Walmart said its Leeds-based subsidiary Asda enjoyed a second consecutive quarter of positive like-for-like growth.

Walmart announced in its earnings for the third quarter that Asda reported growth in sales of 1.1%.

Last month, Walmart said Roger Burnley would take over as CEO at Asda on January 1, 2018, succeeding Sean Clarke who will leave the post after just 18 months.

Burnley returned to Asda as chief operating officer and deputy CEO in October 2016.

Walmart CEO Doug McMillon said: “In the UK, Asda delivered positive comp sales again this quarter.

“The improvements in store experience and price investments are increasing store basket sizes.

“We’re excited to have Roger Burnley lead Asda into the future as CEO starting next year.

“Over the past year, Roger has been our COO and Deputy CEO and he has a long and distinguished retail career.

“I’d like to thank Sean Clarke for the tremendous work that he has done over the past year to stabilize the business and position it for growth.

“Sean has done a lot for our company living in five countries over his 21-year career with Walmart.”

Walmart CFO Brett Biggs said: “Turning to the UK, net sales increased 3.6%, and comp sales increased 1.1%.

“Customers continue to respond to investments in the value proposition.

“In fact, during the quarter, our in store service metrics continued to improve and performance strengthened across our private brand and online grocery offerings.

“While we are pleased with the improved performance in the business we know we have more work to do.”

Clarke said: “It’s great to see that we have now delivered our second consecutive quarter of positive like-for-like growth, and the fifth consecutive quarter of continued sales improvement …

“The market environment will continue to be challenging into next year but we’re well placed with clear plans and a renewed level of confidence.”