Sainsbury’s has notched up first-quarter like-for-like sales growth of 1.4%.

The quarter, for the 12 weeks to 9 June, included the extended Jubilee bank holiday, and the retailer said sales had been “strong” in the build-up to the long weekend.

“Customers continued the habit of savvy shopping to save money in order to be able to treat themselves on special occasions,” said chief executive Justin King.

He said the relaunch of its By Sainsbury’s own-label range was now 75% complete and claimed Sainsbury’s was gaining market share in core general merchandise and clothing categories.

The retailer’s convenience estate racked up sales growth of 16%, while online grew by over 20%. It opened 21 c-stores during the period and refurbished eight stores.

“Looking forward, we expect the market to remain competitive,” King added.

“Universal appeal, supported by market leading own label ranges, Brand Match and loyalty insight, ensures we help our customers to ‘Live Well for Less’. We remain well placed to continue to outperform the market.”

The performance comes in contrast to Tesco, which earlier this week reported a 1.5% drop in first-quarter like-for-like sales. However, Tesco’s results – for the 13 weeks to 26 May – did not include the Jubilee bank holiday.