UK grocery inflation slowed to 5.3% in the four weeks leading up to February 18, marking the lowest rate increase in two years.

Despite the Red Sea shipping crisis, supermarkets managed to mitigate its effect on prices through aggressive competition.

Food inflation specifically decreased to 5% in February, influenced by falling energy costs and an intense price war among supermarkets.

Morrisons and Asda implemented price matching schemes with discounters Aldi and Lidl, intensifying the competitive landscape.

Valentine's Day spurred consumer spending on luxury items like steak and chocolates, balanced by a trend towards value in meal deals and promotions.

Alcohol sales surged by 18% in February, with Lidl enjoying double-digit growth and an increased market share of 7.5%.

Aldi, Sainsbury's, and Tesco all outperformed the overall market in sales growth, though Asda and Morrisons experienced comparatively slower sales increases.