| 11 | Iceland | 3.0% | 391 | 51% | 36% | 13% | +38 |

## Monthly share of coverage, UK Grocers

| Organisation | January 2026 | February 2026 | March 2026 | April 2026 | May 2026 | June 2026 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Tesco | 15.6% | 13.4% | 13.4% | 15.4% | 13.7% | 15.6% |
| Sainsbury's | 10.7% | 12.1% | 11.9% | 12.7% | 11.4% | 12.2% |
| Aldi | 12.7% | 11.3% | 11.7% | 10.2% | 11.1% | 11.9% |
| Morrisons | 11.3% | 10.8% | 10.2% | 10.5% | 11.0% | 11.3% |
| Asda | 9.9% | 10.5% | 12.2% | 9.6% | 11.3% | 11.3% |
| Lidl | 11.5% | 10.6% | 11.2% | 9.5% | 10.0% | 9.0% |
| M&S | 9.7% | 8.1% | 8.7% | 10.3% | 9.8% | 10.1% |
| Waitrose | 6.3% | 7.9% | 7.9% | 8.2% | 7.8% | 7.4% |
| Co-op | 4.7% | 6.1% | 6.2% | 6.0% | 5.1% | 5.0% |
| Ocado | 4.9% | 6.4% | 3.5% | 3.7% | 5.4% | 4.1% |
| Iceland | 2.6% | 2.8% | 2.9% | 3.8% | 3.4% | 2.1% |

## Grocers in detail

### Tesco

**Tesco sustains benchmark lead as coverage broadens beyond value**

Tesco ranked 1st of 11 by average monthly share of coverage (14.5%) in the UK Grocers benchmark for H1 2026, with 2,141 mentions and a net tone of +28.

January coverage combined Christmas sales, decade-high grocery market share, profit guidance, Clubcard activity and the return of Value branding. February and March broadened the agenda through the proposed 70-store Express expansion, Whoosh growth, increased hourly pay and additions to Tesco Media’s leadership. April paired full-year results and a cautious profit outlook with the extension of Aldi Price Match to Express stores, personalised Clubcard marketing and the rollout of QR codes across 13 own-label sausage lines. Store matters and governance became more prominent in May, including Gateshead vacancies, executive remuneration and the equal-pay litigation. February 2026: share fell 2.2 points to 13.4% while Tesco remained first; stories included the proposed opening of 70 Express stores and Which?’s large-basket price comparison. June 2026: share rose 1.9 points to 15.6% as volume increased to 979; stories included slower quarterly sales growth and the launch of Clubcard access for 16 and 17-year-olds. February 2026: Reuters examined the rapid expansion of Tesco’s Whoosh delivery service. April 2026: Tesco partnered with Adobe to deepen personalised marketing using Clubcard data — Reuters. May 2026: Tesco defended its position in the store-versus-warehouse equal-pay case — Financial Times. Tesco is restoring its blue-and-white Value stripes for an Everyday Low Prices campaign on 3,000 products. The initiative forms part of its efforts to compete with Aldi and complements Aldi Price Match and Clubcard Prices.

Key messages:

- January 2026: Tesco reported Christmas sales growth and its highest grocery market share in more than a decade — BBC.
- Tesco is restoring its blue-and-white Value stripes for an Everyday Low Prices campaign on 3,000 products. The initiative forms part of its efforts to compete with Aldi and complements Aldi Price Match and Clubcard Prices.
- Tesco's Clubcard Unpacked report found Red Bull had become the most popular meal-deal drink, while the Chicken Club Sandwich and Protein Egg Pot remained the leading main and snack. The report also detailed regional differences in Clubcard purchasing preferences.
- Tesco Clubcard vouchers can be converted at double value into EasyJet Holidays credit, subject to booking and usage restrictions. The article explains the redemption process and other travel reward partners.
- The article reports that Tesco’s UK sales growth has slowed, with the Iran war said to be weighing on consumer sentiment. The available text provides no further financial detail.
- Tesco was the most expensive retailer in a weekly comparison of eight grocery staples, with a basket costing £13.75, narrowly above Sainsbury's at £13.73. Lidl had the lowest basket price at £13.21, followed by Aldi, Asda and Morrisons.

Leading themes:

- Financial & analyst: 17.6% of Tesco's coverage (theme index 2.13, net tone +28)
- Pricing & promotions: 17.4% of Tesco's coverage (theme index 1.06, net tone +9)
- Product & range: 16.1% of Tesco's coverage (theme index 0.73, net tone +24)

Notable positive coverage:

- 7 January 2026, standard.co.uk: [Tesco brings back nostalgic 90s feature amid supermarket price war](https://www.standard.co.uk/news/uk/tesco-nostalgic-90s-feature-supermarket-price-war-b1265410.html). Tesco is restoring its blue-and-white Value stripes for an Everyday Low Prices campaign on 3,000 products. The initiative forms part of its efforts to compete with Aldi and complements Aldi Price Match and Clubcard Prices.
- 8 January 2026, independent.co.uk: [Coke loses top spot as Tesco meal deal drink of choice – but egg pot remains favourite](https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/food-and-drink/tesco-meal-deal-red-bull-drink-b2896863.html). Tesco's Clubcard Unpacked report found Red Bull had become the most popular meal-deal drink, while the Chicken Club Sandwich and Protein Egg Pot remained the leading main and snack. The report also detailed regional differences in Clubcard purchasing preferences.
- 8 January 2026, rte.ie: [Tesco forecasts profit at upper end of guidance after Christmas sales rise](https://www.rte.ie/news/business/2026/0108/1552044-tesco-quarterly-results/). Tesco forecast full-year adjusted operating profit at the upper end of guidance after UK Christmas sales rose 3.2% and it gained market share. The retailer cited value, product quality, service, Clubcard and Aldi price matching as growth drivers.

Notable negative coverage:

- 18 June 2026, insidermedia.com: [Tesco sales growth slows amid ‘uncertainty’ linked to Iran conflict](https://www.insidermedia.com/news/national/tesco-sales-growth-slows-amid-uncertainty-linked-to-iran-conflict). The article headline reports that Tesco's sales growth slowed amid uncertainty linked to the Iran conflict. The page content was unavailable.
- 15 June 2026, gazettelive.co.uk: [I tried the UK's most popular Tesco meal deal - one part was horrific](https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/whats-on/food-drink-news/best-tesco-meal-deal-choice-34105849). A reviewer tries Tesco's most popular meal-deal combination: a Chicken Club Sandwich, Egg Protein Pot and Red Bull. The Egg Protein Pot is reviewed very negatively, while the sandwich and drink receive more favourable comments.
- 15 June 2026, msn.com: [Tesco's UK sales growth slows as Iran war weighs on consumers](https://www.msn.com/en-gb/money/other/tesco-s-uk-sales-growth-slows-as-iran-war-weighs-on-consumers/ar-AA25XdwL). The article reports that Tesco’s UK sales growth has slowed, with the Iran war said to be weighing on consumer sentiment. The available text provides no further financial detail.

- [Tesco deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-grocers-2026-h1?entity=tesco&view=deep-dive)
- [Tesco PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-grocers-2026-h1/reports/tesco.pdf)

### Sainsbury's

**Sainsbury’s holds second as coverage broadens beyond grocery value**

Sainsbury's ranked 2nd of 11 by average monthly share of coverage (11.8%) in the UK Grocers benchmark for H1 2026, with 1,731 mentions and a net tone of +19.

The small difference between those measures reflects the heavier tracked-company volumes later in the window, when Sainsbury’s shares were generally higher than in January. January coverage centred on strong Christmas grocery sales being offset by weaker Argos and non-food trading, alongside Simon Roberts’s forecast that food inflation would ease. February widened the agenda through a proposed 300-role reduction, facial-recognition errors, Taste the Difference passing £2bn in sales and approval for the first Dumfries supermarket. March and April combined longer-term farming agreements and the Tonbridge flagship expansion with scrutiny of profit expectations, energy costs and conflict-related uncertainty. May brought further estate and range evidence through the first English airport store, the Costa café expansion and seasonal Tu and wine coverage. February 2026: share rose 1.4 points to 12.1% and rank improved from fifth to second; contemporaneous developments included the proposed reduction of around 300 roles and a facial-recognition error at Elephant and Castle. April 2026: share increased 0.8 points to 12.7% and rank improved from third to second; stories included Sainsbury’s conflict-related profit warning and its call for government support on food-sector energy costs. March 2026: Reuters covered Sainsbury’s £5bn commitment to long-term agreements supporting more than 2,500 UK farms.

Key messages:

- January 2026: Reuters reported 5.4% Christmas grocery growth alongside weaker Argos and non-food trading.
- Sainsbury's is launching a two-year graduate programme for nearly 50 people at its store support centre. The scheme will develop digital and AI skills intended to support future business growth.
- Sainsbury's raised fiscal 2026 retail free-cash-flow guidance to more than £550m from more than £500m after third-quarter and Christmas sales growth. It reaffirmed its retail underlying operating-profit guidance.
- Sainsbury's CEO Simon Roberts said UK food inflation is expected to keep falling in 2026, aided by more stable commodities and lower employer-cost pressure than in 2025. Industry data showed grocery inflation eased to 4.3% in the four weeks to December 28.
- Sainsbury's is offering a Valentine's Day dine-in deal for Nectar members at £18 for two people, including a starter, main, side, dessert and drink. The promotion runs from 10 to 14 February and includes more than 30 dishes.
- Sainsbury's plans to open a supermarket in a former Homebase unit in Dumfries, subject to council approval of a planning-condition change. The proposed store would create about 100 jobs and give Sainsbury's its first location in the town.

Leading themes:

- Product & range: 21.8% of Sainsbury's's coverage (theme index 1.04, net tone +28)
- Pricing & promotions: 18.4% of Sainsbury's's coverage (theme index 1.12, net tone −18)
- Financial & analyst: 14.1% of Sainsbury's's coverage (theme index 1.56, net tone +24)

Notable positive coverage:

- 7 January 2026, thisismoney.co.uk: [Sainsbury's launches graduate programme with focus on AI](https://www.thisismoney.co.uk/money/markets/article-15441337/Sainsburys-launches-graduate-programme-focus-AI.html). Sainsbury's is launching a two-year graduate programme for nearly 50 people at its store support centre. The scheme will develop digital and AI skills intended to support future business growth.
- 9 January 2026, wsj.com: [Sainsbury’s Raises Free-Cash-Flow Outlook After Sales Growth](https://www.wsj.com/business/retail/sainsburys-raises-free-cash-flow-outlook-after-sales-growth-676b753a). Sainsbury's raised fiscal 2026 retail free-cash-flow guidance to more than £550m from more than £500m after third-quarter and Christmas sales growth. It reaffirmed its retail underlying operating-profit guidance.
- 9 January 2026, reuters.com: [UK food inflation to continue to fall in 2026, says Sainsbury's boss](https://www.reuters.com/world/uk/uk-food-inflation-continue-fall-2026-says-sainsburys-boss-2026-01-09/). Sainsbury's CEO Simon Roberts said UK food inflation is expected to keep falling in 2026, aided by more stable commodities and lower employer-cost pressure than in 2025. Industry data showed grocery inflation eased to 4.3% in the four weeks to December 28.

Notable negative coverage:

- 27 March 2026, independent.co.uk: [Tesco and Sainsbury’s non-loyalty brand prices more expensive than Waitrose](https://www.independent.co.uk/news/business/tesco-waitrose-asda-aldi-sainsbury-b2946678.html). Which? found Sainsbury's and Tesco non-loyalty customers paid more than Waitrose shoppers for a 245-item branded grocery basket, while Asda was cheapest. The study also highlighted lower loyalty-card prices at Tesco, Sainsbury's and Morrisons.
- 30 June 2026, belfasttelegraph.co.uk: [More inflationary pressure to come through supply chain – Sainsbury’s boss](https://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/business/uk-world/more-inflationary-pressure-to-come-through-supply-chain-sainsburys-boss/a/158028109.html). Sainsbury's boss is reported to have warned that further inflationary pressure could come through the supply chain.
- 26 February 2026, independent.co.uk: [Sainsbury’s puts 300 jobs at risk amid head office restructure](https://www.independent.co.uk/news/business/sainsburys-ocado-england-chinese-tesco-b2928063.html). Sainsbury's has put around 300 roles at risk across its supermarket and Argos businesses through changes to technology, data and head-office operations. It is also introducing new convenience-store leadership roles and restructuring Argos delivery operations.

- [Sainsbury's deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-grocers-2026-h1?entity=sainsburys&view=deep-dive)
- [Sainsbury's PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-grocers-2026-h1/reports/sainsburys.pdf)

### Aldi

**Aldi regains second place as coverage broadens beyond price**

Aldi ranked 3rd of 11 by average monthly share of coverage (11.5%) in the UK Grocers benchmark for H1 2026, with 1,671 mentions and a net tone of +62.

Aldi’s position weakened through the spring, reaching fifth place and 10.2% in April despite continued reporting on expansion and value. Visibility peaked in January 2026 at 12.7%, compared with 10.2% in April 2026. January 2026: Aldi reported £1.65bn of Christmas sales, up 3%, in The Guardian. February 2026: share fell 1.4 points to 11.3% and rank moved from second to third despite six more mentions; stories included Aldi’s second staff pay rise of the year. May 2026: share rose 0.9 points to 11.1%, volume increased by 33 and rank improved to fourth; stories included the start of operations at the £500m Bardon distribution centre. February 2026: Aldi announced a second pay rise in two months for more than 28,000 hourly paid workers, reported by Reuters. March 2026: Aldi ended its Greenwich checkout-free shopping trial, reported by The Grocer. April 2026: Aldi committed £1.1bn to British egg production through five-year supplier agreements, reported by The Grocer. Aldi reported £1.65bn of Christmas-period sales, up 3%, while premium own-brand sales rose more than 12%. Lidl reported 10% Christmas sales growth, and Aldi reiterated plans for 80 UK store openings over two years. The Grocer’s Super Grocer 33 price comparison named Aldi the cheapest major UK supermarket for a seventh consecutive time, with a 33-item basket costing £55.49. The article says this was £22.04 cheaper than Waitrose, the most expensive comparator.

Key messages:

- Visibility peaked in January 2026 at 12.7%, compared with 10.2% in April 2026.
- January 2026: Aldi reported £1.65bn of Christmas sales, up 3%, in The Guardian.
- Aldi reported £1.65bn of Christmas-period sales, up 3%, while premium own-brand sales rose more than 12%. Lidl reported 10% Christmas sales growth, and Aldi reiterated plans for 80 UK store openings over two years.
- Aldi reported record Christmas sales of £1.65bn, up 3%, as shoppers sought to reduce festive grocery spending. Lidl also reported record sales, up 10% to £1.1bn, as both discounters expanded their UK estates.
- Aldi has proposed a £10m store in Devizes, Wiltshire, on a former motorcycle-training site. The proposed development includes 40 jobs, 97 parking spaces and EV charging points.
- Aldi's UK business will raise pay for more than 28,000 hourly paid store workers for a second time in two months, to at least £13.50 an hour outside London from April. The increase overtakes Lidl GB's latest rate and reflects competition for retail workers.

Leading themes:

- Product & range: 25.1% of Aldi's coverage (theme index 1.21, net tone +68)
- Store estate: 23.8% of Aldi's coverage (theme index 1.41, net tone +64)
- Pricing & promotions: 21.1% of Aldi's coverage (theme index 1.32, net tone +78)

Notable positive coverage:

- 5 January 2026, standard.co.uk: [Aldi’s Christmas sales rise to £1.65bn](https://www.standard.co.uk/business/business-news/german-lidl-aj-bell-tesco-ireland-b1264949.html). Aldi reported £1.65 billion in Christmas-period sales, up 3%, alongside a record 57 million transactions. Premium Specially Selected sales rose more than 12%, and the retailer reiterated plans to expand its UK store estate.
- 5 January 2026, independent.co.uk: [How Aldi defied the odds to report a £1.65bn Christmas sales boost](https://www.independent.co.uk/news/business/aldi-christmas-sales-low-cost-supermarket-b2894505.html). Aldi reported £1.65bn of Christmas-period sales, up 3%, while premium own-brand sales rose more than 12%. Lidl reported 10% Christmas sales growth, and Aldi reiterated plans for 80 UK store openings over two years.
- 5 January 2026, theguardian.com: [Aldi reports record Christmas sales after shoppers moved to cut festive grocery bills](https://www.theguardian.com/business/2026/jan/05/aldi-record-christmas-sales). Aldi reported record Christmas sales of £1.65bn, up 3%, as shoppers sought to reduce festive grocery spending. Lidl also reported record sales, up 10% to £1.1bn, as both discounters expanded their UK estates.

Notable negative coverage:

- 1 May 2026, bbc.com: [Leominster residents slam Aldi plans amid town expansion](https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/czr2770nv4po). Plans for a replacement Aldi store as part of a 1,650-home development in Leominster have drawn more than 1,000 objections. Some residents oppose relocating the centrally located store, while Herefordshire Council is due to determine the plans.
- 14 February 2026, facebook.com: [Two more supermarkets follow Aldi with 5% price rise on key grocery 📈](https://www.facebook.com/ManchesterEveningNews/posts/two-more-supermarkets-follow-aldi-with-5-price-rise-on-key-grocery-/1373172024845159/). A Manchester Evening News post says that two further supermarkets followed Aldi in raising the price of a key grocery item by 5%. The post itself does not identify the other retailers.
- 15 June 2026, mirror.co.uk: [Best supermarket fish fingers UK: 93p pack beats Birds Eye in taste test](https://www.mirror.co.uk/lifestyle/food-drink/best-supermarket-fish-fingers-uk-37296112.amp). A taste test compares own-label fish fingers from seven UK supermarkets with Birds Eye. Aldi's Everyday Essentials pack is ranked last in the visible results, while the article says a 93p supermarket pack won overall.

- [Aldi deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-grocers-2026-h1?entity=aldi&view=deep-dive)
- [Aldi PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-grocers-2026-h1/reports/aldi.pdf)

### Morrisons

**Morrisons moved between third and sixth as coverage themes shifted**

Morrisons ranked 4th of 11 by average monthly share of coverage (10.9%) in the UK Grocers benchmark for H1 2026, with 1,590 mentions and a net tone of −9.

January combined improved Christmas trading and a £381 million annual loss with food-inflation warnings, More Card extensions and a renewed middle-aisle offer. February retained fourth place as stories covered potential pharmacy disposals, a possible £1 billion property financing deal and Morrisons Daily initiatives. March brought the lowest share and sixth place, alongside first-quarter sales growth, checkout replacement and Easter price activity. Share and rank improved in April, when coverage included about 200 Bradford head-office roles at risk and the dispute over a dismissed store manager. May's share rose but its rank fell to fifth as Morrisons announced plans to close around 100 loss-making convenience stores and explored supplying Myton products to rival supermarkets. June produced a large volume increase within a much larger cohort news total, with stories spanning slower sales growth, football promotions, product recalls and convenience openings. Visibility peaked in January 2026 at 11.3%, compared with 10.2% in March 2026. March 2026: share fell 0.6 points to 10.2% and rank moved from fourth to sixth; stories included 2.8% first-quarter like-for-like sales growth and a proposed restructuring affecting about 100 head-office roles. April 2026: Morrisons began consultation on about 200 potential redundancies at its Bradford headquarters — BBC.

Key messages:

- Visibility peaked in January 2026 at 11.3%, compared with 10.2% in March 2026.
- January 2026: Morrisons reported a £381 million annual pre-tax loss alongside improved Christmas trading — The Independent.
- Applied Nutrition is launching more than 50 high-protein food products in Morrisons stores. The range includes prepared meals, cheese, pizzas, smoothie mixes and ice cream.
- Morrisons is recruiting a Data Product Manager and Data Science Manager as it shifts towards a more product-focused approach to data. The new roles will support development of data products and models for business needs.
- Morrisons has reduced prices on more than 2,500 products from 2 January, spanning fresh food, branded groceries and household essentials. The supermarket said the cuts were intended to help customers manage the cost of their weekly shop.
- Morrisons has launched a £7 Valentine’s Giant Cookie alongside other themed food products including sushi, ravioli and doughnuts. The article presents the range as affordable and appealing.

Leading themes:

- Store estate: 21.0% of Morrisons's coverage (theme index 1.22, net tone −47)
- Pricing & promotions: 20.2% of Morrisons's coverage (theme index 1.25, net tone +13)
- Product & range: 17.0% of Morrisons's coverage (theme index 0.79, net tone −10)

Notable positive coverage:

- 1 January 2026, stack3d.com: [Applied Nutrition launches over 50 high-protein foods at Morrisons](https://www.stack3d.com/2026/01/applied-nutrition-meals-at-morrisons/). Applied Nutrition is launching more than 50 high-protein food products in Morrisons stores. The range includes prepared meals, cheese, pizzas, smoothie mixes and ice cream.
- 2 January 2026, retailtechinnovationhub.com: [Morrisons in recruitment mode as UK retailer reshapes how it looks at data](https://retailtechinnovationhub.com/home/2026/1/1/morrisons-in-recruitment-mode-as-uk-supermarket-giant-reshapes-how-it-looks-at-data). Morrisons is recruiting a Data Product Manager and Data Science Manager as it shifts towards a more product-focused approach to data. The new roles will support development of data products and models for business needs.
- 2 January 2026, thegrocer.co.uk: [Morrisons kicks off new year with 2,500 more price cuts](https://www.thegrocer.co.uk/news/morrisons-kicks-off-new-year-with-2500-more-price-cuts/713453.article). Morrisons has cut prices on 2,500 products across fresh food, grocery and household lines from 2 January. The move forms part of efforts to improve value and recover market share.

Notable negative coverage:

- 17 June 2026, reuters.com: [Morrisons' sales growth slows in 'highly competitive' UK grocery market](https://www.reuters.com/world/uk/uk-supermarket-morrisons-sales-growth-slows-highly-competitive-market-2026-06-17/). Morrisons reported 2.2% like-for-like sales growth in its second quarter, down from 2.8% in the prior quarter, amid highly competitive trading conditions. The retailer said first-half EBITDA rose 5.7%, while industry data showed it lagging Tesco, Sainsbury's and Lidl.
- 29 June 2026, in-cumbria.com: [Morrisons apologises as 'do not eat' warning issued due to crisp recall](https://www.in-cumbria.com/news/26235451.morrisons-crisp-recall-do-not-eat-warning-issued/). Morrisons is recalling Maple & Bacon Back of the Net crisps because they may contain undeclared milk due to a packaging error. The FSA has issued a do-not-eat warning for affected 140g packs dated 22 August.
- 30 June 2026, mirror.co.uk: [Morrisons closing 100 UK stores as 7 sites named](https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/morrisons-close-100-stores-uk-37366627). Morrisons plans to close around 100 loss-making convenience stores, placing hundreds of jobs at risk, with seven locations named. The retailer says the closures form part of a £1 billion turnaround and cost-saving programme amid rising labour costs and intense competition.

- [Morrisons deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-grocers-2026-h1?entity=morrisons&view=deep-dive)
- [Morrisons PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-grocers-2026-h1/reports/morrisons.pdf)

### Asda

**Asda’s recovery narrative broadened but competitive visibility stayed uneven**

Asda ranked 5th of 11 by average monthly share of coverage (10.8%) in the UK Grocers benchmark for H1 2026, with 1,586 mentions and a net tone of +11.

It began in sixth place on 9.9% in January, when reporting centred on weak Christmas trading, debt pressure, an expanded price promise and plans to outsource George fulfilment. March marked its strongest competitive position, rising 1.7 percentage points to 12.2% and second place. Asda fell to sixth on 9.6% in April as the agenda shifted towards stores, including George conversions, a laundry-machine rollout and the Biggleswade parking dispute. May brought a recovery to third place and 11.3%, alongside the Ocado online-operations agreement and a smaller first-quarter sales decline. June’s share was unchanged at 11.3%, but coverage volume rose sharply within a much larger tracked-company news market as product stories, the £989 million pre-tax loss and logistics job risks all featured. Visibility peaked in March 2026 at 12.2%, compared with 9.6% in April 2026. January 2026: Asda expanded its price promise to undercut rivals’ loyalty-card prices, reported by The Independent. March 2026: share rose 1.7 percentage points to 12.2% and rank improved from sixth to second; stories included the reported one-third earnings fall, improving availability and temporary forecourt shortages. March 2026: Asda reported a 33% fall in 2025 core profit and positive March like-for-like sales, reported by Reuters.

Key messages:

- Visibility peaked in March 2026 at 12.2%, compared with 9.6% in April 2026.
- January 2026: Asda expanded its price promise to undercut rivals’ loyalty-card prices, reported by The Independent.
- The article promotes George at Asda's £20 leopard-print wide-leg jeans and other items in its new fashion range.
- Asda launched its Valentine's Day dine-in deal at £12 for a starter, main, two sides, dessert and drink. The offer runs from 5 to 15 February and costs £14 in Asda Express stores.
- George at Asda's Stacey Solomon lemon-yellow cotton bedding set is being promoted at half price, with selected sizes available online and in stores. Some sizes are currently out of stock online.
- Asda plans to convert 10 Asda Living sites into standalone George stores during 2026, beginning in Peterborough on 12 March. The stores will offer expanded fashion and home ranges, updated layouts and self-scan checkouts.

Leading themes:

- Product & range: 20.4% of Asda's coverage (theme index 0.96, net tone +32)
- Pricing & promotions: 19.2% of Asda's coverage (theme index 1.18, net tone +40)
- Store estate: 13.6% of Asda's coverage (theme index 0.75, net tone +24)

Notable positive coverage:

- 28 January 2026, prima.co.uk: [George at Asda's £20 leopard print jeans are a fresh way to wear denim this spring](https://www.prima.co.uk/fashion-and-beauty/fashion-tips/a70156135/asda-leopard-print-wide-leg-jeans/). The article promotes George at Asda's £20 leopard-print wide-leg jeans and other items in its new fashion range.
- 5 February 2026, independent.co.uk: [Asda’s Valentine’s Day dine-in deal has landed – and it costs £6 a head](https://www.independent.co.uk/extras/indybest/valentines/asda-valentines-day-meal-deal-2026-b2913655.html). Asda launched its Valentine's Day dine-in deal at £12 for a starter, main, two sides, dessert and drink. The offer runs from 5 to 15 February and costs £14 in Asda Express stores.
- 22 February 2026, cosmopolitan.com: [Lemon yellow is spring's biggest colour and Asda's £12 cushion is the easiest way to try it in your home](https://www.cosmopolitan.com/uk/lifestyle/interiors/a70453801/lemon-yellow-asda-cushion/). The article promotes George at Asda's £12 lemon-yellow "Olive You" slogan cushion. It highlights the washable cotton homeware product's spring styling and online and in-store availability.

Notable negative coverage:

- 19 June 2026, independent.co.uk: [Asda tumbles to near-£1bn loss amid heavy price cutting](https://www.independent.co.uk/news/business/asda-walmart-press-association-b2999214.html). Asda reported a £989 million pre-tax loss for 2025, compared with a £599 million loss the previous year. The loss included a £656 million one-off IT-separation cost, while price investment and weaker sales also reduced profitability.
- 21 June 2026, winsfordguardian.co.uk: [Asda isssues major update to customers amid huge losses for company](https://www.winsfordguardian.co.uk/news/national/uk-today/26213934.asda-isssues-major-update-customers-amid-huge-losses/). Asda reported a £989 million pre-tax loss for 2025, compared with a £599 million loss in the prior year, including a £656 million one-off IT-separation cost. Like-for-like sales excluding fuel fell 3.1%, while Asda said it retains strong liquidity and is pursuing a turnaround focused on lower prices.
- 4 June 2026, thenational.scot: [Asda to cut 1000 jobs as supermarket chain makes further push into automation](https://www.thenational.scot/news/26165805.asda-cut-1000-jobs-supermarket-makes-automation-push/). Asda is restructuring logistics operations and consolidating part of its George online clothing business at a DHL-operated Derby warehouse. The automation initiative could put up to 1,000 jobs at risk.

- [Asda deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-grocers-2026-h1?entity=asda&view=deep-dive)
- [Asda PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-grocers-2026-h1/reports/asda.pdf)

### Lidl

**Lidl’s visibility broadened as competitive standing fluctuated**

Lidl ranked 6th of 11 by average monthly share of coverage (10.3%) in the UK Grocers benchmark for H1 2026, with 1,422 mentions and a net tone of +57.

Lidl began third in January with an 11.5% share, alongside independent reporting on record Christmas sales and plans for 19 stores and 640 jobs. Its position subsequently varied between fifth and seventh, with April’s 9.5% share and seventh place coinciding with reporting on a £600m expansion programme, an advertising ban and rejected store plans. In May, Lidl rose one place to sixth as coverage included its move ahead of Morrisons to become Great Britain’s fifth-largest grocer and criticism of changes to Lidl Plus rewards. June produced a sharp increase in volume to 564 but a lower 9.0% share and seventh place within a much larger cohort news agenda; stories included the Cooper caterpillar cake, the first Middle Ale pub and further store development. January 2026: Lidl reported a 10% Christmas sales rise to more than £1.1bn — Reuters. February 2026: share fell 0.9 points to 10.6% and rank moved from third to fifth; contemporaneous reporting included Lidl’s 5.5% entry-level pay rise. February 2026: Lidl announced a 5.5% rise in entry-level store pay — Reuters. March 2026: Lidl raised its 2030 food-waste reduction target to 70% — Circular Online. Lidl said it had a record-breaking Christmas, serving 51 million shoppers, four million more than a year earlier. Demand was supported by champagne, luxury party food and produce sales.

Key messages:

- January 2026: Lidl reported a 10% Christmas sales rise to more than £1.1bn — Reuters.
- Lidl GB reported a 10% sales increase to more than £1.1bn in the four weeks to Christmas Eve, supported by record shopper numbers and Lidl Plus membership growth. The discounter opened around 40 UK stores in 2025 and may overtake Morrisons in market share.
- Lidl said it had a record-breaking Christmas, serving 51 million shoppers, four million more than a year earlier. Demand was supported by champagne, luxury party food and produce sales.
- Lidl has confirmed it will open 19 stores across England over the next eight weeks, creating up to 640 jobs. It will also invest around £43 million in revamping more than 70 UK shops after reporting a 10% Christmas sales increase.
- Lidl received permission to sell alcohol at its planned Wolverhampton store, subject to licensing conditions including CCTV and staff training. The development will also include homes, parking and an estimated 40 jobs.
- Residents have appealed to the Welsh government against Lidl's approved plan for a supermarket near Llantwit Major. Opponents argue the development would harm the rural landscape and is poorly suited to walking and cycling.

Leading themes:

- Store estate: 25.2% of Lidl's coverage (theme index 1.49, net tone +59)
- Product & range: 17.4% of Lidl's coverage (theme index 0.8, net tone +34)
- Pricing & promotions: 15.7% of Lidl's coverage (theme index 0.94, net tone +73)

Notable positive coverage:

- 2 January 2026, independent.co.uk: [Lidl sells over 30 million mince pies as Christmas sales surge](https://www.independent.co.uk/bulletin/news/lidl-christmas-sales-mince-pies-record-b2893481.html). Lidl reported a record UK Christmas period, with sales up 10% to more than £1.1bn and customer numbers up 8% year on year. The retailer also cited strong sales of mince pies, seasonal produce and Champagne.
- 2 January 2026, breakingnews.ie: [Lidl sales surge 10% in ‘record-breaking’ Christmas](https://www.breakingnews.ie/business/lidl-sales-surge-10-in-record-breaking-christmas-1847580.html). Lidl GB reported a 10% sales increase to more than £1.1bn in the four weeks to Christmas Eve, supported by record shopper numbers and Lidl Plus membership growth. The discounter opened around 40 UK stores in 2025 and may overtake Morrisons in market share.
- 2 January 2026, thisismoney.co.uk: [Lidl has 'record-breaking' Christmas as shoppers snap up its champagne and luxury party food](https://www.thisismoney.co.uk/money/markets/article-15428465/More-50m-shoppers-went-Lidl-festive-period.html). Lidl said it had a record-breaking Christmas, serving 51 million shoppers, four million more than a year earlier. Demand was supported by champagne, luxury party food and produce sales.

Notable negative coverage:

- 11 June 2026, bbc.co.uk: [Villagers take fight against Lidl store plans to Welsh government](https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c78y55dkny3o). Residents have appealed to the Welsh government against Lidl's approved plan for a supermarket near Llantwit Major. Opponents argue the development would harm the rural landscape and is poorly suited to walking and cycling.
- 24 June 2026, infrastructure-now.co.uk: [Decision on a new Lidl store for Bath could still be months way](https://www.infrastructure-now.co.uk/article/472191/decision-on-a-new-lidl-store-for-bath-could-still-be-months-way). A planning decision on Lidl's proposed Bath store could be delayed for months after National Highways extended its holding recommendation. Further transport information is required before the application can be assessed.
- 22 May 2026, bbc.com: [Hadleigh shop owners glad to see Lidl bid refused](https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c8e85n91e2jo). Babergh District Council rejected Lidl's application to build a new Hadleigh store, citing likely harm to the town centre and wastewater concerns. Local businesses and councillors welcomed the refusal, while some residents supported the proposed store.

- [Lidl deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-grocers-2026-h1?entity=lidl&view=deep-dive)
- [Lidl PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-grocers-2026-h1/reports/lidl.pdf)

### M&S

**Product & range shaped M&S' media profile during H1 2026**

M&S ranked 7th of 11 by average monthly share of coverage (9.4%) in the UK Grocers benchmark for H1 2026, with 1,394 mentions and a net tone of +36.

Its monthly rank was seventh through March before April’s 10.3% share lifted it to fourth. The April Sparks overhaul added loyalty and customer rewards to the agenda, while June’s price cuts on more than 65 essentials extended the value proposition. January 2026: M&S reported 5.6% Christmas like-for-like food-sales growth while clothing declined — Reuters. February 2026: share fell 1.6 points to 8.1% while rank remained seventh; stories included the closure or planned closure of 14 cafés and a proposed Colne Food Hall. May 2026: share fell 0.5 points to 9.8% and rank moved from fourth to seventh; Reuters reported a 24% fall in adjusted pre-tax profit following cyberattack disruption and M&S’s expectation of renewed growth. March 2026: Northampton Riverside’s proposed M&S Foodhall received council approval — BBC. April 2026: M&S overhauled Sparks with personalised spending targets and money-off vouchers — MoneySavingExpert. June 2026: M&S launched 1,000 paid youth traineeship places — BBC. M&S has launched health and wellbeing products for 2026, including nutrient-dense bread, protein shots, overnight oats and expanded gut-health lines. The ranges focus on fibre, protein and nutrition-led convenience. M&S has launched a Mango & Passion Fruit Collagen Ball after its previous Brain Food Brain Ball became its best-selling Food on the Move product. The new functional snack is available in M&S stores and online.

Key messages:

- January 2026: M&S reported 5.6% Christmas like-for-like food-sales growth while clothing declined — Reuters.
- M&S has launched health and wellbeing products for 2026, including nutrient-dense bread, protein shots, overnight oats and expanded gut-health lines. The ranges focus on fibre, protein and nutrition-led convenience.
- M&S has launched a Mango & Passion Fruit Collagen Ball after its previous Brain Food Brain Ball became its best-selling Food on the Move product. The new functional snack is available in M&S stores and online.
- M&S has identified 500 potential locations for new stores as part of a major UK expansion plan. The retailer says the programme will double the size of its food business and create thousands of jobs.
- M&S Food has launched more than 30 value products across its value tiers, including family staples such as mince and frozen sweetcorn. It says value-line sales rose 20% in the prior year's third quarter.
- M&S has returned its Speckled Egg Cookies to Foodhalls for Easter, priced at £3.25 for a five-pack. The launch follows strong shopper and social-media demand for related Speckled Egg products.

Leading themes:

- Product & range: 30.2% of M&S's coverage (theme index 1.49, net tone +41)
- Store estate: 22.7% of M&S's coverage (theme index 1.33, net tone +21)
- Financial & analyst: 9.0% of M&S's coverage (theme index 0.93, net tone +18)

Notable positive coverage:

- 2 January 2026, goodhousekeeping.com: [M&S makes hitting health goals easy with 13g fibre-packed bread, 10g protein shots and plenty of collagen snacks](https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/uk/food/a69900967/marks-spencer-healthy-eating/). M&S has launched health and wellbeing products for 2026, including nutrient-dense bread, protein shots, overnight oats and expanded gut-health lines. The ranges focus on fibre, protein and nutrition-led convenience.
- 7 January 2026, goodhousekeeping.com: [This M&S brain ball sold more than bottled water last year – now a collagen version has launched](https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/uk/food/a69934252/marks-spencer-collagen-ball/). M&S has launched a Mango & Passion Fruit Collagen Ball after its previous Brain Food Brain Ball became its best-selling Food on the Move product. The new functional snack is available in M&S stores and online.
- 15 January 2026, thisismoney.co.uk: [M&S reveals list of 500 'wish list' locations for new stores](https://www.thisismoney.co.uk/money/markets/article-15467103/Marks-Spencer-locations-new-stores-town-near-YOU.html). M&S has identified 500 potential locations for new stores as part of a major UK expansion plan. The retailer says the programme will double the size of its food business and create thousands of jobs.

Notable negative coverage:

- 22 June 2026, msn.com: [Full list of 15 M&S stores in South Wales after 2 major closures in recent weeks](https://www.msn.com/en-gb/news/uknews/full-list-of-15-m-s-stores-in-south-wales-after-2-major-closures-in-recent-weeks/ar-AA26fZGf). The article lists M&S stores in South Wales following two recent major store closures.
- 27 February 2026, nz.news.yahoo.com: [M&S announces dozens of cafe closures across the UK in major restructure - full list](https://nz.news.yahoo.com/m-announces-dozens-cafe-closures-094943289.html). The article headline reports that M&S is closing dozens of cafés across the UK as part of a major restructuring programme.
- 24 June 2026, thesun.co.uk: [M&S and Waitrose to BOTH close for the summer next month in blow to bustling town centre](https://www.thesun.co.uk/money/39523399/ms-waitrose-close-town-centre/). M&S and Waitrose stores on St John's Road in London will close temporarily over the summer for refurbishment, with their closure periods overlapping. Local shoppers have criticised the simultaneous shutdowns, although some welcomed the planned Waitrose refurbishment.

- [M&S deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-grocers-2026-h1?entity=ms&view=deep-dive)
- [M&S PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-grocers-2026-h1/reports/ms.pdf)

### Waitrose

**Waitrose held eighth as products and estate shaped visibility**

Waitrose ranked 8th of 11 by average monthly share of coverage (7.6%) in the UK Grocers benchmark for H1 2026, with 1,089 mentions and a net tone of +28.

February’s higher share coincided with extensive independent reporting on the suspension of mackerel sourcing over overfishing concerns, alongside the £108m partnership pay investment. May paired plans for new stores in Cricklewood and Hale Barns with a £20m programme cutting prices on more than 160 own-brand products by an average of 12%. June brought much greater absolute volume amid a substantially larger cohort news pool, while stories ranged from the Angela Hartnett Italian range and year-round British samphire to a meal-deal price rise, new video content and a hot-cross-bun recall. Visibility peaked in April 2026 at 8.2%, compared with 6.3% in January 2026. January 2026: the planned Avonmouth distribution centre and about 550 expected jobs, reported by BBC News. February 2026: share rose 1.6 percentage points to 7.9% of tracked-company mentions; stories included Waitrose’s suspension of mackerel sourcing over overfishing concerns. April 2026: share increased 0.3 percentage points to the window high of 8.2%; contemporaneous reporting covered the Heathrow travel-retail debut and plans to refurbish 30 stores. April 2026: Waitrose’s first airport retail trial at Heathrow Terminal 2, reported by Forbes. May 2026: price cuts on 160 own-brand products through a further £20m investment, reported by the Financial Times.

Key messages:

- Visibility peaked in April 2026 at 8.2%, compared with 6.3% in January 2026.
- January 2026: the planned Avonmouth distribution centre and about 550 expected jobs, reported by BBC News.
- A reviewer tested 11 supermarket decaf coffees and rated Waitrose's No1 Organic Fairtrade Peru product the best, awarding it five out of five. Tesco and Co-op products also scored well, while Lidl's offering scored lowest.
- Waitrose has unveiled a No.1 Blonde Chocolate Almond Croissant Easter Egg for Easter 2026. The £15 product will be available in stores and online from 2 February.
- Waitrose said alcohol sales rose 11% on 12 January versus the previous week, which it dubbed "Damp Monday". It reported that Dry January sales declines have softened over the past five years as consumers increasingly moderate rather than abstain.
- Waitrose's £25 Valentine's dine-in deal offers a starter, main, side, dessert and drink for two until 15 February. The reviewer praised its range, food quality, ease of preparation and value.

Leading themes:

- Product & range: 30.6% of Waitrose's coverage (theme index 1.5, net tone +38)
- Pricing & promotions: 17.6% of Waitrose's coverage (theme index 1.07, net tone −39)
- Store estate: 16.1% of Waitrose's coverage (theme index 0.9, net tone +40)

Notable positive coverage:

- 7 January 2026, bbc.co.uk: [Bristol Waitrose distribution centre to create hundreds of jobs](https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cz7yen5g8pwo). Waitrose plans to create about 550 jobs at a DHL-operated distribution centre in Avonmouth, Bristol, due to open in early 2027. The site is intended to support regional expansion and includes sustainability features such as rooftop solar panels.
- 8 January 2026, inews.co.uk: [I tested 11 decaf coffees – the best was a bargain at Waitrose](https://inews.co.uk/inews-lifestyle/tested-11-decaf-coffees-best-bargain-waitrose-4150134). A reviewer tested 11 supermarket decaf coffees and rated Waitrose's No1 Organic Fairtrade Peru product the best, awarding it five out of five. Tesco and Co-op products also scored well, while Lidl's offering scored lowest.
- 20 January 2026, goodhousekeeping.com: [Waitrose launches an almond croissant flavoured Easter egg - here's exactly when you can grab it](https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/uk/food/a70056473/waitrose-almond-croissant-easter-egg/). Waitrose has unveiled a No.1 Blonde Chocolate Almond Croissant Easter Egg for Easter 2026. The £15 product will be available in stores and online from 2 February.

Notable negative coverage:

- 16 June 2026, theboltonnews.co.uk: [Major supermarket becomes latest UK retailer to raise meal deal price to £5.50](https://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/news/national/uk-today/26197325.major-supermarket-set-charge-increase-price-meal-deal/). Waitrose increased its meal-deal price from £5 to £5.50, a 10% rise and its first since launch in 2023. The report compares its pricing with Tesco, Sainsbury's, Co-op and Asda.
- 16 June 2026, examinerlive.co.uk: [Waitrose introduces new £5.50 rule for shoppers](https://www.examinerlive.co.uk/whats-on/shopping/waitrose-introduces-new-550-rule-34127921). Waitrose has raised its three-item meal-deal price by 50p to £5.50, its first increase since the offer launched in 2023. The article compares meal-deal pricing at Tesco, Sainsbury's, Asda, Co-op and Morrisons.
- 16 June 2026, oxfordmail.co.uk: [Waitrose issues shopper notice after controversial change](https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/26200516.waitrose-issues-shopper-notice-amid-controversial-change/). Waitrose raised its meal-deal price from £5 to £5.50, prompting customer criticism. The article also reports recurring faults affecting free-coffee machines at its Botley Road shop in Oxford.

- [Waitrose deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-grocers-2026-h1?entity=waitrose&view=deep-dive)
- [Waitrose PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-grocers-2026-h1/reports/waitrose.pdf)

### Co-op

**Co-op’s visibility shifted between expansion, governance and product stories**

Co-op ranked 9th of 11 by average monthly share of coverage (5.5%) in the UK Grocers benchmark for H1 2026, with 778 mentions and a net tone of +34.

Share rose to 6.1% in February and 6.2% in March, when stories included disputed claims about workplace culture, an advertising ruling, Shirine Khoury-Haq’s departure, reported losses and a £200m cost-reduction programme. April’s 6.0% share coincided with the proposed Southern Co-op combination and the rollout of forensic product marking against retail crime. Co-op then slipped to 5.1% in May despite coverage of member approval for the combination, new university stores and a national digital-screen advertising proposition. June produced the period’s highest volume, 317 mentions, but its share was 5.0% as tracked-company coverage expanded sharply; product stories included the first Wine Ambassador appointment, while supply-chain reporting covered the extended GXO transport agreement. January 2026: Co-op announced 18 new or transformed stores for the first quarter, reported by The Independent. March 2026: share edged up 0.1 points to 6.2% and rank improved to ninth; contemporaneous primary evidence covered Shirine Khoury-Haq’s departure, reported losses and planned cost reductions. February 2026: Co-op rejected disputed claims about a toxic working environment following restructuring and the cyber-attack, reported by BBC News. April 2026: Co-op proposed acquiring Southern Co-op and adding around 300 food, funeral and Starbucks outlets, reported by BBC News.

Key messages:

- January 2026: Co-op announced 18 new or transformed stores for the first quarter, reported by The Independent.
- Co-op Wholesale is expanding its forecourt supply operation and now supplies 571 sites, including nine of the Top 50 independent operators. Its fresh food, own-label range and flexible Nisa and & Co-op formats are driving new and renewed contracts.
- Co-op has confirmed 18 new or refurbished UK store openings before the end of March 2026. The openings span locations across England and Scotland and form part of its convenience-store expansion programme.
- Co-op has launched two own-label Detroit-style chilled pizzas: Double Pepperoni and Cheeseburger. Both products retail at £5.25 and are available in stores from 4 March.
- Co-op Group has proposed taking over Southern Co-op, adding about 300 food, funeral and Starbucks outlets plus three crematoria, pending member and regulatory approval. Southern Co-op said the deal would help secure its future amid falling profits and higher costs.
- Co-op closed its Minehead Avenue store after 42 years, leaving the town without its only remaining Post Office. The retailer said it remains committed to Minehead through its Alcombe Road store and had sought to redevelop the closed site.

Leading themes:

- Store estate: 24.2% of Co-op's coverage (theme index 1.4, net tone +47)
- Product & range: 21.7% of Co-op's coverage (theme index 1.03, net tone +62)
- Industry & market: 10.9% of Co-op's coverage (theme index 1.24, net tone +5)

Notable positive coverage:

- 2 January 2026, forecourttrader.co.uk: [Co-op Wholesale targets Top 50 Indies with fresh offer](https://forecourttrader.co.uk/latest-news/co-op-wholesale-targets-top-50-indies-with-fresh-offer/713428.article). Co-op Wholesale is expanding its forecourt supply operation and now supplies 571 sites, including nine of the Top 50 independent operators. Its fresh food, own-label range and flexible Nisa and & Co-op formats are driving new and renewed contracts.
- 2 February 2026, timeout.com: [Co-op is opening 18 new and improved supermarkets: full list of new store locations](https://www.timeout.com/uk/news/co-op-is-opening-18-new-and-improved-supermarkets-full-list-of-new-store-locations-020226). Co-op has confirmed 18 new or refurbished UK store openings before the end of March 2026. The openings span locations across England and Scotland and form part of its convenience-store expansion programme.
- 4 March 2026, goodhousekeeping.com: [Co-op launches affordable Detroit-inspired deep dish pizza and there's a cheeseburger one!](https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/uk/food/a70590541/co-op-deep-dish-pizza-range/). Co-op has launched two own-label Detroit-style chilled pizzas: Double Pepperoni and Cheeseburger. Both products retail at £5.25 and are available in stores from 4 March.

Notable negative coverage:

- 16 June 2026, mirror.co.uk: [UK supermarket chain with 2,500 stores forced to close branch after 42 years](https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/uk-supermarket-chain-closes-store-37300714). Co-op has closed its Minehead Avenue store after planning permission for a replacement sustainable store was refused. The closure also removed the town's final Post Office, although Co-op retains another Minehead shop on Alcombe Road.
- 26 March 2026, independent.co.uk: [Co-op boss quits after ‘toxic culture’ claims and cyber-attack](https://www.independent.co.uk/news/business/shirine-khoury-haq-co-op-quits-b2946498.html). Co-op CEO Shirine Khoury-Haq is leaving as the group pursues £200m of cost reductions following losses and a cyber attack. The retailer also faces allegations of a toxic senior workplace culture, which it disputes.
- 16 June 2026, somersetlive.co.uk: [Minehead loses only Post Office as locals brand Co-op closure 'a joke'](https://www.somersetlive.co.uk/news/somerset-news/minehead-loses-only-post-office-11015443). Co-op closed its Minehead Avenue store after 42 years, leaving the town without its only remaining Post Office. The retailer said it remains committed to Minehead through its Alcombe Road store and had sought to redevelop the closed site.

- [Co-op deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-grocers-2026-h1?entity=coop&view=deep-dive)
- [Co-op PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-grocers-2026-h1/reports/coop.pdf)

### Ocado

**Ocado’s visibility swung between restructuring and renewed technology deals**

Ocado ranked 10th of 11 by average monthly share of coverage (4.7%) in the UK Grocers benchmark for H1 2026, with 645 mentions and a net tone of +20.

February’s higher visibility accompanied extensive reporting on 1,000 job cuts, a £150m cost-reduction programme and restructuring of the technology business. May’s Asda ecommerce agreement provided a major technology-partnership development after the earlier North American setbacks. Visibility peaked in February 2026 at 6.4%, compared with 3.5% in March 2026. January 2026: Sobeys’ closure of its Calgary Ocado-powered warehouse, reported by Reuters. March 2026: share fell 2.9 points to 3.5% and rank moved to tenth; contemporaneous stories included Jörn Rausing’s substantial share purchases and Ocado’s patent dispute with Brightpick. May 2026: share rose 1.7 points to 5.4% and rank improved to ninth; stories included the agreement to upgrade Asda’s ecommerce systems from 2027. April 2026: the Future of Food Edit for healthier and more sustainable products, reported by The Grocer. May 2026: Ocado’s agreement to provide ecommerce technology to Asda, reported by the Financial Times. Ocado has introduced a weight-management aisle for customers using GLP-1 weight-loss medicines, featuring portion-controlled, nutrient-rich and high-protein products. The range includes products from M&S's nutrient-dense line and meals below 600 calories. Ocado has added Jeremy Clarkson's Diddly Squat Farm products to Ocado.com and Zoom by Ocado. Ten pence from each range product sold will be donated to The Ernest Cook Trust.

Key messages:

- Visibility peaked in February 2026 at 6.4%, compared with 3.5% in March 2026.
- January 2026: Sobeys’ closure of its Calgary Ocado-powered warehouse, reported by Reuters.
- Ocado has introduced a weight-management aisle for customers using GLP-1 weight-loss medicines, featuring portion-controlled, nutrient-rich and high-protein products. The range includes products from M&S's nutrient-dense line and meals below 600 calories.
- Ocado has added Jeremy Clarkson's Diddly Squat Farm products to Ocado.com and Zoom by Ocado. Ten pence from each range product sold will be donated to The Ernest Cook Trust.
- Ocado Group agreed to replace and upgrade Asda's e-commerce infrastructure from 2027. The deal supports Asda's online operation of more than 700,000 weekly orders and is a boost for Ocado's technology business.
- Ocado is promoting five meal-deal bundles, with stated savings versus buying products separately. Several offers feature M&S products and dine-in ranges.

Leading themes:

- Financial & analyst: 21.1% of Ocado's coverage (theme index 2.32, net tone −3)
- Industry & market: 16.0% of Ocado's coverage (theme index 1.85, net tone +84)
- Product & range: 14.3% of Ocado's coverage (theme index 0.66, net tone +51)

Notable positive coverage:

- 12 January 2026, independent.co.uk: [Ocado launches range for people on weight-loss jabs](https://www.independent.co.uk/bulletin/news/ocado-weight-loss-range-small-steak-b2898764.html). Ocado has introduced a weight-management aisle for customers using GLP-1 weight-loss medicines, featuring portion-controlled, nutrient-rich and high-protein products. The range includes products from M&S's nutrient-dense line and meals below 600 calories.
- 29 April 2026, goodhousekeeping.com: [From ‘B*llocks’ candles to beer mustard: Jeremy Clarkson’s Diddly Squat Farm shop is now on Ocado](https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/uk/food/a71153621/diddly-squat-farm-shop-ocado/). Ocado has added Jeremy Clarkson's Diddly Squat Farm products to Ocado.com and Zoom by Ocado. Ten pence from each range product sold will be donated to The Ernest Cook Trust.
- 29 May 2026, bloomberg.com: [Ocado Reaches Deal to Upgrade Asda’s Online Sales Systems](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-05-29/ocado-reaches-deal-to-upgrade-asda-s-online-sales-systems). Ocado Group agreed to replace and upgrade Asda's e-commerce infrastructure from 2027. The deal supports Asda's online operation of more than 700,000 weekly orders and is a boost for Ocado's technology business.

Notable negative coverage:

- 22 June 2026, aol.com: [Ocado ‘regularly engaging with potential candidates’ to succeed boss](https://www.aol.com/news/ocado-regularly-engaging-potential-candidates-072217313.html). Ocado said it regularly undertakes long-term succession planning following reports that it may replace chief executive and co-founder Tim Steiner. The group is restructuring, cutting about 5% of its workforce, and has faced pressure on its share price after US warehouse closures.
- 22 June 2026, cityam.com: [Ocado to replace founder Steiner as shares plunge](https://www.cityam.com/ocado-to-replace-founder-steiner-as-shares-plunge/). Ocado is seeking a successor to founder and chief executive Tim Steiner amid a sharply declining share price and setbacks in its warehouse technology business. The group is also in dispute with M&S over a £190m payment linked to Ocado Retail, while expanding online-shopping technology work with Asda.
- 25 June 2026, marketwatch.com: [Ocado Group slips Thursday, underperforms market](https://www.marketwatch.com/data-news/ocado-group-slips-thursday-underperforms-market-ec619083-23290c173f5e). Ocado Group shares fell 2.98% to £1.73 on 25 June despite a favourable broader UK market session. The closing price was 56.57% below the company’s 52-week high.

- [Ocado deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-grocers-2026-h1?entity=ocado&view=deep-dive)
- [Ocado PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-grocers-2026-h1/reports/ocado.pdf)

### Iceland

**Iceland’s broader story mix did not alter its competitive standing**

Iceland ranked 11th of 11 by average monthly share of coverage (3.0%) in the UK Grocers benchmark for H1 2026, with 391 mentions and a net tone of +38.

Iceland was 11th from January to March as its share edged from 2.6% to 2.9%, alongside reporting on store investment, delivery partnerships and the end of its trademark dispute with the country of Iceland. April brought its only move to 10th, with share rising to 3.8% amid new-store openings, inventory technology and regulatory scrutiny of an Iceland advertisement. It returned to 11th in May, when estate activity remained prominent and the Spar supply partnership broadened the product-distribution story. June produced the highest volume, at 135 mentions, but share fell to 2.1% as the tracked-company cohort expanded sharply; stories included price cuts, inflation comparisons, World Cup promotions and Benefits Boost. January 2026: Iceland announced a £1.3 million Food Warehouse investment in Galashiels, reported by the Border Telegraph. February 2026: share rose 0.2 points to 2.8% while Iceland remained 11th; stories included the nationwide expansion of its Amazon grocery partnership. April 2026: share rose 0.9 points to 3.8% and rank improved from 11th to 10th; contemporaneous developments included new stores in Arnold and Droitwich and the first advertising bans under new UK junk-food rules. February 2026: Iceland’s Amazon grocery partnership expanded to four more UK cities, reported by Retail Gazette.

Key messages:

- January 2026: Iceland announced a £1.3 million Food Warehouse investment in Galashiels, reported by the Border Telegraph.
- Iceland Foods has relaunched its January Mega Deals multibuy promotion across Iceland and Food Warehouse stores until 9 February. The campaign includes half-price, multibuy and bundle offers aimed at helping households manage post-Christmas costs.
- Iceland Foods expanded its weight-loss offer with 38 protein-focused and calorie-conscious products aimed at GLP-1 medication users. The retailer also relaunched its Slimming World range and expanded its MyProtein range to more than 50 products.
- Iceland is adding in-store sensors and digital screens to expand its retail media network. The chain says the technology will support a more advanced UK in-store media offering.
- Iceland Foods is deploying sensor technology across its retail media network. The system is intended to measure in-store digital-ad impressions in real time.
- Iceland Foods executive chairman Richard Walker has been appointed by the prime minister as the UK's cost-of-living champion. The voluntary role will involve advising Downing Street on measures affecting household budgets.

Leading themes:

- Store estate: 24.6% of Iceland's coverage (theme index 1.4, net tone +41)
- Pricing & promotions: 15.6% of Iceland's coverage (theme index 0.94, net tone +74)
- Product & range: 15.1% of Iceland's coverage (theme index 0.71, net tone +64)

Notable positive coverage:

- 6 January 2026, thegrocer.co.uk: [Iceland Foods revives ‘Mega Deals’ multibuys in January value push](https://www.thegrocer.co.uk/news/iceland-foods-revives-mega-deals-multibuys-in-january-value-push/713548.article). Iceland Foods has relaunched its January Mega Deals multibuy promotion across Iceland and Food Warehouse stores until 9 February. The campaign includes half-price, multibuy and bundle offers aimed at helping households manage post-Christmas costs.
- 7 January 2026, thegrocer.co.uk: [Iceland Foods expands weight-loss range to cater to GLP-1 users](https://www.thegrocer.co.uk/news/iceland-foods-expands-weight-loss-range-to-cater-to-glp-1-users/713664.article). Iceland Foods expanded its weight-loss offer with 38 protein-focused and calorie-conscious products aimed at GLP-1 medication users. The retailer also relaunched its Slimming World range and expanded its MyProtein range to more than 50 products.
- 22 January 2026, performancemarketingworld.com: [Iceland adds in-store sensors and screens in retail media boost](https://www.performancemarketingworld.com/article/1945953/iceland-adds-in-store-sensors-screens-retail-media-boost). Iceland is adding in-store sensors and digital screens to expand its retail media network. The chain says the technology will support a more advanced UK in-store media offering.

Notable negative coverage:

- 25 April 2026, bbc.com: [Hanley supermarket closes to make way for redevelopment](https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/ckg9dp7nxy0o). Iceland Food Ltd is permanently closing its Charles Street store in Hanley to enable Stoke-on-Trent City Council's Etruscan Square redevelopment. Affected staff will be offered alternative roles at other Iceland stores.
- 2 June 2026, telegraph.co.uk: [Supermarket run by Labour’s cost of living tsar surges ahead on price rises](https://www.telegraph.co.uk/business/2026/06/02/supermarket-run-by-labours-cost-of-living-tsar-raises-price/). Worldpanel figures showed Iceland's prices rose 5.8% in April, the second-highest supermarket inflation rate and above the market average. Iceland disputed the methodology, citing more recent data showing lower inflation and its new price-cutting programme.
- 13 May 2026, thesun.co.uk: [Major supermarket slapped with ONE-star hygiene rating and told to retrain staff after selling out-of-date food](https://www.thesun.co.uk/money/39091544/supermarket-one-star-hygiene-rating-out-of-date-food/). Iceland's Swanley store received a one-star food hygiene rating after inspectors found out-of-date food, overloaded freezers, unsafe food temperatures and cleaning issues. Iceland said it had requested a reinspection and believed it had addressed the issues.

- [Iceland deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-grocers-2026-h1?entity=iceland&view=deep-dive)
- [Iceland PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-grocers-2026-h1/reports/iceland.pdf)

## Methodology

- **Share of coverage**: an organisation's mentions divided by all mentions of the organisations tracked in the same sector that month, in UK earned media. It is the central measure of media visibility in Omniscan benchmarks. "Average monthly share" is the mean of the monthly shares across the reporting period.
- **Mention**: one article that covers an organisation, classified as positive, neutral or negative in tone. Articles are deduplicated, and an organisation's own websites and passing sponsorship name-checks are excluded, so only earned media counts.
- **Net tone**: positive mentions minus negative mentions, as a percentage of all mentions (range −100 to +100).
- **Themes**: every article is assigned to one of the sector's editorial themes. A theme index above 1 means the organisation is covered on that theme more than its peers are; below 1 means less.
- **Calculation**: every figure is computed directly from the classified articles; narrative summaries are checked against those figures.
- **Sources**: UK national and international, trade and specialist, regional and local, and aggregator and syndication earned media.

## Other UK Grocers editions

- [UK grocers media reputation tracker – 2026 year to date](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-grocers-2026-ytd.md)
- [UK grocers media reputation tracker – July 2026](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-grocers-2026-07.md)
- [UK grocers media reputation tracker – August 2026](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-grocers-2026-08.md)
- [UK grocers media reputation tracker – September 2026](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-grocers-2026-09.md)
- [All Omniscan media benchmarks](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks.md)

## How to cite

Omniscan, "UK grocers media reputation tracker", H1 2026 (1 January 2026–30 June 2026), published 1 September 2026. https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-grocers-2026-h1