Asda employees are to share record £26 million bonus pot after its American owner Wal-Mart reported a 22% increase in profits.

The bonus, which is 18% higher than last year's pay out, will be shared between staff at the retailer's 371 stores and 21 depots who have been with the firm for more than than six months. Individually, workers will receive a a bonus payout of up to £437.50, which will be paid towards the end of the month.

Asda will also create more than 6,000 new jobs.

Chet Kuchinad, people director at Asda said: “To announce a record bonus payout and the creation of thousands of new jobs in a challenging economic environment is testament to the successful year we have had here at Asda.

“This success is absolutely down to the continued hard work and commitment of all of our store and depot [staff] who have once again gone above and beyond to deliver fantastic service and everyday low prices to our customers week in and week out."

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