Asda is planning to increase sales of its George clothing brand by up to £500m in three years.

Speaking at a business update of the brand yesterday, new George boss Anthony Thompson said he wanted Asda to replace Marks & Spencer's as the UK's biggest clothing retailer by volume by 2011. The chain is currently the fourth-largest player.

Asda said it would also sell clothing over the internet and increase the number of basic items on offer such as socks and underwear.