Clarification Statement

Sainsbury(J) PLC
11 October 2004



11 October 2004


J Sainsbury plc Clarification Statement



On 1 July 2004 Sainsbury's informed the market that the Company's profit
expectations for the financial year ending 26 March 2005 were significantly
below the then market consensus and detailed a number of factors impacting
performance.  Furthermore, it was pointed out that the majority of the impact
would be incurred in the first half.



The Directors of Sainsbury's announce that underlying profits before taxation
(see note) for the half year ended 9 October 2004 are expected to be within a
range of between £125 million to £135 million.



As previously announced the Company is conducting a thorough Business Review,
the conclusions of which will be announced on 19 October 2004.  While this
review is not yet completed, the Company is not in a position to give any
guidance on the future expectations for the full year, but guidance will be
given as part of the presentation of the business review.



This statement has been made following recent analyst and press comment.



Note

Underlying profit before tax is stated before exceptional items, amortisation of
goodwill and costs or charges that may arise from the completion of the business
review, which will be subject to our normal audit review.





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