Recent research from Barbour ABI has revealed just 32% of planned projects from the 'big four' supermarkets across the UK have been completed.

The latest data from the construction research firm shows there were 556 applications submitted for the development of new stores by the 'big four' since January 2010, with just 179 successfully completed or currently under construction.

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Tesco has put forward the most planning applications since 2010 with 206. also holding the lowest planning to construction difference at 21%.

However, Morrisons planning to development ratio is higher at 56%.

The supermarket competition has increased in recent years, with the likes of Lidl and Aldi putting pressure on the established UK chains.

Aldi is estimated to spend £109 million in 2015 on development, with a target of 1,000 UK stores open by 2022.

(LM/CD)