Much speculation at this week’s IGD convention that Asda may be planning another major shakedown of its ranges as it seeks to lower costs ever further in the face of the credit crunch.
The chatter started after Rick Bendel, Asda’s group marketing director, mocked the fact that the retailer’s own premium range even included an Extra Special Indian Tonic Water, and that there was even a super-premium malt vinegar.
Bendel described the trend as “madness” at a time when more and more customers are suffering the knock-on effects of the economic crisis.
“They’re bleeding and we’re playing,” as he understatedly put it.
But the company aren’t giving anything away. All TalkingRetail.com could get out of them was the following gem:
“We know our customers look to ASDA for great choice and great value, but busy mums also want us to keep it simple. We’ll continue to monitor our ranges and listen to our customers to ensure we offer ASDA customers high quality products at affordable prices in all our stores.”
So, that’s a yes, then?
