Asda has reported year-on-year sales growth of 4.5% in 2012, as it announced plans to offer same-day delivery on food orders as part of a £700m investment in its business.

The retailer’s sales – including petrol – increased to £22.8bn, up from £21.8bn the previous year. It noted the growing importance of investing in and promoting itself as a multichannel retailer, while maintaining that “bricks and mortar” stores were central to growth.

In a further nod to the expansion of its multichannel business, Asda said it was investing £700m in its online presence, its supply chain and new stores in 2013 – a move which it expects will create 2,500 new jobs across the UK.

“By focusing on their needs through accelerating our investment in the technology and infrastructure to make shopping more convenient, customers can shop for what they want, when they want it.”

Andy Clarke, Asda

As part of its expansion of its Click & Collect service, Asda claimed it would offer a world-first ‘same day’ delivery service on grocery orders.

The retailer also said it will open 10 new stores, including four new small-format supermarkets, five superstores and one new non-food outlet. This is in addition to two stores that have already opened in 2013.

“I’m proud that in the continuing and very challenging trading environment we were able to increase total sales by 4.5% last year. This shows that we are continuing to get it right for customers,” said Asda President and CEO Andy Clarke.

“By focusing on their needs through accelerating our investment in the technology and infrastructure to make shopping more convenient, customers can shop for what they want, when they want it.”