Asda has officially launched the next phase of its Express convenience store rollout by opening its latest store in Castleford, West Yorkshire. This initiative is part of a broader strategy aimed at enhancing Asda’s presence in high-footfall urban areas, residential neighborhoods, and transport hubs—locations where the supermarket has traditionally had less visibility yet where the demand for convenience and competitive pricing continues to rise.
Since its entry into the convenience market in 2022, Asda has quickly expanded its Express store footprint. In February 2024, the retailer announced plans to launch 110 Asda Express convenience stores following the conversion of 109 sites acquired from the Co-op Group and the EG Group.
Currently, Asda operates more than 1,100 stores in its overall portfolio, which includes supermarkets, superstores, supercenters, Asda Living, and George outlets. By the end of this year, nearly 500 Asda Express stores are anticipated to be operational, with a robust pipeline of new openings also targeted for 2026.
Every new Express location will incorporate electronic shelf edge labels (ESLs) from day one, which Asda asserts will “simplify operations” for staff while enhancing the customer experience.
Situated on Holywell Lane, the newly opened Asda Express Castleford store has transformed a former pub into a convenient shopping destination. This store, operating daily from 6 AM to 11 PM, offers over 3,000 branded and own-label products, which include an extensive selection of fresh, ambient, and chilled groceries, alongside various beers, wines, and spirits.
In addition, customers will enjoy a range of services such as a Costa Coffee machine, an ATM, and Amazon collection and return services. Furthermore, on-demand food delivery options from Uber Eats, Just Eat, and Deliveroo will be available.
Joseph Sutton, Vice President of Asda Express, foodservice, and fuel, remarked: “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, prompting a restructuring at the retailer.
