Woolworths Australia yesterday posted a 4.8% increase for its Woolworths, Countdown and Foodtown New Zealand supermarkets.

The ASX-listed company's first quarter results, to October 4, shows sales of $NZ1.3 billion for the company's New Zealand supermarkets and comparable sales of 4.5%, indicating a positive response to its new formats, improved ranging, private label and stock improvements, it said.

US technology giant Apple has filed legal proceedings against Woolworths Australia’s new logo – a green ‘W’ sign or a stylised apple, depending on your fancy.

The logo, soon to be rolled out across New Zealand Countdown stores as they eventually all get made over, may be used more widely on in-store goods if Woolworths’ blanket trademark application is successful.