Asda and Tesco are increasing the number of halal counters in stores in a bid to cater more fully to their Muslim customers.
Asda is set to double the number of National Halal Food Group concessions from 10 to 20, creating 200 jobs this year, while Tesco is also considering a National Halal expansion after recently opening counters in two stores.
National Halal, which runs the concessions on an independent basis, added that it was in discussions with other supermarkets and discounters about possible concessions.
"We are in ongoing talks with the main supermarkets and the discount supermarkets," said managing director Muhammed Yaqoob.
The counters appealed to older Muslims who preferred buying their meat from a counter rather than pre-packed, he said.
Some jobs, such as driving positions, were open to non-Muslims as well as Muslims, he added. "We are for equal opportunities."
Tesco was considering expanding the counters across the country, said commercial meat and fish counters manager for Tesco, Mark Withers.
"We have been looking into potential areas and stores where halal may fit the community and customer base .
"Our customers are always looking for new and better ranges as their requirements evolve. Considering halal is just a part of this continuing activity of listening and staying close to them."
Asda is set to double the number of National Halal Food Group concessions from 10 to 20, creating 200 jobs this year, while Tesco is also considering a National Halal expansion after recently opening counters in two stores.
National Halal, which runs the concessions on an independent basis, added that it was in discussions with other supermarkets and discounters about possible concessions.
"We are in ongoing talks with the main supermarkets and the discount supermarkets," said managing director Muhammed Yaqoob.
The counters appealed to older Muslims who preferred buying their meat from a counter rather than pre-packed, he said.
Some jobs, such as driving positions, were open to non-Muslims as well as Muslims, he added. "We are for equal opportunities."
Tesco was considering expanding the counters across the country, said commercial meat and fish counters manager for Tesco, Mark Withers.
"We have been looking into potential areas and stores where halal may fit the community and customer base .
"Our customers are always looking for new and better ranges as their requirements evolve. Considering halal is just a part of this continuing activity of listening and staying close to them."
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