Tesco reports strong Irish performance with sales up 5% over Christmas period

Across the Republic of Ireland, Tesco reported market share gains of 41 basis points to 24%, marking its fourth consecutive year of gains over the Christmas period

Analysts say Tesco's strategy of matching the prices of discounter Aldi on over 650 items, together its Clubcard loyalty scheme, which provides lower prices for members, is driving growth.

Supermarket giant Tesco said profit for this financial year will likely be at the upper end of its forecast after strong sales during the crucial Christmas period.

The supermarket operator expects group adjusted operating profit of about £3.1 billion (€3.57bn), it said Thursday.