It has kickstarted the latest phase of its Express convenience store rollout programme by opening the doors to customers at its brand-new store in Castleford, West Yorkshire.
This is part of a strategy for Asda to strengthen its presence in high-footfall urban areas, residential neighbourhoods, and transport hubs - locations where the supermarket has traditionally had less of a footprint, but where demand for convenience and great value continues to grow.
Since first launching into convenience in 2022, Asda has rapidly grown its Express footprint.
In February 2024 it announced it was to open 110 Asda Express convenience stores after converting 109 convenience stores it purchased from the Co-op Group and the EG group.
Asda has more than 1,100 total stores across its estate, including supermarkets, superstores, supercentres, Asda Living, and George stores.
Almost 500 Asda Express stores are expected to be open by the end of the year, with a strong pipeline of new stores also planned for 2026, the supermarket chain said.
Each new Express store will feature electronic shelf edge labels (ESLs) from day one, which it said would “simplify operations” for staff and boost the customer experience.
Located on Holywell Lane, the new Asda Express Castleford store has transformed a former pub into a convenience store. The new store, which opens daily between 6am – 11pm, offers over 3,000 branded and own-label products, including a range of fresh, ambient and chilled groceries, as well as a selection of beers, wines and spirits.
Customers will also benefit from a variety of services, including Costa Coffee Machine, an ATM machine, and Amazon collections and returns. On-demand food delivery options such as Uber Eats, Just Eat and Deliveroo will also be available.
Joseph Sutton, vice president Asda Express, foodservice and fuel, said: “We’re delighted to have opened the doors today in Castleford, marking the start of our Express store rollout as we bring Asda’s unbeatable value to new communities across the UK.
“From top-up essentials to convenient food on the go options, we’re excited to welcome new customers and offer outstanding value.”
Earlier this month Asda confirmed the departure of its chief digital officer Matt Kelleher, which has prompted a restructure at the retailer.
