It was told by a US owned retailer that that sales for the first quarter covering the three months to the end of March decreased by 0.3pc excluding fuel and VAT. It was noticed that during the previous quarter a rise in sales was seen by 4.6pc.

Poor sales were also seen with a competitor Wm Morrison earlier this month. It was told by the Bradford based chain that sales had slowed down from 6.5pc over Christmas to just 0.8pc.

Last week, it was told by Justin King, the Chief Executive of J Sainsbury that sales were slowing and no figures were given by him.

It was noticed that Asda's awful news came just few days after the appointment of Andy Clarke as Asda's new Chief Executive. Andy Bond was replaced by Mr. Clarke who became the Chairman of Asda's Executive Committee.

"Listening to customers, it's clearer than ever that the second half of this year will be challenging for them. High petrol prices, and the prospect of tax increases from the incoming government are weighing heavily on their minds. It is our responsibility to deliver the plan we've laid out, and by doing so help lower the cost of living for our customers", said Mr. Clarke.