Like-for-like sales (excluding fuel) for Q1 were reported to be 2.1%, down from 4.6% in Q1 2025/26. The total sales performance of Q1 2026/27 was 3.1%, down from 4.9% in Q1 2025/26.
Its grocery category achieved a 3.6% increase in sales year-on-year to reach £7.6 billion. For Q1 2025/26, this sales figure was 5%.
The retailer said it had an “encouraging start” to the year, but the impact of the conflict in the Middle East on its customers and the business “remained uncertain” as it continues to expect to deliver total underlying operating profit of between £975 million and £1,075 million for 2026/27.
“More people are choosing Sainsbury’s for their big weekly shop. This has driven an encouraging start to the year with continued volume growth and market outperformance.”
Simon Roberts, chief executive of Sainsbury’s, commented: “Customers are looking for value now more than ever. We are consistently delivering outstanding quality at great value, so more people are choosing Sainsbury’s for their big weekly shop. This has driven an encouraging start to the year with continued volume growth and market outperformance.
“We’ve kept our strong focus on value, with the biggest Aldi Price Match in the market, across supermarkets and convenience stores, and Nectar Prices on around 11,000 products. Leading product innovation and outstanding quality fresh food set our offer apart, with standout performances in summer favourites like berries, barbecue and deli. And we’re achieving record customer satisfaction scores on availability in supermarkets and complete orders in Groceries Online, reflecting strong operational momentum. This combination is really delivering at the big customer moments and we outperformed the market at Mother’s Day, Eid al Fitr, Easter and the May heatwave.
“As customers make more considered food choices, we’re going further to make healthy everyday essentials more accessible and affordable, starting with fibre, fruit and veg. From new products and reformulation to clear Full on Fibre labelling on over 500 products, we’re making it easier for families to choose healthier options.
“With the World Cup in full swing and an exciting summer of sport ahead, I want to say a huge thank you to all our Sainsbury’s and Argos colleagues and our farmers and suppliers for showing up so well for our customers every day.”
