Asda is considering a move for the discount chain B&M, in what would be the latest attempt by a major supermarket to diversify in the face of growing competition from cheaper rivals. Asda, the third-biggest supermarket chain in Britain, has seen sales dwindle in the past three years and could use the 500 B&M stores as a further outlet for products such as its George clothing range. Asda has been hit hardest by cheaper competition, having positioned itself as the budget choice among the big four. The B&M deal could allow Asda to counter this latest incursion into its territory and compete with other leading grocers in local stores. B&M also refused to comment, but is understood to have had no knowledge of potential interest from Asda.

Source: The Guardian July 23, 2017 16:11 UTC