Supermarket giant Tesco has reported slower than expected UK growth, but a strong performance in its international business.
In the UK, like-for-like sales excluding petrol were ahead 4.7%, driven by higher market prices for commodities and seasonal fresh foods. This was lower than the 5% to 5.5% expected by some analysts.
Tesco said its core UK food business saw solid growth although the company experienced a weaker performance in non-food sales due to 'more subdued' markets.
Overall group sales for the 13 weeks to May 26 were ahead 10% - marginally down on last year's 10.4%. The easing growth in the UK offset another strong international performance - particularly in Asia where sales grew 32%. The international business includes its stores in the Republic of Ireland.
