Data revealed on Tuesday that year-on-year supermarket sales have risen by the quickest rate over the past 12 weeks since last November.
However, the Kantar data showed that some supermarkets have benefited more than others.
Out of the big four grocers, Sainsbury’s (LON: SBRY) was the only retailer to increase its year-on-year sales, rising by 0.3%.
Meanwhile, sales at Tesco (LON:TSCO) declined by 0.8%, Asda (NYSE:WMT) by 1.2% and Morrisons (LON:MRW) recorded a sales drop of 2%.
Kantar’s data also revealed a 255% increase in hand sanitiser sales in February as fears concerning the outbreak of the coronavirus mount.
“Across the market, recent news reports around coronavirus saw consumers take steps to ward off colds and flu, accelerating sales of hygiene and health products,” Kantar said in a statement.
“Given the media focus around the outbreak of COVID-19 in February, it’s unsurprising to see shoppers prudently protecting themselves from illness,” Kantar continued.
Additionally, Kantar said that sales of other types of liquid soaps rose by 7%.
Whilst many businesses have warned that the virus will hit their results, it seems that retailers are benefitting from the public’s efforts to protect themselves.
Valentines Day occurred during the month of February, and Kantar’s data revealed that 45% of consumers celebrated the holiday.
Among the gifts given to loved ones, chocolates were the most popular, followed by flowers and alcohol.
Shares in J Sainsbury plc (LON:SBRY) were up on Tuesday, trading at +3.52% as of 10:55 GMT.
Meanwhile, shares in Tesco plc (LON:TSCO) were trading at +2.76% as of 10:56 GMT and WM Morrison Supermarkets plc (LON:MRW) shares were up by 0.72% as of 10:56 GMT.
