How Tesco became Britain's No 1 retailer

Nearly one pound in seven spent in Britain passes through Tesco's tills, but while many like to shop there the supermarket giant - famous for its claim to be "Britain's biggest discounter" - remains largely unloved.

Shoppers seem genuinely fond of some retailers like John Lewis. Another British retail institution, Marks & Spencer, is affectionately known as "Marks & Sparks" - I can't imagine anyone coming up with an affectionate sobriquet for Tesco.